The reason being that in winter the coast of Norway is washed by the famous warm North Atlantic drift which does not let the temperature of Norway get very cold. On the contrary in summer Norway is lucky enough to be visited by cool ocean currents that keep its summer temperature in check. Therefore summer in Norway is normally bright and very pleasant. In the north of Norway the days are so long in summer that there is no night and even in the south, the daylight lasts from 0400 hours to 2300 hrs. No doubt then that Norway is rightly called “The land of midnight sun”. In winters the converse is true and most of Norway has twilight conditions.

In short, the climate of Norway is very mild for its latitude. The summers are cool and pleasant while winters are not as cold as those of Alaska or Canada.

The mainstay of Norway’s economy has long been its gas and petroleum exports. In other words, it is dependent on international freight export of products responsible for hydrocarbon pollution.

But ironically for a country that exports oil, Norway is passionate about green issues and is one of the global leaders on the climate change agenda. 99% of Norway’s own electricity comes from hydroelectric plants and it was one of the very first countries to adopt a carbon tax. The government has pledged to make the country carbon neutral by 2030, bringing that target date forward from its initial date of 2050. This is an issue that is making shipping companies and others in the freight services industry sit up and pay close attention as actions arising to deliver this strategy are likely to lead to significant changes to the transport infrastructure in Norway, petrol taxes and other related issues that have a direct impact on a freight company or a shipping company.

Of course, when Norway says it wants to be carbon neutral, it is referring only to its domestic usage. As the world’s fourth largest exporter of oil and third largest exporter of gas, when these exports from Norway are burned overseas, they will be making a huge number of carbon emissions.

Because the green lobby is so strong and green issues are so fiercely debated and seen to be so important by the Norwegian population, there have been a number of initiatives designed to reduce carbon emissions. This includes promotion of biomass for power for homes and businesses, instead of fossil fuels. They also include high taxes on petrol and cars and the development of an extensive public transport system, with effective train systems between the cities and efficient ferry networks along the coast and along the waterways.

Although there has been a proliferation of cycle tracks, there has meanwhile been less investment in roads as the government focuses on reducing road traffic. In fact, the government has even promised to double funding for public transport for cities that pledge to get more cars off the roads. They are also setting up an agency to investigate ways to reduce carbon emissions from transport. The impact on the freight services industry has been that it has had to adapt swiftly to the many changes brought about to reduce carbon emissions. For example, more use is now made of the public transport networks by the freight services sector and there is less use of freight forwarding by road as a proportion of the whole than in many other countries.

The government has even carried out detailed studies into whether bridges or tunnels to cross fjords are better for the environment and have now made it official policy to favour bridges as cars and lorries use less petrol on them than they do if they had to descend into and climb out of a tunnel. On mountains, however, tunnels have been deemed to be more environmentally friendly than roads, as in relation to mountains, tunnels lead to less petrol consumption compared to roads.

Overall, the impact of the green agenda on the freight services industry in Norway is positive. The freight transport industry benefits from the intense government scrutiny of the country’s transport network and transport related issues. The drive is towards greater efficiency and of course freight forwarding businesses and shipping companies stand to benefit from these.

One thing is certain – as the government in Norway continue to be at the leading edge in exploring new technologies such as electric transport, shipping companies and the freight transport sector will be the first to exploit the new developments, becoming still more streamlined and efficient than they already are.

So over the last decade, Norway has faced the challenge and begun a process of reshaping its economy by diversifying into new sectors so it can prosper after petroleum revenues decrease. This includes government support to create a competitive private sector with strengths in IT and technology. Norway is now encouraging the growth of small businesses and encouraging new private sector industry in a number of ways. By doing so, it is following the approach earlier adopted successfully by its neighbours Sweden and Finland.

Norway is fortunate in that is in a strong economic position and is one of the world’s richest countries per head. Norway has large foreign trade surpluses due to the high cost of oil in recent times. This is enabling the government to invest in developing new industries to support its strategy of diversification.

The Norwegian government is thus able to help support the freight services sector as it faces the challenge of adapting to new conditions.

One of the private sector industries that is robust and growing in Norway in shipping. Shipping companies originally developed in Norway to serve the offshore petrolem industry and have now achieved a dominant market position. In fact, the shipping fleet in Norway is one of the most modern in the world.

Shipping and freight services has therefore been identified as an industry to be further developed and strengthened in future, as a key part of the Norwegian economy.

As shipping companies face the new challenges, the sector is showing innovation as shipping companies identify and seize new opportunities that are relevant for the post petroleum era.

Norway, like its neighbour Finland, has a significant role to play in serving the Baltic region. Although the global economic crisis is having a negative impact on freight forwarding in many countries worldwide, international freight to and from the Baltics remains a growth area. The majority of shipping companies and economic commentators are expecting growth in the Baltic region to continue to be strong in the next few years. This will strengthen the freight services sector in those countries like Norway and Finland on which freight transport to the Baltic region depends.

