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Expats - slik jobber vi n책 | Oscarsgate - juvelen i kronen Siste nytt fra hjemmfornten | Hysj - her er det hemmelige Oslo A nni ve rs a r y i s sue Fro gner Ho use Ap ar tments 2 005 / 2 01 5

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Table of Contents Fro g n e r H o u s e A partm ents 20 0 5 / 2015

6 | Hooray! It's our 10th birthday!

Led by Arne Bertelsen.

8 | Seamless and idyllic We have expanded our services.

10 | Brave at heart Get to know us – Frogner House has many people working here.

14 | My home away from home More people are deciding to commute – Trond Valle is one of them.

18 | Try a new address We have 13 different homes to choose from.

24 | Borrowing expats Read more about our love of expats.

30 | Taking interior design to new heights Welcome to Bygdøy Allé 53 – there are 63 new "wow-faktor" homes available, full of style and surprises.

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36 | BA 53 – the east in the west Kari Innerå has done it again – started another successful restaurant.

40 | Tasty We have compiled a selection of our favourite restaurants in the neighbourhood.

45 | Oslo´s best kept secrets Avoid typical tourist traps, check out the 10 best tips from the city's inhabitants.

56 | Get in shape with us Get a kick-start with training at Frogner House's own jogging expert, Fahreta Sivic.

62 | Sharing instead of owning Now it's hip to share, borrow or rent – we have become more aware of how we use resources.

48 | Meditasjon Meditation is a fantastic tool for a hectic workday. We will teach you how.

50 | For the entire family An urban escape for the entire family.

54 | La deg underholde Three TV series that we can guarantee you'll be hooked on.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

Frogner House Apartments AS Visitors' address: Colbjørnsensgate 3 N-0256 Oslo | +47 930 10 009 post@frognerhouse.no | www.frognerhouse.no Text and idea: Silje Rønne Design/ Layout: Estate Media, Gry Flovild Photo: Margrethe Myhrer Translated by: EasyTranslate AB

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URBAN SKIING GETAWAY oslovinterpark.no

A skiing vacation in the heart of Oslo Oslo offers a unique combination of an urban holiday and downhill skiing within minutes of downtown. Oslo Vinterpark is a ski park located 20 minutes by local tram from downtown Oslo. The park has 18 downhill slopes and 11 ski lifts. you can combine your mountain adventure with city shopping and urban living.

Culture, stage and night life Experience innovate Scandinavian cuisine while in town; Maaemo is a 2 star Michelin restaurant. Or create your own fine dining experience at your Frogner House apartment, followed by a short break after a wonderful day on the slopes, before you explore the city. Oslo is one of Europe’s best venues for stage, theater and concerts throughout the year. There is always a concert or performance that will pique your interest, or an excellent bar to enjoy.

Your own apartment in the heart of Oslo Frogner House Apartments offers modern and exclusive apartments in the heart of Oslo, The city has an endless range of fantastic attractions and sites to visit. Frogner House has more than 400 apartments, from studio lofts to apartments with three separate bedrooms; perfect if you are travelling alone, with friends or with the entire family. The apartments are fully furnished and equipped with everything you need for a stay in Oslo. Frogner House Apartments offer a place to relax in an environment you can enjoy, and even call home.

Ski vacations in Oslo starting at 1470 kroner* Includes accommodations for two persons in a fully-furnished apartment or a studio apartment for one night, including a day pass for both guests at Oslo Vinterpark.

Order today: www.frognerhouse.no – Campaign code: alpin2016 *this offer is valid from 25 December 2015 until 11 April 2016

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Hooray!

It's our 10th birthday!

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It all started in 2005 here at Skovveien 8 – the heart of the Frogner House concept. The well-known Frogner House Hotell was converted into individual apartments. This was long before serviced apartments had caught on in Norway, so many people thought at first that we were something like a youth hostel or other cheap lodging.

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or the first four years, we kept things pretty simple with a homespun booking system in which guests would pick up their room keys in a bag from 7-Eleven. We had one employee who acted as caretaker, cleaner, and booking manger, so as you might expect, there was little time left for marketing and concept development.

In 2009 we completely overhauled our system. We changed out strategy and came up with the concept "home when you're not." We transformed an old storefront into a simple first-floor reception area–equipped with just a laptop and printer.

In 2011 we renovated 60 apartments in 60 days–we made quick work of it and saw great results. We soon had nice, cozy homes for our residents to spend time and relax in. We gave the homes kitchenettes and comfortable living room furniture sets, and eventually friends started coming to visit. House slippers were left out for longer and there were more and more family photos taken. Skovveien 8 came to be a great place to live and stay.

As we gained employees, we also grew professionally. In just a short time, Odins gate 6 and Thereses gate 20 joined the Frogner House family, and our family grew. And so it continues. Today, we have over 400 apartments sprawled across Oslo's most attractive streets. You'll find unique niche shops, local grocery stores, parks, cafés, and restaurants–all nice places people like to have within reach.

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All sorts of people stay with us. We have expats–people from other countries who live and work in Norway for a period of time, commuters, families, and groups of friends on weekend trips. One thing they all have in common is that they want a place to stay that feels like home. To be in control of their time, make their own food, and come and go as they please.

They aren't guests, but residents–this is more than just a place for visitors.

All along, we've had a clear strategy to work seamlessly– so that our customers can choose how much they'd like us to be involved in their stay. We continue to expand our services on offer, from airport pick-up to car rental, cleaning, and breakfast. We do it all for the sake of meeting each residents' needs and helping to simplify their everyday lives. We keep up with the times, and are working on many exciting projects.

Our residents will be able to keep their refrigerators wellstocked by ordering food, transportation, and more via our app, and pretty soon they'll even be able to use their phones as house keys.

We continue to grow, and our goal is to keep growing as we do. We're the leading supplier of serviced apartments in Norway and have made this a common household term in Oslo. We've come this far with the help of our committed team of employees and owners who dare to make a difference, and we'll continue to make great homes that people want to live in.

Whether you're solo, with family, or with friends –welcome home!

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

CEO: Arne Bertelsen.

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Seamless and idyllic Frogner House has expanded its services on offer so that you, as our guest, will feel even more at home and taken care of.

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our plane is delayed, and you're tired. It's been a long day with a lot of traveling, but luckily your driver is there waiting for you. At the exit of the Oslo Airport, he takes your baggage from you and you can finally start to unwind. Because you're going home –home to Frogner House. A good half hour away, the apartment is ready and waiting. This time you'll be staying at Bygdøy Allé 53 –a different address, but just as central. With gorgeous streets, little restaurants, cafés, and local shops. It reminds you a lot of the atmosphere at home, only that the nature here is more beautiful and the air is fresher. It's good to be back in Oslo. You breathe in deeply, lean back, and close your eyes.

Check-in has already started, and the next time you look up, the car has stopped. You're there, at one of Frogner House's 12 addresses located in the heart of Oslo. Checked-in and ready to go, you bid the driver goodbye for now–this won't be the last time. He's available around the clock and you can call him and schedule as needed. You look at the elegant house before you–a house that welcomes you in all its glory. You're excited and feel the butterflies in your stomach, it's always fun to try a new location–so you open up the door to your new home. It's a good atmosphere, nice and cozy, but elegant and stylish at the same time. It feels familiar, even though you've never lived here, exactly–like it always feels in Frogner House's homes, in spite of the fact that they have 400 apartments.

