The vehicles of the future are being electrified, autonomous and connected. The vehicles of the future will also be more environmentally friendly than current ones. Gothenburg in Sweden is the hub of automotive industry with long roots in manufacturing and innovation.Two famous automotive neighbors are residing in Sweden’s Motor City – Volvo and Polestar.
On the morning of 14 April 1927, the first Volvo car drove out through the factory gates in Gothenburg on the west coast of Sweden. The car was officially called the ÖV4 and it was an open tourer with a four-cylinder engine. The world’s first Volvo was ready to hit the road.
The first Volvo car drove out through the factory gates in Gothenburg on the morning of 14 April 1927.
When the Volvo XC90 was launched in 2002, it became an instant success all over the world. It redefined the segment for big SUVs and became Sweden’s most important export product within a few years.
The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, based in Hangzhou, took over ownership of the Volvo brand in 2010.
For the first time, in 2013, Volvo operated a complete manufacturing plant outside Europe. It was inaugurated in the city of Chengdu, where the company initially produced the Volvo S60L and XC60.
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Read also: 240 Norwegian Landscapes with a Volvo 240 Somewhere in the Image
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Today, the vast majority of Volvo vehicles are assembled in Sweden, mainly at the Torslanda and Skovde facilities. Volvo cars for the Asian market are assembled across four facilities in China. Volvo Cars recently opened a plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina, where all American market Volvo S60 sedans are made.
The Polestar name originates from the STCC Polestar racing team-
The Swedish automotive brand Polestar was established in 1996 as Flash Engineering. It was later rebranded Polestar Racing, then acquired in 2015 by Volvo Cars. It is also headquartered in Torslanda outside Gothenburg, Sweden. Its vehicles are produced in China, home to Volvo’s corporate parent Geely.
Polestar 1
The Polestar name originates from the STCCPolestar racing team which spawned Polestar Performance AB, in turn acquired by Volvo Cars in July 2015. The racing team changed its name to Cyan Racing, while maintaining close ties to Volvo.
In 2017, it surprised the automotive world with a limited run of its hybrid sport coupé, Polestar 1. Two years later came Polestar 2, a battery-electric five-door fast-back.
Polestar 4
In September 2021, Polestar announced an intention to go public and Polestar shares began trading on the Nasdaq exchange under the symbol PSNY on 24 June 2022.
The Polestar brand is one of many to enter the global automotive market over the past few years.
Polestar head of design Maximillan Missoni
Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, talks about the optimized headroom, low roofline, sleek silhouette, and other design details of the Polestar 3 that give it its distinct expression, unique in the world of SUVs.
Polestar 4, out next year, will be a “crossover SUV-coupe” with sharp hips and an extended glass roof without rear window. Polestar 5 is said to be a sexy, low-slung four-door grand tourer, based on the company’s first dedicated platform, created at its R&D base in the UK.
Polestar headquarters in Gothenburg
Polestar was never destined to become the electric division of Volvo. Both are distinct companies under the Geely Holding umbrella, and Volvo Cars’ electric range is fast evolving with ambitions to be all-EV by 2030.
Two Famous Automotive Neighbors in Sweden’s Motor City, written by Tor Kjolberg
Oscar Wilde once said, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” Why shouldn’t that notion apply to travel? Hotels.com is now launching a Scandinavian travel guide named Dupes of Scandinavia in which you can travel within Scandinavia to look-alike destinations like Golden Gate Bridge, Venice or Sahara, to name just a few.
Do you believe that the photo above was taken by the 12th-century Borgund Stave Church in Norway ? A good guess, but in fact it’s a model of the stave church in Washington Island, USA. The idyllic village has long been an oasis for Scandinavian-Americans, especially folks of Icelandic and Danish decent. Here you can visit Jacobsen Museum, K.K. Fiske Restaurant – and of course the island’s traditional stavkirke.
A picture from South of Norway or Western Sweden? No, in fact, it’s from the UNESCO old town in Lunenburg.
According to Hotels.com, the extreme weather in Southern Europe, rising costs of living and trends on social media have led to new travel trends which are likely to grow stronger in 2024. This means an increased demand for travel to cooler destinations . More travelers are expected to holiday in northern latitudes and in destinations considered less popular.
