Virtual Vacation: 5 Ways to Experience Norway From Home

It may be some months before you can check Norway off your bucket list, but there are plenty of ways to experience this enticing Scandinavian country from your own home. Here are five ideas to get you started.

Learn the noble art of "kos."
The Norwegian word "kos" means the kind of instant happiness you get when you feel safe, warm, and happy. Norwegians are experts when it comes to enjoying themselves both outdoors and indoors, as the winter in Norway can last for up to eight months in some places. Think atmospheric lighting, the right music, candles, soft pillows, and clothes that are more comfortable than Instagram-friendly.

Make waffles.
Waffles = "kos," which we need a lot of right now. Try making them yourself with this authentic recipe. If you don't have a waffle iron, you can pour the batter into a frying pan and make a thick pancake, which will turn out quite similar to the Norwegian ferry favorite "svele." Enjoy with butter, or jam and sour cream. The brown cheese will have to wait until you get here in person.

Turn your living room into a Norwegian mountain cabin.
Do you dream of Norwegian cabin life? Recreate that cozy atmosphere at home! Put on a wool sweater and longies, light some candles, and decorate the sofa with faux sheepskin. And it doesn't matter if you haven't showered – your hair will look like an authentic "hyttesveis."

Become a Viking.
Vikings were sturdy and resilient. When the time comes for you to travel to Norway, you can experience Viking culture in person at the brand-new Viking museum Sagastad in Nordfjordeid. Until then, check out "Vikings" on Amazon Prime or "Norsemen" on Netflix.

Listen to a gay choir.
One of the world's most acclaimed gay choirs, Oslo fagottkor, always performs with flair. Sync your next Nordic vacation with their performance schedule, and in the meantime, enjoy their rendition of Dolly Parton's "9 to 5."