Woot! Hej så! I can’t believe I am done with the 3 seasons of the Netflix series, Lilyhammer. The series was set in the town of Lillehammer in Norway. It’s about a Mafia gang member who had chosen to retire in the cold, cold town. He changed his name, and operated a night club called Flamingo. It was a really cool and funny series, and I wish they would make season 4.

I have started getting myself used to the Norwegian accent. The “singing language accent” is adorable! In a month, I’d be moving to the country. I’m quite afraid I’d lose my neutral English accent, but I’d do my best to learn Norsk.

Anyway, Norway has been one of my favorite places on Earth ever since my first visit in 2013. While I only stayed there for a week, I enjoyed every bit and piece of it. My friend and I spent the first couple of days in a typical Norwegian wooden cabin by the wonderful Lake Hemnessjøen in Akershus. Afterwards, we were hosted by Mirry and Peter. They took me to Oslo to experience 200 sculptures in a day at Vigeland Park. The last two days of the trip were spent in the cozy city of Oslo with my youngest aunt from my father’s side. My aunt has been living in Norway for many years, and thanks to her, I got a glimpse of what Oslo is like in summer.

Oslo is also known as the Tigerstaden or the Tiger City. The nickname came from Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson’s “Sidste Sang”, a poem about a horse and a tiger. The horse represents the countryside, whereas the tiger portrays the city. My aunt and I went on a walking tour around the bustling city, checking out famous buildings and landmarks. The Grand Hotel, for example, is where famous celebrities and personalities often stay.

The street of Karl Johan is dubbed as the city’s shopping district. It is lined with malls, restaurants and boutiques. It is also the main street where you can see the Palace on one end, and the Oslo Central Station on the other.

Welcome to Oslo’s Walking/Shopping street!

On Karl Johan’s street, you will find the Stortinget or the Norwegian parliament building. Designed by the Swedish architect, Emil Victor Langlet, it was first used in 1866. It features an eclectic style of architecture. Demonstrations and protests are often held in front of this beautiful, circular building. There was a demonstration being conducted by Iranians in the city when I visited in 2013. Hence, the flag and the banner. In winter, the city’s Christmas Market can also be found here.

Another notable building in Oslo is the National Theater. It is the largest and probably the most famous theater in Norway. I wish I could watch something there in the future. The building was opened in 1899 and has been promoting Norwegian plays and artistic performances since then.

One thing I really like about Norway is the beautiful combination of nature and modern structures. Just have a look at this busy paved street lined with trees!

There are many statues, parks and museums in the city center. I recommend staying 2-3 days to fully appreciate the city and to check out its interesting sights.

So there — bits and pieces of the Oslo City Center. Next time, I’ll take you further down the Oslo Havn or Oslo port where one can take a ferry boat to see more of Oslo from the waters. And maybe a glimpse of the beautiful Oslo Opera House? 😉 I need to go down in Copenhagen now to join my sister for a dinner buffet. See you!