Sweden: where lagom is law

Hallå! Vad händer? As someone who has visited Sweden three times within the year 2022, I'd love to share my thoughts and opinions on this wonderful country. I have to say that Sweden has quickly become one of my favourite destinations in Europe.

One thing that stands out to me is how humanised the country feels. People here are friendly, helpful, and always willing to have a chat. From the local shopkeepers to the bus drivers, everyone is kind and welcoming. I've always felt at ease here, like I'm among friends.

Another thing that I love about Sweden is its natural beauty. The forests and lakes are stunning, and there are so many opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and swimming. Even in the cities, there are plenty of green spaces and parks to explore.

When it comes to culture, Sweden has a lot to offer. I've been to some fantastic museums and galleries here. The food is delicious too, with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine on offer. And let's not forget the fika culture, where people take a break to enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat. It's a lovely tradition that really adds to the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Finally, I have to mention the Swedish design. From the stylish clothing to the beautiful home decor, the Swedes really have a knack for creating beautiful things. It's no wonder that so many famous designers and brands have come out of this country.

Btw, what is lagom? Lagom is a Swedish word that can be a little tricky to define. As a foreigner, I've come to understand it as "not too much, not too little, but just right." It's a way of living that promotes balance and moderation in all aspects of life - from work and play, to food and relationships. Lagom encourages simplicity, sustainability, and a sense of community. It's not about being perfect, but about finding contentment in what you have and living in harmony with the world around you.

Now let's dive deeper in this place with more details!

Touchdown in Sweden: The Ultimate Guide to Landing in Style

As someone who's fallen in love with Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg (not literally, of course - that would be weird), I can tell you that each of these cities is worth visiting.


Now, if you're planning a trip to Sweden and you're wondering how to get to these awesome cities, fear not - I've got the lowdown on all the options.

1. Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden. You can get here from almost anywhere in the world, thanks to the Stockholm-Arlanda airport. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good airport? You can take a train, bus, or taxi to the city center, and once you're there, the locals will welcome you with open arms (and maybe even a cinnamon bun or two).
2. Next on the list is Malmö, the charming southern city that's as sweet as a Swedish fish (sorry, had to do it). You can fly into the Malmö airport, or take a scenic train or bus ride from Stockholm or Gothenburg. And believe me, the views are worth it - you'll see rolling hills, lush forests, and maybe even a few moose if you're lucky.
3. Last but certainly not least is Gothenburg, the west coast gem that's as stunning as it is underrated. You can fly into Gothenburg Landvetter airport from major airlines like SAS, Norwegian, and Ryanair. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, take a train or bus from Stockholm or Malmö. Just don't forget to pack some rain gear - it's called the west coast for a reason!

So there you have it, guys - plenty of options for getting to these incredible Swedish cities. And let me tell you, once you're here, you won't want to leave. The people are friendly, the scenery is breathtaking, and the meatballs are downright delicious.

Getting Around Sweden: Trains, Planes, and Automobiles

So, you've made it to Sweden and you're ready to explore the cities of Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg. Good for you, adventurer! Now you just need to figure out how to get around. Lucky for you, Sweden's public transportation system is top-notch, so you won't have to rely on the ol' thumb trick to hitch a ride.

In Stockholm, you can hop on the metro or buses with ease using the SL app - seriously, it's a lifesaver. And if you're feeling fancy, you can even take a boat tour around the city. Just be warned, you might end up with ABBA stuck in your head for the rest of the day.

In Malmö, the Skånetrafiken app is your best bet for buses and trains. And if you're feeling particularly eco-friendly, why not rent a bike and cycle your way around the city? Just don't forget to watch out for those crazy Swedish bikers - they don't mess around.

Last but not least, Gothenburg has the Västtrafik app for buses, trams, and ferries. And if you're up for a real adventure, why not take a ride on one of the city's iconic Paddan boats? You'll get to see the city from a totally different perspective, and who knows, maybe you'll even spot a mermaid or two.

So there you have it. Sweden's public transportation system is efficient, convenient, and surprisingly fun. Just don't forget to pack your sense of humor - after all, you never know when you'll run into a Swedish fish or a moose with a better sense of direction than you.

Sleep like a Viking: Where to crash in Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg

When traveling to Stockholm, Malmö, or Gothenburg, finding a place to stay is the key to an amazing trip! Each city has its unique neighborhoods with various accommodation options.

