Norway Re-Visited

I thought I would do a complete Norway post because the other ones have been so short.

Norway has about 5 million people compared to Sweden which has about 8 million and Finland which has about 5 million. I am not sure how many people are in Denmark. Norway is part of the EU but still maintains its own currency (the kroner) which currently trades at about 6 kroner to 1 U.S. dollar.


In Norway (at least most of rural Norway) many homes still heat themselves with wood burning fireplaces. As you can see by the pictures there is plenty of wood supply. Often the houses have supplemental heat but the primary source is wood.


The area where we were in southern Norway was very beautiful. Waterfalls, lakes, and rivers, were everywhere. Pictures like that above were around every corner.


Norway, as well as Sweden, Denmark, and Finland (all the countries with crosses in their flags), have state sponsored churches. That means the government pays the salaries of the pastors for the state churches. The official religion of Norway is Lutheran. I am not sure of the denomination or doctrine so I don't know how it would compare to North American Lutheran churches such as Missouri Synod, Lutheran Brethren, etc.


Even though I wasn't on this trip (only Grandpa and Grandma were) it is a classic Norwegian house from 'the olden days'. Not many houses look like this anymore but these are still kept up in various locations.

Some other interesting facts about Norway is their tax system. The highest tax rate is 65%! Plus there is a 25% tax on everything you buy making retail goods various expensive. What dad found most interesting is that the Norwegian government mails you your tax forms every year and the forms are already completed! The government already knows your income, bank balances, interest, and most deductions. All you need to do is review in sign! There usually are additional deductions that are not included in the governments pre-completed tax form but for the most part everything is included. Fascinating!


Norway is very beautiful and I highly recommend visiting. There are lots of toys!


and lots of friendly people.