“There is so much of the world to explore, why come back to Bergen, Norway?”

One of my hostel roommates was surprised to learn this was my second trip to Bergen, Norway. “There is so much of the world to explore, why come back to Bergen?” Bergen’s geographical beauty captivates me. This city sits beside a harbor, on gently rolling hills, similar to San Francisco. There is even light rail system that reminds me of the cable cars in San Francisco! Bergen has a long history of being a port city and was once the capital. This means its people are of a cosmopolitan make up, which charms me. It is easy and inviting to walk around the coble stone streets in the old town, which is blessed by a Starbucks. The University of Bergen makes its home here, one of only eight universities in Norway. These characteristics can be found in other cities. However, Bergen’s blend of nature, diversity, walkability, cityscape, and being a “university town” is never overwhelming or leaving one wanting more. This is something few cities replicate. The real surprise is, “Why do people ever leave Bergen?”