As I conclude my life-changing time, I can’t help but compare everything in Norway to its counterparts in the USA. Every step I take in my home country reminds me of those cobblestone streets so some weird way.
First of all, the food simply has to be mentioned. Today was my first day back and I went straight to a Mexican restaurant. This is not to say the food in Norway was bad at all; quite the opposite! But a taste of home is always nice. The drinks there are also different. I love soda, so I had a blast trying all the new flavors. I will mourn the loss of Fanta Exotic for all of my days.
I’m from Northern Alabama, not far from Huntsville, so the mountains of Norway struck me with a sense of awe that simply isn’t familiar with me. I keep looking outside and being surprised at the empty, flat farmland which stretches for miles. I almost miss walking uphill all the time. Almost.
The fashion in Norway is also very different than what you would see the southern United States. Comparatively, at least in the summer, the people of Oslo dressed similar to people in Los Angles, weirdly enough. Personally, I dress a bit different than even those in the states, but I never felt as though I was in danger. All the locals I met were extremely polite and usually curious about the states.
Unfortunately, I have to admit that the stereotype around Americans being loud is, well, true. I was on a faculty-led program, meaning I was joined by 13 other classmates. The good news was that I could hear my group if I ever lost them, the bad news was that every other person could too. Quiet public transportation was always more lively with the group.
I have only been home for a day and I cannot describe how much I miss Norway. There are difficulties to any trip you are going to take, but I can never tell you how worthwhile it will be. If you have a chance, I suggest giving Norway a shot.