Norway, a country located on the Scandinavian Peninsula, is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, from captivating fjords to towering mountains. The capital, Oslo, is the cultural and economic hub of Norway, while other major cities such as Bergen, known for its historic harbor, Stavanger, located near the coast, and Trondheim, with its rich Viking history, offer a variety of exciting experiences for travelers.

However, before planning your trip to Norway, it's important to understand some basic information that will make your vacation more enjoyable. This article will cover essential things you need to know, including how to arrange a visa, customs regulations, and the unique Norwegian culture that should be understood to make your vacation more fun and memorable!

For Indonesian citizens who wish to visit Norway, you need to apply for a visa according to the purpose of your visit. When applying, make sure you have an Indonesian passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of return. The visa application process is carried out through VFS Global (www.vfsglobal.com/norway/indonesia), except for official and diplomatic passports.

You will need a visa to enter Norway. The most common visa for tourism purposes is the Schengen Visa. Here are the steps to apply for a Schengen Visa for Norway:

1. Determine the Type of Visa: Choose a Schengen Visa for tourism purposes. This visa allows you to stay in the Schengen countries, including Norway, for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

2. Fill in the Application Form: You can fill in the visa application form online through the official website of the Norwegian Embassy or VFS Global, which is the official agent for visa applications.

3. Prepare Supporting Documents: Documents that are usually required include a valid passport, passport photos, proof of accommodation, return airfare, travel insurance, and proof of finances.

4. Schedule an Appointment: After filling in the form, schedule an appointment at the visa application center. Bring all the documents that have been prepared.

5. Interview and Biometrics: On the scheduled day, you will be interviewed and asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

6. Wait for Decision: The visa application process usually takes around 15 working days, but it can also take longer depending on the situation.

Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to the Schengen Visa

When you arrive in Norway, you will need to go through customs. Here are some important rules you need to know:

1. Personal Items: You can bring personal items without paying customs duty, as long as they do not exceed the specified limits.

2. Alcohol and Tobacco: There are limits to the amount of alcohol and tobacco that can be brought in without paying customs duty. For example, you can bring up to 1 liter of alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content of more than 22%, or 2 liters of alcohol content of up to 22%.

3. Prohibited Items: Certain items such as narcotics, firearms, and certain animal products are not allowed into Norway.

Before visiting Norway, make sure you know the complete information regarding the entry and exit process. Read more below.

1. Document Preparation

Before departure, make sure you have prepared all the necessary documents. The main documents that you must bring are a valid passport and a Schengen visa. In addition, prepare a round-trip plane ticket, proof of accommodation while in Norway, travel insurance, and proof of finances showing that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in Norway.

2. In-flight Checks

During the flight, the flight crew will usually distribute arrival cards. Fill this card out completely and correctly. The information requested usually includes your name, passport number, residential address while in Norway, and the purpose of your visit.

3. Immigration Checks

After landing at an international airport in Norway, such as Gardermoen Airport in Oslo, you will head to the immigration area. When you arrive at the immigration counter, hand over your passport, visa, and arrival card to the immigration officer. The officer may ask you several questions regarding the purpose of your visit, duration of stay, and place of accommodation. Answer the questions honestly and clearly.

4. Baggage Claim

After passing through immigration checks, you can proceed to the baggage claim area. Make sure you take the correct baggage by checking the baggage tag.

5. Customs Inspection

Before leaving the airport, you will go through customs inspection. There are two lanes that you can choose, namely the green lane (no items that need to be declared) and the red lane (there are items that need to be declared). If you are not carrying items that exceed the specified limit or prohibited items, choose the green lane. However, if you are in doubt or carrying items that need to be declared, choose the red lane and report it to the customs officer.

1. Document Preparation

Before heading to the airport for a flight back to Indonesia or another country, make sure you have prepared all travel documents, including your passport, plane ticket, and visa.

2. Check-In

Arrive at the airport early, at least 3 hours before your flight schedule, to avoid delays. Check in at the airline counter or through the self check-in machine if available. Hand over your passport and ticket to the check-in officer and make sure all the information on your boarding pass is correct.

3. Baggage Handling

If you have baggage that needs to be put into cargo, hand it over to the check-in officer. Make sure the baggage has been properly labeled and keep the baggage claim receipt properly.

4. Security Check

After check-in, you can proceed to the security check area. You will be asked to place all your belongings on a tray and go through a scanner. Items such as laptops, liquids in small containers, and metal objects must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray.

5. Immigration

After passing through security, you will head to the immigration counter for exit inspection. Hand your passport and boarding pass to the immigration officer. The officer will check your documents and may ask you some questions related to your trip. After the inspection is complete, you will receive an exit stamp in your passport.

6. Waiting for Flight

After passing through all the checks, you can wait in the departure area. Check the flight information on the information screen again and make sure you are at the correct gate. Listen to the announcement from the airline for boarding information.