You open the window and peek out. An older man is taking a walk with his dog, and guests from Café Elise are on their way home. It's getting late and your stomach promptly lets out a growl. You consider going out, but decide to stay home. There's already some food in the kitchen. The pasta is the most tempting, so you make yourself a good-sized portion.

Your alarm clock goes off; time for breakfast. Outside your door there's fresh rolls, juice, and a nice selection of sandwich toppings–breakfast just how you like it. You prefer to have your coffee, however, at one of the local coffee bars. A newspaper and a good coffee is indeed the perfect start to the day. The weather is nice, so you decide to walk there. Bygdøy Allé is more beautiful than ever, and you let your thoughts wander to the weekend.

The possibilities are endless, but you already know what you want to do.

You'll rent one of the cars parked out back and drive to Bygdøy. And book an apartment cleaning, because the fresh scent of soft soap reminds you of childhood.

The barista says hi, and remembers you from last time. It's good to be home, you think.

Frogner House–home when you're not.

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

NAME: Julien S. Bourrelle CURRENT POSITION: Julien intermediates contact between Norwegian business and industry and a wide range of expertise within the local population. He has studied at various universities in Australia, Canada, Spain and German in his career as a rocket scientist and has held a number of board positions in Norway.

He conducts lectures, workshops and courses based on building cultural alliances. He was awarded the TOP10 Award by the Crown Prince Haakon of Norway as an outstanding international role model for Norwegian commerce and Norwegian society.

BOOK: Nordmenn ( The Social Guidebook to Norway) ILLUSTRATOR: Nicholas Lund WEBSITE: www.monda.no

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NAME: Gro Karlsen POSITION: Administrative Coordinator PERSONAL INFO: I think a lot, and I am too nice with myself; I can enjoy a glass of wine at dinner every night if I want.

Curious – but in a good way.

I grew up in the mountains, so I always watch where I step.

Brave at heart Many different people live and work at Frogner House; the young, the experienced, the highly-educated and some who never finished high school.

Whether you grew up in a city, came to Norway alone, live with your family or are single – we complement each other. For us, our colleagues are more than co-workers; our colleagues are also good friends.

We want you to feel at home even when you are away from home. Home is more than nice furniture or the right address; it has to do with the people around you. That is why we want you to get to know us better. We will pop up here and there in this magazine with short citations or personal descriptions. If you have lived with us before you will probably know some of them.

Heroes and heroines Our employees are special people with special skills – they are able to solve problems again and again when faced with difficult challenges. Our administrative coordinator, Gro Karlsen, is just such a person. Becoming seriously ill or losing a loved one can change your life. Such things make traffic jams and cold weather seem meaningless.

"The truly meaningful has nothing to do with money, prestige, job titles or expensive clothes", Gro says. If we would have asked her 15 years ago she would probably have said something else.

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Let's turn back time. Gro was 21 years old and just starting her career as the first female receptionist at Radisson SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. Before returning home she worked a number of years at the famous Dr Holms Hotel in Geilo. She went from there to Hotel West in Oslo, which she managed while running one of Oslo's first delicatessens. She used her knowledge and skills to start a catering firm even though she had no training as a cook. That business lasted fourteen successful years. In the meantime, she met the man of her life, the Frenchman Alexandre; who was willing to take a chance and move to Norway to live with her. He brought new impetus to the company allowing them to expand the business.

The Final Journey The couple was in Florida. Gro is in the shower, she feels a lump on her breast the size of a marble. She is worried enough to tell Alexandre, and they agree to have her examined as soon as they return to Norway.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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"Not top-heavy, but dynamic and alive ( the company)."

Gro Karlsen

The doctors at home tell her she has nothing to worry about.

The lump is just tissue scarring, which can be eliminated manually while watching TV. She was still worried, but after extensive examinations and discussions with medical personnel she was able to relax.

They had planned a vacation in Tarifa because Alexandre would be attending a one-week kiting workshop. They booked three days at a spa hotel and planned fine dining in Marbella.

Their last day of vacation arrived. Gro drove to pick up Alexandre who was enjoying himself; kites are fun. He begged her for one last run with the kite. Gro checked her watch. It was getting late, but they could stay a while longer as long as they arrived at the restaurant for their dinner reservation.

They were on vacation after all. She went to move the car.

Suddenly she heard mumbling in the wind. Nervous voices; something has happened. She was told that an ambulance is on the way, so Gro helps some people move their cars.

"Where is Alexandre?" she asked, as the kite instructor grabbed her arm… Two hours later the couple would have been drinking wine and eating tapas at a lovely restaurant in Marbella. Gro had just lost the love of her life, her best friend and colleague. She would be spending the next 10 days alone at a hotel next to the morgue. She spent her time organizing how Alexandre would be returned to France. She did not get much help because he is a French citizen even though he has lived in Norway the past eight years.

Days, weeks and months pass. Gro was running on autopilot, she cannot let go. She was afraid of losing control and not being able to pick herself up again.

Taking control 3 ½ years have passed since Alexandre's death. A new lump appears under her arm. Gro knows that something is wrong, and this time she does not plan to wait. She is right, and 14 days later she has her operation. One breast is removed, together with the main lymph node – the cancer had spread. She begins chemotherapy at 08:00 on January 2nd 2012; "Happy new year" she thinks to herself.

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"I needed to start making decisions about my life; first I lost Alexandre, which had the greatest affect on me, then this – I can't even rely on my own body, or a health care system that does not believe me. Enough is enough; from now on I take control she said.

Gro was told that she will lose her hair in three weeks, so she bought a bottle of champagne, called the hairdresser and brought two glasses with her to the salon; she decided to get rid of her hair herself.

Gro continued to work while being treated for cancer, but she tires quickly - she still wants to be social though. Being alone at night just makes things worse. She decided to sell her catering business after finishing treatment and chemotherapy.

Gro did not have the energy left to run her catering firm any more – it was time for a change.

The Road Home After taking a couple computer classes she felt ready to look for a new job.

– I really felt like used goods. I was both a widow and I had cancer – I don't feel like I have cancer, but I do. There is a diagnosis, but it does not determine who one is, either you get out of it, or you do not. I didn’t think the employers would be waiting in line for someone like me. But it seems fate wanted me to work here.

She really enjoys working at Frogner House. She loves her colleagues and loves the surroundings. Gro enjoys nice conversations at lunch and sunshine, and the changing colours of the leaves along Parkveien. She feels alive and is living her life to the fullest because she has learned that you never know what tomorrow will bring.

"I enjoy the dynamics and friendliness I meet at Frogner House. We are genuine and we want only the best for our guests. We try to provide quality at all levels, and I think we complement each other in good ways, even though I could be the mother of most of the people who live here" she said.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

Norway’s Leading Resort

NEW CONFERENCE HALL AT VESTLIA RESORT OPENS IN MARCH 2016.

CAPACITY: 550 PERSONS

w o u r ne nd a e v e nte nce confe r e ns h all op - m arch in m id

2016

Combine meetings or gatherings with mountain activities. Book your meeting, conference or gathering right away!

Welcome!

BOOKING: Send an email to erika@vestlia.no

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Tel. 32 08 72 00 | vestlia.no

My second home More and more people are choosing to commute – and Trond Valle is one of them.