A growing travel trend is to go to the so-called “destination dupes”. These are places that resemble or act as alternatives to famous destinations, which are often hidden gems with the same atmosphere, but perhaps more affordable in terms of price. In fact, as many as 76% of Danes have either booked a trip for a destination dupe or are considering doing so. Furthermore, just under a third prefer to travel to less popular and hidden gems rather than the safer and tried-and-tested tourist destinations.
If you’ve ever found yourself on vacation thinking that the place you’re in feels remarkably familiar, maybe that’s because it is. Across the world, there are cities, neighborhoods, buildings, and landmarks that bear a striking resemblance to others — often continents apart.
Klintmøller in Denmark is nicknamed “Cold Hawaii”. Photo: Expedia
If you’ve been dreaming of faraway lands with powdery white sands and turquoise waters, or cobblestone streets surrounded by European architecture, you don’t necessarily have to purchase an international flight! Let’s give you some examples.
If you’re living in North America and have dreamed of going to Norway, there is in fact a UNESCO World Heritage site located around an hour from Halifax in Canada, called Lunenburg (nicknamed Norway of the North).
With an atmosphere straight out of a Norwegian fairytale, its rows of colourful homes, picturesque charm and artisan galleries will make you feel like you’ve just been transported to Scandinavia.
Canada’s “Norway of the North” also boasts a distinctive, historic waterfront lined with countless fish restaurants, all reminiscent of a Norwegian coastal town.
Luneberg, Novascotia in Canada has been nicknamed “Norway of the North”.
Drive through the Icelandic countryside and you’ll likely come across an impressive number of waterfalls. Though you can see plenty from the country’s famed Ring Road, one of the most remarkable is Háifoss, located on the Fossá River on the edge of the Icelandic Highlands. Its name translates to “the high waterfall,” which is apt when you consider it drops a staggering 400 feet to the valley floor.
Standing in front of Maletsunyane Falls in the southern African mountain nation of Lesotho, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in the North Atlantic — like its European counterpart, it plunges over basalt softened by lush green vegetation. You’ll find the 600-foot-tall single cataract near the village of Semonkong, whose name means “smoky place” thanks to the near-constant spray from the waterfall. If you have a head for heights, you can even arrange to rappel down the side of the falls.
This island is Kullaberg in Skåne, Sweden. Photo Johan Hammar/VisitSkane
The Fiordland region of New Zealand is home to some of this South Pacific island nation’s most dramatic scenery. Craggy granite mountains rise out of the water, including the famous Mitre Peak (Rahotu in the language of the country’s Indigenous Māori peoples) in the UNESCO-listed Milford Sound (Piopiotahi). Nearby Doubtful Sound boasts bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, and penguins. In both places, waterfalls — some of which stretch hundreds of feet tall — plunge over towering cliffs. Inland, the area’s glacial valleys are just as breathtaking and best appreciated from the air.
But you don’t need to travel to the Southern Hemisphere to find remarkably similar scenery. In Europe, the Norwegian coastline is also known for its fjords — in fact, the word has origins in Old Norse. Highlights of the region include Nærøyfjord, an extraordinarily beautiful arm of the Sognefjord, and Geirangerfjord, known for its three waterfalls: the Seven Sisters, the Suitor, and the Bridal Veil. Even as you move away from the coast, you don’t lose the wow factor — take, for instance, Trolltunga, a spectacular rocky precipice jutting out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet.
The guide Dupes of Scandinavia from Hotels.com presents Scandinavian destinations which are destination dupes for well-known destinations all over the world. The aim of the guide is to inspire travelers to try new destinations, which in some cases can be cheaper, less crowded and maybe even just around the corner.
Högakustenbroen is Sweden is a dupe for San Fransisco bridge. Photo: Vikibng Line.
Hotel.s com clams that the guide presents ”Norway’s answer to Venice, the Danish version of the Sahara in Jutland and a destination dupe for Mallorca in Scania. The main reasons why Danes want to book a destination dupe are that it is cheaper (47%), closely followed by the fact that there are fewer people (46%), and that it provides a more exciting experience and a closer interaction with the culture of the local area (40%). And there are plenty of places in Scandinavia that offer all three things, says Senior PR Director at Hotels.com and continues:
”Scandinavia actually has much of what can be found in the rest of Europe and the world, and many places are surprisingly similar to each other. With the guide, we hope to inspire more people to find the perfect place for them in new destinations and in new cultures, regardless of whether it concerns a trip abroad or exploring what is right outside the door,” hotels.com states in a press release.
