Many online reviews claim Norwegian hostels lack hospitality. Bergen Student-TV have spoken to both hostel managers and backpackers, and although noticing a “chill” in Norway, backpackers in Bergen seem to disagree with this.
Hostels in Norway
– In one year we have around 20.000 people from more than 70 nations, says Bjarne Graabæk.
Having been the general manager of the YMCA Hostel in Bergen for 12 years, he has heard many stories from backpackers and their experiences in Norway. He has also heard about Norway’s “Cold” reputation, but not from the backpackers themselves.
–I know the media focuses on it, he says.
The lack of Norwegian smiles
Kaisa Myslinka from Poland is currently staying at a Norwegian hostel, and says she has found a difference between the Norwegians and the rest of Europe.
– When I speak to you, you don’t smile, but the rest of Europe smile a lot.
Apart from that, she does not feel that Norwegians are as “cold” as many portray them to be.
– You are very nice, she says, and reveals that she understands there is more to Norwegians than the lack of smiling.
Cold, but warm
Alan Duong is surprised to hear about the poor reviews. He agrees to the fact that Norway is cold, but only when we speak about climate.
– Norwegians are very warm and accepting, he says, before he speaks passionately about the Norwegians he met when he went to Trolltunga. He would definitely come back to Norwegian hostels, and gives them four stars… out of three.
