Norway

Coastal village of arctic Norway.

 Here you can find a few images from a recent trip to northern Norway.  This is my second trip to the country and I do believe there will be a third.  My primary reason for visting Norway is for the absolutely incredible backcountry skiing.  Of course, photography is a close second reason, and then add in the typical sightseeing and cultural enjoyment, and it's the perfect package for a spring getaway. 

Norway, for the most part, has things figured out.  They have very high taxes, but unlike other wealthy countries, they redistribute their income to the betterment of the whole of the country with a great education system, very good health care, decent roads/bridges/tunnels, career opportunities, and clean air and water.  Ironically, lots of their income comes solely from interest earned from accounts filled by the sale of oil from the North Sea.  What a system, though!  Produce the pollutants and ship them to someone downwind and make a lot of money!

It will be interesting to watch to see how Norway continues to develop.  As fishing and oil compete for Norway's income, many questions will arise, specifically regarding the environment.  I hope that they make the best decision possible, considering all the parameters, short term and long term.

For now, it is a very clan country full of vibrant people with tremendous pride of their country.  They're healthy, their crime is virtually zero, they're happy, and they like to ski!  Like me.

I plan to soon have more photos posted at the above link and also here.  Enjoy.  And Happy Spring!