Other suggestions from the guide are:
Drottningholm Palace (dupe for Versailles)
Högakustenbron (dupe for Golden Gate Bridge)
Visby (dupe for Dubrovnik)
Nyhavn (dupe for Amsterdam)
Kronborg (dupe for San Felipe del Morro Castle)
Geiranger Fjord (dupe for Milford Sound)
Nidaros Cathedral (dupe for Westminster Abbey)
From Geirangerfjord, Norway. Photo: Paul Edmundson/Fjord Norway
Without naming them dupes or look-alikes, Daily Scandinavian has also compared different destinations. In our article Denmark – A paradise for Surfers, we pinpointed that Klintmøller’s nickname is “Cold Hawaii”.
Nord-Sjælland (North Zealand), north of Copenhagen, has been named the Danish Riviera. There are many reasons for this. Stunning landscapes, castles and museums combined with endless sandy beaches make North Zealand an all year-round favorite. When you add the world-renowned culinary scene and countless cultural lures, the name ‘the Danish Riviera’ is well and truly earnt.
However, “dupe destinations” aren’t destinations that will offer the same cultural experiences as the “non-dupe” spots. But these destinations do have enough in common that if you are seeking a type of vacation that offers specific features, you’d find yourself pretty satisfying. For instance, Expedia.com points out that Palermo and Lisbon both offer “Moorish castles, jaw-dropping views of the harbors, fresh oysters, and cotton-candy sunsets,” and that Taipei and Seoul are both tech destinations.
Look-Alike Destinations in Scandinavia, edited by Tor Kjolberg
It’s no secret that Scandinavian winters are cold. From December to February, temperatures can easily dip to -20 Celsius.What’s the secret to Scandinavians staying healthy during Scandinavian winters?
Being able to maintain your physical and mental health during the winter, especially when it’s dark and cold, is crucial to staying content through the season.
There are many existing lifestyle practices that make Nordic countries excel in winter wellness, and they go far beyond just bundling up and lighting a fire. Whether you’re new to the Nordic lifestyle or you want to take a more holistic approach toward thriving during the Scandinavian winter, some of these practices can make a big difference.
By putting them in place this season, you might end up enjoying and embracing winter more than ever before.
Practicing self-care is important year-round. Illustration by American Heart Association.
Practicing Self-Care
With short, dark, cold days, it can be tempting to stay in bed and indulge in comfort food more often than not. While that’s okay on occasion, that kind of lifestyle for the whole season can leave you feeling down and depressed. Practicing self-care is important year-round. In the winter, however, certain aspects of it can be challenging. You might find it hard to be physically active when it’s cold outside. Additionally, your access to healthy food might be limited by transportation issues. Higher fuel prices can make it difficult for certain areas of the world to easily access healthy imported produce that comes from further away. When you are able to find healthy ingredients, they could be more costly and might not always fit into your budget.
As often as possible, source your food locally. Get in touch with local farmers and ranchers and you’ll know exactly where your food is coming from and how it was grown or raised. Not only will you likely pay less for local fare, but knowing where it comes from can give you peace of mind about sustainable living. You can also choose to grow or forage your own food and can or preserve it for the winter. The Scandinavian countryside has a wide variety of nutrient-rich berries that can be picked during warmer weather and frozen for later use, or made into sweet jams you can enjoy all winter long.
Even better, choose to spend some time outside. Being outdoors is great for your mental health, and there are plenty of winter activities that will get you moving.
Embrace your inner child with some fun winter sports. Photo: New York Presbyteran.
Get Out of the House
Embrace your inner child with some fun winter sports, and you won’t even realize you’re getting in a great workout that will keep you fit and healthy all season long. Some fun activities that you could consider are :
Skiing
Snow-shoeing
Ice skating
Sledding
It is important to make sure you’re prioritizing hydration throughout the winter. It’s easy to assume you don’t need as much water when it’s cold out because you’re not sweating as much, but the effects of chronic dehydration can be devastating, leading to fatigue, muscle weakness, and even kidney problems.
If it’s too frigid to spend long periods of time outside, consider using technology to your advantage. There are thousands of free workout videos and programs online. Or, invest in indoor equipment like a spin bike or treadmill. You can watch your favorite shows and movies while breaking a sweat.
