🚶‍♂️ ‘No fuss, no stress: how to queue in Norway and respect personal space’

Queuing is an art form that Norwegians have mastered to perfection. Queues are a common sight here, whether you're at the post office, the supermarket, a café or even at bus stops. But perhaps the most surprising thing for tourists is the strict social distancing that locals consider completely natural. We all know how important personal space is, don't we? And it's so important in Norway too! So, what's the best way for tourists to behave so they don't disturb those around them? In this article, we'll let you in on all the secrets of Norwegian queue behaviour and share some great tips on how to fit in without any hassle.

Have you ever wondered why Norwegians place such importance on personal space?

In Norway, we're very careful to respect each other's personal space, and it's something we're very proud of. Our lovely Norwegian friends are used to feeling comfortable and free to move about as they please. They just prefer to keep a little distance between themselves and people they don't know. Don't worry if there's a metre-long gap between you and the people in front of you in a queue – this is totally normal here! For Norwegians, violating personal space can make them feel uncomfortable and a bit invaded. Hey, just a friendly reminder that this rule is in place everywhere, so let's all do our best to keep it going, from public transport stops to restaurants and shops. Hey, just a friendly reminder to always show respect to those around you, especially when the distance is big.

How to queue properly in Norway?

Don't worry, queuing in Norway is a piece of cake! All you have to do is stand behind the last person in line, keeping a safe distance of about a metre. Don't worry if the queue is long, it usually forms in a nice, straight line, without any chaos or disorder. You know how they have queuing systems in supermarkets and some other places? Well, those are electronic queuing systems. Hey, just a heads-up: don't forget to pay attention to the terminals and numbers, okay? Hey, don't worry - just take a ticket and wait for your turn, and keep an eye on the electronic display. If you accidentally miss your turn, don't worry! Just apologise and wait for the next call. No one will get upset, but it's important to keep the order.

Queues on public transport: how does it work?

You know how it is when you're at bus and tram stops in Norway and there's a queue forming? People stand calmly behind each other, even if it doesn't look like a normal queue. When the transport arrives, people do not rush or crowd together, which is really kind of them! They were so kind, letting passengers exit and then calmly board in order. We know tourists sometimes find this restraint a little unusual, but it's just how we do things here. Please, try not to jump the queue, as this might make the people around you feel a bit uneasy.

We all know how it is when you're in a queue at the checkout, and we've got some super-helpful tips to make your experience even better!

You know how it is, you go into the supermarket or a shop and there's a queue, and everyone's just so patient and calm. In Norway, we don't like to rush the cashier or the person in front of us. Even if someone is taking a little longer than expected to pay or can't find the right card, the people around them will be patient and calm. Take your time, and try to understand where they're coming from. Once you've paid for your purchases, it's a kind gesture to make room for the next customer by placing your items in a bag nearby. This unspoken rule is there to save time and nerves for everyone involved, and it's all about making things easier for you.

It's so lovely to see all the people enjoying a leisurely meal together in the cafes and restaurants.

You know how it is in cafes and restaurants in Norway, especially in the big cities, where there are always queues at lunchtime and on weekends. The lovely staff there will ask you to join the queue, and then you'll be shown to a free table. If there isn't a queue, just hang around until one of the friendly waiters comes to you. It's not common to just sit down at a table without asking first. If there are no seats available, there's no need to worry. Norwegians are patient and understanding, and they're not at all bothered by having to wait. Take a number or wait for the waiter to invite you, and please keep a respectful distance from other guests.

We have electronic queueing systems (kølapp) to help you!

Lots of government offices, banks, pharmacies and even post offices in Norway have helpful little electronic terminals where you can pick up tickets (called 'kølapp'). This system is great because it helps to avoid misunderstandings and confusion. Just go to the terminal, select the service you need and get a number. Then just keep an eye on the electronic display and wait for your number to be called. And if you have any questions at all, our friendly staff are always ready to help. With this system, you can get the service you need without any of the usual stress. You won't have to worry about looking dissatisfied or starting an argument.

We all need to stay safe and look after each other by keeping our distance from others and looking after ourselves during this difficult time.

It's so lovely to see how much social distancing is being embraced by the Norwegian people in these difficult times. Our lovely Norwegian friends always make sure to keep a safe distance of 1 to 2 metres, not just in queues but also in all public places. Even after restrictions have been eased, this rule will still be in place. When you're out and about, you might notice some friendly stickers and signs in shops, museums and restaurants. These are there to help everyone stay safe and keep a good distance from each other. Just follow these simple instructions and you will feel right at home!

Don't worry if you have to queue for a bit at the tourist attractions, everyone loves visiting these places!

Queues are just part and parcel of life at popular tourist attractions (like museums and landmarks), especially during the high season. I'm happy to tell you that, even here, queues move quickly and calmly. This is all thanks to good organisation and disciplined visitors. To save you some time, why not buy your tickets online in advance? If you're already in a queue, please be patient and polite. In Norway, we have a saying that rushing and irritability in queues are not welcome behaviours.

You'll find that knowledge and respect for local traditions will help you to easily adapt to life in Norway. Queues and social distancing are important for everyone's comfort and safety. If you follow these simple tips, you will feel comfortable in any situation and avoid awkward moments.