Molde: The City of Roses and Panoramic Fjord Views

• HelloHei
  [hay]
• GoodbyeHa det
  [hah deh]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [vair soh goo]
• Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
• Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oonskuld]
• How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vohr-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 skjønner ikke
  [yay shooner ee-teh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, takk
  [yay veell yern-eh seh meh-nyen, tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yay spee-ser ee-teh shøtt]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, takk
  [yay veell yern-eh beh-tah-leh, tahk]

• Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
• Go away!Gå bort!
  [goh bohrt]
• Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring poh-lee-tee-eh]
• Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leh-geh]
• I'm lostJeg er borte
  [yay air bohr-teh]
• I'm illJeg er syk
  [yay air sook]

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

• What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [vah air klok-kah]
• It's one o'clockKlokka er ett
  [klok-kah air eht]
• Half past (10)Halv ti
  [hahlv tee]
• MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• AfternoonEttermiddag
  [et-ter-mee-dahg]
• EveningKveld
  [kvehld]
• YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
• TodayI dag
  [ee dahg]
• TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-gen]
• 1En
  [ehn]
• 2To
  [too]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Fire
  [fee-reh]
• 5Fem
  [fem]
• 6Seks
  [sehks]
• 7Sju
  [shoo]
• 8Åtte
  [oh-teh]
• 9Ni
  [nee]
• 10Ti
  [tee]

• Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vohr air en/et]
• What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [vah air ah-dres-sehn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kahn doo vee-seh may (poh kahr-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [nahr gohr nes-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [ehn bee-leht (teel)]

Molde, often referred to as the 'Town of Roses,' was founded as a trading post in the 15th century. Its strategic location along the Romsdalsfjord made it an important hub for commerce and fishing. The settlement gradually expanded as more people were drawn to its fertile lands and fishing opportunities.

One of the most significant events in Molde's history is the Great Fire of 1916, which devastated much of the town. Over one-third of the buildings were destroyed, leaving many residents homeless. The fire marked a turning point, as the reconstruction phase led to the modernization of the town's infrastructure and architecture.

During World War II, Molde played a crucial role as a strategic location for both the Allies and the Axis powers. The town was heavily bombed by German forces in 1940, leading to significant destruction. Despite the hardships, the local population showed resilience and courage, and Molde eventually became a symbol of Norwegian resistance. King Haakon VII and the Norwegian government fled to Molde before escaping to the United Kingdom.

After World War II, Molde underwent significant reconstruction and development. The town benefited from the Marshall Plan, which provided financial aid for rebuilding. This period saw the growth of industries such as shipbuilding, as well as the expansion of educational and cultural institutions.

Founded in 1961, the Molde International Jazz Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals in Europe. Held annually in July, the festival attracts world-renowned musicians and jazz enthusiasts from around the globe. It has become a cornerstone of Molde's cultural identity, reflecting the town's vibrant artistic community.

Molde's nickname, the 'Town of Roses,' is derived from its beautiful rose gardens that bloom throughout the town. This horticultural tradition dates back to the early 20th century when local residents began cultivating roses extensively. Today, the roses are a symbol of Molde's natural beauty and community spirit.

In recent decades, Molde has continued to thrive as a center for culture, education, and tourism. The town is home to several institutions of higher learning, including Molde University College. Its picturesque landscapes, including the famous Molde Panorama with views of 222 mountain peaks, draw visitors year-round. Molde's blend of historical significance and modern amenities make it a unique and appealing destination.

Molde is accessible by air, sea, and road. The nearest airport is Molde Airport, Årø (MOL), which connects to several major cities in Norway and some international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the city center. Molde is also accessible by ferry from various coastal cities, including Bergen and Ålesund. For those traveling by car, the E39 highway connects Molde with other parts of Norway.

Molde has a well-developed public transportation system including buses and taxis. The local bus network is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the scenic routes and nearby attractions at your own pace. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, especially during the summer months.

The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Molde, including in taxis, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in more remote areas where card payments might not be accepted.

Molde is generally a very safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. Petty theft can occur, so it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in popular tourist spots and public transport.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used to reach police, fire, and medical services. Molde has a well-equipped hospital and several clinics for medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other potential issues.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally acceptable. Religion: Do show respect when visiting churches and religious sites. Remove hats and speak in a low voice. Public Transport: Do buy your ticket before boarding and validate it. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like bacalao and klippfisk. Don't leave food on your plate, as it is considered wasteful.

To experience Molde like a local, visit the Romsdal Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Attend the Molde International Jazz Festival if you're visiting in July. Take a stroll along the Molde Panorama for breathtaking views of the Romsdal Alps and fjords. Engage with locals at cafes and markets; they are generally friendly and willing to share stories about their city. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike in the nearby mountains for some stunning natural scenery.