Oslo: The Nordic Gem of Culture and Nature

• HelloHei
  [hay]
• GoodbyeHa det
  [ha deh]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [ver sor goo]
• Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
• Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oonskyld]
• How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [hvordan har doo deh]
• Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?
  [bra oh doo]
• Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snah-kker doo engelsk]
• I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yay for-stor eekkeh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, takk
  [yay veel yer-neh sey mene-yen tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yay spee-ser eekkeh shøtt]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, takk
  [yay veel yer-neh beh-tah-leh tahk]

• Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
• Go away!Gå bort!
  [go borht]
• Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring poh-lee-tee-et]
• Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leh-geh]
• I'm lostJeg er tapt
  [yay ehr tahpt]
• I'm illJeg er syk
  [yay ehr sook]

• I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...
  [yay veel shø-peh]
• I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [yay bah-reh sair]
• How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vor me-eh kost-er deh]
• That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh ehr for deert]
• Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kan doo sehn-keh prees-en]

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

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

Oslo was founded around 1040 by King Harald Hardrada and was established as a kaupstad or trading place in 1048. The city's strategic location by the Oslofjord made it a crucial center for commerce and governance in medieval Norway.

In 1624, a devastating fire ravaged Oslo, destroying much of the medieval city. King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway decided to rebuild the city closer to Akershus Fortress and renamed it Christiania (later spelled Kristiania). This marked a significant shift in the city's urban development and architecture.

Akershus Fortress, built in the late 13th century, has played a pivotal role in the defense of Oslo and Norway. It served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison. The fortress has withstood numerous sieges and remains a symbol of Norwegian resilience and history.

During the 19th century, Christiania (Oslo's name at the time) experienced significant growth and modernization. The city expanded rapidly due to industrialization, becoming a hub for trade, culture, and education. Notable buildings from this period include the Royal Palace, the National Theatre, and the University of Oslo.

In 1905, Norway gained independence from Sweden, marking a new era for the nation and its capital. In 1925, the city's name was officially changed back to Oslo, reflecting a renewed sense of national identity and pride.

During World War II, Oslo was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945. The occupation had a profound impact on the city, with many buildings and infrastructure being used by the occupying forces. Resistance movements were active in Oslo, symbolizing the country's fight for freedom.

After World War II, Oslo underwent significant reconstruction and development. The city expanded its infrastructure, including the construction of new neighborhoods and cultural institutions. Oslo evolved into a modern European capital, known for its vibrant arts scene, sustainable urban planning, and high quality of life.

Oslo is internationally renowned for hosting the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Since 1901, the Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded annually at the Oslo City Hall, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to peace and humanitarian efforts.

Oslo is home to numerous cultural landmarks and modern attractions. The Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Munch Museum, and the Oslo Opera House are just a few examples of the city's rich cultural heritage and contemporary creativity. These sites draw visitors from around the world, showcasing Oslo's unique blend of history and modernity.

Oslo is well-connected by air, rail, and sea. The main international gateway is Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), located about 50 kilometers north of the city center. There are direct flights from major cities worldwide. You can also reach Oslo by train from other Norwegian cities and neighboring countries; Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) is the primary railway hub. For those preferring sea travel, daily ferries operate from Kiel in Germany and Frederikshavn and Copenhagen in Denmark.

Oslo boasts an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, subways (T-bane), and ferries, all integrated into the Ruter network. Purchasing a travel pass allows unlimited travel within the city and is highly recommended. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Biking is also a popular option, with numerous bike rental stations around the city. For a unique experience, try the Oslo City Bikes, available from April to November.

The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Oslo, including contactless payments. Cash is less commonly used, but ATMs are available throughout the city. It's advisable to carry a small amount of cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.

Oslo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas like public transport and tourist spots where pickpocketing can occur. Grünerløkka and Grønland, while popular for their vibrant nightlife and cultural scenes, have seen occasional petty crimes. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and always keep an eye on your belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, 113 for medical emergencies, and 110 for fire services. English-speaking operators are available. Major hospitals, such as Oslo University Hospital, are well-equipped to handle emergencies. Pharmacies (Apotek) are found throughout the city, and some are open 24/7 for urgent medical needs. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering health emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather. Norwegians generally dress casually but neatly. Avoid overly flashy attire. Religion: Do respect all religious practices. Norway is predominantly Christian, but there is a growing diversity in religious beliefs. Public Transport: Do stand on the right side of escalators and give up your seat for the elderly and disabled. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake. Norwegians appreciate personal space, so maintain an appropriate distance. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'rakfisk' and 'lutefisk.' Don’t forget to say 'takk for maten' (thanks for the meal) after eating.

To experience Oslo like a local, spend time in the city's parks such as Frogner Park, which houses the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. Visit local markets like Mathallen for Norwegian delicacies and fresh produce. Take a stroll along the Aker Brygge waterfront for dining and shopping. For a less touristy experience, explore the neighborhoods of Grünerløkka and Sagene, known for their vibrant arts scenes and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a fjord cruise and experience the stunning natural beauty surrounding Oslo.