MileHacker Logo
Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Bergen And The Western Fjords, Norway

Protected Areas

Norway is a strong commitment to environmental protection. Many fjords and mountain areas are national parks or protected landscapes. Respect all signage and guidelines.

Water & Waste

Norway boasts excellent recycling infrastructure. Designated bins for sorting waste are in public areas. Tap water is safe for drinking.

Carbon Offsets

Consider purchasing carbon offsets for flights. Many organizations, like Terrapass, offer this to lessen environmental impact.

Responsible Practices

Your choices make a positive impact on the local environment and community.

Eco-Conscious Travel

Adopting habits that minimize your environmental footprint.

Green Choices

  • Carry a reusable water bottle; tap water is safe.
  • Return empty plastic bottles/cans for a refund (pant system).
  • Seek hotels and tour operators with environmental certifications, like those on Ecobnb.
  • Prioritize low-impact activities and wildlife respect on tours, such as those from G Adventures.

Mindful Consumption

Support ethical production and minimize waste through informed purchasing.

Ethical Shopping

  • Look for 'Made in Norway' products, like local crafts.
  • Consider outdoor gear from sustainable retailers like Patagonia.
  • Choose reusable products from stores like Package Free Shop.
  • Support conservation through purchases from The Rainforest Site.

Additional Sustainable Info

Community Support

Choosing locally owned businesses directly benefits residents.

Conservation Efforts

Support local museums, heritage sites, and cultural institutions.

Leave No Trace Principles

Practice "Leave No Trace" when exploring nature. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and minimize your environmental impact. This preserves Norway's natural beauty for future generations.

Cultural Considerations

Engaging respectfully with local customs and communities.

Respectful Interactions

Norwegians value personal space. Polite behavior fosters positive experiences.

Social Etiquette

  • Be polite and respectful in interactions.
  • Avoid overly familiar gestures upon first meeting.
  • Ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
  • Avoid loud public displays or boisterous behavior.

Local Norms

Cultural Sensitivities

  • Directness in communication is appreciated, but avoid bluntness.
  • Norway has strong labor laws and human rights protections. Exploitation risks are minimal.
  • Norway is a very egalitarian society, welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Dress respectfully if visiting religious sites (shoulders/knees covered).

Community Support

Your travel spending influences the local economy directly.

Local Businesses

Prioritize local restaurants, cafes, and independent shops over international chains.

Fair Practices

Purchases of 'Made in Norway' goods support local production and labor laws.

Donations

If contributing, consider established local charities for environmental or cultural preservation.

Respectful Travel

Your engagement with local culture and adherence to local norms improves interactions and helps preserve Ålesund's unique identity.

Accessibility Information

Ålesund works towards better accessibility, though challenges may exist in older areas.

Mobility Access

Newer public buildings and transport generally accommodate mobility challenges.

Infrastructure & Transport

  • Newer public buildings, hotels, and public transport (buses, ferries) have accessible design.
  • Some older buildings in the Art Nouveau district may have steps or limited accessibility.
  • The Aksla viewpoint is reachable by car or seasonal shuttle bus.
  • Most larger museums strive for accessibility with ramps or elevators.

Sensory Accessibility

Specialized services for sensory impairments might be limited, but English information is common.

Visual & Hearing Support

  • Specialized services for tourists with visual or hearing impairments may be limited.
  • Most public information is available in both Norwegian and English.
  • Contact local disability organizations in Norway, like Norges Handikapforbund, for specific information.

Accessible Attractions

attractions work to improve accessibility for all visitors.

Sites to Visit

  • Atlanterhavsparken (the Aquarium) aims for accessibility.
  • Jugendstilsenteret & KUBE generally provides ramps or elevators.
  • The Aksla viewpoint is accessible by car or seasonal shuttle bus.
  • Other major city points are relatively flat and easy to navigate.

General Recommendations

Consider contacting local resources for tailored accessibility advice.

Planning for Access

  • Newer facilities often meet accessibility standards.
  • Older, historical areas may present challenges.
  • Direct contact with venues confirms specific accessibility features.
  • Research specific routes if you have mobility needs.

Additional Accessibility Tips

These tips can make your journey more comfortable.

Accessible Taxis

Accessible taxis can be arranged in advance through local taxi companies.

Accommodation Booking

Specify your accessibility needs when booking hotels to secure appropriate rooms.

Public Transport

Most public buses and many local ferries feature ramp access.

Important Note

While many areas are improving, some historical sites and older areas may pose accessibility challenges. Planning ahead for specific needs is always advised.

Accessibility Contact

For detailed accessibility information tailored to your needs, contact local Norwegian disability organizations before your trip.