Here is some information about etiquette and customs, laws and regulations, religious practices, and language and communication in Norway.

Norway is known for its polite and privacy-respecting society. Here are some etiquette and customs that you need to pay attention to:

1. Greetings and Introductions

Norwegians usually greet each other with a handshake, both when meeting for the first time and in formal meetings. When introducing yourself, state your first and last name.

2. Respect Privacy

Norwegians highly value privacy. Avoid asking about personal things like salary, religion, or political views, unless you are already very familiar with them.

3. Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Norway. If you have an appointment or invitation, make sure you arrive on time or even a few minutes early.

4. Cultivate Queuing

Norwegian people are very disciplined when it comes to queuing. Make sure you follow the queue orderly and do not try to cut in line.

Norway has several laws and regulations that you need to know as a tourist:

1. Criminal Acts

Everyone in Norway, including you as an Indonesian citizen, must respect and obey local laws and regulations. If you violate these laws or regulations, you can be deported, arrested, or detained by local authorities. Committing an assault, even a minor one, can result in imprisonment. The penalties for drinking and speeding are very severe. The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.02 percent. If your blood alcohol content is between 0.02 percent and 0.07 percent, you can be subject to a heavy fine, and if it is more than 0.07 percent you risk imprisonment.

2. Arrest and Detention

If you are arrested or detained by local authorities, you have the right to ask the Police or other local authorities to notify the nearest Indonesian Representative of your arrest or detention. If you choose not to exercise this right, the Indonesian Representative will not be aware of your arrest or detention and will not be able to provide the necessary consular assistance during the process.

3. Drugs

Possession of drugs, even in small amounts, is prohibited and can result in heavy fines and/or imprisonment.

Norway is a country with freedom of religion guaranteed by the constitution. Here are some things you need to know about religious practices in Norway:

1. Church of Norway

The majority of Norwegians are members of the Church of Norway (Lutheran), but religious practices are not very prominent in everyday life. Many Norwegians do not actively worship regularly.

2. Freedom of Religion

Norway values ​​freedom of religion, and you will find various places of worship for other religions, including Islam, Catholicism, and Hinduism.

Here are the languages ​​and communications that apply in Norway.

1. Norwegian

Although English is widely spoken, you can learn some basic phrases in Norwegian to help you while you are there and show respect for the local culture.

2. Communication Style

Norwegians tend to speak directly and to the point. They value honesty and transparency in communication. Avoid speaking too loudly or too close to the person you are talking to, as this can be considered rude.

Read more: Discovering The Best Places To Visit in Europe During Winter

Here is a guide to safety and conditions in Norway and safe travel tips that you need to know.

Has a Low Crime Rate

Norway is known as one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate here is very low, especially for serious crimes such as robbery and assault. Even so, remain vigilant for petty crimes that may occur there.

Safety on Public Transportation

Public transportation in Norway, including buses, trains, and ferries, is very safe and orderly. Security officers often patrol stations and inside public vehicles.

Weather Conditions

Norway has a varied climate, depending on the season and location. Winters can be very cold with heavy snow, especially in the northern and mountainous areas. Make sure you check the weather forecast and prepare appropriate clothing.

To ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable, make sure you pay attention to the following tips.

1. Keep Valuables Safe

Although Norway is relatively safe, you should always keep valuables safe, such as passports, cash, and electronic devices. Use a lockable bag and store valuables in a secure place.

2. Use Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential to protect yourself from unexpected events, such as accidents, illnesses, or lost belongings. Make sure your travel insurance covers the activities you will be doing in Norway.

3. Know the Emergency Numbers

The emergency number in Norway is 112. Save this number in your phone and know how to contact emergency services if needed. Additionally, many map and travel guide apps provide useful emergency information.

4. Respect Local Rules

Norway has several rules that need to be respected, such as a ban on smoking in indoor public places and strict rules about alcohol. Know and obey the local rules to avoid legal trouble.

5. Avoid Visiting Unfamiliar Areas

When walking around, pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid deserted or unfamiliar areas, especially at night. If you feel unsafe, immediately find a crowded place or call security if you need help.

6. Use Official Transportation

Always use official transportation such as licensed taxis or trusted ride-sharing services when traveling around Norway. Avoid using unofficial or unknown vehicles to ensure your safety and comfort during your trip. For a more convenient journey, you can take advantage of the Eurail Norway Pass, which allows you to explore Norway's beautiful landscapes by train without limits.

This pass offers full flexibility, so you can enjoy stunning routes like fjords and mountains comfortably. Make sure to purchase the Eurail Norway Pass through Traveloka to make your trip easier and enjoy the various benefits it offers.

