Norway is one of those places that captures the imagination and that pictures don't do justice. From stunning fjords to viking history, you might not know where to begin. Fortunately, there's a place to start. Oslo isn't geared toward millennials...yet. That doesn't mean it won't be to an adjusting demographic dedicated to finding its own form of authentic travel. Here are five things about Oslo that will appeal to upcoming flux of Generation-Y travelers.
1. It's pricey—but millennials will be able to afford it.
Give young travelers ten years and they'll have considerably more money in their pockets. Also, according to trends, Generation-Y tends to spend the most out of any demographic on traveling. This is one reason why Oslo will make sense to this age group—it's a place to splurge. Alcohol is expensive, so those who love to party won't be too tempted by the steep price of beers, but older travelers will appreciate being able to sleep in the city center without worrying about soccer fiends in the street. They might not be able to fully enjoy it now, but within the next ten years, it's going to be a vacation getaway simply for its sense of peace and quiet.
2. Flights to Norway are a no-brainer.
One of the best parts about flying to Norway is the commuter flights they have set up. From New York, you can sometimes purchase flights for $300 round-trip through Norwegian Air. If you don't mind that all the comforts are stripped away (there's a low-cost fare without food and baggage service), you'll fly directly into Oslo. This no-frills philosophy is going to appeal to plenty of young travelers looking to get away for a week or two without taking a fourteen-hour flight.
3. Innovation.
Norwegians are known for few things in American culture, but that won't always be the case. More and more, the way of life in Norway is starting to catch on. From green buildings with solar panels to health care to successful rehabilitation programs in prisons, Norway has some things hipsters will be sure to jot down for future use. Public services are also available, even for travelers. For the new ideas alone, millennials will be interested to take the core of these innovations and transform them into their own.
4. It has all the right adventure travel options.
When Generation-Y travelers have some time off work, they tend to kick it into high gear instead of low. This means hiking, biking, kayaking, and other activities that get you up and moving are necessary in order to appeal to this group. Norway is the perfect location for hitting the trail and for getting your heart rate up, and Oslo provides the perfect center to reach all the important walking and kayaking spots.
5. It's Instagram-worthy.
If millennials are going to travel, they are going to take pictures. Oslo and the nearby fjords offer photogenic opportunities for travelers. Whether you choose to stay in the city or you head out beyond, you're going to find some chances to snap a shot or two. Another bonus? Excellent WiFi, so you shouldn't have a problem uploading pictures to share with jealous friends and family back home.