In-Country Experts - British Expat Forum

Hi,

We moved to Tonsberg 6 months ago from the Netherlands - my husband is Dutch, I'm Scottish. We have three children, aged (nearly) 10, 8 and 3.

We love it here, but it would be great to meet any British people in the area, especially if they have children. My older two have been going to the local Norwegian school but they would love some English-speaking friends.

I would love to be able to just chat without the language barrier! My Norwegian is coming on alright, but it's just not the same, is it?

I really hope to hear from people!

Hi,
I would love to know how you are getting on in Tonsberg. I’m thinking of moving there from the UK with my wife and two children – We don’t speak Norwegian…… yet; do you think it will take long?
Would be great to hear your experience.
Regards,
Brake-for-moose

Hallo,

We love it here in Tonsberg. It's a lovely town in a great location, right by the water. I can't say we've met many people yet, but I guess that will come.

We're currently living in a village outside town, but we plan to move to an island near here in February - ten minutes on the ferry then 15 minutes drive to the centre of town.

The language is going alright. I haven't really been focussing on it all that much and I find I can read and understand most things. Talking is going alright - I just need more opportunity to practice. I think the fact that I speak Dutch helps, though. The two are quite similar.

I think you'd be fine with no Norwegian to start with. I do find people are very helpful. Most speak at least some English, and if you attempt Norwegian they slow down and help you, which is a nice change from Holland where they immediately switch to English.

How come you're thinking of moving to Tonsberg?

Look forward to hearing from you!

Kind regards,

Pamela