The Baltic Region is now a main trading area for the freight forwarding and shipping company industry based in Bergen. They offer a frequent service to the Baltic Region, mainly with its fleet of side door vessels.The main item requiring freight transport is frozen fish from Norway, Scotland and Iceland. This is transported to many destinations in the Baltic Region. This is an expanding market, with an increasing demand for fish products as the buying power of customers increases in the countries that make up the Baltic Region.

In ways such as these, shipping companies in Norway are showing that they can identify and seize the new opportunities created by changing market conditions. This means that the freight forwarding and international freight industry in Norway face a bright future as they rise to the challenge of responding to change.

Cruising: The best way of experiencing the coast and fjords is on a cruise ship. Hurtigruten (Norwegian Coastal Voyage) operates departures up and down the coast on every day of the year, with cruise ship standards.

Fjords: Deep inlets from the sea give the coast its character, and you’ll enjoy walking, cycling and scenic tours if you base yourself at Hardangerfjord or Geirangerfjord.

Arctic Adventure: The north of Norway lies above the Arctic Circle, experiencing the midnight sun in June/July and weeks of almost constant darkness in December/January. Go whale watching in summer or snowmobiling in winter.

The Northern Lights: This meteorological phenomenon occurs in winter when the night sky is lit up in a dazzling display. Your best chance of observing them is on a cruise ship or far from civilisation.

Winter sports: The leading ski resorts of Hemsedal, Lillehammer, Geilo and Voss have a reliable snow record and good facilities for beginners. March and April are the ideal months.

Glacial attractions: Even in summer, you can experience the majesty of ice. Jostedalsbreen glacier is easily reached from the fjord country north of Bergen.

Food and drink: Prices might be high but you’ll dine well on breakfast and dinner buffets where fish, seafood and maybe reindeer take pride of place. It’s best to take your own drinks however!

Island life: A trip to the remote Lofoten Islands is unforgettable. Fishing is still the main industry and they are served by Hurtigruten coastal ships.

Norway has got to be one of the most scenic countries in the world, and one that is increasingly easy to reach as more air links open up – now is most certainly the time to think about a holiday in Norway- it’s easy to arrange an independent trip, or of course you will find many specialist tour operators to Norway who feature city breaks, cruises and special interest holiday packages.

Now come to next city Oslo, this is the capital city of the country and also the major financial centre. The picturesque destination is a gateway to the oil industry of Norway.

Nevertheless, country is not populated densely but its inadequate distribution of population also creates some unusual enchantment, as the largest glacier of Europe ‘Josteldalsbreen’ is situated amid the urban area in the country.

If you are looking forward to get involved in outdoor activities, opt for either skiing, fishing or rock climbing. All of these activities are quite exhilarating in Norway, but you require being attentive while doing this. People who want to enjoy the tranquility can opt get a look of high-mountain lakes and steep side valleys; these are another temptation of Norway Travel.

Nowadays, people are widely opting for a tour to Norway, as its unusual fjords are getting good attention. The country is replete with unusual enchantments, which wonderfully complements its unique identity. The north European paradise is a captivation for tourists from all across the world. If you too are planning a trip to this gorgeous getaway, get your ticket booked today itself. It is not a difficult task and numerous online travel guides are there to assist you in your endeavor. You can also get an online reservation in Norway hotels using online reservation system offered by travel guides.

Getting in Norway- This is part of European Union; hence, you can land to any other European country and make an entry into the dazzling country. Do not worry; there will be no border check. To come here you can opt for roadways or trains.

Accommodation- Hotel industry is one among the booming sectors in Norway. If you are looking forward to get a room in any of plush hotels in Norway, get your booking done today.

On May 17th in 1814, Norway moved away from Danish rule and formed an alliance with Sweden which lasted for almost a century.

To mark this momentous occasion in the country’s history, the nation comes alive with dancing, singing, drinking and dancing on May 17th – but the best events and festivals are definitely in the capital city of Oslo, which is also the largest metropolis in Norway.

The national day celebrations are particularly noted for the children’s parades common across the country. Most of the marches are dominated by the younger generation, who walk proudly through the streets holding their national flag.

Traditional Norwegian dress is also an interesting feature you might be interested to see. Outfits worn for the National Day of Norway are often intricately sewn with lace and beading and are usually brightly coloured.

The Oslo parade is definitely the best one for you to see on a break to Norway, as the country’s royal family often wave to the crowds below as the procession passes under the balcony of the palace.

Culture vultures will find more than enough to keep them occupied once the parade is over. Oslo is home to some world-class museums, including the National Gallery, the Munch Museum, the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

If you love winter sports then you’ll love Norway. There is plenty of snow here to get your ski fix. The slopes are wonderful and scenic. The 1952 Winter Olympics were held in Oslo, Norway. Many winter sports competitions are held here each year. If so is what you want this you won’t be disappointed as snowfall usually occurs during the months of November to April each year.

As Norway is not as crowded as many of the other European countries you won’t feel overwhelmed by all the other tourists. You can actually see the sights and not feel stressed. You can take a scenic ferry ride to see the natural wildlife and outdoors. It is close enough to take a day trip by ferry to Germany and Denmark if you miss your population fix.

