Sightseeing in Oslo | Diary Two

Today, a girl I've hung around with a bit over the last week mentioned how she was finding it weird settling in here, because she has lots of 'hi-bye' friends. At first I was like um is this a new trend I haven't heard of or something, but then she explained that it's people you know, you'll say hi and smile, but you don't really know where you stand. Like can you invite a 'hi-bye' friend for coffee? Discuss how much you miss your pet? Lust over furry bobble hats in shops with? (I'm a changed woman, the cold air got to me)

And this seriously resonated with me. Because over the past week, I've met so many super friendly, lovely people who I'm like oh yeah I'd like to get to know you, but then I haven't seen them again, or we've just smiled and not talked, or they were in a group of people I don't know and holy moly approaching groups of people is v v intimidating sometimes.

Today I've had the most amazing day sightseeing around Oslo, I've seen some amazing, beautiful things, and yet when I got back to my flat I was a bit like hmmmm. Not particularly melancholy, but more like I miss having someone I can just text to go and see, and it's easy and comfortable and we don't make awkward small talk but go straight into 'omg look how good my eyebrows are today my class sucked but oh well why hasn't so and so texted me'. (So that's not particularly deep but ya know, it's your friend you can spout utter nonsense to and they'll still like you)

Feeling a little bit out of my comfort zone today for some reason, even rejected a party invite tonight *checks temperature for fever or problems*, but honestly, socialising is TIRING. I feel like I need this evening just to sit and not ask someone where they're from or what courses they're doing, and get myself ready for another day of sightseeing with new people and a party in the evening. 

So I think imma get me some chocolate, a crappy movie and snuggle up in bed. (Update, just tried a new thing of Norwegian chocolate and YUM). After telling you aaaaaaall about the beautiful places in Oslo I saw today, because for all that whinging, I have zero regrets about being here and I'm excited for the weekend and for starting classes next week. (lol nerd)

1. Holmenkollen 

This ski jump is one of Oslo's most popular tourist destinations, and being there, I could definitely see why. The height of the jump is truly astounding and I could really understand the scale far more than just watching it on tv. There's also a ski simulator, which as an ex-skier with a ruined knee who can't ski anymore, was pretty exciting. 

But if skiing isn't your thing, the views definitely make a visit there worth it. The sky was all moody and dreamy today, even the sun made an appearance, so it was perfect day to see Oslo at its best.

2. Vigeland Sculpture Park

I'd heard quite a bit on websites/guides about this park, as it's the largest sculpture park for one artist in the world, and was such a lovely place to stroll around.

There were some beautiful, thought-provoking pieces, set amidst a calming, natural backdrop. For some reason, this angry baby is the most famous piece, and it's meant to be good luck if you touch his hand! (Not somewhere else as one of the tour guides joked with us...)

Although London has some gorgeous parks, it was such a nice change to walk around somewhere with so many different points of interest and things to see. 

3. Akershus Fortress

Despite the sun being desperate to set just a while after 2pm, there were some breathtaking views across the fjord from this medieval fortress. Built in the 13th century, it's still used as a military base in some form today. Fun fact: apparently there's a replica in Disney Florida! So random.

It's minutes from the city centre, and alongside the harbour promenade, which is probably one of my favourites places in Oslo so far. There's cannons and towers and soldiers to see, and it's fascinating but so pretty. There are small statues of children dotted around the places in various emotional states and poses (you can just see one under the archway of the last picture), which are exceptionally poignant.

3. National Gallery

Okay, so I MAY not be taking the art so seriously in this picture... But the rest of the time I was examining the various paintings and sculptures in awe. Promise.

There's such a range of styles and artists here, making it such an interesting place to get lost in and explore. Plus Edvard Munch's most famous work, The Scream, is displayed here, so that's pretty cool! Plus, unlike other iconic artworks, like the Mona Lisa etc, it's up close and personal minus all the people talking selfies with it, so yay!

After this picture and word heavy post, I'm feeling so much more positive after reflecting on everything, and I'm already excited for tomorrow. Writing and music after certainly two of the most therapeutic things for me.

Honor xxx