You can also choose to spend some time some time away from home, embracing local culture and communities. Many people actually head to Scandinavia in the winter as tourists because there’s so much to do and experience. Take advantage of unique opportunities like:
Dog sledding
Christmas markets
Viewing the Northern Lights
Staying in an ice hotel
Whether you’re in the area for a short time or you’ve recently moved and you’re trying to embrace the culture, putting yourself out there in winter is a great way to become acclimated to local communities and the practices and traditions that are so near and dear to so many Scandinavians.
Plus, winter is a great time to sample local cuisine and develop a deeper understanding of Scandinavian comfort food. You’ll also quickly learn how to dress for the weather and look more like a local! Layering up is often the best way to combat the cold temperatures, and you can always remove a layer or two if you get warm or head into a local restaurant or shop to rest and relax for a few minutes. It won’t take you long to embrace the winter if you’re willing to immerse yourself in your community.
hygge is a Danish practice that simply involves creating a cozy atmosphere at home. photo: O&H Danish Bakery.
Traveling to Norway is a dream come true for RV enthusiasts worldwide. The allure of breathtaking landscapes, encompassing serene lakes, expansive woodlands, rugged mountains, and the renowned Fjords, continues to captivate adventurers. Learn more about exploring Norway with your RV: A Comprehensive Guide.
An RV tour across Norway is guaranteed to be an extraordinary adventure. Every mile is a scenic revelation, from traversing the striking south coast and journeying from Trollstigen to Geiranger, strolling amidst the vivid wooden houses in Bergen, and concluding the trip along Lofoten and the North Cape. Moreover, a fortunate traveler might witness the enchanting Northern Lights during this expedition. Convinced? Keep reading to learn about the essentials of camping in Norway!
Essential Guidelines for RV Travel in Norway
Parking and Overnight Stays
Norwegian law permits parking RVs almost anywhere in the country for up to three days, provided no house is within a 150-meter radius. For those preferring designated RV sites, platforms like Campercontact offer numerous options.
An RV tour across Norway is guaranteed to be an extraordinary adventure. Photo: Visit Norway
Emergency Hotline
In Norway, it’s crucial to note the emergency contact number: 112. This number connects to ambulance services, the police, and the fire brigade.
Compliance with Norwegian regulations require carrying a warning triangle and safety vest in your RV. Fire extinguishers (minimum 2kg) are also mandatory for RVs with Norwegian registration plates.
For the most up-to-date travel information about Norway, consult the central government site.
Navigating Norwegian Roads and Traffic
Understanding the country’s speed limits is vital. They go as follows:
Within built-up areas ≤ 3.5 tons: 50 km/h
Inside built-up areas > 3.5 tons: 50 km/h
Outside built-up areas ≤ 3.5 tons: 80 km/h
Outside built-up areas > 3.5 tons: 80 km/h
Motorway ≤ 3.5 tons: 90/100 km/h (potentially 110 km/h in summer; follow signs)
Highway > 3.5 tons: 80 km/h
Fines for exceeding the speed limit can reach a maximum of €460.
Norwegian law permits parking RVs almost anywhere in the country for up to three days, provided no house is within a 150-meter radius. Photo: Lofoten camping. Christine Baglo/visitnorway.com
Toll Regulations in Norway
Since 2022, toll collection in Norway has become nearly fully automated. To make use of this system efficiently:
Register your RV’s license plate in advance through Epass24 to access mail billing and view your toll history.
Purchase an Autopass tag, toll badge, or OBUtag for automated toll payment and potential discounts on fees and ferries.
Failure to register in advance may result in delayed bills through Sweden’s Epass24, with a camper over 3500kg incurring additional truck rates (200%).
Winter Travel Considerations
While winter tires are not mandatory for RVs, tires suitable for all weather conditions are essential. Heavy RVs should consider carrying snow chains, which are mandatory for company vehicles. Studded tires are permissible under specific conditions. Be aware of potential closures of mountain passes during the winter, especially for RVs registered as commercial vehicles (N1, N2, N3).
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Read also: Four family friendly activities to try in Norway********************************************
Environmental Regulations
Low emission zones exist in Bergen, Oslo, and Kristiansand, each with varying access fees based on emission levels.
