Now, after two months and a half living in Vinstra, I can confirm how lucky I am to be a volunteer here. I already feel at home thanks to the very warm welcome from the people living here. The cliché «Norwegians are cold people» is definitely not representing the reality.
Oppland is an incredible region! I don’t have enough words to explain how charming and beautiful the valley of Gudbrandsdal is for me.
Reading and listening Norwegian in the daily life makes me love this language a little more everyday. My Norwegian language skill is improving slowly but surely and I hope to be soon able to speak more fluently. Some words are already my favorites such as “ikke sant?” or “så koselig”.
Working with teenagers is a challenging and interesting job that makes me want to wake up in the morning. I have the chance to work in a really nice place with amazing colleagues.
Acting by volunteering is something I would definitely recommend to anybody. You learn by doing while doing something meaningful. The European Voluntary Service is an opportunity not to miss.
Yet, it’s time for me to go back home for Christmas in France, to celebrate it with my family. Christmas in France is not really different from how you celebrate it in Norway. We mainly cook a lovely dinner with foie gras, seafood, turkey, a traditional dessert (called “bûche de Noël”) and Champagne! We open the gifts on the 24th at midnight or 25th early in the morning. However, I will come back next year to continue this fabulous experience!
GOD JUL ! JOYEUX NOËL!
