Ciao from the North - Swiss Italian Norwegian Chaos!

Moving to a new country is already a challenge, but making friends can feel even harder - especially when you don’t speak the language. In this episode, we talk about how language barriers impact social life, how people socialize less in public these days, and why making connections often happens online now. We also take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about how different socializing was when we were younger. Tune in for a mix...

In this episode, we look back on the three years we spent working together at the same company in Norway. While it never felt strange for us to work side by side, we reflect on how our first employer shaped our early impressions of Norwegian work culture. Only now do we realize how poor the working conditions actually were—but at the time, we thought it was normal since it was our first job in a new country. Join us as we share ins...

In this episode, we dive into the reasons behind our decision to move to Norway, the logistics of finding work and a home, and the emotional toll of leaving family and starting over. We share what it was like to uproot not only our own lives but also those of our kids, and how we navigated the challenges of creating a new life in a foreign country. From practical hurdles to personal reflections, we offer an honest look at what it m...

In this episode, we share our journey as a couple, starting from the moment we met and how being together from day one shaped our bond. Over 13 years, we’ve faced challenges, celebrated joys, and built a strong partnership that gave us the courage to take on the ultimate adventure: moving to Norway. We reflect on how our shared experiences, resilience, and mutual support have been the foundation of our relationship and the key to n...

In this episode, we continue exploring cultural differences in Norway, diving deeper into how Norwegians approach food and leisure. From strict mealtime schedules to their simple eating habits, we share how these traditions contrast with our Italian roots, where food is a central, shared experience. We also discuss what Norwegians do in their free time and why these activities feel so different to us. Tune in for a mix of cultural ...

This episode dives into the striking price differences between Norway and Sweden, from groceries and alcohol to everyday essentials. We also compare the cost of raising kids in Norway to other countries—especially Switzerland—where daycare and kindergarten prices are worlds apart. We share why raising kids in Norway is surprisingly affordable, how the school system compares, and the unique traditions like letting kids nap outside—e...