New and lonely in Oslo
Do you know what the most important part of student life is? For sure it is not attending lectures; well it is making friends and meeting people.
Moving to a new place can be overwhelming especially when you do not speak the language yet. Now you might know a few words like 'takk' or 'ha det bra', but that will not take you very far. So we made a list for all the new students in Oslo and the ones moving to Oslo soon, to guide you with meeting people in Oslo and making friends easily.
1. Facebook groups
I am sure by now you have already joined the group ‘International Students in Oslo’ on Facebook. The group is extremely helpful if you have any query. There are various other groups too for meeting people outside your University. One such group is ‘New to Oslo’. This group comes handy if you are looking to meet people simply for a cup of coffee or other drinks. Perhaps you need company for a road trip or a hike to experience the Norwegian 'friluftsliv'. Coming to ‘Oslo Ladies’, a group especially for women who organise meet-ups at beautiful cafes around Oslo. If you get homesick feel free to join groups that are country-specific, for example, Americans in Norway, Indians in Norway etc. These groups also organize meet-ups which now became virtual due to Covid-19.
2. Bumble/Tinder
Dating Apps are not only for dating. Indeed, not everyone on a dating app is looking for love. If you are looking to meet the locals, there is nothing better than these apps. If it does lead to something romantic, well, why not? However, a lot of students use dating apps to meet people, make friends and visit places together. Bumble also offers BumbleBFF which offers a place to meet friends.
3. Meet Up App
If you are looking to find a gamer buddy or simply looking to meet people who are interested in Game of Thrones, this is the right app for you. You may also start your own group of any interest and add people.
4. VINA!
Some Anti-feminists may find this app to be a bit biased while others enjoy the power of freedom in a women-only space. If you are a woman living in Norway and are looking to meet female friends who share the same interests as you, this is the best app. This beautiful and easy app is for women from all walks of life who are invited to come together and share their experiences.
5. Språk Café
Vil du snakke norsk? Language cafés are really popular in Norway because you can meet many people there. Practice your Norwegian and help others with the languages you are fluent in. This is also a great way to meet international people from around the world.