The Indian/Asian experience of Oslo

heyheyhey wrote:

I'm originally from Oslo, my wife is Indian. We're tentatively moving to Oslo this year. I've lived abroad for the last 12 years and rarely went back to visit, and when I grew up in Oslo I didn't experience it as a foreigner.

So I'm wondering what Indians/Asians' experience of Oslo is like? Specifically do you ever encounter racism or dodgy attitudes?

Thanks!

Not here... but then again I am African American and receive a extremely positive reaction (compared to even in the Southern US)..

What I have noticed is that at the Police station that they are pretty stern with some of the immigrants; however, when I was processed they were extremely delightful and helpful about the fact that I wanted a Visa for their country.

I have been treated extremely well in Norway.. Even in the country towns.. Of course, beware of the Jante Law.. Even though it is openly disdained by many Norwegians, its slightly rears its ugly head...

Because I didn't know what "The Jante Law" is, I googled it:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jante_Law

I hadn't heard of "The Jante Law" either but it's worryingly accurate. I could have written it myself to describe what I've found here.

I think Janteloven is widespread in whole Scandinavia. I'd spent 4 years in Denmark before I moved here and I know it too well

My relatives absolutely disdain this... My brother-in-law clearly says this is a result of a socialistic view and influence from both WWII Germany and Cold War USSR.

I am pleased to say that this attitude may exist amongst the middle agers and more seniors; however, this attitude clearly does NOT exist amongst the youth...

It is a rather embarassing topic for them to discuss... Several of my relatives I talked to was halting at first, but later conceded that present Norwegians are changing their attitude to fit that of our ever changing world. They view the Jante Law thing as "the old ways".

flipper78 wrote:

I think Janteloven is widespread in whole Scandinavia. I'd spent 4 years in Denmark before I moved here and I know it too well

My Danish neighbors (they were next door neighbors) were the perfect example of Janteloven... It was weird to communicate with them... The Japanese next door neighbors were a lot more fun to deal with... this attitude was apparently spread to their kids as my son had a blast playing with his Japanese counterpart (she is such a cute little girl and brillant English accent), but had problems with both little Danish boys next door.


Our Japanese neighbors have no problem with Norway... They enjoy their experience very well... However, they are headed back to Tokyo this summer.

@weaponx: Don't get me started telling stories about DK

flipper78 wrote:

@weaponx: Don't get me started telling stories about DK

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA *fell out of my chair*

what's so funny?