1. Stockholm, for example, is filled with historical neighborhoods like Gamla Stan, trendy areas like Södermalm, and modern areas like Östermalm. You can find hotels or hostels in any area based on your preference and budget. Pro tip: if you're visiting Stockholm for the first time, stay in Gamla Stan to experience the medieval streets and beautiful architecture.
2. Malmö has a perfect blend of historical and modern neighborhoods. Stay in the city center or in the Old Town to immerse yourself in the city's history. For a more modern vibe, choose to stay in the Western Harbour area, which offers amazing sea views and stunning architecture.
3. Gothenburg has many excellent neighborhoods too. For a modern and luxurious stay, pick the fashionable neighborhood of Haga, which offers boutique hotels, cafes, and shops. If you prefer to stay in a quieter area, consider the family-friendly and peaceful Linnéstaden neighborhood.

The accommodation options in Sweden are reasonably priced and diverse. Hotels, hostels, apartments, and even camping sites are available to suit all budgets.
Remember, where you stay affects the experience of your trip, so choose wisely!

For more tips and hacks on how to save your money while traveling in Europe - CLICK HERE (my summary for traveling within Europe)

Nordic Nosh: A Delicious Dive into Sweden's Food Culture

When it comes to food, Scandinavia is often underrated, but as someone who has spent time exploring the region, I can attest that the food culture here is top-notch. And when it comes to Sweden, the cuisine is truly a hidden gem.

From fresh seafood caught along the country's extensive coastline to hearty stews and warming soups in the colder months, there's something for every taste. One classic Swedish dish that I love is gravlax, which is essentially cured salmon, served with dill and mustard sauce. It's absolutely delicious and a must-try for any seafood lover.

And while Sweden may not be known for its desserts, don't sleep on their traditional cinnamon buns, or kanelbullar. These sweet treats are a staple in Swedish cafes and bakeries, and are the perfect accompaniment to a strong cup of coffee.

But what I love most about Swedish food culture is their emphasis on simplicity and sustainability. Many restaurants and cafes focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonality, which not only benefits the environment but also results in incredibly fresh and flavorful dishes.

So if you're a foodie looking for a unique culinary experience, don't overlook Sweden. From traditional dishes to modern innovations, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Get detailed information about restaurants and cafes in

1. Stockholm [TRIPADVISOR LINK]
2. Malmö [TRIPADVISOR LINK]
3. Gothenburg [TRIPADVISOR LINK]

Skål or No Skål? Navigating Sweden's Alcohol Policy as a Foreigner

As a foreigner visiting Sweden, it's important to know that alcohol is highly regulated in the country. You won't find alcohol sold in regular grocery stores or gas stations - instead, you'll need to go to a government-run Systembolaget store, which has restricted hours and can be quite pricey.
The legal drinking age in Sweden is 18, but you'll need to show ID to purchase alcohol. There are also strict laws around driving under the influence, so it's important to plan ahead if you plan on drinking.
Despite the regulations, Swedes still know how to have a good time. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, as well as breweries and distilleries producing unique and delicious Swedish spirits. Just be prepared for the high prices and limited availability - but hey, it's all part of the Swedish experience! Skål!

Why Sweden is the Ultimate Eco-Friendly Destination

As someone who's visited Sweden multiple times, I can tell you that this country takes sustainability seriously. If you're looking for a destination that puts the planet first, Sweden is definitely worth a visit.

One of the things I love about Sweden is how easy it is to get around without a car. The public transportation system is fantastic, with reliable buses and trains that connect cities and towns all over the country. And if you do need to drive, there are plenty of electric car charging stations available.

Swedes are also passionate about recycling, and as a visitor, it's easy to participate. There are recycling bins everywhere, and most places have separate bins for different types of waste. I particularly love the "pant" system for bottles and cans, which gives you money back for recycling.

But what really sets Sweden apart is the abundance of green space. Even in the cities, there are parks and nature reserves that are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. And if you're willing to venture out of the urban areas, there are some incredible national parks and nature reserves to explore.

Now, don't get me wrong – Austria is also a fantastic destination, and the city of Vienna is doing its part to promote sustainability. Public transportation is excellent, and there are many recycling bins around the city. There are also some lovely parks and green spaces, such as the famous Prater park. But compared to Sweden, it may not have quite as many options for getting out into nature.

Ultimately, if you're looking for a green vacation, Sweden is the ultimate destination. The Swedes are leading the way when it comes to sustainability, and as a tourist, it's easy to join in their efforts. So why not book a trip to Sweden and see for yourself what makes this country so special?