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oing to Oslo means going to work for Trond Valle, who goes the extra mile and then some for Estate Media, which he owns and runs. A lot goes on at the company too; from conferences and events to meetings with customers. This means that Valle spends two nights a week in Oslo.

– The days are packed with internal and external meetings. I handle follow-ups by phone from Southern Norway, he says.

The commuter used to stay in hotels several times a week. It was exhausting and at times he felt lonely and homesick.

– If I have to be away from home, then I'd rather stay at Frogner House. That's what I've done in the last few years and I've learned a lot about their concept, the employees, and I feel right at home there, he explains.

Much more than a hotel Valle likes to have room to breathe, the place has to look nice, and the apartment needs to have enough space–space for him to bring his work home with him, to make some good food, or to just lay on the couch and watch TV–or at least have the option to.

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– But you also have all the amenities that you get at a hotel: breakfast at your door, a driver, and clean shirts. You have everything you need, plus a little extra–a fully-furnished apartment with a kitchen located in an attractive area, he continues, adding: "with fast internet and centrally-located property."

Flexible – The ladies at Frogner House provide fantastic service. I'm on a first-name basis with everyone and they always have a shaving kit on hand in case I forgot mine, he says.

No two days are the same for Valle, so he is rarely able to book his apartments in advance. He usually books on the day of, or goes directly to the reception on Skovveien.

– They have very good service, and the staff are both solution-oriented and helpful in case there's anything I need.

It works well for me, as things are a bit unpredictable due to the nature of my work. Frogner House has become my "home away from home," he concludes.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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NAME: Ida Riise Jensen POSITION: Accounts Officer ABOUT ME: I ride my bike to work in the morning every day, no matter what the weather – A 40-year-old mother of two wearing sneakers who can dazzle at a party when she wants to!

"I can learn a lot working at Frogner House. It is a very nice place to work."

Ida Riise Jensen

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Photo from: Colbjørnsens gate 4 Living

Try a new address We have 13 different homes to choose from, regardless of what you require in a location or which surroundings you choose.

If you want to live near the bustling city or would rather withdraw to the sounds of birds chirping in the park, we can guarantee that all our apartments are furnished with the intention of making you feel at home.

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egardless of your choice of apartments, it will be furnished with a work station, fully equipped kitchen, a bedroom and many services right outside your door. We offer an intimacy the big hotels can only dream of. The service desk at Skovveien is never far away if you need help or have a question about cleaning, breakfast, the laundry room or finding something in town – no matter what you need help with.

The difference of being a resident or a guest You probably want to live near people like you,

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who want to leave work feeling it will be nice to be at home. At Frogner House, we do not believe the perfect evening in a new city means eating alone at a restaurant after work or staying in an impersonal hotel room. We believe you want to relax after work, maybe do a little work from home, skype with your family, make dinner in your kitchen or watch TV in your own cosy living room. Frogner House Apartments lessens the void between being home or away from home, regardless of whether you stay for a week, a month or many months.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Where would you like to live?

We divided our properties into various categories to make it easier for you to identify your favourite.

Urban

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Living

Elegance

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Majorstuen T

Bislett 2 3

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Uranienborg 9 10

Frogner

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Royal Palace Nationaltheatret

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Solli Plass 6

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Airport train

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Thereses gate 20

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Oscars gate 86

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Underhaugsveien 15

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Skovveien 8

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Frydenlundgata 2

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Odins gate 16

Bus

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Ullevålsveien 1

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Bygdøy allè 53

City Tram

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Arbins gate 3

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Colbjørnsens gate 3

Taxi

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Parkveien 62C

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Colbjørnsens gate 4

Train

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Uranienborgveien 12

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Oslo metro (T-bane)

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NAME: Pierre Wilhelm Jansson POSITION: Deputy General Manager ABOUT ME: A hopeless dreamer! I ride a bicycle if I can’t drive an Aston Martin, I refuse to wear a watch until I can afford a Rolex and I run a marathon without having trained,

"Knowing a lot about something is not so important, as long as I have access to Google, the relevance of checking facts is less important if the message is exciting. I am inspired by all kinds of people; my colleagues, friends or Harvey Specter from Suits!

Why Frogner House?

It is a multi-facetted environment that never stops shining! The whole environment inspires freedom with responsibility and room for success‌" Pierre Wilhelm Jansson

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Borrowing expats We at Frogner House have a weakness for expats – those professional workers with specialised knowledge who are brought to Norway to raise our country's level of expertise.

In return, we give them valuable info on Norwegian culture, a soft bed, and good advice along the way.

– The quiet zone on the train was something new for me, I found it very interesting. On one of my first trips to Norway, I thought that the whole train was like that, but later I realized that it was only for a couple wagons. The fact that the society likes to have its own quiet time is fascinating, but in the beginning it was a little strange, Umair Shamsi says, who has come to like the concept very much.

He and his family moved to Norway in March of last year.

They are originally from Pakistan, but have lived for many years in the United States. Despite the fact that the climate there can also get cold, they were warned against the Norwegian winter. But here they are.

– I visited a couple times in February, so I had a chance to experience a bit of it. When Fatima and Esmail came in March, almost all the snow had melted away. We've been very happy here up until now, so I think that we'll be OK during the winter too, he adds.

Welcome home!

Frogner House gave the family's their first impression of Norway–a soft bed that promised them a soft transition into their new surroundings. When Umair visited the capital city for the first time, he was housed on Inkognitogata.

– I loved the place, even though it was only temporary.

The area around the Palace Park was absolutely fantastic, and people offered me help and answered all of the questions I had. This is why we decided to continue to live at Frogner House when we moved here for a longer period, he explains.

For several reasons. Umair and his family wanted to live in 24

a central location, not far from public transportation and bus routes to work, parks, nice shops, and restaurants. The place has to be comfortable, but handy.

– When you move to a completely new place, there are many things to consider, and for us, it was nice to have a 24hour reception. Because you can't always call up your friends or colleagues on the weekend if things fall apart, he stresses.

A place to dwell and live well – There's a real difference between visiting a city and living there, and there's always some amount of fear when you move–will we fit in and be happy there? When we lived in the United States, we heard a lot of different things, and many people told us that Norwegians were closed and that it was difficult to become part of the society. We've experienced the opposite, luckily. Compared with other Scandinavian countries, we find that the people here are very kind and helpful–and not to mention good at speaking English, says Fatima, adding: I have yet to be disappointed. Whether you're asking about when the bus runs or you're in a store, there's always someone willing to help.

The family came to Oslo one Sunday in March, and little did they know, everything was closed. So it was nice to live in a central location, with a 24-hour alternative on the corner.

– It takes a little time to get to know a new place with a new culture, which is why it's very nice to live centrally. It makes everything easier. So far, we're incredibly pleased and recommend everyone we know to travel here. Oslo has a lot to offer, Fatima thinks.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

WHO: Umair, Fatima, and their son Esmail Shamsi WHO THEY ARE: Expat family in Oslo NATIONALITY: Pakistani LIVING AT: Oscars gate 86, Frogner House

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A taste for art The Shamsi family doesn't have a car, although they have considered renting from Frogner House several times–this is why having everything within walking distance means so much.

Their apartment on Oscars gate is just a short ways away to Majorstuen, Frogner, and Aker Brygge. The latter is the family's favorite spot, and they often spend time there. They either go there for something good to eat or just for a walk.

