TRIPLEX 2016: Southern Norway & Oslo 🇳🇴🇷🇺

01/12/18 04:41

Autumn 2016: TRIPLEX Training in Farsund, Norway

In the autumn of 2016, I travelled to Farsund, Norway, for the TRIPLEX 2016 training—a large-scale humanitarian response exercise designed to prepare participants for real-life disaster scenarios. The journey from Bangkok to Farsund was a long and multi-leg one, taking me via Moscow, Oslo, and Stavanger, but upon arrival, the tranquil and picturesque surroundings of the training centre in Farsund provided the perfect setting for an intensive five-day learning experience.

TRIPLEX 2016: A Comprehensive Humanitarian Simulation

Organised by UN OCHA (Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), the Norwegian Government, and the European Union, TRIPLEX 2016 brought together over 400 participants from various European countries, primarily from Civil Protection Units, NGOs, and humanitarian organisations. The objective of the training was to simulate an earthquake response and evaluate our collective capacity to react efficiently and effectively in crisis situations.

The exercise aimed to:
• Test coordination and communication between different humanitarian actors.
• Improve emergency response mechanisms and procedures.
• Strengthen cooperation between national civil protection agencies and international humanitarian organisations.
• Build practical skills through hands-on scenarios, such as search and rescue, emergency medical support, and logistics management.

One of the most memorable aspects of the training was the visit of Prince Harry, who spent an hour with us discussing humanitarian work, disaster preparedness, and the importance of collaboration in emergency response. His presence added a touch of excitement and prestige to the event, and it was inspiring to see his commitment to humanitarian causes.

Overall, the TRIPLEX exercise was an excellent opportunity to learn, network, and reflect on the complexities of disaster response in a highly realistic setting.

Exploring Farsund: A Coastal Norwegian Gem

Farsund, located on Norway’s southern coast, is a quiet yet charming town known for its stunning natural landscapes and maritime heritage. Surrounded by fjord-like inlets, rolling hills, and vast open waters, it provided a serene backdrop for the intense training sessions. Despite the demanding schedule, I managed to take in the beautiful surroundings during breaks, appreciating the tranquillity and fresh air that Norway is so famous for.

Farsund is known for:
• Breathtaking coastal scenery, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Historical landmarks, including remnants from World War II.
• Fishing traditions, with the town being a hub for maritime activities.

Two Days in Oslo: Discovering Norway’s Capital

On my way back to Bangkok, I had the chance to spend two days in Oslo, a city that I previously knew very little about. Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant and modern city that harmoniously blends history, culture, and innovation. During my short stay, I made sure to explore some of the key highlights:

1. The Royal Palace and Karl Johans Gate

I enjoyed walking along Karl Johans Gate, Oslo’s main thoroughfare, leading to the Royal Palace, an impressive 19th-century building surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The area is bustling with cafes, shops, and street performers, making it a lively yet elegant part of the city.

2. The Oslo Opera House

One of the most iconic modern structures in Oslo, the Oslo Opera House, is an architectural masterpiece that allows visitors to walk on its sloping roof and enjoy panoramic views of the fjord.

3. The Vigeland Park

A must-see in Oslo, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, showcases over 200 bronze and granite sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, reflecting various aspects of human emotions and relationships. The sculptures, set within a vast green park, made for a deeply moving and contemplative experience.

4. The Viking Ship Museum

Oslo’s maritime history is rich, and the Viking Ship Museum provided a fascinating insight into the seafaring culture of the Vikings. Seeing the well-preserved ships and artifacts up close was truly impressive.

5. Aker Brygge and Oslofjord

The Aker Brygge district, with its waterfront promenade and trendy restaurants, offered a great way to enjoy Oslo’s modern charm. Watching the boats sail across the Oslofjord while enjoying Norwegian seafood was a perfect way to wrap up my short visit.

A Memorable Experience

The trip to Norway for the TRIPLEX 2016 training was an unforgettable experience—one that allowed me to hone my professional skills in disaster response, meet inspiring individuals, and explore the natural and cultural treasures of Norway. Whether it was the rigorous simulations in Farsund, the royal visit from Prince Harry, or the enchanting exploration of Oslo, it was a trip that enriched me both professionally and personally.

Norway left a strong impression on me with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly people, and I hope to return one day to discover even more of this incredible country.

Click here to access the library.

Picture galleries

TRIPLEX 2016: Southern Norway & Oslo 🇳🇴🇷🇺