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," wrote a member who made the move to Bergen, Norway.

AGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide Movers

"Some of their driving rules are backwards from those in the US, such as "yield to people on your right, except in roundabouts". People have stopped and waited on me multiple times when I was pulling out of the street my house is on. I wish people were more friendly and more chatty like Americans. I always say "excuse me" if I bump into someone. I have the impulse to smile at people I pass while walking, or to make a comment to a random person, such as "cute dog"," explained one expat living in Stavanger, Norway.

Please login to continue reading this article.

Not a member? Join Today (it's free).

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 is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.