What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Norway. They wrote...
"Not knowing how to speak the language. It's not easy learning a new language from scratch. I tried speaking Norwegian when I first started taking the course but my spouse was very critical of my pronunciation to the point that I became fixated on making sure the words sounded correctly instead of actually speaking the language itself. Living with a husband and adjusting with life in his country isn't easy either. And the prices here are extortionately expensive. It's difficult for me because back home, I have gotten accustomed to the fact that having fun always involves spending money," said a member in Bergen, Norway.
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"Expats in Norway often find it challenging to adjust to the reserved nature of the local culture, as well as their expectation of punctuality and organization. Additionally, many expats find it difficult to learn and understand Norwegian, which is the primary language spoken in Norway. Additionally, the isolated nature of many of the Norwegian rural areas can make it difficult to establish a social circle outside of the workplace. Finally, due to the high cost of living, it can be difficult for expats to manage their finances and budget accordingly," remarked another expat who made the move to Norway.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Norway?
- How do I meet people in Norway?
- What is life like in Norway?
- Is there a lot of crime in Norway?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Norway accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Norway like?
- Is the cost of living in Norway high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Norway?
- What are healthcare services like in Norway?
- Is the cost of living in Norway high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Norway?
- What is the weather like in Norway?
- Are there good restaurants in Norway?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Norway?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Norway?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Norway?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Norway?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Norway?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Norway, newcomers to Norway would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.