Hovden: Norway's Alpine Paradise

• HelloHei
  [Hey]
• GoodbyeHa det bra
  [Ha deh brah]
• YesJa
  [Yah]
• NoNei
  [Nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [Vehr soh goh]
• Thank youTakk
  [Tahk]
• Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [Oonskyld]
• How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [Vohr-dahn har doo deh]
• Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?
  [Bra. Oh doo]
• Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [Snah-ker doo engelsk]
• I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [Yay for-stor e-nuh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, takk
  [Yay vil gyer-neh seh meh-nyen, tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [Yay spee-sehr e-nuh shyutt]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [Skohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, takk
  [Yay vil gyer-neh beh-tah-leh, tahk]

• Help!Hjelp!
  [Yelp]
• Go away!Gå vekk!
  [Goh vehk]
• Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [Ring poh-li-tee-eh]
• Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [Ring ehn leh-geh]
• I'm lostJeg er lost
  [Yay ehr lost]
• I'm illJeg er syk
  [Yay ehr sook]

• I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...
  [Yay vil shyuh-peh]
• I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [Yay bah-reh sehr]
• How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [Vohr mye kus-ter deh]
• That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [Deh ehr for deert]
• Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [Kahn doo sen-keh prees-en]

• What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [Vah ehr kloh-kah]
• It's one o'clockKlokken er ett
  [Kloh-ken ehr eht]
• Half past (10)Halv ti
  [Hahlv tee]
• MorningMorgen
  [Mohr-gehn]
• AfternoonEttermiddag
  [Eht-ter-meed-dahg]
• EveningKveld
  [Kvehld]
• YesterdayI går
  [Ee gohr]
• TodayI dag
  [Ee dahg]
• TomorrowI morgen
  [Ee mohr-gehn]
• 1En
  [Ehn]
• 2To
  [Too]
• 3Tre
  [Treh]
• 4Fire
  [Fee-reh]
• 5Fem
  [Fehm]
• 6Seks
  [Sehks]
• 7Syv
  [Seev]
• 8Åtte
  [Ott-eh]
• 9Ni
  [Nee]
• 10Ti
  [Tee]

• Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [Vohr ehr ehn/et]
• What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [Vah ehr ah-drahss-sehn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [Kahn doo vee-seh mayg (poh kahr-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [Nohr gohr neh-steh (booss)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [Ehn bee-leht (teel)]

Hovden, nestled in the Setesdal valley, has a history that stretches back to the Viking Age. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited as early as the 9th century. The landscape, with its rugged mountains and fertile valleys, provided a strategic location for early settlers. These settlers were predominantly farmers and hunters, utilizing the natural resources of the region. The presence of ancient burial mounds and runestones in the surrounding areas further attests to the region's historical significance during the Viking period.

The medieval period brought significant changes to Hovden as Christianity began to spread throughout Norway. This era saw the construction of several stave churches in the Setesdal valley, which played a crucial role in the Christianization of the region. The influence of the church is evident in the cultural and social transformation that took place during this period. Hovden became a waypoint for pilgrims traveling to the larger religious centers in Norway, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth.

The 19th century marked a period of industrialization and modernization for Hovden. The discovery of rich mineral deposits in the region led to the establishment of mining operations, which significantly boosted the local economy. The construction of roads and railways during this time improved connectivity, facilitating trade and the movement of people. This era also saw the development of hydroelectric power, harnessing the energy of the region's rivers and waterfalls, which further propelled industrial growth.

During World War II, Hovden and the surrounding areas played a notable role in the Norwegian resistance against the German occupation. The rugged terrain provided an ideal location for resistance fighters to carry out guerrilla operations and sabotage missions. The local population supported these efforts, offering shelter and aid to the resistance members. Several monuments and memorials in the area honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for Norway's freedom during this tumultuous period.

In the post-war era, Hovden transformed into a popular tourist destination. The development of ski resorts and outdoor recreational facilities attracted visitors from across Norway and beyond. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its rich cultural heritage, made it an attractive spot for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation. Investments in infrastructure, such as hotels and restaurants, further boosted the local economy and solidified Hovden's reputation as a premier travel destination.

Hovden is located in the Setesdal Valley in southern Norway. The nearest major international airport is Kristiansand Airport (Kjevik), approximately 220 kilometers away. From Kristiansand, you can rent a car and drive to Hovden, which typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus operated by Setesdal Bilruter from Kristiansand to Hovden. For those traveling from Oslo, the drive is approximately 300 kilometers and takes around 5 hours. Buses are also available from Oslo to Hovden via the Nor-Way Bussekspress.

Hovden is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are available, although they can be quite expensive. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas and natural attractions at your own pace. During the winter season, a free ski bus service operates to transport visitors between the town center, ski slopes, and popular accommodations.

The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and even for public transportation. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas that may not accept cards. ATMs are available in Hovden, and currency exchange services can be found at major airports and banks.

Hovden is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Hovden, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to the police, medical services, and fire department. Hovden has a medical center for non-critical health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town for over-the-counter medications and minor health needs.

Fashion: Do dress warmly and in layers, especially during the winter months. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Norway is quite secular, showing respect in churches and religious sites is appreciated. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful. Don't talk loudly or play loud music. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Norwegians appreciate direct communication. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like trout and reindeer meat. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite. Always use utensils while eating.

To experience Hovden like a local, visit the local markets and shops where you can buy traditional Norwegian goods and fresh produce. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the Hovden Museum of Iron Production for a unique historical perspective. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore the numerous hiking and skiing trails that offer stunning views of the Setesdal Valley.