Welcome Zappa!
I'm never been to Norway, but I've always wanted to. My family is from Flå originally (like 100 years ago)
-- then immigrated to the US
I'm glad you decided to join. You don't have to do AA if you don't want to. I just tried using my own willpower when I first quit and it didn't work too well for me. After several failed attempts I finally found success by working in a 12 step group. Hopefully you will be able to do it without, but if it doesn't work give AA a try and see what you think.
Welcome to SR!