Norwegian hotdogs
Friday, August 19th: Trondheim, Norway > Grong, Norway
We drove 2.5 hours to Grong and had a relaxed day. We checked into the AirB&B, which is in a winter ski community. It’s a sleepy town in the summer without much to do or see. We drove by the Namsentunet Lodge where we’ll be staying for the next three nights, drove along the Namsen River and stopped at the dam. We’re getting a bit nervous about our chances to catch Atlantics… keeping our fingers crossed.
We finally got our Norwegian hotdog from the Circle K gas station. At $8.50 it had to be good. It was the size of a large bratwurst and wrapped in bacon. We chose to top it with fried, crunchy onions like we had many times in Iceland, and some sort of common white condiment that was put out next to the ketchup and mustard.
We grabbed food for dinner and splurged again for another movie night. We got a bag of paprika chip, which tasted like a less zesty bbq flavor, mango and passionfruit sorbet, another Freia chocolate bar and a bag of bulk candy.
We watched “Look Both Ways” and “Lightyear”
Some random learnings from our time in Norway:
AirB&Bs oftentimes don’t supply linens or towels - BYOL/T
AirB&Bs are generally inexpensive in the summertime for popular ski communities. They’re usually a second home and better equipped with amenities (spices, etc.)
Water pressure in the shower is strong everywhere
Water tastes great everywhere - even in remote campgrounds (unlike the U.S. and Canada where water comes from wells resulting in unpleasant flavors)
It is uncommon to have a dryer unit for laundry - everyone has drying racks
There are very limited cereal and cracker options (generally fewer SKUs or brands for any food item) and they are healthier - whole grain / wheat and tasteless
Despite the high cost of living, some grocery items are equivalent in price to the U.S. while others are significantly more expensive
There’s a general courtesy amongst drivers on the road - on narrow, single lane streets around the mountains, people stop and pull over to let oncoming traffic pass. The courtesy wave is a must.
Norwegians all speak English fluently and there’s a blend of languages on signs and posted information.
There are very few stop lights or stop signs. Traffic operates with roundabouts and common sense.
We knew this before arriving, but they love their black licorice.
Passionfruit is a common flavor here - thank god.
Hiking is for everyone. Young kids and the elderly (and even those that appear out of shape) tackle long, strenuous hikes with ease.
Accommodations: AirB&B, Grong
