Mesmerising Norway!

The snow-clad mountains, the gentle waterfalls taking the ice-cold water down to the fjords, the pristine green trees near the banks, the calmness of the fresh air between the blue sky and the water never leaving your sight. The freshwater from the mountains flows enthusiastically to refresh the woodlands below, giving a distinct charm. The vast glacier-like mountain slopes with few bits of ice cracking up and below the ice water gushing to find its way is a sight to behold. The mountain rocks stand tall, withering the seasons and acting as mute spectators to nature's play. And in all this, the clouds gently floating around you feel heavenly. If this feels like a movie scene, then Norway is an epic to watch for hours as nature performs at its best to unfold the mysteries for you.

Norway is a collection of superlatives. One of the most beautiful countries, one of the least polluted countries, a pioneer in green and hydro energy, famous for northern lights, fjords, and Vikings, and one of the happiest places, although with a high cost, to live. No country I have seen before is as clean, green, calm, and beautiful as Norway. The mountains, rivers, fjords, trees, and clean air never leave your sight, even in the city center. One can spend hours admiring the natural beauty without getting tired.

Norway is placed very uniquely above and below the Arctic. The sun hardly sets in the Arctic in summer, giving it extended daylight. In winter, the sun is hardly above the horizon, giving it short daylight. Down south, the weather is much bearable to venture out in all seasons. This phenomenon governs the life and economy of the country. Given the vast forest cover and less agricultural land, the population is scarce and concentrated around cities. Many areas are untouched even today, showing how keen Norwegians are to preserve Mother Nature. The water here is the purest I have ever drank. People here are very proud of their tap water and recommend everyone to drink from taps and fountains. It's one of the best in the world. The air was so clean that I could smell the fragrance of summer blooms from far away while strolling through the streets.

I enjoyed walking through the beautiful boulevards decorated with flowers, lush trees, summer blooms, and fountains. Fountains are common sight within the cities and even small villages. Many fountains and water bodies are lined with lovely trees, flowers, and benches to sit and soak in the environment. Since the air and noise pollution is low, you can hear birds chirping very clearly. Most cars, buses, tramps, and trains run on renewable energy. At times, I missed noticing that a car just zipped by me without a noise.

I found Norwegians to be polite and reserved. Many I spoke to were proud of their country and had a deep sense of appreciation for the natural gifts. They have a thing for outdoor activities, as I could see more people on the mountaintops than in cities. I learned that outdoor sports like Skiing, mountaineering, river rafting, fishing, etc., are popular with folks.

Apart from this, Norwegians' interest in designs and acts is visible everywhere. All things are functional and in right place. I have long admired the Nordic designs in architecture, arts, and software. All designs are timeless and feel fresh at any time and year. The extensive use of wood and glass, even for heavy-duty things, shows their provenances with these materials. I saw some unique structures in random shapes and forms, all eco-friendly and functional, blending in the surroundings neatly.

Norway is rich in natural resources, trade, and tourism but very expensive. The taxes and expenses are so high that one might require a small bank loan to cover the country end to end. Even after the North Sea oil exploration in the 1970s, which helped Norway with an economic boost, the prices are very high to discourage people from buying oil and switching to renewables. Food items are pricy but have excellent quality, at times it feels value for money other times it feels shocking. I learned that many Norwegians take up two to three jobs to make ends meet.

I left Norway with a deep sense of appreciation and empty pockets having paid the price of seeing the most beautiful country. No amount of words and digital photography can do justice to the experience of seeing nature that it's literally at doorsteps. I will continue to write further on spectacular train journeys through the mountains and the fjords that allured me to mesmerizing Norway.