NORWAY
HEI HEI, LET’S EXPLORE NORWAY
We’re just going to come right out and say it - Norway is cool. This Scandinavian country boasts some of the most beautiful natural scenery in world, including fjords (deep, narrow inlets created by ancient glaciers), well-maintained hiking trails and 50,000 islands in their archipelago.
Norwegians also have a strong sense of culture which you can experience in their cozy seaside villages and bright blue fjords in the south, the international vibe of Oslo or the gorgeous scenery and natural wonders like the northern lights and midnight sun up in the north.
Our Tastemakers in Norway are ready to share their intel so you can you experience the country The Citrine Compass way!
Meet our Norway Tastemakers
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EXPERTISE | Oslo + Outdoor Adventure
PROFILE | Kristel is a native Norwegian, born with skis on her feet (as they say in Norway). Kristel earned her French Master’s degree in Business and worked abroad in France and Morocco for 5 years. In 2020, she moved back to Oslo with her Moroccan husband and her husky.
Kristel prefers doing sports or other outdoor activities, whether that be enjoying drinks on a rooftop, sitting at an outdoor café with a delicious pastry, going hiking or bungee jumping from a bridge. Wherever it might be, she just loves a good view!
She has been working in the tourism industry for several years and knows how to plan the perfect adventure, whether that be something luxurious or more rustic. She and her husband also host a few surf and yoga retreats in Morocco each year. Kristel is an expert on Norway, the land of fjords and mountains, and can use her intel to help you discover the best spots and activities on your trip.
What is Norway’s most beautiful hike? I have done some extreme hikes but the most beautiful one was going alone up a small mountaintop in Tromsø. Due to the midnight sun in June (when the sun never sets) I could go out for a hike at midnight in bright daylight. So surreal and such an amazing experience!
What is your hidden gem in Oslo? Definitely a walk down the Akerselva River, which is an 8 km long river that flows through the whole city and into the Oslo fjord. The river takes you through parks and small forests, across picturesque bridges, historical buildings and past several waterfalls that once powered all of Oslo's industry – with lots of good food along the way.
IG | @krisohren
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EXPERTISE | Olso, Luxury Travel + Weekend Trips
PROFILE | Born in Afghanistan and raised in Norway, Tamina moved to Santa Barbara to earn her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology and stayed in California for 10 years.
Last year, her heartstrings were pulling her back to Norway and she has loved being back amongst majestic scenery where the steep snow-capped mountains meet the fjords and the small colorful fishing villages look like paintings. She has a secret to share - the views are even better in real life.
With its long history of Vikings and fishing, Norway is a mecca for seafood lovers but also for active adventurers. There is something for everyone whether you like the city-life, museums, history, food, hiking or everything above. As an avid explorer of Norway's hot spots as well as the more remote destinations, Tamina is at the ready to be your travel guide!
Favorite Norway destination? Lofoten Islands! Every island has its charm and you get so much of Norway in one destinatoin - amazing views, world class hiking, some of the most beautiful white sand beaches and some of the tastiest cinnamon buns from local bakeries run by multi-generation islanders. Not to mention the authenticity of the small villages that helps you disocnnect from this big world.
Best fine dining in Oslo? Maaemo is the only restaurant in Norway with three Michelin stars and the wait lists are long (but for good reason). If you are planning on coming to Oslo, make sure you book your reservation here ahead of time. This is the kind of place you won’t stop talking about - the food and the atmosphere is something you will think back on for a long time. If you want a little piece of Norway in flavors, I would highly recommend this beautiful restaurant!
IG | @tamina.ansari
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EXPERTISE | Northern Norway + Oslo
PROFILE | Born and raised in the enchanting Northern Norway, Tiril has a passion for travel, winter sports and all things culture.
After completing her Bachelor's degree in Tourism, Tiril made her way down to the bustling city of Oslo where she now works as a travel agent. Her passion for adventure has taken her far beyond the borders of her homeland; she has lived in Canada, the Netherlands and even the tropical paradise of the Cook Islands. But her love for her home country remains unmatched.
Growing up under the shimmering Northern Lights, she developed a deep appreciation for the awe-inspiring beauty of Norway’s nature and earned extensive knowledge of its snowy terrain.
When the snow melts, she swaps out her skis and can be spotted in one the country's many museums and theatres, seeking out adventures that will give her an unforgettable adrenaline rush, indulging in delicious cuisine or watching the mesmerizing midnight sun from a mountaintop with her dog.
What is a great weekend getaway from Oslo? Hemsedal is a mecca for every adrenaline junkie or nature lover out there. A 2-hour drive from Oslo will get you to a winter wonderland that has amazing downhill skiing and cross country skiing. Stay in one of the town’s luxurious cabins and enjoy a drink in one of the many apre-ski spots. In the summertime you can try mountain biking, bungee jumping or rafting!
When is the best time to visit Norway? I recommend October to March if you want to spot the northern lights and the middle of May to the end of July for the midnight sun. It is important to note that these phenomena can only be seen in the north! If you want to experience Oslo or the many fjords of the south, then fall is a great time to visit. You won’t have to wait in lines amongst other tourists and the nature is at its most beautiful in my opinion.
IG | @tiril2
Norway Testimonials
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Wow, this is really incredible. Of course we have a couple of questions but overall - we are IN LOVE with this itinerary. Huge thanks to you for finding Tamina, she has been lovely to work with.
/ -ANGELA D. /