– We love art and museums, and there's a very good selection of those in Oslo. It's something we greatly value. We'd read many negative comments online about the sculptures at the Vigeland Park before we moved here, but we love them, and not least the Munch Museum.

There's still a lot we haven't seen, and we look forward to exploring the rest, she says.

Their son Esmail has also found his place.

He's started at the kindergarten right around the corner, and even though they speak Norwegian there, he's doing very well. The people that work there are good about interpreting for him.

Norway is magical!

Fatima has fallen in love with the Norwegian sky, which also looks great on the canvas. When her husband and son are away, she unwinds and pursues her interests–usually with a paintbrush or camera. The family likes being out in nature in general and is planning for their upcoming Norway trip. Until now, most of their trips are to the Queen's Park, where they spoil the ducks with lots of treats–they've probably fattened them up too.

An expat, or expatriate, is a person who lives and works temporarily in another country.

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The Municipality of Oslo works actively with OXLO–Oslo Extra Large. It's a resource portal with information, advice, and guidance to promote a more inclusive city. The policy on diversity and integration has brought good results with the Oxlo Business Charter. Over 85 businesses have signed the charter, which creates an arena and a network for co-operation and bringing immigrants into view as a resource for business and industry in Oslo. Businesses that join the charter gain access to information on multicultural recruiting, diversity management, welcome services, and an inclusive working environment.

Source: The Municipality of Oslo Source: The Municipality of Oslo

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

Nordic Car Service Nordic car service can provide you with prompt and exclusive transportation within the greater Oslo region.

You will be picked up and delivered to your destination by a professional and courteous driver wherever and whenever needed at the airport, between meetings, for business dinners, private events or to any other destination.

We also have comfortable buses and minivans available for small or large groups.

We can also provide Courier services.

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NAME: Kine Marie Hiemeyer POSITION: Booking Consultant ABOUT ME: I love combining outdoor life and city life. I am the mother of a beautiful boy – Christian – who gave my life meaning.

I enjoy life to the fullest, and think we should enjoy life every single day. I love my friends and family and I enjoy food, fashion and my working with my

"We spend nearly half our lives at work.

Make the best of it! Grow personally and get excited about things.

Frogner House is something I can get excited about."

Kine Marie Hiemeyer

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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istorisk eleganse, sjelden atmosfære, fusjonert med moderne elementer beskriver Bygdøy Allé 53 – tidligere Frogner House Hotel Norum, som nå gjenoppstår i tydelig Frogner House ånd. I kjent stil kombinerer de klassiske detaljer med en moderne tvist. Fasjonable utsmykninger og slottsmønstre mikses med eksklusive tekstiler. Dette er resultatet av et tett samarbeid mellom interiørarkitekt Alexandra Hegard, og interiørdesigner Camilla Gjøstøl. Sistnevnte har stått for innredningen av flere hjem i Frogner House imperiet. Men denne gangen har de sammen lekt med farger, form og materialer. Leilighetene er gjennomført, karakteristisk og tidløst – et interiør som begeistrer.

– Dette har vært et spennende prosjekt, der vi har ønsket å ta vare på det historiske og ærverdige Norum, samtidig var det viktig for oss å skape noe nytt og tidsriktig, forteller Camilla Gjøstøl.

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

Taking interior design to new heights The combination of an exciting designer duo and an elegant location has resulted in 63 new homes that bring the "wow" factor, have character, and are chock-full of surprises – welcome to Bygdøy Allé 53!

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istoric elegance, a unique atmosphere, fused with modern elements" is a good way to describe Bygdøy Allé 53–formerly Frogner House Hotel Norum, which is now clearly re-emerging in the spirit of Frogner House. In their familiar style, they take classical details and put a modern twist on them. Fashionable embellishments and chateau patterns mingle with exclusive textiles. This is a result of a close co-operation between interior architect Alexandra Hegard who has her own company, and interior designer Camilla Gjøstøl from the real estate company Merkantilbygg.

The latter has headed the interior decoration for several homes of the Frogner House empire. But this time, they've come together to play with colors, shapes, and materials.

The apartments are consistent, distinct, and timeless–with interiors that inspire.

– This has been an exciting project where we've wanted to preserve the historical, esteemed Norum, while at the same time it was important to us that we create something new and hip, Camilla Gjøstøl explains.

Above: Alexandra Hegard, interior designer with his own company and Camilla Gjøstøl from the real estate agency Merkantil-bygg.

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They dove into the depths of the house's history to learn more about who had lived and resided there. By reading old articles, speaking with seniors from the local community, and countless hours in the distinguished building, they've grown well-acquainted with Bygdøy Allé 53–a familiarity that is projected through the interior decoration.

– We were inspired by the house's historical character and we've preserved all of the classical details–the original stucco, tiled stoves, and wide, contrasting baseboards. At the same time, all of the rooms are unique and have their own modern "touch" through the wallpapering. The wallpaper is lovely and has a chic chateau pattern from Cole & Son, says Alexandra.

An exclusive package "Hip, exquisite, and charming" are good words to describe all of the Frogner House apartments. This time, the homes also got a good serving of the "wow" factor.

– We've settled on two color concepts: black and white, and green and white. The colors help create contrasts–you 32

go from dark to light via the corridors and into the rooms, they describe enthusiastically.

There's dark blue, black, white, charcoal, and a beautiful, recurring deep shade of green. Elegant fabrics were an important part of the interior design too. On the pillows, curtains, and bedspreads you'll find an exquisite mix of leather, linen, soft cotton velour, and silk. The textiles come from famous brand names such as: Dedar, Designer Guild, Jab, Pierre Frey, Lorca, Guella le Madrid–just to name a few.

The kitchen solution is unique to the room and specially designed by Alexandra and manufactured by the Hødnebø Project. The fact that the kitchen unit was an exclusive package as a cabinet set makes the room look tidy and tasteful. The furniture was specially designed by Alexandra and Camilla, and manufactured by Hødnebø. There are many exciting elements and classical details here–come and get inspired!

–come and get inspired!

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"WE WERE INSPIRED BY T H E H OUS E'S HISTORICAL C H A RAC T E R" Alexandra Hegard

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Here's how to get everyday comfort Will you be staying with us for a while?

It doesn't take much to make your place homey. Alexandra and Camilla have just the recipe for you.

Palmyre Living

There are many great interior design shops in Oslo. The interior design experts recommend:

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Palmyre Living An international shop with items you won't find other places in Norway. It's a fearless, funny, eclectic, and colorful interior design shop. You'll find unique fabrics, knick-knacks, furniture, blankets, and jewelry–the perfect place to find special little gifts or things for the home.

Address: Skovveien 16

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Konzept H-P A well-known shop with tons of scented candles, knick-knacks, decor, and a plethora of gifts– here's where you'll find that last bit of "oomf" that you need for the home. Their style says: nature, concrete, glass, ethnic, and modern Address: Fredrik Stangs gate 46

10 SIMPLE INTERIOR DESIGN TIPS 1. Don't be afraid to use color–in a chilly country like Norway, it's a good way to make it feel warmer.

2. Furniture plan: Whether the furniture is too big or too small, remember that a room should be airy while at the same time usable–not jampacked. It has to let in enough sunlight.

