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Living a Nordic Life
Welcome to Living A Nordic Life, helping you live a Nordic Life, wherever you are.
From my home in southern Norway I'd love to share my Nordic lifestyle, cooking and surroundings with you, and show you how I have discovered that you don't need to live in Norway to enjoy and embrace a Nordic lifestyle and way of living.
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Why it’s important to find an Affordable Travel eSIM with Fast and Reliable Data For Your Trip
Most of us rely on our phones when we travelling and it can be really upsetting to discover that that we can't get coverage in the place we are visiting. So doing a bit of research into the right eSIM for your phone is crucial.

Fiona McKinna
3 days ago3 min read


More People are Choosing Slow Living Over Hustle Culture, Here's Why
Feeling constantly exhausted? You are not alone! Many of us are choosing slower living to create a healthier life. Work-life balance, reducing burnout and embracing minimalism can help us find joy in everyday life. Learn practical ways to slow down, set better boundaries, simplify your routines, and reclaim your time. This guide explores why more people are choosing intentional living over hustle culture—and how you can too.

Fiona McKinna
4 days ago4 min read


A Very Norwegian Pilgrimage for St Olav
Olsok is a special day in Norway and marks the pilgramage to Trindheim to celebrate St Olav.

Fiona McKinna
7 days ago4 min read


How to Travel With Autistic Children
Travelling with autistic children often requires more planning than simply packing a suitcase and heading off. As parents of three autistic children, we've learned how preparation, flexibility and a good understanding of sensory needs can transform family travel. From choosing quiet accommodation and making time for nature to using airport assistance and planning regular breaks, these simple strategies have helped us explore the world with confidence and far fewer meltdowns.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 246 min read


Lemon Curd, An Unexpected Norwegian Favourite
Lemon curd is a simple and easy jam to make and keep. It's unexpectedly popular in Norway and my recipe always sells out on my farmstand.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 223 min read


4 Traditional Nordic Foods You (Probably) Won't Find Outside Scandinavia
There are some foods that are so traditional that you rarely find outside their country of origin. How many of these Nordic foods have you eaten?

Fiona McKinna
Jul 215 min read


The Great Berry Season Has Begun
The great berry season has begun across the Nordic countries. From wild blueberries hidden beneath forest canopies to sun-warmed raspberries along country lanes, July brings one of Scandinavia's most cherished summer traditions. More than simply gathering food, berry picking is a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and experience the simple pleasures of Nordic living. Discover why berry season remains such a treasured part of summer life.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 203 min read


What Nordic Life Teaches Us About Getting Through Difficult Times
When life feels difficult, Nordic living reminds us that comfort is often found in the simplest things. A warm bowl of soup, a familiar routine, a walk in fresh air, or quiet practical support can help us keep going. Discover how the Nordic approach to resilience embraces the changing seasons, steady daily rhythms, and small acts of care that make even the hardest days feel a little more manageable.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 165 min read


The Old Coastal Life - Living With The Sea, not Against It
The old Nordic coastal life still lingers in quiet places where the sea sets the rhythm of everything. Fishing villages, weather-worn harbours, and drifting boats speak of a time when people lived in close conversation with wind and tide. It is a way of life shaped by patience, observation, and respect — where nothing is rushed, and the sea still feels like it quietly decides the day.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 123 min read


How to Have a Beautiful Nordic Lawn
Keeping a lush, green lawn in a northern climate isn't always easy. Long winters, frozen ground and short growing seasons all put grass to the test. In this guide, I share the lessons we've learned caring for our own Nordic garden, from choosing the right grass varieties and adjusting mowing heights to aeration, fertilising and smart technology. With a little planning, you can enjoy a healthy, resilient lawn that's ready for summer.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 106 min read


Living With The Midnight Sun: When Evening Never Quite Arrives
What is it really like to live with the midnight sun? Across Norway and the Nordic countries, July brings long days, bright evenings and a unique relationship with time. From late-night walks and outdoor living to the practical challenges of sleeping when darkness never quite arrives, discover how the midnight sun shapes everyday life and why Scandinavians treasure these fleeting weeks of endless summer light.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 104 min read


The Nordic Case for Slowing Down How You Say Thank You
What if a simple greetings card could reflect the values of Nordic living? Instead of becoming waste, plantable seed paper cards transform into wildflowers, turning a small gesture into something that continues to grow. Discover how slowing down, choosing with intention, and embracing thoughtful everyday rituals can make even saying thank you a little more meaningful.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 93 min read


The Norwegian Tradition of the Open Farm
Open farms are unexpectedly popular in Norway. It's a chance to visit a real working farm, meet the animals and do some fun wholesome activities.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 63 min read


How Norwegians Celebrate the End of the School Year
School's out for summer! Discover how Norwegian families celebrate the end of the school year with class trips, ice cream, cabin escapes, long summer evenings and a refreshing lack of fuss. From the final day at school to the start of weeks spent outdoors, this is a glimpse into one of Norway's most cherished seasonal traditions and why the arrival of the summer holidays feels like a collective sigh of relief across the country.

Fiona McKinna
Jun 284 min read


How To Create a Calm Nordic Home That Feels Lived In
Learn how to create a calm Nordic-style home with simple furniture, natural materials, soft lighting, muted colours, and less clutter.

Fiona McKinna
Jun 144 min read


The Perfect Midsummer Party Buffet (Nordic Style!)
Midsummer is a time of endless celebration, long days and beautiful weather. The midsummer celebration in the Nordics is a special event with friends and family and of course delicious food.

Fiona McKinna
Jun 124 min read


Why Nordic Summer Feels So Precious
Nordic summer is precious not because it is perfect, but because it is fleeting. In Norway and across Scandinavia, people embrace long light evenings, outdoor living and simple seasonal pleasures with remarkable enthusiasm. From late-night swims and balcony dinners to strawberries in the sun and quiet fjord evenings, Nordic summer culture is built around appreciating ordinary moments before the light begins to fade again.

Fiona McKinna
May 244 min read


Norway’s Grilling Season Begins (Yes, Really)
Grilling in the Nordics doesn’t wait for summer. It happens all year, but early May is when it becomes easy again. Shops fill with new pølser, lighter sides appear, and eating outside feels realistic, not ambitious. The “official” grilling day might be unnecessary, but it’s a useful nudge—light the grill, keep it simple, and get back outside.

Fiona McKinna
May 43 min read


Ut på tur, Getting Outside on Sundays
Getting outside once a week is a wonderful Nordic habit to adopt and you will be in good company - most of Norway is "ut på tur" too

Fiona McKinna
Apr 265 min read


10 Ways my Family and I Keep Life Simple and Stress-Free
Life can be stressful and full of pressure but we can choose some simple daily habits to make life a little easier.

Fiona McKinna
Apr 204 min read
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