My experience, Norway by Thea

What is it like to live in Kristiansand? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Kristiansand is a small city with a friendly and cosy atmosphere. The city is the optimal summer city in Norway - with the beautiful coastline, the warm and sunny wether, popular festivals and Scandinavia's biggest beach party (Palmesus). Kristiansand have gotten the title "City of flowers" and "The christmas city".

Despite the small population, Kristiansand has good shopping possibilities and lots of resturants and cafès.

What is the student lifestyle like in Kristiansand?

The student life in Kristiansand is great! It's lots of activities happening all the time and a big diverse of people from all around the world. Studying in Kristiansand gives you the possibilities to see what the Norwegian nature has to offer - just a short drive/ buss trip to activity centers, skiing resorts and you can practically go swimming in the city.

How much does it cost to live in Kristiansand?

The prices variates a lot depending on how and where you want to live, but as you may know Norway is an over all expensive country.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Kristiansand? Is there any advice you can give?

Be as early as possible! Take a look at the university's website or send them an e-mail, they may have some advice or accommodation possibilities for students.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Norway is a multicultural country, and this shows really clearly in what kind of food and shops you find! If it's anything special you want, we probably have a shop you can find it. Eating out in Norway is really expensive, but if you have the possibility you should try out Mother India - Norway's best Indian restaurant(! ) and Food Asylum, with sushi as you never have seen or tasted it before - amazing!

What places would you recommend visiting in Kristiansand?

The nature around Kristiansand is amazing. Ask at the turist information or get a Norwegian friend to show you! Also the coastline is something really special for Norway, get on a boat from Åros or ask a Norwegian frend to show you. Getting to know people from the city is really the best way to find the nicest places. In summer "Fiskrebrygga" is a must - google it!