6. Colors: Either create a contrast between the moulding and walls, or keep everything the same color. Contrasts make rooms look more fun. Remember that dark colors make your home look more interesting.

7. In interior design, there's an exception to every rule.

3. There's nothing wrong with having furniture around the room–just don't line them up like train carriages. Remember that a desk can look out of a window without being placed against a wall.

8. We live in a country where it is cold 75% of the time, and ironically enough, we often choose "cold" colors for the home. On the other hand, we go to café's with warm colors–fill your home with those too!

4. Lighting–don't put spotlights all over the place. It looks really nice with lighting from floor lamps, suspended lights, and table lamps. This gives the room a more interesting and varied lighting effect.

9. Don't be afraid to use patterns. They give life to a room; on a pillow, lamp shade, or other textiles–not an entire couch.

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• Family photos on the nightstand • Scented candles create a nice atmosphere • Fresh flowers on the table are always nice • Keep the fridge stocked–it makes it even better to come home to • Freshly baked goods on the kitchen counter • A good quality olive oil is both decorative and practical • Always keep fresh herb plants on the kitchen counter • Interior design magazines or other inspiring magazines on the table • A couple bottles of wine in case you have guests

5. If you're going for a minimal look, dare to add in a "statement piece."

Bond Street Essentials Their interior design and decor goes in a more European direction and they have a large selection.

They're good about helping you if there's something they don't have that you're looking for. The shop has everything from reasonably-priced to expensive, all with an elegant touch. Lots of colors, charming knick-knacks, photos, and ceramics.

Address: Frognerveien 30

• Bathrobe and slippers

10. Feel free to mix surface textures–a powder matte wall with high gloss painted moulding, or marble countertops with matte kitchen doors and drawer fronts. Anything matte will be understated, anything with a glossy finish will be emphasized–if there's something you'd like to play up, go with a glossy finish.

Eske interiør # design For those who love anything that's a bit out of the ordinary. Eske is a shop that focuses on new and exciting designs–and products you definitely won't see just anywhere. Here's where you can get lost in a dream in the most remarkable surroundings and indulge in designer products.

Address: Sofiesgate 16

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Milla's Boutique This is an edgy and unique lifestyle shop where curious interior design, good feelings, funky music, and personalized service are at the center of it all! You'll find raw materials like leather, marble, brass, bone, and woodwork. Milla's Boutique offers a good mix of styles, but their color palette consists mostly of dark shades and gold tones. The shop also has a good selection of vintage items.

Address: Holmens gate 4 35

BA 53 – THE EAST IN THE WEST The compliments are pouring in and the ratings are high.

Culinary Olympics master Kari Innerå has done it again –she's opened yet another successful restaurant.

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Bygdøy Allé 53–the old Norum Hotel, once known as Sonja Lees Magma and most recently as Egon–has taken its ambitions to the next level. Innerå suc-cessfully ran her own restaurant in Majorstuen, Cru Win & Kitchen, she and spent several years on the Norwegian National Culinary Team where she won both national and international medals. She has cooked for the Bagatelle res-taurant, worked at the Culinary Institute of Norway, as well as Fru K at the luxury hotel The Thief. The restaurant has been named BA 53–an abbrevia-tion of the street name.

Down to earth and honest The restaurant draws on inspiration from all around the world, using fresh, seasonal ingredients and local producers. Keeping sustainability and animal welfare in mind is a given.

– The menus are based on several small dishes rather than one big main course. Some classics, and some variations on Continental cuisine, Kari In-nerå explains.

Bygdøy Allé 53 is known for its fashionable building and great location, which is where Innerå got the idea for "the east in the west."

– It had to be a little fun, rough around the edges, and rustic– you won't find any white tablecloths here, she emphasizes.

BA 53 houses an elongated restaurant dining area with multiple

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chambre séparée, or separate rooms, and a bright coffee bar that turns to a bar that serves food in the evening. You can get married here, have your morning coffee, drink a cocktail at the bar, or enjoy a delicious meal with a good bot-tle of wine.

Honest and very good – The story behind the concept for the menu is that we like to pick out and try different dishes, and we'd rather have a bunch of smaller dishes than just one large one. This is why all of our dishes are about the size of an appetiz-er, she explains.

Innerå is a chef and restaurant owner who truly cares about good food and drink.

– We like eating food from other corners of the world, and we don't allow ourselves to be put in a box or put limitations on our creativity, so our menu adopts elements from other kitchens around the world. It's Continental cui-sine that uses fresh ingredients primarily from Norway, she says.

They get their vegetables from Toten, which are picked and sent to the res-taurant next day. The Old Norwegian Spælsau lamb and young pig come from the Svartskog farm.

– Shellfish and fish roe, wild fish and by-catch, as well as vegetarian alterna-tives such as delicious vegetable dishes, homemade pasta, and gnocchi can be found on the menu, said the master chef.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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TA S T Y Whether you want to grab something quick on your way home from work, to share a bottle of wine with good friends, or celebrate a special occasion, we've picked out some of our favorite nearby restaurants.

Photo: Yvonne Wilhelmsen

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El Camino

FOOD FOR ON THE GO El Camino Mexican fast food. Choose from burritos, hard-shell tacos, and salads. The concept is simple: choose your fillings from a selection of different meats, fish, tofu, veggies, beans, Spanish rice, and guacamole. El Camino has a cozy feel, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Pinerolo Americano Serves American east coast-inspired power foods. Tasty cuts of meat and fish, hot off the grill. Pinerolo Americano has arguably the best fries in Oslo.

Address: Henrik Ibsens gate 60A

Address: Behrens gate 8 * entrance on Niels Juels gate * Illegal Burger This popular burger joint was chosen in 2013 as having the best burger in Oslo by the website Osloby.no and the eatery is as popular as ever.

Gourmet burgers that are in a class of their own. Don't let the simple storefront fool you–these are first-rate burgers. Be ready for long lines on the weekends.

FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS Bokbacka A Nordic kitchen, clearly inspired by Copenhagen's NOMA, where Chef Simon Weinberg has also worked as Sous-chef. A highly ambitious restaurant with delightful 7-course menus at reasonable prices. Dinner starts off by eating right from the pot of a bonsai tree–enjoy!

Address: Skovveien 15

Address: Møllergata 23 KEEPING IT CASUAL WITH FRIENDS Villa Paradiso Grünerløkka's pizza paradise has come to Solli plass: a two-story, Art Nouveau-style restaurant and lounge with a nice and laid back atmosphere–it's almost always packed no matter what day of the week it is.

The restaurant serves a number of Italian dishes at good prices.

Palace Grill An intimate and cozy gourmet restaurant with seating for just 24. Uncompromising culinary skills with just a 10-course menu that changes daily depending on which of the best fresh ingredients are available, the season, and the chefs' mood.

Address: Solligata 2

Address: Sommerrogata 17

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El Camino FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Norway’s Leading Resort

BOOK YOUR SKI VACATION AT VESTLIA RESORT NOW!

SLOPESID LODGINGS NEAR THE CROSS-COUNTRY TRAILS

550 kilometres of well-groomed cross-country trails / 40 descents / Book your ski trip now.

Welcome!

BOOKING: Send an email to mail@vestlia.no

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Tel. 32 08 72 00 | vestlia.no

ARTMIA concept room OSLO

Sunday market at Blå

Oslo´s best kept secrets Skip the typical tourist traps and check out these 10 tips on the big city from Oslo locals.

