The history of Norway has a lot to do with its current set of dialects today; there are as many variations of the language as there are reindeer in the north. The Danish occupation of the country influenced much of this, but the separation of and lack of transportation between small communities ensured that each valley, fjord, and village developed its own unique way of speaking. You’ll probably learn bokmål during your Norwegian courses, but living in a homestay or having language partners can introduce you to one of the many other dialects.

There are two official written standards of Norwegian: bokmål and nynorsk. Language schools and universities will emphasize these, and provide a stronger focus on grammar than some of the other program types. If you’re someone motivated by a group setting and classroom structure, sign up for one of these programs. Classes are typically held three to five times a week, which leaves you plenty of free time to test out your new pair of skis.

Another great option, particularly if you want something more informal and hands-on, is to live and study in the home of your private Norwegian teacher. You’ll have daily lessons with a certified teacher, but you’ll also be integrated into the family and have the opportunity to chat over meals, gatherings, and the optional outings that are included. This is a great way to learn at your own pace and not feel pressured to keep up with a class.

Similarly, language partners can be a huge benefit if you’re living on your own, or even as an addition to your studies if you’re taking Norwegian classes in Norway at a school. You can meet as much or as little as is convenient to you both, and you’ll get an inside look at what makes a Norwegian, Norwegian. They’ll teach you to swap your KitKat for a Kvikk Lunsi (trust me, you’ll want to), and learn to say key phrases that’ll take you from obvious language learner to someone who could pass as a native, even if just for a second! After a few meetings you’ll be saying skål (cheers) with the best of them.

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