“There’s so much exciting going on in town”

Vadsø, a gem in northern Norway set beautifully on the Varangerfjord, has a rich history and cultural heritage. To get a broad picture of what Vadsø means to the people who live here, we have interviewed a range of people of different ages who have a connection to this charming town. Each of them has their own experiences and views, and together they give us a glimpse of Vadsø as seen by different generations. Here we spoke to Veronicha Angell Bergli. We found out what her everyday life looks like, and what she thinks is the very best thing about Vadsø.

About Veronicha

Veronicha Angell Bergli is originally from eastern Norway, but was introduced to Vadsø in 2012 through her job as a librarian. Neither she nor her partner has family ties to the town, but they quickly fell in love with the place and the people who live here. Since 2012 she has worked at Finnmark County Library, and for the last four years she has commuted to a job in Oslo. Even though Veronicha is free to move away from Vadsø, she has chosen to make her way back to the town.

Everyday life in Vadsø

Veronicha says everyday life in Vadsø is very simple in a way, which is one of the reasons she has never managed to move away. Not least because she saves an enormous amount of time by finding everything she needs within a small area – everything from cafés, restaurants and shops to a rich range of cultural events she likes to go to. Another thing that makes everyday life in Vadsø good is how warm the people here are, and how nice it is when familiar faces take the time to stop for a chat.

The best thing about Vadsø

Veronicha thinks the best thing about Vadsø is a combination of the wonderful people who live here and all the exciting things going on in town. A good example of this warmth came when Veronicha returned home from hospital after giving birth to her son, and several thoughtful Vadsø locals turned up wanting to make life as a new mum a little easier. Locals brought all sorts of gifts, including fish stews and reindeer meat. That touched a special place in her heart.

Tips for anyone thinking of moving to Vadsø

If you are thinking of moving to Vadsø, Veronicha has some advice for you: “Go for it, absolutely!” – you won’t regret it. People here are very inclusive, and as long as you take part in the places Vadsø offers for meeting people, and dare to put yourself out there, she thinks it is very easy to get to know people here. You should also be open to getting to know different kinds of people. Another good thing about Vadsø is that housing costs are much lower than in many other places, and the only thing that might cost a bit is getting here. Veronicha adds that most people who have visited her in Vadsø have very quickly been captivated by this lovely place.