ARTMIA concept room OSLO

1 Visit the artist Mia Gjerdrum Helgesen at Bygdøy Allé 57. She's a well-known, professional painter and designer from Asker. Her semi-abstract acrylic paintings have been exhibited in galleries in Norway, New York, and Copenhagen. Remember to call ahead.

Sunday Market at Blå

2 Every Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. there's a market set up around Blå. You'll find designers and crafters selling handmade products. Indoors and outdoors, you'll find them selling jewelry, ceramics, artwork, clothing, vintage items, and much more. You can buy waffles here as well.

www.artmia.no www.sondagsmarkedet. blogspot.no

Photo: Shutterstock

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Oslo´s best Vestkantbadet Spa –a hidden gem in Solli plass

3 An easy-going spa where everyone can feel a bit "at home." The unique atmosphere takes you back to the 30s, an escape from everyday life. They also offer various treatments such as massages and facials.

"The Vestkantbadet Spa is a spot I don't want to let anybody on in because I want it all to myself!"

(Words from a regular customer) www.vkbspa.no

Wine, gin, beer, and vinyl!

Jazzy feel

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Victoria National Jazz Scene at Karl Johans gate 35 gives jazz lovers a great place to experience and discover quality music.

You'll find all sorts of exciting events on the program. Victoria is also a historic spot with plenty of culture in its walls. It's been a movie theater and home to theatrical events and revue performances.

Victoria is an intimate concert scene with really good lighting and sound system, both for audiences and artists–welcome!

Territoriet, down on the end of Markveien in Grünerløkka , is the hippest wine bar in Oslo right now. It's a rather small, bare, and rustic spot, and the mood is "mellow." Pop down for a glass of wine for less than a hundred kroner, or go for a really good gin drink. Territoriet always has 250-275 wines on offer, and you can order up to 230 of them by the glass! www.territoriet.no

www.nasjonaljazzscene.no

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The Norwegian Radio Orchestra (Kork)

6 The Norwegian Radio Orchestra is a high-level international orchestra. It's also a flexible orchestra that plays everything from their symphonic repertoire and contemporary music, to pop, rock, jazz, and folk music. Today the orchestra is brimming with the best classical instrumentalists, musicians that put versatility and having fun first, and is strongly against compartmentalizing their music. All music must be performed with the same high level of quality and commitment. They play different concerts in NRK's large studio–definitely worth a visit! www.nrk.no/kork/

kept secrets Visit one of Oslo's exercise parks

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Oslo from a new angle

Fuglen – a classic

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They're outdoor exercise parks with 10 simple pieces of equipment made of metal which are meant to make activities more easily accessible and promote public health. These parks function as obvious meet-up spots for activities and as social spaces where most people are put on a much more equal footing than in many other places for exercise. The exercise park at St. Hanshaugen Park is particularly nice.

Coffee bar, cocktail bar, and vintage design shop–with Scandinavian design from the 50s and 60s. Fuglen opened as a coffee shop in 1963, and quality coffee and teas are still their trademark.

The house's baristas serve all sorts of espresso drinks, and you can buy your coffee or loose tea from them too. In the evening, the place transforms into a classic cocktail bar.

www.tufteparken.no

www.fuglen.no

The "Løkka's" new restaurant and lounge

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Cargo, a newly-opened Italian restaurant in Sørenga. The menu is authentic Italian, with pizza from a wood-fired oven, pasta and bread made from scratch, meat and fish prepared in a Josper oven–a combination of a grill and charcoal oven with a closed design. With a view of the Oslo opera house and waterfront location, Cargo is the perfect place for a good drink or a snack in the sun.

In addition, we have a cocktail bar with skilled bartenders who focus on Italian flavors.

Check out the area around Vulkan, with its food hall and Nedre Foss Gård. The latter was recently renovated and the farm has been brought back to the people. Today you'll find a restaurant on the first floor, a bar on the second, and a brewery. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays between 12:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.–come on over! www.nedrefossgaard.no

www.cargorestaurant.no

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Meditation – free your mind!

NAME: Beate Wold WHO SHE IS: Frogner House's very own meditation guru POSITION: Key Account Manager

Mediation is a fantastic tool in hectic times.

We'll teach you how to use it.

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COMMENTS: My favorite apartments are the ones at Frydenlundsgata 2. Loft 1013 has a completely unique charm with beams and nice ceiling heights; you can also have breakfast on the veranda.

wo years ago, when I was on a yoga weekend retreat, I was introduced to the relaxation technique of meditation. Ever since, I've been totally hooked. It was the first time I had instructors, and I was given good guidance on how I could start practicing it.

The first time I meditated, I fell into a deep sleep just two minutes in, and I felt unusually alert after 30 minutes of sleep, but the goal of mediation for me wasn't to sleep, but rather to relax. It's definitely been a good tool for me on days when I have problems falling sleep.

Meditation is a tool that is used when working with the mind. How meditation works depends on what you want to achieve with it.

By meditating daily, you work up the ability to observe your thoughts and feelings as they come and go, without having to analyze them. Just like practicing a good daily habit, meditating helps keep your mind clear and your thoughts present at all times. You will also be able to achieve a greater level of freedom to act accordingly in different situations and challenges that life presents, as well as take part in activities that benefit our fellow human beings.

Are you looking for calm and peace of mind, happiness, vitality, increased energy, good relationships with others, and satisfaction in life?

Do you want to be free of stress and worry?

You can enjoy all of these benefits and more through meditation.

Meditation offers countless positive effects for the mind and body. The sense of relaxation that you get through meditation is deeper than the very deepest sleep. The deeper you relax, the more dynamic you'll be when active.

Here's how to do it: You can easily practice meditation at one of our apartments, and I've done so myself.

The best tips I have for achieving a meditative state is to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, find a comfortable chair, bed, or lay on the floor, or use a yoga mat if you have one.

Personally, I like to lie down or sit in the lotus position; I prefer my surroundings to be calm and peaceful. (The kind of peace of mind you find at the Frogner House apartments).

First I work on my breathing, inhaling nice and steady through my nose, filling my lungs to where I feel the air spread through my body, and breathe steadily out again through my mouth. Then I become conscious of each and every part of my body, starting with my toes and ending with my head, and for each body part, I liberate them in a way, so that I no longer feel any belonging to them, and achieve a kind of weightless feeling, completely free of thought.

No matter your background or how busy you are–take a moment and enjoy a few, refreshing minutes of meditation every day. Dive into the depths of your very being and enrich your life!

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For the entire family Many parents shy away from big cities when planning their vacations. Staying at a hotel can get complicated –especially if you have young ones, which is why Charlotte Edøy from the website reisemedbarn.no wanted to try out a weekend at Frogner House.

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NAME: Charlotte Edøy CURRENTLY: She runs a website called www.reisemedbarn.no POSITION: Creative director QUOTE: Frogner House Apartments has everything. You get the space and freedom you demand in a nice environment and room for action, and the reception desk at Skovveien is never far away.

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e wanted to feel the city pulse of Oslo, so we thought that buzzing Bogstadveien would do well. We weren't going to Oslo for the quiet and calm, but more for an action-packed weekend, she explains.

