Sarah and her husband, both American expats, live in the Norwegian city of Kristiansand. Living in Norway has its ups and downs, but it's an experience they are appreciating. They have forged lifelong friendships there and created wonderful memories to take with them when the time to leave Norway comes. Here, Sarah shares some of those experiences and memories.	Sarah

-Where were you born?

Houston, Texas, USA

-In which country and city are you living now?

Kristiansand, Norway

-Are you living alone or with your family?

I am living with my husband.

-How long have you been living in Norway?

Almost a year

-What is your age?

26

-When did you come up with the idea of living in Norway?

While my husband and I were dating we talked about how cool it would be to travel and live around the world.  When engaged and house shopping, we had a break-through moment while eating Mexican food....of course.  Bummed that our offer (of asking price, may I add) on a home in Dallas was beat by another couple we discussed the possibilities of NOT living in Dallas and to live that crazy dream of "life abroad."  So in between fajitas and margaritas we made a plan.  Long story short...6 months later a company called to offer my husband a job in Norway and we couldn't refuse!

-Was it hard to get a visa or a working permit?

Not one bit.  The company he is working for took care of it all.

-Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance before you went there or when you first arrived?

Again, not at all.  This is for two reasons.  One being my husband still works for an American company so we have American insurance.  Two being that Norway has a wonderful public health care system.  If you have your Norwegian Tax Number set up...you are home free!

-How do you make your living in Norway? Do you have any type of income generated?

Husband works hard.  I was substituting at the International School here and made wonderful wages through that.  (Norway pays very well.)  If you are a teacher I would do a google search for international schools in the city you move to.  The schools are filled with expats and people constantly moving so get your name in there early. 

Also, here in Kristiansand there are a few temp agencies.  One example is Kelly Services.  I know that this agency places temps in many English-speaking jobs around town.

-Do you speak Norwegian and do you think it's important to speak the local language?

Nope, not one bit.  Everyone here does speak English, which is very helpful.  There are very thourough and inexpensive languange classes taught through the city though.  If we were staying longer I would have attempted the language, not doing this is something I already regret.

-Do you miss home and family sometimes? Describe your favorite recreational activities there or those that are available.

I do miss home at times.  We have a phone line set up through Vonage so I can call home at any time and talk for as long as I want...very helpful on sad days. 

My favorite things to do during the day are to exercise at our gym, Spenst.  They have great work-out classes.  I like to shop in town.  Drink cappuccinos at Laura's Coffee Shop.  Hike around Odderoya and Bonaheia.  Meet with friends and chew the fat. 

-Do you have other plans for the future?

In December we plan to move again....next is Frankfurt, Germany!

-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?

I feel very spoiled...but again, Husband's company took care of it.

-What is the cost of living in Norway?

VERY HIGH!  $30-$100 per plate out, at least $10 a beer, $200/week on groceries (and we are cheap).

-What do you think about the Norwegians?

I have made some wonderful, life-long friends here.  They are very friendly and helpful. 

-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Norway?

Positives: beautiful country, wonderful people, amazing memories

Negatives: cost of living

-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Norway?

Throw your budget out of the window.

-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Norway?

I have plenty!!  Here are a couple, including my own.

Striped Socks and Skinny Jeans; http://stripedsocksandskinnyjeans.blogspot.com, About a fun, young American couple who just moved to Stavanger. 

Tales of a Texpatriate; http://karlastories.blogspot.com, A hilarious and quirky Texan in Olso.

Newlywed in Norway; My Blog!!  http://www.newlywedinnorway.blogspot.com, Me, in the good, the bad, happy and sad.