TANSTAAFL... or maybe there is.

Stavern is a tiny, sleepy nest of a village in the South of Norway. It's main attraction is a harbour fort and naval base called Fredriksvern, about 300 years old and commissioned by Frederick V of Denmark. Other than that it is known for its resident artists and the particular yellow in which its houses are painted.

There is really not much that would keep the tourist. However, there is a hidden opportunity for entertainment - and maybe a free lunch.

That is, because half of the fort is home to the Police Academy.

Yes, sir.

To be a bit more precise, it is home to the JKØ, the "Justice department's Course and Training Center", which is used extensively by the Police Highschool for their training and examinations.

The two areas are separated by a small ditch, a bridge, and a sign saying: "No access". This is what the bridge looks like from the other side:



During a short, enjoyable stroll around the campus ..ahem.. "Move it, fagg*ts!", you will be able to watch the future policewomen and -men training to walk in rows, search cars, and do a strip search on each other. Or just enjoying the nice weather and having a good time. This, after all, is Norway, where everyone is good looking, friendly, trusting in each other... and the many small details of this attitude make the overall appearance of the police force rather... cute. I'll just skip over the rest of the movie cues, as they just don't fit in the picture.



Now, what you will be looking for is the sign called "Messa" - the Mess Room. Which is where they serve the food.



Upon entering, you may be able to see some cute police bicycles...



...a cute police carpet...



...and of course the police wardrobe...



There is a sign which asks you to disinfect your hands, which is generously ignored by most. Up the stairs, there is a canteen like any other, filled with friendly, scarily good-looking people in blue shirts with stars and numbers on their shoulders. Just pick a plate, and fill it.



(The above picture was taken on the way out, as I did not want to draw too much attention by taking pictures - hence the overall lack of people in uniform)

You will probably not be the only civilian around, since the training center is not exclusively for the uniformed force, but the presence is overwhelming. You may also be able to meet a few Norwegian sport celebrities, if you are able to recognize them.

The menu is a bit on the meaty side for my taste, but the salad bar is definitely not neglectable. The available choice was rather exquisite in comparison with what I know from other canteens.

Apparently, it is still a pig-eat-pig world.



Keep smiling, pick a chair...



...and enjoy your free lunch!

---

In case you were wondering - no, there is no access control. There is a cashier in one corner, which seems to have the single purpose to collect money for the doggy bags, which you can also buy from the canteen.