Jun 20. At Sea
Not much on our agenda today except a couple of port lectures for Honningsvag and Tromso. So I decided to make some general comments about Norway.
I was surprised to learn that it has one of the largest economies in the world! Its economic success is built on the responsible management of its natural resources, particularly oil and gas, combined with an emphasis on social welfare and with a focus on long term sustainability. The country's large sovereign wealth fund, derived largely from oil revenues, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the economy and funding public services.
The fund was set up to shield the economy from ups and downs in oil revenue. It also serves as a financial reserve and as a long-term savings plan so that both current and future generations of Norway get to benefit from oil wealth.
The ‘happiness’ and high quality of life in Norway is partly due to an environment where people don’t have to worry about the cost of living as the government pays for health, education, and unemployment benefits. Income tax rates are high - about 45% - but having the expense of basic needs paid by the government balances that. This creates a sense of equality among its citizens.
There is high importance placed on ‘family’. People trust the government as there is little or no corruption. The crime rate is extremely low.
On our drives we noticed how clean the cities are. We didn’t see trash on the streets and the air is so fresh with no signs of air pollution. Over 90% of vehicles are electric, greatly reducing pollution. Many electric bikes are used to get around.
Most Norwegians earn a good wage so the guides and bus drivers do not expect tips. We have not been in any stores to compare prices so I can’t comment on that.
All in all this is a well managed, beautiful country! The one big drawback would be the climate - winter months with little or no sun and cold weather.
Tonight is formal night again! People have been commenting that Princess is not serving lobster on these nights as they used to! That’s not an issue for us as we prefer other choices.
Phillip Browne is the entertainer for a return engagement tonight so that will be an enjoyable performance.
On to Honningsvag with no sunset for the next few nights!!
Two Travellers
😀😃
I like their way of living. It does show that evs are viable as energy savings. Odd, when you think of it with their abundance of fossil fuel. But, as you, I'll pass on the winters lol. Good eats, and as much as I like lobster, I don't think you won't be disappointed. Enjoy
ReplyDeleteI think their decision to sell their oil was how they built up the Sovereign Wealth Fund. They are all about sustainability and this fund will look after generations to come.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing a bit more about Norway. Interesting how the Nordic countries are consistently on the top of ‘happiest’ places to live. And really, that’s in spite of less sunshine and cooler climate temps which in North America we believe adds to depression etc. I will tell you that some of the best ski and rain clothing comes from there. 😃
ReplyDeleteI can see why the ski and rain gear would be top notch!
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