Just a stone's throw away back behind Bogstadveien 1, there's a large, beautiful house with a front garden that's nearly as big as the house–the address is Underhaugsveien 15.

– With easy access for us since we came by car, we had no problem unloading the baggage, children, and take-out food that we picked up on the way. It was easy to find, and the elevator was very convenient with our suitcases and strollers in tow. We were given a large apartment of around 70 square meters with two bedrooms; the children, who are used to smaller hotel rooms, were absolutely thrilled, Charlotte says with satisfaction.

Higher demands for comfort and living conditions – With a pulsating life right outside your door, it's especially important that you have a little oasis to withdraw to when your tired feet and restless kids need a break from the big city. What could be better than the feeling of coming home, that you're able to make yourself a bite to eat, and have plenty of space to play around, she asks.

Being able to live in an apartment without losing out on the facilities that a hotel offers was an important factor for the family.

– More and more people are considering apartment rentals when they travel, but there are still some who shy away from renting because they know that they'll miss out on the services that hotels can offer. At Frogner House Apartments, you can have your cake and eat it too. Here you'll get space and freedom in a comfortable place that gives you room to play, and the reception on Skovveien is never far if you have questions about cleaning, breakfast, laundry, or finding your way around the city–whatever you need help with. The bathrooms are also stocked with everything you need for your stay, such as soap, shampoo, fresh towels, and we can bring breakfast to your room too.

– And how about the price? It's not so bad either–here you escape the expensive mini bar and restaurant charges, she says.

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NAME: Lene Thorsen POSITION: Booking and Revenue Manager ABOUT ME: I just became a mother to a little dog that occupies most of my free time. I became the lady that can’t talk about anything but her puppy. My boyfriend has to accept second place for a while. My puppy is stubborn and headstrong; as they say, hounds follow those who feed them! I can be irritable when I get hungry, but I am generally a nice person that is easy to get along with. My favourite snack? An ice-cold glass of Cola with peanuts mixed in!

"Frogner House is an exciting concept that continues to evolve. Being a part of its development is exciting, and there is never a dull moment at work!"

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FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Let yourself be entertained Some days it's so good to just crawl under a blanket, whether it's raining or you had a long day at work. Whether you want to be alone or just relax in the company of others, it's nice to watch some TV. Here are three TV series that we can guarantee you'll be hooked on.

The Top Four Don't miss out on these books.

1 Svøm med de som drukner (Swim with those who drown), Lars Myttin

2 The Americans: This action drama is the story of a seemingly normal family in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., during President Reagan's time in office. No one suspects that the nice married couple is, in reality, KGB officers–not even their two children. Without knowing one another beforehand, the two are married and have to balance their double-life of violent missions and a tentatively normal family. 80s references and good acting performances make this show very much worth watching.

The first two seasons are available on Netflix.

Masters of Sex: This show tells the story of the life of two sex researchers: William Masters and Virginia Johnson. Their work revolutionized people's views on sexuality and paved the way for the sexual revolution of the 1960s. It's the relationships between the two, Master's strained relationship with his wife and their kids, and Johnson's complicated relationship with her ex-husband and their two children that are the real essence of the series.

The series has a real feel for expression on a par with Mad Men when it comes to scenography and costumes, and truly reads the pulse of American Puritanism in the 50s and 60s.

The entire first season is available on HBO Nordic, and these days, new episodes of season two are being released every Monday.

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Six Feet Under: This is one of the shows, along with The Sopranos, just to name a couple, that paved the way for the fantastic selection of TV series we have today. This show is so quality that every episode could be mistaken for a movie. Even though the series' fifth and sixth seasons ended in 2005, the issues that the show looks we be forever relevant, and the roles of interpretation are truly out of this world.

We follow the Fisher family, who run a funeral home in California. This is more of a drama about interpersonal relationships than anything else, even though each episode starts with us getting to see how one of their "clients" dies. Its dark humor and the brutally honest portrayal of complex characters' lives make it a classic that you have to see, or re-watch if you saw it in the early 2000s.

All five seasons are available on HBO.

Den største forbrytelsen (The greatest crime), Marte Michelet

3 Last Night in Twisted River, John Irving

4 Half of a Yellow Sun, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

NAME: Anita Hem Wennersgaard POSITION: Corporate Sales Manager Who she is: Frogner House's TV series specialist COMMENTS: Frogner House is a growing company and there's always something new and exciting going on with them. This, along with brilliant colleagues, makes my work days both enjoyable and challenging in a good way.

FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

BMW i

BMW i

Sheer Driving Pleasure

TIMES ARE CHANGING. THE BMW i3 AND THE BMW i8.

The world has never stood still – and never will. That’s why BMW i has developed two cars that perfectly fit in with this changing world. With a revolutionary and sustainable idea, and an extraordinary design featuring ultra-light and ultra-strong carbon fibre for minimum weight and maximum range. Intelligently connected with its environment to ensure you always reach your destination easily and conveniently. Read more at bmw.com.

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NAME: Fahreta Sivic POSITION: Key Account Manager WHO SHE IS: Has good running skills and is a frequent runner.

Running Guide: Get in shape with us Jogging or running beats swimming, cross-country skiing, cycling –almost everything, according to many fitness experts. Get a kick-start on your fitness with Frogner House's very own running queen, Fahreta Sivic.

Running burns more calories per hour than any other form of exercise, and that's because you are forced to lift your own body weight for every step you take.

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BEGINNER:: 3 km.

Start out with 3 km and don't think about your time. Use «Runkeeper» and run/jog for 1.5 km, then turn around and run back the same way! It can be a good idea to find a relatively level road.

INTERMEDIATE-ADVANCED: 6 km.

6 km is a good run. I tend to jog lightly for the first 2 km to warm up and then I set my pace. It can be nice to run uphill and downhill too.

SUPER-RUNNER: 10 km.

10 km or more. To run a perfect 10 km, you should run the second half of the run faster than the first.

How to get started Many people think that jogging would be boring and that it's hard to get started. The most important thing is to make sure you have good running shoes that have enough cushioning.

Listening to music is also a must. For example, Spotify has pre-made running playlists that get you right in the mood and out there running. I would also recommend downloading «Runkeeper», an app that tracks where you run, your time, pulse, and calculates many other interesting stats. It saves the info for every run so that you can compare your progress.

Treadmill or outside?

Treadmills are motivation killers. Running indoors gets hot and sticky, and I often get distracted by people nearby who run crazy intervals or like their lives depend on it. Instead, get outside in the fresh air–it's good for the body and soul.

You can run outside in any sort of weather. It's FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

super nice to come back to a warm place after running in the rain. For most of us who sit a lot at work and are INSIDE for most of the day, running/exercising outside is the best alternative. In the beginning, you should absolutely keep it to two runs per week. What's nice about running is that you start to notice that you're getting more fit pretty quickly. Later, you can start to increase both the length of your run, as well as the number of times you go out per week.

Lastly: making plans to run with others is absolutely worth it, as it makes it more likely that you'll actually follow through on the work-out plans, and you can push one another too. Make your plan a commitment that must not be broken. A little exercise is better than none at all.

New in town?

If you're staying at Frogner House, you have great opportunities for running, no matter which location you're staying at. Oslo has many green areas to offer, and not in the least, the forested, hilly lands that make Oslo such a special city.

Here are some tips on five great running spots where you can take in some of the city's attractions too.

