For nature lovers, Norway is an unspoiled paradise. Think mind-blowing fjords and mirrored glass lakes, combined with world famous skiing, snowboarding and hiking. The landscapes often steal all the thunder when describing this Nordic nation.

By understanding more about our Norwegian exchange students’ lives back home, it will help you gain insight into their culture and background and prepare you for a successful hosting experience. Let’s start by learning about what’s typical in Norwegian communication, home life, education and food, as described by our program participants.

Communication style

Norwegian teens are encouraged to speak their mind and may come across as outspoken. Norwegian teenagers use the word “depressed” to explain that they have a bad day or a rough week. They do not mean to say they have as a serious problem or a diagnosis. It’s just an expression and a way to put words to their feelings. In Norway, the word “please” is assumed, but often not said. Making small talk with acquaintances is somewhat uncommon in Norway.

Tip From EF: Give your student space to speak directly, knowing that likely their intention is not to be harsh or offensive. Be open about your family’s norms and talk about how communication styles can be misinterpreted. Ask your student about their culture and family traditions to open them up to small talk. It can be helpful to explain to your student the American norms for expressing appreciation and gratitude.

Food habits

Breakfast and lunch usually consist of open-faced cheese or ham sandwiches and milk or coffee. The main meal in Norway is dinner. Meat or fish, potatoes, vegetables and a soup with dessert are common. Another common meal is meatballs with potatoes and brown gravy, served with vegetables. Norwegians normally prepare and eat all their meals at home and only go out for dinner on special occasions.

Tip From EF: Eating dinner together as a family is common in Norway and an important part of a daily family routine. Scheduling a few meals together as a family each week can make the student feel welcomed and at home. Encouraging them to help with grocery shopping and meal preparation will also help them adjust.

Home life

Protecting the environment is very important to Norwegians and being outdoors is a huge part of the Norwegian lifestyle. Hiking, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating and alpine skiing are very popular. A common saying is “Norwegians are born with skis on their feet.” Parents in Norway generally have about 25 paid vacation days a year. Families spend this time vacationing. The end of July to beginning of August is a time when most of the Norwegian companies shut down for the summer holiday. Norwegians are not overly religious - most attend church only on special occasions or holidays. Less than half the population practices regularly.

Tip From EF: Students may be used to vacationing and spending a great deal of time outdoors with their family. Plan some fun activities to do with your student throughout the year. These do not have to be grand activities and can be as simple as going for a hike, cooking a meal together or exploring local communities.