Water is a natural beauty here. You can go scuba diving or river rafting. You can even take a tour of the fjords of Norway. What exactly is a fjord you might ask? It is a piece of land that was shaped into being by the abrasion of glaciers. They will have a diamond or triangular cut into the bedrock of the land. This is something that you won’t generally see elsewhere.

For those that want to experience something a little different. You can come see the Northern Lights also known as the Aurora Borealis. This is the wonderful display of oxygen and nitrogen emissions in the sky which can be viewed in colors of blue, red, green or brown. As Norway is in the northern hemisphere you can have the experience of seeing the actual magnetic poles in effect. You might go to light shows that are artificially created but this is a natural beauty that is not manmade.

If you are traveling with your family you might want to take your kids to see the reindeer. Every child wants to know where Santa gets reindeer for his sleigh. You can visit them and watch their eyes fill with wonder and amazement. It will bring the stories to life for them. They might actually wonder if Santa might make an appearance.

1. Plan ahead and research which areas in Norway you are interested in living so you will have a general idea of the surroundings and how much rentals or homes will cost. After that, make a list of all personal items you wish to bring and items that may be unnecessary.

2. Be sure you have the correct documents for entry into Norway, whether that be a visa or work permit. Check with the Norwegian embassy for further details before you relocate to Norway.

3. Ensure you have a job lined up already to prevent financial problems after the move. Either that or keep in contact with other ex-pats or friends who can assist you in finding a job. Sharpen up that resume!

4. Purchasing a car in Norway can be quite expensive. Most companies lease cars for their employees. Your driver’s license is valid for one year after you move but after that you must apply for a Norwegian license.

5. Learn to speak a little Norwegian before the move. This will help in getting around and meeting new people. Norwegian is the official language of Norway but other languages such as English, Swedish, German, and Danish are also common.

6. Health care in Norway is offered both publicly and privately. Make sure you check with your doctor to receive a physical, immunizations, or any other checkup required before you relocate to Norway.

Norway is entirely diverse and there is a lot of difference from the northern end to the souther tip, the area which is around Oslo. There are some superb ski chalets and self catering apartments to rent in Norway.

There is a variety of activities that would excite a tourist, like just walking through the mind blowing landscapes. The fjord in the southern part of Norway is worth exploring and Oslo, Tronhem and Bergen are magical cities. Getting a self catered residence means that you are able to do any outdoor activity in the natural facility. There is also a lot of wilderness in Norway which is quite astounding. There is glass like lakes that flow from the fountains and also glaciers which is the largest in the world. There are also some awesome isolated holiday wooden cabins that can be rented.

Norway has great trekking and hiking areas and also some amazing walks which can be quite scintillating. You can also go hunting, mountain climbing and also fishing which also are great holiday activities. Norway is known as the birthplace of skiing. The landscape almost covers up to 30000km full of pistes. The ski season is from November to may end. There are some great ski chalets available to rent direct from their owners in this region.

It is the Scandinavian region of Norway with coastal villages. The coastal villages here are the size of a picture postcard; it is a very beautiful scene. It is ideal for taking a walk, rock climbing, skiing and also canoeing. It is the most beautiful region of the whole of Norway. The Norwegian fjord which is along the west coast is good for outdoor sports like raft climbing, summer skiing, and kayak. Holiday makers can rent traditional holiday cottages and use them as bases to explore this marvellous country.

Lillehammer which is an Olympic city is very cheap for skiing. It also has dense forests which has the highest number of wolves in the whole of Europe. This region also has wooded pistes that are very enjoyable.

In the summer season this area gets transformed into the land with a midnight sun. It means that the sun will be up for 24 hours and there won’t be any night, It is a very rare spectacle. Tromso is also famous for being the biggest northerly brewery.

Norwegian cuisine includes the famous lufse and the lutefisk. These are food that is delicious and worth trying once. Norway has a long summer that lasts from may to September. Norway has a variety of entertaining activities that makes it a great holiday destination.

Norway has a fear that too many residents will become too caught up in the process of playing in their computers that they will cease to be worthwhile residents of the country because they will become addicted to the games, which is why they will not legalize online casinos.

Many argue that this is not reason enough to ban the online gambling, because those that are addicts will find a way to play whether it is online or not. Many people feel like they are being punished for the addiction of a few and they want the laws changed.

Norway is currently flirting with the idea of imposing laws like the United States has. The United States is different than a lot of other countries because they do not just have laws against gaming online, they have blocked IP addresses so that people from the country cannot even create accounts with these online casinos. In addition, it is a crime for the financial institutions that the casinos work with to do business with Americans.

This makes it really tough, if not impossible, for most Americans to get online and play the casino games that they love. This is the intent, but it just has people looking for illegal ways to obtain the entertainment that they seek. Wouldn’t it just be easier to allow people to play online and try to regulate the online casinos much like the British and the Italians do?

Those in Norway don’t like the idea of having their entertainment options dictated to them. While it’s bad enough that there are laws against visiting online casinos now, most people can still access the websites and even play, they are just taking a risk because if you are caught gambling online in Norway it is a felony.

On one hand it is nice that Norway is trying to protect its citizens, but many are frustrated that they cannot play the casino games that they want to play in the comfort of their own home.