Welcome to Oslo!
This summer, my partner and I were sitting at the idyllic restaurant Lille Herbern, a tiny island gem in the Oslofjord. The sun was shining, we enjoyed delicious food and drinks, and the sounds of seagulls and boats bobbing on the water filled the air. Around us, people were having a great time, and I thought: «Life doesn’t get better than this.» This is the place I want to be right now – not in Paris, not in London, not in New York, but right here, in Oslo.
Working with ELLE to create this guide, my motivation has been to showcase the incredible transformation of Oslo and what the city represents today. My vision was to create something vibrant and appealing, filled with captivating images and inviting stories that make you want to pack your bags and experience it all. This is more than just a guide; it ’s a collection of personal experiences and insights that spark that irresistible desire to explore.
We start off with Style File, where we highlight what ’s currently trending or simply what inspires us.
Then we dive into the heart of the guide – a district-by-district breakdown, with plenty of room dedicated to this section because, honestly, there’s just so much to say! One of my personal favorite sections is the fashion shoot featuring Emma, captured against the stunning backdrops of Oslo’s most picturesque spots. As you approach the end, you’ll find a feature on A-One before we venture out into the surroundings of Oslo. In the final pages, three successful individuals share their personal favorite things about Oslo and what they love most about the city.
The guide is extensive, and we hope it has something for everyone – whether you’re drawn to Michelin-starred dining or quaint, cozy cafés, grand museums or tucked-away, intimate galleries, luxury fashion houses or charming second-hand boutiques. This guide was born out of a shared desire by both A-One and ELLE to create something special together, and while it ’s been a labor of love, every moment has been worth it. My hope for this guide is that it not only inspires but also encourages readers to share their own tips and ideas.
I want to extend my heartfelt applause to the visionaries behind projects of all scales in Oslo, who are the driving force behind the city’s transformation, and to the people who keep it alive and vibrant – those working in the restaurants, cafés, museums, and shops that make Oslo thrive. Times are tough, which makes it even more important to support our local businesses, show appreciation, and be kind to one another.