Here is some information about healthcare access in Norway for you to know:

1. Quality Health System

Norway has a very good and modern health system. Hospitals and clinics here are equipped with sophisticated facilities and professional medical personnel. Most medical personnel in Norway are also able to communicate in English, so you don't need to worry about language barriers.

2. Health Insurance

It is highly recommended to have travel health insurance before leaving for Norway. This insurance will protect you from medical costs that may arise during the trip, including doctor's consultation fees, hospitalization, and medicines.

Some recommended vaccinations if you want to visit Norway include:

1. Basic Vaccinations

Before leaving, make sure you have received basic vaccinations such as the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus), and polio vaccines. Although there are no specific vaccinations required to enter Norway, having basic vaccinations will help protect your health during the trip.

2. Additional Vaccinations

Consider getting additional vaccinations such as the influenza vaccine, especially if you are visiting during the winter. Hepatitis A and B vaccines are also recommended for travelers who plan to stay for a long time or engage in risky activities.

Emergency Numbers

The emergency number in Norway is 112. You can call this number for emergency medical assistance, police or firefighters. Save this number in your mobile phone and make sure you know how to contact it. Here are other emergency numbers:

Health Contacts

If you need non-emergency health care, you can contact your GP or your nearest clinic. Here are some people you can contact in an emergency:

Here are some tips you can follow:

1. Drink Water and Food

Tap water in Norway is very safe to drink, so you don't need to worry about bringing bottled water. However, make sure to always eat hygienic food and avoid food that looks stale or is not cooked properly.

2. Wear Appropriate Clothing

Norway has a varied climate, depending on the season and location. Make sure you bring clothes that are appropriate for the weather. During winter, bring warm clothes such as thick jackets, scarves, hats, and gloves. While in summer, wear comfortable clothes that can absorb sweat well.

3. Pay Attention to Physical Condition

If you plan to do physical activities such as hiking or skiing, make sure you are in good physical condition. Warm up before starting the activity and don't forget to rest if you feel tired. Bring emergency equipment and make sure you know the route or path that will be taken.

4. Get Enough Rest

Long trips and changes in the environment can affect your mental health. Make sure you have enough time to rest and relax after a day of activities.

5. Bring Personal Medication

Make sure you bring personal medication with sufficient supplies. Don't forget to also bring a copy of the doctor's prescription and a medical certificate that may be needed later.

Here is an explanation of natural disasters, climate, and local responses to natural disasters in Norway.

1. Landslides

Landslides are one of the natural disasters that often occur in Norway, especially in mountainous and coastal areas. Landslides are usually caused by heavy rain, snowmelt, or human activities such as construction. The Norwegian government has installed early warning systems in many at-risk areas to minimize the impact of landslides.

2. Floods

Floods are also a threat in some areas, especially in the spring when the snow melts. Overflowing rivers and heavy rainfall can cause flooding that damages infrastructure and property. The Norwegian government has taken mitigation measures such as building embankments and good drainage systems.

3. Earthquakes

Although Norway is not in a major earthquake zone, small earthquakes are common. Most earthquakes in Norway do not cause significant damage, but people should remain vigilant and know the basic safety measures that can be taken.

1. Subarctic and Maritime Climate

Norway has a varied climate, depending on location and season. The northern part of Norway has a subarctic climate with long, very cold winters and short, cool summers. In the south and coastal areas, the climate is more moderate with the influence of the sea keeping temperatures more stable throughout the year.

2. Winter and Summer

Winters in Norway, especially in the north, can be very extreme with temperatures dropping below -20°C. Heavy snow and ice are common. On the other hand, summers in Norway can be quite warm, especially in the south, with temperatures reaching 20-25°C.

3. Rainfall

Rainfall in Norway is quite high, especially in the west coast which receives more than 2000 mm of rain per year. While in the east, rainfall is generally lower, but still significant. Rain can occur all year round, so make sure you bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Read more: Do You Need A Passport To Go on A Cruise?

Natural disasters are common in Norway, so here are some local responses to potential disasters:

1. Early Warning Systems

Norway has sophisticated early warning systems for various types of natural disasters. For example, landslide and flood warning systems use sensor technology and weather monitoring to provide real-time information to residents and tourists.

2. Evacuation and Emergency Response

The Norwegian government is very efficient in handling emergency situations. Evacuation and emergency response procedures are well-planned and frequently tested through regular drills. In the event of a disaster, emergency personnel will immediately provide the necessary instructions and assistance.

3. Provide Education and Awareness

Education and public awareness about natural disasters are very high in Norway. The government and non-governmental organizations often conduct campaigns and trainings to raise public awareness about disaster risks and mitigation measures that can be taken.

4. Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

Much of Norway’s infrastructure is designed to withstand natural disasters. For example, buildings in landslide and earthquake-prone areas are built to high standards to reduce the risk of damage and loss of life.