Articles by this author
How to understand the four unwritten codes of Norwegian life
Understanding the invisible codes of Norwegian life will help foreigners settle in Norway, explains Mari Wachelke.
Finn.no: How to get the most out of Norway's most important website
Mastering the website Finn is an essential task for foreigners in Norway, not least because it will help save them money and make settling in much easier, Mari Wachelke explains.
'I can't say I wasn't warned': Why foreign residents leave Norway
Despite loving so much of what the country has to offer, not all foreign residents in Norway stay forever. Many reach a point when they want to return home or move to another country, as Mari Wachelke explains with the help of some of those who left.
LISTED: All the new flights to and from Norway in 2026
Airlines have been announcing their new flight schedules for 2026 so if you need to travel from Norway next year we've listed the new services so you can plan ahead.
Norway offers renowned work-life balance, so why are so many suffering burnouts?
Norway is often praised for its healthy work-life balance and generous welfare benefits. But the number of people on sick leave because of mental health challenges - including burnout - is climbing.
Cultural calendar: The biggest and best events in Oslo in 2026
If you are in Oslo in 2026 then make sure to get some of these events in your calendar.
'Go early on weekdays': How to make the most of Oslo's Christmas markets
If you want to experience the best of Oslo's wide choice of Christmas markets this winter, then this guide from Mari Wachelke is essential reading, especially for parents in Norway's capital.
Barnehage: What you need to know about preschool in Norway
Starting kindergarten (barnehage) in Norway is a big milestone for any child and their parents. For international families, it can also be an introduction to a new culture and set of routines.
What you need to know about Norway's Adult Immunisation Program this winter
Autumn is edging towards winter and many in Norway, particularly the elderly, can be immunised against certain viruses.
What to do in Oslo on Halloween 2025
Once a relatively unknown tradition, Halloween has firmly established itself in Norway over the past two decades. In 2025, you can take part in everything from trick-or-treating to haunted cruises.
How to stand out when applying for a job in Norway
Landing a job in Norway can be challenging, especially for internationals navigating a new culture and job market. But according to three recruitment professionals working closely with jobseekers and companies, a mix of networking, cultural understanding, and clear communication can make all the difference.
Why Oslo's startup sector is the perfect place for foreigners to find a job
If you’ve got business stamina, come from a background in tech, marketing, or sales — and you’re not fluent in Norwegian just yet — landing a job in a startup might be your best way into the local scene, writes Mari Wachelke.
'Norwegian office workers are lazy': How do Swedes rate life in Norway?
What’s the difference between living in Sweden and Norway? Is life in one country better than the other? Who better to ask than three unbiased Swedes living in Norway.
Norway's social codes you need to know (so you don't offend the locals)
Norwegians are generally calm and peaceful. Avoiding confrontation is a big part of the culture, and getting them upset takes extra effort — compared to many other places in the world, but that doesn’t mean they don’t get angry at times.
In Numbers: Just how bad is a Norwegian winter?
For many, Norwegian winter feels endless — stepping out of home with heavy boots and a jacket on, dark mornings, and snow everywhere on the streets. But how harsh is it really? The numbers tell the story.
'Special time of year': How you can learn to enjoy Norway's darkness
With darker nights closing in in Norway, the late autumn and winter ahead might feel long. But Norwegians and foreigners in Norway have plenty of ways to help them cope with winter darkness.
How Norway's new fixed-price electricity scheme can reduce your bill
A new state energy scheme, 'Norgespris,' takes effect on October 1st, giving households the option to pay a fixed price for their electricity.
Sheep's head and other Norwegian foods you have to try once
Norwegian cuisine might not have much of an international reputation but there are certain dishes and pastries that you need to try, according to locals and foreign residents.
Oslo urged to ban electric scooters at night after huge rise in injuries
Over a thousand people have been to the emergency room for electric scooter injuries in Oslo so far in 2025 — more than twice as many as last year. That's despite the roll out of tighter rules in recent years.
REVEALED: How good is Oslo as a place to live in 2025?
A new report has highlighted the best and worst things about life in Oslo in 2025 including the safety and access to nature... as well as the lack of food options. How does it square up to other European cities?
'It helps with Norway's long winters': Why you need to try Oslo's floating saunas
Heating your body up to 80 degrees, plunging into the cold fjord, and then climbing back into the warm hut to repeat the ritual is not just a wellness trend—it’s a winter tradition in Oslo.
EXPLAINED: Who's who in Norway's 2025 election race?
Monday September 8th is a key day for Norway's future as voters go to the polls for the national election. Here's all you need to know about how the elections work and the parties campaigning for the votes of Norwegians.
The challenges and rewards of raising multilingual kids in Norway
Raising children in Norway to speak two, three or even four languages is a huge task, but the benefits can be huge, as several international parents explain.