12 Years in Norway: A Ukrainian Woman Shares Her Shock Over the Weather and the 'Ikke Stress' Principle

A Ukrainian Expat's Journey in Norway

According to УНІАН — Туризм: After living in Norway for 12 years, Ukrainian expat Yuliya opens up about the toughest parts of adapting to life in this Scandinavian nation. The biggest hurdles? Harsh weather and a serious lack of sunlight. In northern Norway, a summer temperature of +17°C is considered warm, and during winter, the sun appears for just a few hours a day. As a result, Norwegian doctors frequently prescribe vitamin supplements, daylight lamps, and even sick leave for those struggling with their mental health.

Yuliya also notes that Norwegians rarely form new friendships in adulthood, making social integration difficult for newcomers. However, the country embraces the principle of 'Ikke stress'-meaning 'no stress'-which fosters a relaxed work environment. Overtime is not the norm, and employers are perfectly fine with employees taking a few days off to welcome a new pet. Another highlight is the accessibility of childcare: kindergartens operate nearly all day and are affordably priced.

Healthcare and Employment in Norway

Still, Norway's healthcare system comes with its own challenges. It operates through family doctors, and waiting times for an appointment can stretch for several months. Despite this, finding a job is achievable even with a Ukrainian diploma. Yuliya, who works in IT, earned her degree at a local Norwegian university.

Beyond Yuliya's story, other Ukrainian women are sharing their experiences across Europe. For instance, Liudmyla, who has lived in Germany for 4 years, describes strict noise regulations:

“In Germany, making noise is banned at night, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and on Sundays. Violating quiet hours can result in a fine of up to five thousand euros.” - Liudmyla

There are also rules against drying laundry on balconies, and getting a pet often requires the landlord's permission.

Another Ukrainian woman, Daria, offers advice for those planning to move to Romania. These stories highlight the diverse experiences of Ukrainians in different European countries and their efforts to adapt to new lifestyles.

The experiences of Ukrainians who have relocated to various European nations reveal both the upsides and downsides of life abroad. Despite challenges like social integration and healthcare, many find opportunities to advance their careers and build comfortable lives. These accounts can be valuable for anyone considering a move or simply curious about how Ukrainians are faring in Europe.

As Yuliya navigates the complexities of life in Norway, her experiences resonate with those of other Ukrainian expatriates in Europe. For example, a Ukrainian blogger highlights the unexpected challenges of living in Croatia, shedding light on the local lifestyle and regulations that can catch newcomers off guard. To learn more about these surprising aspects of life abroad, read about the shocking downsides of living in Croatia.