Whether basking in the midnight sun or chasing the mystical Northern Lights, Norway beckons all RV enthusiasts to indulge in its beauty responsibly. Photo: Motorhome in Northern Norway. Christine Baglo/visitnorway.com.j
Exploring Norway with your RV: A Comprehensive Guide. In a Nutshell
Renting an RV in Norway provides unparalleled experiences amidst nature’s grandeur. Understanding the country’s regulations and roadways ensures a smooth and memorable journey through this picturesque land. Whether basking in the midnight sun or chasing the mystical Northern Lights, Norway beckons all RV enthusiasts to indulge in its beauty responsibly.
Exploring Norway with your RV: A Comprehensive Guide, written for Daily Scandinavian by Pedidos Purulink.
Couples planning to get married in Denmark should get started with the legal formalities as soon as possible. Several months out is not too soon. Learn more about how to get married in Denmark.
Things can usually be carried out in far less time than that, but a number of legal issues, particularly previous marriages, can create a hassle.
Who can get married?
There are a few basic rules concerning those who can and cannot get married here:
You must both be 18 years of age or over and you must both be unmarried.
If one of you has previously been married, the previous marriage must have been dissolved before you can remarry.
Marriage between close relatives is not permitted and, if one of you is under guardianship, the guardian must consent to the marriage.
You are not entering into a marriage of convenience (for example, with the sole intent to remain legally in Denmark)
Sex or nationality is not a defining factor regarding getting married in Denmark. Same-sex couples, and foreign couples are legally allowed to marry in Denmark.
Permanent residence is not a requirement in order to get married here. Therefore, it is possible to travel to Denmark simply to get married!
Wedding room in Tænder.What Documents Are Required to Get Married in Denmark?
In general, you will be required to present the following:
Valid Passport, ID or any other official proof of identity which includes a photograph.
Special requirements may apply regarding the documents that you must enclose with your application. For example, it may be a requirement for the document to be stamped by an official authority – either through endorsement by an apostille or through legislation.
Foreign documents must be translated into Danish, English or German by an authorized translator. This also applies to any apostille endorsement. If the document has been legalized, all stamps, etc. must also be translated.
Note that this must be done before you submit your application to the Agency of Family Law.
If the certificates are foreign, it will be considered whether they are genuine and can be accepted in Denmark. Documents from certain countries must be legalized or endorsed by an apostille.
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You might also like to read The Ultimate Jaw-Dropping Scandinavian Wedding Destinations. Click the link.
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Permanent residence is not a requirement in order to get married in Denmark. Photo: Elsinore Wedding.What Are the Fees for Marriage in Denmark
This fee is determined and adjusted by the Minister for Children and Social Affairs. Your application may not be considered until the fee has been received in the Agency’s account.
As of 1 January 2023, the fee is: DKK 1,800 (USD 278).
The Agency of Family Law offers three ways of paying the fee:
You can pay the fee as an extension of you completing the digital application form with a marriage declaration. This method is the quickest way to get your application started – you pay the fee at the same time as you sign and submit your application. You should therefore have your payment card ready when completing the application.
You can also pay the fee via your bank. The amount must be deposited in our account with Danske Bank: Reg. No: 0216 – account No: 4069217060. Remember to state your CPR number or your name and passport/ID number when making the payment. If you do not, the recepient will not be able to see which application the fee is linked to.
If you have an account with a foreign bank and you wish to pay the fee to the Agency of Family Law, you must use the following information: IBAN: DK91 0216 4069 2170 60. BIC/SWIFT: DABADKKK. Remember to state your CPR number or your name and passport/ID number when making the payment. If you do not, the recepient will not be able to see which application the fee is linked to.
The Agency of Family Law does not accept cash or cheques.
A gay marriage in Denmark is absolutely legal. Photo: CPH Weddings.Getting Married in Denmark for the LGBTQ+ Community
A gay marriage in Denmark is absolutely legal, and it is valid worldwide, although some countries still of course do not recognize same-sex marriage.
Wikipedia has a helpful page which is usually up to date.
Countries which recognize civil partnerships but not LGBT marriage allow you to register your Danish marriage as a partnership. But there are a number of countries where it is not only not recognized but actually punishable, so couples should be aware of any risks, and then try and be discrete if that helps in their particular situation.
