OUT AND ABOUT

NO NEED to look any further, for the Norwegian capital of Oslo has provided all you bargain hunters looking for value for money with a new destination to enjoy.

The Krone or Kroner (NKr), with an exchange rate of nine Krones for every pound sterling, is better value for travellers from the UK than those from the Euro zone.

Home to the Government, Parliament, and the Norwegian Royal Palace, which is situated at the end of the capital's main street.

Oslo is a city with an outward facade of expense, offering Norwegian Royalty - quite literally - just down the road.

THINGS TO DO

IF YOU fancy yourself as a budding explorer then this is the city for you. Oslo has been producing great explorers ever since the Viking age and takes pride in its history and culture. Here there are activities for everyone.

Keen historians can marvel at the artefacts on show in the Oslo City Museum - with a history dating back as far as 1000 AD the city offers no end to its wealth of historical knowledge.

And a number of other especially interesting ones include the Fram Museum featuring the polar explorers and the world famous Kon Tiki Museum.

Want to be at one with nature? Surprisingly unindustrialised and boasting a beautiful location on the head of the Olso Fjord, Oslo is like no other city. Surrounded by forested ridges, the city looks picturesque in comparison to other main cities that bustle with people and motorised transport.

The attractions that Oslo offers are endless. If you're on the lookout for a spot of culture, head to the array of little cafés that adorn the sidewalk - they're perfect for people watching.

Oslo is proud of it's multi-cultural and multi-faceted approach and hosts events such as Oslo Fjord & Coast Culture Festival in August/September and Oslo Culture night in September, to name a few.

Or you could join in with Oslo's patriotic spirit during 'National Day', on May 17.

WHERE TO EAT

THERE are places to dine in Oslo, for every budget. The cheapest restaurants can be found in the areas around Youngstorget/Torggata, Grunerlokka and Gronland.

Contrary to popular belief, it is easy to find good value for money in Oslo.

Alcohol is mostly to blame for the perception that it is expensive to eat and drink in Norway - however the high prices were the result of high taxes.

You can find a hot meal for under 150 krones - under £17.00 sterling - at The Albertine Café & Bar on Stranden 3 in the city centre, Aubergine on Akersgata 74 in the city centre, Café con bar on Brugata 11 in Oslo east and Fru Hagen on Thorvald Meyers gate 40 in Oslo east.

If you're feeling homesick, there's always the aptly named Curry and Ketchup restaurant on Kirkeveien 51 in Oslo west - give it a try.

WHERE TO STAY

WHEN compared to other big cities like London, accommodation in Oslo is relatively cheaper. In July many hotels offer special summer rates to fill up their rooms, though it's important to book these in advance, as in the last few years Oslo hotels have been booked up very quickly.

If you're looking for a less costly hotel why not opt for the recommended Lovinsenberg Guest house, on Lovisenberggata 15 A in the heart of the city centre, where rooms start from only £57 per night.

If you're in need of somewhere cheap and out of the way, the Anker Hostel on Storgata 55 in Oslo east, is the perfect choice. Rooms here start from only £22 per bed, per night.

More importantly, you'll be pleased to hear that in most hotels a rather large Norwegian breakfast is included in the price.

How could you refuse a city that gives you free food?

GETTING THERE

SAS Scandinavian Airlines offer direct flights four times a week from Dublin to Oslo from as little as €90 one-way, including all taxes and charges.