Norway is Awesome: Sharing Interesting Facts about this Scandinavian Country

Every country in the world is different and has something interesting or unique about it. That is why it is always exciting to learn about new places and compare them with your hometowns.

Today we would like to share some awesome facts about Norway, a European country, full of secrets and mysteries, well-preserved natural beauty and historical traditions.

#1. Skiing

Norway is considered to be the birthplace of modern skiing. It is also interesting to know that in "Old Norse" the word ski meant "a piece of wood".

#2. Vikings

Although nowadays the word "Viking" is usually associated Scandinavian warriors, thousands of years ago, in the West Germanic languages, was mainly used to refer to the pirates, soldiers and sailors of different nationalities.

Vikings from Scandinavia in general and from Norway in particular are well known throughout the world as fearless and powerful warriors.

The first thing that many people associate Vikings is the horned helmet, regardless the fact that there is no scientific evidence, proving that Vikings used to wear them. Surprisingly, years of archeological research helped to find thousands of Viking tools and weapons, but, speaking of the helmets, only one of them was found.

So it may be that the Viking helmet is just a part of a legend and there may be many other myths to prove or bust in the Scandinavian history and mythology.

#3. Recycling programs

Just like people of other Scandinavian countries, Norwegian residents greatly support eco-trends and nationwide recycling programs. Here people avoid throwing away bottles or cans, as they can get money back for returning recyclable containers in stores. All they have to do is to deposit bottles or cans into a special machine and get an in-store coupon for a special sum of money.

#4. Most convenient means of transport

The mountainous terrain and the presence of numerous water resources makes travelling in this country challenging, as, in order to achieve certain destination, you’d have to drive through various tunnels, take detour or even sail on a ferry.

As a result, many Norwegians prefer to travel by air. But, while taking an airplane is one of the best choices you can make, you have to be ready to the fact that finding a direct fight will be challenging and you will have to wait for stops, before reaching your final destination.

Other quick facts to learn about Norway:

- It may be hard to believe but Norway is one of the world’s largest exporters of ostriches.

- In Norway all drivers must have their headlights turned on at all times, even during daylight, regardless of the season.

- Norway is a constitutional monarchy.

- 80% of country’s population is made up my city residents. Also it’s also interesting to notice that 85% of the population is concentrated in the Eastern and Southern regions of Norway.

- Brunost, brown cheese, is one of the most popular Norwegian dairy products.

- Norway regularly gets a top spots in the ratings of the most peaceful countries in the world.

- All grocery stores in Norway are closed on Sundays. So if you are planning to visit this country, don’t forget to do your shopping beforehand.

- Oslo, the capital of Norway, is considered to be one of the most expensive cities both in Europe and in the world.

-  Norwegians claim the title of the inventors of slalom, a type of alpine skiing.

- If you ask a Norwegian about his favorite dish, he would probably name a dish, which involves salmon. In this country salmon is especially enjoyed for its appetizing color and delicate taste.

- Norway can boast its thriving wildlife. But since people have to share the rural regions with wild animals, all drivers should use road with caution.

-  A European country with the most tunnels is Norway.

- Trolltunga or Troll’s tongue is one of the most visited places in Norway and popular landmarks in Europe.

- While #Finland is usually called "Land of a Thousand lakes ", when talking about Norway, one may say – the land of countless lakes (about half a million). On the territory of this country there are over 450,000 fresh water lakes, the biggest of which (about 200 lakes) cover an area of over 10 sq km (3.86 sq mi).