Your Danish Marriage Certificate
If you were married at a municipality, Danish authorities can legalize your original marriage certificate which you have received from the municipality. The certificate must be signed with a stamped and a physical/wet signature.
If you were married in a church, Danish authorities can legalize your original marriage certificate which you have received from the church office where you were married. The certificate must be signed with a physical/wet signature.
You can request your marriage certificate with a digital signature at borger.dk. Visit borger.dk for more information.
If you married in another religious community than the Evangelical Lutheran church in Denmark or the municipality, it is only the municipalities that can issue marriage certificates for weddings carried out in recognized religious communities. The authorization to perform the weddings does not include the issuing of marriage certificates. The religious communities are therefore not authorized to issue marriage certificates in connection to weddings carried out in the community.
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You may also like to read Denmark’s Love Island. Click the link.
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A lot of non-Danish couples or couples living in abroad, choose to simply ‘hop’ over the border and get married in Denmark. Photo: Danish Island Weddings.Did you know that Denmark is one of the easiest countries in the world to get married?
Given the wedding process can be more complicated than it needs to be in some countries, a lot of non-Danish couples or couples living in abroad, choose to simply ‘hop’ over the border and get married in Denmark.
You may have heard of this as a possibility, it might be the first time it’s ever been offered as an option but Getting Married in Denmark is a very popular choice for many couples who reside abroad and it has been going back as far as the 1960-70s.
The documentation is simple, the process easy and straightforward and thousands of couples travel to Denmark for their quick, simple and fast elopement wedding every year.
How To Get Married in Denmark, compiled by Tor Kjolberg
Danish carvers etched runestones more than 1,000 years ago. A mysterious Viking Queen, Thyra, has her name inscribed on two runestones. Who was this Viking queen of considerable power? Now, runestones interpretations reveal the importance of a mysterious Danish Viking Queen.
History generally remembers the Viking queen Thyra as the wife and mother of prominent Viking leaders. But new research suggests she had far more power and influence in 10th-century Denmark than previously thought. Thyra may have been a key political player.
The journal Antiquity reports that researchers from Denmark and Sweden used 3D scans to analyze carvings on the runestones, finding telltale clues that marked the individual style of the person who carved them. One runestone in particular refers to Thyra as Denmark’s “strength” or “salvation.
The Jelling Stones, located in the eastern Jutland town of Jelling, contain the earliest mentions of Denmark as a political entity. The smaller and older runestone, with an inscription written in the runic alphabet, was erected by Gorm around A.D. 950; the inscription on the larger Jelling Stone, commissioned by son Harald Bluetooth, also records Denmark’s conversion from Norse paganism to Christianity in 965 and is considered by many to be Denmark’s “birth certificate.”
Archaeologist and runologist Lisbeth Imer of the National Museum of Denmark has been the lead author of the Antiquity study.
The carver of the Laeborg Runestone named himself on the runestone as Ravnunge-Tue – and with Ravnunge-Tue’s new connection to the iconic Jelling Stone, Danes now know the name of the craftsperson who created their “birth certificate,” says archaeologist and runologist Lisbeth Imer of the National Museum of Denmark, the lead author of the Antiquity study.
Dr. Katherine Cross, a lecturer at York St. John University in the UK who researches and teaches the history of early medieval northern Europe.
“To learn more about the rune-carver and those named on the stone is fascinating,” said Dr. Katherine Cross, a lecturer at York St. John University in the UK who researches and teaches the history of early medieval northern Europe. She has not been involved in the study.
“The combination of the present analyses and the geographical distribution of the runestones indicates that Thyra was one of the key figures – or even the key figure – for the assembling of the Danish realm, in which she herself may have played an active part,” write the researchers.
It’s unusual for Viking women to be mentioned on runestones at all, but the name Thyra appears on four runestones from the period, at least three of which are now known to refer to the same woman. The inscription carved by Ravnunge-also states Thyra was his dróttning – a Norse word meaning “mistress” or “lady” and later translated as “queen.”
Queen Thyra was mother of then-reigning King Harald Bluetooth. The smaller stone was raised in her honor by her husband (and Harald’s father) King Gorm, calling her “Denmark’s strength/salvation” (or “Denmark’s adornment,” depending on the translation, the researchers noted in the study). Harald commissioned the larger stone, to honor both of his royal parents.
