The world is a big place, but it becomes happily smaller when you experience true connection with other people, places and ways of life.
There are ample opportunities to do this in the Nordic countries, whether it be through nature activities or community-centric experiences. Each country offers something special for travelers who are hungry for meaningful connections.
While this list gives you just one example for each country in The Nordics, visit the region’s website to learn about the others.
Sweden
Sweden offers one of the best ways to get connected with the country: Meet the Locals! It’s an online platform where you get connected to local Swedes who are eager to show you the best hidden attractions, their favorite Swedish meals, or just share a ride and learn about the city with. Who knows? Your new best friend may be just a click away!
Denmark
Enjoy a communal dinner in Copenhagen at Absalon Church. (Photo Credit: Wonderful Copenhagen)
It’s a universal truth that mealtime is great for fostering connections with others, so what better way than dining communally at a restaurant beloved by the locals? Absalon Church, a renovated church-turned-restaurant, is located in Vesterbro, Copenhagen and is a great example of social dining. It’s a community spot with ping-pong tables, bingo games and other fun activities that ensure you’ll have a good time.
Norway
The Sami people of Northern Norway have a unique culture unlike anything else in the world, and they've taken to sharing their culture with curious travelers as a way to preserve their way of life.
Travelers can sleep in a traditional Sami tent, called a lavvo, experience the annual reindeer migration, and learn about the food and traditions of the Sami in Karasjok and Kautokeino.
Iceland
One of Iceland’s natural wonders are its geothermal baths, found across the volcanic island. Swimming is such a large part of Icelandic culture that you’ll likely find residents enjoying the hot natural springs all year round, and some small towns consider swimming pools to be local gathering places, perfect for the best town gossip!
Greenland
Greenland is a harsh place, but is home to a thriving Inuit culture and way of life that has existed for centuries. Travelers can take an immersive tour with Sermilik Adventures to try Inuit life first-hand, hunting seals, eating traditional foods and living in a remote region of Greenland for a short time. It’s a physical and mental adventure that is sure to be life changing!
Finland
Some Finnish saunas are more natural than others, like this natural spring. (Photo Credit: Harri Tarvainen)
Finland, like Iceland, has its own warm way for locals to connect: saunas! There are plenty of public saunas across the country that travelers can visit and experience Finnish sauna culture for themselves. Who knows? They might even get some incredible recommendations on where to go, what to do and what to eat from the locals!
The Faroe Islands
Are you looking for a truly serene escape? The small village of Gásadalur is home to only twenty residents and is located on the Faroese island of Vágar. It offers some of the best views of the island of Mykines and is home to a gorgeous waterfall. Travelers can stay in charming guesthouses, like one located on a working sheep farm.
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