A Puerto Rican in Norway

I just came back from Norway—Oslo and Tromsø to be exact—and I still feel like I’m dreaming. September brought a crispness to the air that woke me up in the best way. People kept asking, “Why Oslo?” The truth is, I went for the northern lights, but what I found was something so much more meaningful—a connection between worlds that I didn’t even know I needed.

The moment I stepped off the plane in Oslo, I was hit by how calm everything felt. Living in Jersey City, I’m accustomed to its constant hum, but my roots run deep in Puerto Rican culture, shaped by my childhood years on the island and my frequent visits. This connection to Puerto Rico, which I cherish and celebrate, contrasts sharply with Norway's cool, quiet atmosphere. I was almost in disbelief at my choice to vacation in such a cold place—never have I gone somewhere so frigid. It was a completely new experience, and the stillness enveloped me to the point that I could hear my thoughts in a way I never had before.

Food was my first real introduction to Norwegian culture. I grew up on arroz con gandules and pizza (lol!), so when I sat down to my first bowl of salmon soup in Oslo, it was like tasting a new kind of simplicity—clean, fresh, and comforting. Then in Tromsø, after a long day of exploring, I had fish soup on a boat while waiting for the northern lights. The warmth of the soup, the cold air on my face, and the anticipation of the lights—it was one of those moments that felt so simple but so profound at the same time. And you wouldn’t expect it, but the Indian food I had in Oslo? It was incredible—another reminder of how the world’s cultures come together in the most unexpected places.

But it was in Tromsø where I felt like I truly experienced something otherworldly. The mountains, the fjords, the colors of fall—it all felt surreal. I did something I’d never thought I’d have the courage to do: a cold plunge. This wasn’t just any cold plunge; it was part of a deep-rooted tradition in Norwegian culture known for its health benefits and invigorating effects. I was shocked to learn that for centuries, Norwegians have embraced the cold, believing it to boost circulation, enhance mood, and even strengthen the immune system. To balance the cold, there were saunas by the fjord that you can enjoy with friends and family. It’s common in Norway to enjoy these saunas together, and they provide a perfect way to relax while taking in the beautiful views of the fjord. I loved seeing how people embraced this tradition, making it a fun and social way to enjoy the outdoors!

So yes, I sat in a sauna for what felt like hours, building up the nerve. Then, I plunged into the icy water, my breath taken away by the cold. But afterward, floating in the infinity pool as the sunset bathed the mountains in pink and orange? That moment was pure peace. It was in that tranquil space, surrounded by the beauty of nature, that I felt a profound connection to the age-old practice of immersing oneself in cold water—inviting resilience and vitality into my body and spirit.

And then, the northern lights. That’s why I came to Norway. The experience began on a cold night in Tromsø as we boarded a boat, bundled in the thick suits they provided to keep us warm against the biting chill. My excitement was palpable! We cruised further out to find the perfect spot for visibility, escaping the city lights and embracing the dark canvas of the night sky. Suddenly, it came alive. Mostly green and yellow—the lights danced above me in a way that made me feel so small yet profoundly connected to something bigger. The entire experience was breathtaking, made even richer by the twinkling stars overhead and the warmth of camaraderie among my fellow travelers. We shared stories, laughter, and, of course, enjoyed delicious fish soup on deck, which added a comforting touch to the magical night. In that moment, I felt a deep appreciation for the beauty of Norway and the culture that celebrates it.

As if that wasn’t enough, more magic happened in Oslo, in a place I didn’t expect. I found a Cuban salsa band, right there in the heart of Scandinavia. Hearing that familiar rhythm, I couldn’t believe my ears. I have such a deep connection to Cuba—having visited twice, I’ve fallen in love with its music, its people, and its soul. When I heard that beat, it felt like home had found me, even so far away. I ended up dancing with the locals and connected with the band members, listening to their stories, and being wrapped in the warmth that only Salsa music can bring. They made me feel like family. In that moment, Norway, Puerto Rico, and Cuba all came together. It was this beautiful fusion—Puerto Rican roots, Cuban rhythms, and Norwegian landscapes—that made me realize how connected we all are, no matter where we’re from.

People ask why I chose Oslo. I tell them it was for the northern lights, but the truth is, Norway gave me something more. It reminded me that even when we think we’re far from home, pieces of home can find us in the most unexpected places. Norway, with its cool air and quiet beauty, showed me that our worlds are all intertwined. This trip wasn’t just about seeing new sights; it was about feeling connected to the world in a way that inspires me to keep exploring, keep connecting, and keep dancing to the rhythms of life, wherever they lead.