Constant rain, hardly any tourists and invited to dinner

(Photos of the diary entry can be found at the end of the text).

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It’s been raining non-stop since yesterday. As we’ve had pretty good weather over the last few weeks, we’re not particularly worried about it. It’s just a good thing that we don’t know at this point that this low-pressure area will literally drown the country in water in the coming weeks.

We and a few locals are the only guests on the ferry to the city of Bergen. Strong winds and rain force us to retreat into the interior of the modern ship. “It’s kind of strange when you hardly see any tourists. It has something of an end-time atmosphere,” I say, looking out over the cloudy expanse of water. After 30 minutes the ferry docks. We continue along the E39 and reach the town of Bergen around midday. “Arne said that we can park in the IKEA parking lot for free. He’ll pick us up from there for lunch,” says Tanja, reading Arne’s WhatsApp. The navigation system guides us to the well-known furniture store. In fact, we are allowed to stand here without having to buy one of the outrageously expensive parking tickets.

“Nice to see you again,” says the young man we met with his wife Rebecca at Lista Fyr lighthouse. Before we drive to Arne’s home, we go to a shopping center to buy a raincoat and a map for Ajaci. A little later, when we arrive at Arne’s apartment, we are warmly welcomed by his wife Rebecca. “I am delighted that you have accepted our invitation.” “Thank you for your hospitality and we were delighted to come,” Tanja replies. While our hosts are in the kitchen cooking, Tanja takes Ajaci for a walk and the washing machine washes our dirty clothes, I check our e-mails. Then the doorbell rings. Arne welcomes his brother Nils, who has also been invited to dinner. “I hope you’re hungry?” asks Arne, setting the table. ‘I’m hungry as a wolf,’ I reply, full of anticipation for the delicious smelling salmon that Rebecca has just put on the table. As Arne and Nils’ father is a pastor, they are also Christians. “We say a short prayer before every meal. Is that okay for you?” asks Arne. “Sure,” we reply. “Grab it,” Rebecca urges us. The salmon is served with mashed potatoes, vegetables with mushrooms, onions, peppers and mixed salad. I eat as if I haven’t had anything for a long time and when I’m about to burst, all the pots and bowls are empty. “That was really delicious. Thank you very much,” I say, leaning back.

During the afternoon, we learn that Nils has completed a three-year chiropractor training course in America and lives on a boat with a friend in Bergen harbor. “It’s much cheaper than an apartment,” he explains. “Once I’ve built up a customer base and paid back my training costs, I’ll move into a permanent home.” “How much do you have to pay back?” I ask. “The Norwegian state covers a third of the costs, but it’s still around 100,000 euros.” “Oh, that was an extremely expensive course.” “Yes, and to keep the costs down, I lived in a station wagon for three years. I could use the toilet and shower at school.” “So living in a ship is luxury then?” “I wouldn’t say luxury, but it’s okay.” Over the course of the wonderful afternoon, we talk about our travels, but also learn interesting facts about Norway, the Northern Lights and some great spots that we should visit. In the early evening, Arne takes us back to our Terra in the IKEA parking lot. “If you need anything else, give me a call. I’ll be happy to help you.” “That’s super nice of you. If you’re ever in Germany, please come and visit us. You’re welcome to spend the night with us,” I reply. Then we say goodbye and are alone again…