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SOGNSVANN

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UIO BISLETT MAJORSTUEN

GRÜNERLØKKA

1 FROGNER

3 THE ROYL PALACE LYSAKER

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BYGDØY

FORNEBU

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AKER BRYGGE

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Jogging routes: You will find a map of each route at the reception desk MARIDALSVANNET

1 The Vigeland Park Start: The Vigeland Park. Run around in this park and the English park, Frogner Manor, Nobels gate, further along Forgnerkilen Bay, Bygdøy, Oscarshall, and out to Huk too if you like. Attractions along the way: The Vigeland Park, Frognerbadet swimming pool, the Vigeland Museum, Oslo Museum. The museums in Bygdøy and Oscarshall too if you want. Duration: around 4-5 km

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RING 2

Sognsvann Sognsvann/Ullevålseter-Sognsvann Nice for those who aren't very familiar with running in forested areas, or as the start to a seemingly endless network of trails! Oslo Metro line 3 takes you directly up to Sognsvann. Duration: around 10-11 km

3 The Bygdøy Loop Here you can run on paths, gravel roads, and asphalt. Start at Ferd Stadium on E18, run along the fields out to the Bygdøy open water swimming area, further past Paradisbukta, Huk, and up to the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, take the gravel road to Oscarshall, and back to the starting point. You can make your run longer by going into the King's Wood or by following more trails, adding on around 10 km. Duration: around 7 km

4 GAMLEBYEN

EKEBERG

Lysaker to Fornebu Start at Lysaker and run over Fornebulandet, Nansen Park, and out to Storøyodden. This takes you on asphalt roads and paths through several nice, traffic-free areas. Recommended for easy runs with little incline and a view of the sea. Duration: around 11 km

5 From Jernbanetorget to Ekebergparken Start at the Jernbanetorget and run down to the Oslo opera house, over to Sørenga, Ladegården, Dyvekes bridge, and take Ryenbergveien to Valhallveien. On the way up, you'll pass Utsikten, where Munch is said to have taken his inspiration for The Scream. Continue through Ekebergparken to Kongshavn (the old nautical college) and take Kongsveien down to Oslo Hospital. Continue along Oslo gate and Grønlandsleiret, passed Radisson Blu Plaza, and back to the Jernbanetorget.

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NAME: Slawomir Kosinski

NAME: Roland Kostecki

NAME: Magdalena Zaleska

POSITION: Technical Manager

POSITION: Caretaker

POSITION: Head of cleaning staff

ABOUT ME: I am absorbed by my work and I am solution-oriented in big projects and small ones, whether the task is simple or complex.

ABOUT ME: I am a doer, 100%. I am really fond of the Frogner House concept and I am always trying to do my best..

ABOUT ME: : I am conscientious, hardworking and I smile a lot.

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"I am always evolving as a person.

It has been rewarding to watch this company develop and grow."

Slawomir Kosinski

"Our workday is never the same, and we work in very positive surroundings" Roland Kostecki

"My job at Frogner House gives me the opportunity to develop professionally."

Magdalena Zaleska

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!

Share instead of own

WHAT IS A SHARING ECONOMY?

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The term for how private individuals can use internet and new technology to purchase, sell, rent or trade goods and services between themselves.

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Based mostly on trusting people one meets on internet. Also known as trust economy or collaborative consumption.

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Sharing economy has established a market in areas such as accommodations and transport, as well as cleaning, cooking and other minor jobs.

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There are very many start-up companies around the world that try to establish their services based on the new culture of sharing.

Now it's hip to share, borrow or rent; we have become more aware of how we use resources.

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Some well-known players are Airbnb, Flipkey and Couch-surfing (overnight accommodations) Uber (taxi/rides), Task Rabbit (small-scale agreements), Eat With (restaurants) and Nimber (goods transport, previously known as Easybring).

Source: Aftenposten

The definition of ownership is changing, we are less interested in owning things and more focused on sharing. The customers of the future are moving from consumption to sharing use. We want access to good and services without necessarily needing to own them. This economic philosophy is called a sharing economy.

The sharing economy is spreading among private consumers, and where consumers go the commercial markets will follow. This market is growing fast. TIME magazine is calling collaborative consumption one of the ten trends that will change the world in the near future, and Forbes estimates that the sharing economy will grow to about 40 billion kroner, at a rate of 25 percent a year. Digital solutions make sharing possible and contribute to this rapid growth.

Airbnb is a good example of this. It became a popular service, allowing many people to choose to live at the home of a stranger instead of booking a hotel room – for various reasons – personal (you get to see the city from within, so to speak) and it can be a means to saving on the cost of travel. It costs less than living at a hotel, and you can live with a number of people, make your own food and wash clothes if you need to.

NaboBil.no is «AirBnB for cars», allowing one to rent out one’s private 62

car within a designated neighbourhood. You can also choose who you want to rent to. One shared-car can replace as many as 9-13 cars – so the long-term environmental wins are huge.

But Airbnb and NaboBil.no are not the only companies to grow.

The new sharing economy has also provided services like: Uber, Haxi, Easybring and Nimber.

Up to date We do a lot of this at Frogner House, building our concept on the idea of sharing. Look at us like an Airbnb dedicated to the business sector with a professional structure. Companies and individuals can rent a temporary home with us. We also offer our own variation of NaboBil.no – a car pool collaboration between Hertz, BMW and Frogner House. You can collect your car in the backyard parking area and booking s done by cell phone – we think this is the future!

That is why we are looking for more of these services to implement at Frogner House in the future. The sharing economy is eco-friendly and provides people with more opportunities and access to a number of goods and services.

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Follow us: Instagram: @frognerhouse / Hashtag bildene dine #frognerhouse Facebook: Frogner House Apartments / https://www.facebook.com/FHAoslo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frogner-house-apartments 64

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Ask us about anything. The hosts at Frogner House show off their multi-tasking skills in a garden we are happy to give you access to.

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Funfacts Frogner House Apartments were established in 13 incredibly central locations.

We have over 400 apartments and no two are the same.

Today over 1200 businesses use Frogner House Apartments when they need accommodation for their employees and visitors In 2015, we will have provided accommodation for over 120,000 stays Our reception will have checked in over 12,000 customers in 2015 Our residents stay with us 7.3 nights on average Over the course of a year, 18,000 apartments will have been renovated Frogner House has over 13,000 light bulbs that stay on at all times FROGNER HOUSE APARTMENTS | at home

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Thanks to our partners HØDNEBØ PROSJEKT | HOISTLOCATEL | ELEKTRO-KONTAKTEN | ELECTROLUX | MELBA VVS | GASTRONAUT MONDÅ | HERTZ BILPOOL | ADDSECURE | W.B. SAMSON | NORDIC CAR SERVICE | SERVERPARKERING EUREST KONFERANSE & SELSKAP | HÅNDVERKSTEKNIKK | SALT CONCEPTS | OMD | ESTATE MEDIA | OTRUM INN - INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF NORWAY | OSLO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARGRETHE MYHRER FOTOGRAF GM HEIS AS | MYRDAHL & SVEEN | OSLO SOMMERPARK | OSLO VINTERPARK | TUSENFRYD | ISS | NORSK GJENVINNING MERKANTILBYGG AS | VESTLIA RESORT | HIGHLAND LODGE

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