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Guide / Oslo
A harmonious blend of culture and architecture, plus stunning fjords adding to its beauty, in Oslo
On the capital’s organic infusion of nature and culture
MARIANNE FJØRTOFT
24 Feb 2023

Who are you?

— I’m a Norwegian who has lived abroad for 12 years. My passion for skincare led me to study at the French Cosmetology School in Oslo back in 1989. Fast forward to 2008, I co-founded Elixir Cosmeceuticals, a brand that focuses on delivering simple and effective skincare routines with active ingredients that have proven results.

Elixir Cosmeceuticals, including the brand new Niactil Anti-Age Eye Gel.

For someone who hasn’t been to Oslo, how’d you describe it?

— Oslo is a city that harmoniously blends culture, architecture, and nature, with the stunning fjords adding to its beauty.

My favourite thing that makes me proud of Oslo: 

I am proud of how safe and clean the city feels, making it a great place to raise a family.

My favourite weekend routine: 

— When it comes to my weekends, I like to start it off with a workout class with Alo Moves, followed by a family breakfast, a walk with our dog, lunch with friends, and a relaxing evening at home. 

My favourite cultural spot:

The Munch Museum with its location surrounded by beautiful nature and offering breathtaking views from the bar at its restaurant.

Munch Museum. Photography: Didrick Stenersen / Visit Oslo

My favourite place for a creative or business meeting:

— For a creative or business meeting, I prefer the newly opened Hotel Sommero, which has a great atmosphere and international vibe and is conveniently located near my office.

My favourite place for dining out:

— My go-to place is Girotondo. It’s an Italian social dining restaurant that’s always bustling with energy, thanks to the amazing hostess, Antonella, who greets you with her warm energy and occasional dance moves.

My favourite breakfast place:

I’m usually not big on breakfast on the weekends, but I love Kaffebremneriet or WB Samson for a quick coffee and pastry.

My favourite excursion:

Kistefos, a sculpture park located an hour outside of Oslo, is a must-visit in the spring and summer months — a beautiful blend of nature and art.

Kistefos.

My favourite local entrepreneur or creative I want to promote:

— I want to give a shoutout to No Name by Mathilde Matheson, who creates high-quality and timeless cashmere that adds luxury to my wardrobe. 

My favourite hotel for a staycation:

— Hotel Sommero or The Thief, with the latter being perfect for the summer months as it’s right by the Oslo fjord.

My favourite route for a run or walk: 

Brønnøya, an island right outside of Oslo with no cars and beautiful surroundings.

My favourite place for fashion:

— I love shopping at The Lovely Trap, a store that carries great quality brands with an edge, and the ladies who work there know exactly what I love.

My favourite space for great design:

The Vigeland museum is right by my office. I am captivated by its beautiful design and unique lighting from the ceiling windows.

My favourite example of tech innovation in Oslo: 

— I’m impressed with Vow, a green tech company that delivers technology that converts waste and biomaterials into valuable resources and generates clean energy.

My favourite local media:

— My favourite website and social media account is Your Edge. I love how they showcase individuals, places, and brands with a unique and innovative edge, as well as offering tips and tricks on how to express your own individuality.

My favourite thing at home: 

— Make food with the family and enjoy long and lovely dinners, preferably with some R&B music in the background. During the summer, there’s nothing like bringing fresh shrimp home, eating them from the boat with some wine, and watching the sunset.