OSLO
The Eclectic CapitalThis weekend we bring to you insights on one of Europe’s fastest growing capital cities with everchanging skylines to accomodate a rapidly growing population, Norway’s eclectic capital, a world-class cultural and economic hotspot that is Oslo. It has been listed as one of the world’s greenest and most liveable cities, one of the most expensive cities in the world, and considered number one in terms of quality of life. It is no wonder that tourists from all over the world sweep over the city...
Definitely one of many’s favorite attractions to see is the Opera House where you can explore, have a picnic and people-watch on the roof. It was built to resemble a ship – fitting, as Oslo is also a hub of Norwegian shipping and the Vikings were said to be the first founders of the place – with such a beautiful panoramic view of the whole city. Finding out that it was the winner of the 2009 Mies van der Rohe award.
*whips out a dictionary* a fjord is defined as a long, narrow inlet of the sea between high cliffs, typically formed by glacial erosion. Take the train through the scenic Rauma Railway to Alesund, the gateway to the fjord area, and explore the majestic, pristine, awestriking, grand... etc. Basically indescribable natural beauty. Imagine the serenity and peacefulness of floating on the water, as if on set for one of those river scenes on Lord of the Rings.
Oslo Fjord 
Norsk Folkenmuseum Oslonians have tonnes of unique museums that one would not find anywhere else in the world. Sure, you have those usual City Museums and National Galleries, but they also have a special open-air museum dedicated to exhibit 155 buildings from all over Norway called the Norsk Folkenmuseum. It is considered a worthy expression of Nordic identity, exemplifying all the history and culture of Norway and Scandanavia.
The opulent hotel and spa from Oslo-based Mellbye architects offers 119 bespoke rooms with brilliant waterfront views, as they were perfectly located overlooking the canals of Tjuvholmen and the Oslofjord. Decorated with original artwork curated by the famous Sune Nordgren and furniture chosen by Anemone Wille-Vage exhibiting state of the art design without sacrificing comfort, THE THIEF takes the top spot on the city’s list of luxury hotels. Book a few nights at one of Scandanavia’s most exciting urban renewal projects and be at the center for business, art and nightlife.
THE THIEF. Landgangen 1, 0252 Oslo, Norway. Click HERE for more details.
First opening its doors in 2002, Yjaljali (pronounced ee-la-yah-lee) is part of restauranteur Nezvat Arikan’s empire until it was taken over in 2010 by chefs Even Ramsvik and Ronny Kolvik where they transformed it into one of Norway’s most exciting restaurants today. As you step onto the cobblestones, you’ll feel a sense of its palpable history as the building dates back to 1872. The food served there is brasserie-inspired with only one menu that is offered with matching wines. Make sure you prepare your palettes for some rustic, Nordic goodness.
Olympen Situated on the East side at Gronland, Olympen is located at one of the oldest establishments in the most diverse neighborhoods in Oslo dating back to 1892. Many people from all walks of life flock to this restaurant, and are served a wide collection of beer under sparkling chandeliers with several giant paintings towering over them. Olympen serves seasonal Nordic food with a modern twist, so definitely try their classics like skangentoast, or their traditional rice pudding with almonds and berries!