The Thyra runestones. Photo: Phys.org
“You can follow the cutting rhythm of Ravnunge-Tue as one deep stroke of the chisel followed by two not so deep ones: DAK, dak-dak, DAK, dak-dak,” said Lisbeth Imer to CNN’s Mindy Weisberger. “It is almost like hearing the heartbeat of a person that lived so long ago.”
During the Viking era, runestones were used to memorialize powerful leaders who had passed away. Crafters would carve commemorative words, paint the stones bright colors and display them in public spaces.
Runestones Reveal the Importance of a Mysterious Danish Viking Queen, written by Tor Kjolberg
“Count your age by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears.” – John Lennon.
Scandinavia is much more than just the home of beautiful winter landscapes and incredible modern art; it’s a region that has become internationally renowned in recent years for its pioneering approach to building communities that embrace age diversity. Learn more aboutScandinavian age-inclusive communities and the secrets to their success.
From sustainability initiatives to cross-generational housing options, and innovative healthcare offerings, there are many reasons why these societies lead the way in promoting inclusion among all ages.
Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is setting an example for others on how to become a lively and vibrant age-inclusive community. Photo: Who Internaqtional
Age-Unity Oslo: Building Inclusive Neighborhoods
Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is setting an example for others on how to become a lively and vibrant age-inclusive community. Spearheaded by The Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS), Oslo has new universal design plans in motion.These plans embrace every one of its citizens by eliminating any form of discrimination related to age, nationality or sexual orientation.
The core belief is simple: inclusivity enhances quality life for all residents. Oslo’s recently launched action plan ‘Proud and Free’ reinforces these values. This includes creating safer societies for minorities and promoting inclusive workplaces which celebrate diversity like never before. But there’s more, with the elderly population expected to rise by 50,000 before we hit 2040 in Oslo, this demographic shift is seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge here.
Here’s their idea: why not empower elders with better services that allow them to lead active lives? In order to achieve this ideal scenario, Oslo laid down The Action Plan for Age-friendly City along with Safe And Diversified Care Plan. For such endeavors might just change common perception about aging from being institutionalized care receivers into becoming active participants steering their own lives confidently.
For those with a soft spot for art, Oslo is like an alluring masterpiece. Not just filled with natural beauty and architectural wonders, this European city sings praises of the artistic world too. The Astrup Fearnley Museum stands as proof of it. Right in the heart of Oslo’s waterfront rests the boat-shaped museum. Thoughtfully designed by an artist himself Renzo Piano, it safeguards some exceptional collections of contemporary international art from Europe. Each masterpiece here tells tales of American and European pop-art or postmodern appropriation art from the 1980s. Not many cities charm modern art enthusiasts as much as Oslo does. The artistic spirit doesn’t stop there though! It thrives in educational institutions such as Oslo National Academy of Arts and School of Architecture and Design that breed creativity. Who said winters were bleak? In late summers leading into winter time, artists come alive during the ‘Oslo Art Weekend’. The Harbor Promenade glows under Fjord Oslo’s enchanting outdoor light exhibition turning this chilly Scandinavian capital into a vibrant hub for worldwide artistic talents to converge. Regardless of age, this city welcomes and celebrates the diverse voices and visions that contribute to its thriving artistic tapestry.
Scandinavian Age-Inclusive Communities: The Secrets to Their Success, article continues below the image.
Rollator and Norwegian walking arrangement in Oslo.
Sustainability for All: Creating Age-Friendly Societies
In Scandinavian communities, everyone is treated with respect no matter their age. The focus of such societies is on making them friendly to every generation and sustainable for the future. People’s thoughts come together in planning cities or organizing community activities. This teamwork involves elderly residents as well, showing how necessary they are for creating a successful future. Scandinavian countries have begun a project entitled ‘Age-friendly and Sustainable Societies.’
The project aligns with both the Scandinavian Council of Ministers’ Vision 2030 and the World Health Organization’s Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021–2030, aiming to make this region globally admired. Older adults also play an important part through councils formed at all levels from local municipalities to national bodies. To make sure society understands what older people need by having them influence decisions affecting their lives directly. Building these age-inclusive societies shows that nobody is left behind in Scandinavia—and there’s surely much we can learn from them.
House of Several Generations in Denmark.
Age and Wisdom: The Beauty of Cross-Generational Housing
