Despite its neutrality, Norway was not able to avoid occupation by Germany in World War II. In 1949, neutrality was abandoned and Norway became a member of NATO.

Discovery of oil and gas in adjacent waters in the late 1960s boosted Norway’s economic fortunes. The current focus is on containing spending on the extensive welfare system and planning for the time when petroleum reserves are depleted. In referenda held in 1972 and 1994, Norway rejected joining the EU. Norway, “The Land of Vikings, and the Midnight Sun,” is the northernmost country in Europe, and quite honestly, one of the most visually stunning places on the planet.

Its toothy western coastline, a jagged expanse of islands and fjords, defines this Nordic country, and for that matter, its people.

With limited space for farming, the Norwegians took to the sea. It’s maritime industry sustains the economy, and Norway has the world’s third largest merchant fleet.