Kristiansand was founded by King Christian IV, who in 1641 said "here the town shall stand". It was created as a market town to encourage growth in this area of strategic significance, providing a local economic base for construction of fortifications and population for defense of the area (see Swedish dominance).
The wilderness of Kristiansand
Norway has the distinct territorial claim to the many miles of North Sea on its cost. It just so happens that in the 1960's, a vast oil field was discovered under these waters, which settled Norway's economic woes for the foreseeable future. Norway is the 3rd largest exporter of oil in the world. They smartly invested all this income into The Norwegian Government Petroleum Fund, and the country's residents have been living off of their oil profits ever since (thanks to their socialized welfare government). One would think gas would be cheap in a country such as this, but to encourage innovation and conservation, prices for petrol in Norway are the highest in all of Europe. (for more oil related goodness, read this)
In the spirit of nature, I'm riding a bear
Whilst the cities of Norway (especially Kristiansand) leave much to be desired, it is their vast expanses of nature that left me wanting more. No wonder their cities are lacking... the residents prefer to spend their time in nature skiing, hiking, and otherwise living life.
Like a Norwegian, I don't need much to enjoy life...
Norwegians are very kind, helpful, and most of all, fun-loving. They don't need fancy cars or high-rise apartments, they have all they need with their cross country skis and their faithful dingy .
My ship, the "SS Quit Playing with your Dingy"
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