No way like Norway

When you think Norway, there is only one thing that comes to mind. Or, if you are into linguistics, maybe this too.

What you may not know about Norway: it's a Scandinavia country, way up North in Europe. It's expensive country, too. They found oil, and the cost of living went waaaaaaaaay up. If you are considering a visit--and you should, the natural beauty is beautiful--be aware that a beer anywhere will set you back at least ten dollars American.

If you are rich enough, or wise enough to make Norwegian friends to stay with, you will have a great time.

Check out Kristiansand, which is a small city on the south tip of Norway. It is a pretty nice place for some light hiking.

There are some old WWII bunkers. As my guide told me, "the Nazis used to like occupying us."

Hexagons are strategic, apparently.

 And some very pretty Nature.

Rocks and water!

 But wait! There's more. Don't feel like being around unscripted nature? Try the zoo!

Kristiansand has one of the largest zoos in Norway, which is the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park, called Dyreparken. It offers a huge range of animals for your viewing pleasure, both local and international. PLUS a huge amusement park section of children's stories from Norway.

You can take a ride on Captain Sabertooth's boat.

Heave o hoy!
Oh yeah. They sing pirate songs in Norweigian.

Pirate Town.
Not pictured: the huge Ikea sign a little to the right that breaks the mood.

 Have a child (either young or on E ?) that can't seem to kick a pacifier habit? Take them to the pirate's treasure trove, and chuck the pacifier into the vault. It's a coming of age ritual. All Norwegian children go through this ceremony, unless they live far away or their parents don't feel like it.

If Pirates hoard pacifiers, do they become pacifists?

 There are also wild animals in this zoo, of course.

Lynx!

 And domestic. This is a traditional Norwegian house shape. Usually it is bigger and does not contain a goat. May have grass on the roof, though. For the goat.

Serious Goat is not kidding around.

 I stayed in another Norwegian place (city? town? drivethru?), called Bø. It's a college town. Like many Norwegian college towns, in is located in the mathematical middle of nowhere. This means the town is great for college parties and hiking/any nature activities. And for getting to know everyone. I was there for less than a week, and by the time I left I could recognize approximately 50% of the population by sight.

Now, did I mention that there is hiking?

Norway: contains nature.

With views.

And rocks.

The small cities were fantastic. Make Norwegian friends. They are pretty much the best.

Oslo, the largest city in Norway, I only passed through to train in and train out. It seemed much like a city. And it had a tiger statue.

Not a native Norwegian animal.

My only regret is missing the harsh winter. Kidding.