Bergen - The Gateway to the Fjords

• HelloHei
  [hay]
• GoodbyeHa det
  [hah deh]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [ver so goh]
• Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
• Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oon-shuld]
• How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dan har doo deh]
• Fine. And you?Fint. Og du?
  [feent. oh doo]
• Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snah-ker doo engelsk]
• I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yay for-stor eek-keh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, takk
  [yay vil gern-eh seh mehn-yen, tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yay spee-ser eek-keh shøtt]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, takk
  [yay vil gern-eh beh-tah-leh, tahk]

• Help!Hjelp!
  [yel-p]
• Go away!Gå bort!
  [goh bohrt]
• Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring po-leet-yet]
• Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leh-geh]
• I'm lostJeg er borte
  [yay er bohr-teh]
• I'm illJeg er syk
  [yay er seek]

• I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...
  [yay vil shø-peh]
• I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [yay bah-reh sehr]
• How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vor myeh kus-ter deh]
• That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh er for deert]
• Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kan doo sen-keh pree-sen]

• What time is it?Hva er klokken?
  [vah er klok-ken]
• It's one o'clockKlokken er ett
  [klok-ken er eht]
• Half past (10)Halv ti
  [halv tee]
• MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• AfternoonEttermiddag
  [et-ter-mee-dahg]
• EveningKveld
  [kveld]
• YesterdayI går
  [ee gohr]
• TodayI dag
  [ee dahg]
• TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mohr-gen]
• 1En
  [en]
• 2To
  [too]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Fire
  [fee-reh]
• 5Fem
  [fem]
• 6Seks
  [sehks]
• 7Syv
  [seev]
• 8Åtte
  [oh-teh]
• 9Ni
  [nee]
• 10Ti
  [tee]

• Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vor er en/et]
• What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [vah er ah-dress-en]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kan doo vee-seh meh (poh kahr-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [nahr gohr neh-steh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [en bee-let (teel)]

Bergen's association with the Hanseatic League is a defining chapter in its history. During the 14th to mid-16th centuries, Bergen was a key trading hub for the Hanseatic merchants from Germany. The Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to this period. The colorful wooden buildings, reconstructed after successive fires, once housed offices, warehouses, and homes of these merchants. This area offers a glimpse into the daily life and operations of the medieval trading empire that played a pivotal role in shaping the city's economic and cultural landscape.

The Great Fire of 1702 is one of the most catastrophic events in Bergen's history. The fire destroyed nearly 90% of the city, including many of the wooden structures. This disaster necessitated a massive rebuilding effort, and the subsequent architectural developments have significantly influenced Bergen's urban landscape. The reconstruction brought in new building regulations that aimed to prevent such widespread devastation in the future.

Bergenhus Fortress is one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved castles, with roots tracing back to the 1240s. The fortress played a crucial role in the defense of the city and has been a royal residence. Key structures within the fortress include Haakon's Hall, built by King Haakon IV in the 13th century, and the Rosenkrantz Tower, which dates back to the 16th century. These buildings are emblematic of Norway’s medieval history and Bergen’s significance as a political and military center.

The Black Death reached Bergen in 1349, arriving on a ship from England. The pandemic had a devastating impact on the city’s population and economic activities. Bergen, like many other European cities, suffered immense loss of life, which caused significant social and economic disruptions. The Black Death also led to changes in the city's labor market and social structure, effects that would be felt for generations.

The 19th century saw a cultural renaissance in Bergen, spearheaded by the violin virtuoso Ole Bull. Born in Bergen, Bull became an international sensation and used his influence to promote Norwegian culture. He founded the Norwegian Theatre in Bergen in 1849, which became a platform for showcasing Norwegian playwrights and actors. His efforts were instrumental in fostering a sense of national identity and cultural pride during a period of burgeoning Norwegian nationalism.

Edvard Grieg, one of Norway's most famous composers, was born in Bergen in 1843. Grieg's music, inspired by Norwegian folk tunes, played a significant role in the national romantic movement. His home, Troldhaugen, situated on the outskirts of Bergen, is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Troldhaugen includes his villa, a concert hall, and his gravesite. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings that inspired much of his music, making it a vital cultural landmark in Bergen.

Established in 1953, the Bergen International Festival is one of Norway’s premier cultural events. Held annually in late May and early June, the festival showcases a diverse array of performances, including music, theater, dance, and opera. It attracts artists from around the world and celebrates both international and Norwegian culture. The festival is a reflection of Bergen’s ongoing commitment to arts and culture, drawing thousands of visitors to the city each year.

During World War II, Bergen was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945. The city’s strategic location and port facilities made it a key military target. Bergen experienced several bombings, including a significant attack on the harbor in 1944, which caused extensive damage and loss of life. The occupation period left a lasting impact on Bergen, with remnants of wartime fortifications and bunkers still visible in and around the city.

Bergen is well-connected by air, sea, and land. The Bergen Airport, Flesland (BGO), is the primary gateway, with direct flights from major European cities. The airport is about 20 kilometers from the city center and is accessible by airport buses, taxis, or the Bergen Light Rail (Bybanen). For a scenic arrival, consider taking a ferry or a cruise ship to Bergen's harbor. Bergen is also accessible by train via the Bergen Line, which connects to Oslo and offers breathtaking views of the Norwegian landscape.

Bergen's public transport system includes buses, light rail (Bybanen), and ferries. The Bybanen light rail is a convenient way to travel between the city center and the airport, as well as other suburbs. Buses cover most parts of the city and are operated by Skyss. Taxis are available but can be expensive. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car; however, be aware of parking restrictions and fees. Bergen is also a walkable city, and many attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. Contactless payments are also common. ATMs (called 'Minibank' in Norwegian) are available throughout the city. While cash is less frequently used, it's advisable to carry a small amount for emergencies or in situations where cards might not be accepted, such as some small kiosks or local markets.

Bergen is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any urban area, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded places, particularly at the Fish Market and Bryggen area. While Bergen does not have high-crime neighborhoods specifically targeting tourists, it's always wise to avoid poorly lit areas at night. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so keep your valuables secure.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, 113 for medical assistance, and 110 for fire services. English is widely spoken, so communication should not be an issue. Bergen has several hospitals and clinics, with Haukeland University Hospital being the largest. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Don't wear overly casual attire in fine dining restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs. While Norway is largely secular, respect is appreciated in places of worship. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't talk loudly or disturb others. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Norwegians appreciate personal space. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like fish soup and 'rakfisk'. Don't leave a large tip; service charges are usually included.

To experience Bergen like a local, visit the local fish market for fresh seafood and local delicacies. Take a hike up one of the seven mountains surrounding the city, such as Fløyen or Ulriken, for panoramic views. Explore the lesser-known alleys of Bryggen for unique shops and history. Attend a local event or concert to mingle with locals. For a quieter experience, visit the Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Milde, which offers beautiful landscapes and a peaceful setting.