Travel tips in Haugesund & Haugalandet: for the very best experience

As tourists, we have many expectations of the places we visit, the people we meet, and the activities in which we participate. However, have you ever thought about the huge amount of resources needed to maintain communities and create destinations that are as attractive to live in as they are to visit? We would like to share a few thoughts and travel tips with those visiting Haugesund and Haugalandet. Our intention is by no means to lecture, but to give you a few tips to enrich your experience.

Committed hosts who go the extra mile

There's no doubt that those working in tourism in the region take their roles very seriously and want to give you an unforgettable experience. There aren’t as many resources available in small towns and villages as there are in big cities, so you might find that the receptionist is also the bar manager, and that staff are not available 24/7. The next time you’re standing in a queue and feel frustrated that check-in is taking so long, think about what it takes to offer good service: perhaps longer opening hours or opening more days each week. It’s surely better to wait a few extra minutes than for check-in to be closed?

As visitors, we always want to be greeted with a smile and attentive service from friendly staff, and that’s partly how we gauge our experience. If you like to be greeted with a smile – then smile! You can get the best service if you are friendly and generous with your smiles.

God Service hos Carlos — hos Carlos|© Tina Signesdottir Hult

Opening hours and availability

This leads us to the challenges you may face when it comes to the opening hours of shops and restaurants. If you travel outside the most populated areas, for example to a small island or a village, with the same expectations you have of a big city, you will sadly be disappointed. It goes without saying that you can't expect Utsira (with its 200 inhabitants) to offer the same things as Bergen (with just over 280,0000 inhabitants), but that's all part of the charm of going there, isn't it? It may well be that you arrive hungry and late, but everything is closed. This can easily be avoided with a little planning: Which services are on offer in your destination, and what are their opening hours and capacity? Should I book in advance, and should I perhaps take some food and drink with me?

Please also be aware that, when visiting small places, it’s not always possible to satisfy every need when it comes to food preferences and special diets, but speaking with the host can go a long way. Please be open to trying new things and clearly communicate any allergies you may have.

Public transport

Did you not buy a return ticket from the island and now the boat is full? Or had you planned to take a bus to your next destination, but the service only runs a couple of times a day? You can prevent such situations arising by checking timetables, capacity, and pre-booking tickets whenever possible. If you're unsure about how best to get to your next stop, which transport company to use, or need help with timetables, don't hesitate to contact the nearest tourist information centre. Tourist information staff are there to help!

Mennesker på tur til Utsira — Utsira|© Fjord Norway

Show consideration when travelling in nature

There is so much beautiful nature in our region, and it of course needs to be explored. We would, however, like to remind you to respect the forces of nature. Always check the weather forecast for where you are travelling and remember that there is no shame in turning back.

When travelling on hiking trails in Norway, you may be fortunate enough to encounter wild sheep and other animals. Feel free to observe the animals and take pictures – but please keep your distance. It’s important to respect the animals' space and avoid actions that may disturb and/or cause distress to the animals. Please also show respect when travelling in infields, which are used for growing crops and as animal pastures.

Please take your rubbish with you! There may be a long way between litter bins when travelling in nature, so always carry a bag for packaging, paper, and any other waste that accumulates during your trip. Take your rubbish with you and dispose of it when you can.

Keeping these tips in mind when planning your trip to Haugesund and Haugalandet can help create the best experiences – not just for you but for the communities you visit. Enjoy your trip!

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