From IKEA to H&M: The Swedish Brands We All Know and Love

During each of my visits, I was excited to explore and see for myself how deeply ingrained the country's famous brands are in everyday life. It didn't take long for me to see that these brands are more than just products - they're a part of the Swedish way of life.

Take IKEA, for example. Visiting the massive flagship store in Älmhult was a must-do on my list. But I quickly realized that for Swedes, IKEA is more than just a store - it's practically a religion. Almost everyone I met had something from IKEA in their home, whether it was a bed, a lamp, or just a set of meatballs from the restaurant. As I explored the smaller stores in cities and towns, I saw that IKEA's influence is everywhere. The Swedish obsession with IKEA is just one example of how deeply ingrained brands are in Swedish life.

Another beloved brand is H&M. I was amazed by the sheer number of H&M stores in Stockholm alone. As I strolled down the streets, I saw Swedes of all ages wearing H&M clothes, mixing and matching with high-end pieces to create their unique style. It was clear that H&M is more than just a clothing brand - it's a symbol of Swedish fashion and affordability.

Then there's Volvo. I was excited to see so many Volvos on the streets of Sweden, but what impressed me even more was the pride Swedes have for their car brand. I visited the Volvo Museum in Gothenburg, where I learned about the history of the brand and how it's evolved over the years. It was inspiring to see how deeply the brand is woven into Swedish culture.

Of course, not all Swedish brands are physical products. Spotify is a perfect example of a Swedish company that's changed the world. As I sipped coffee in a Stockholm cafe, I noticed that Spotify was playing in the background. It wasn't just in that one cafe either - it seemed like every coffee shop, bar and park had music streaming from the Swedish platform. It was clear that Swedes are proud of their homegrown streaming service.

Finally, there's Kronaby, a high-tech watch brand that combines classic design with modern features. As I walked around Stockholm, I saw stylish Swedes wearing Kronaby watches. It was fascinating to see how the brand is not just a fashion statement, but also a symbol of Swedish innovation and craftsmanship.

As a tourist, I was amazed by how deeply integrated these brands are in Swedish life. It was inspiring to see how Swedes embrace their beloved brands, incorporating them into their daily routines and cultural identity.

Personal recommendations

I found some amazing places that you just have to check out when you're there.

Let's start with Archipelago in Gothenburg. It's a group of islands that's just a quick ferry ride away from the city. When you get there, you'll be blown away by the stunning views of the sea and the cliffs. You can hike, swim, or just chill out and soak up the scenery. Oh, and there are some adorable fishing villages and towns to check out too!

Next up is the Malmö Chocolate Factory. This place is heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth. They give you a tour of the factory and you get to see how the magic happens. And the best part? You get to taste some of the most delicious and decadent chocolates you'll ever have. Believe me, I tried them all. From dark chocolate truffles to creamy milk chocolate bars, it's all there.

And last, but definitely not least, is the Stockholm subway system. Wait, hear me out. I know it sounds weird, but trust me on this one. The subway stations in Stockholm are like a work of art. Each station has its own unique design and theme. It's like a journey through a series of art galleries. My personal favorite was the one with the rainbow colors. You gotta see it to believe it.

So, that's my list of must-see places in Sweden. Whether you're into nature, chocolate, or just really cool subway stations, there's something for everyone. Go check it out and have a blast!

Conclusion

In conclusion, I must say that Sweden has captured my heart. The stunning beauty of Stockholm's architecture, the charming canals of Malmö, and the lively music and art scene of Gothenburg all left me mesmerized.

But beyond the picturesque cities, what impressed me most was Sweden's unwavering commitment to environmentalism and sustainability. Swedes truly practice what they preach, and their values are integrated into every aspect of daily life. From the ubiquitous recycling bins to the use of renewable energy, Sweden's efforts towards sustainability are truly inspiring.

Of course, no country is without its challenges, and Sweden is no exception. The high cost of living and the long, dark winters can be tough to handle. But the warmth and friendliness of the Swedish people more than makes up for it.

And let's not forget the Swedish brands we all know and love, such as IKEA, H&M, and Spotify. These brands are an integral part of Swedish culture and are reflected in everything from the design of public spaces to the fashion choices of the locals.

All in all, Sweden is a unique and captivating destination that has something for everyone. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Stockholm, taking in the natural beauty of Malmö, or immersing yourself in the arts and music scene of Gothenburg, there's always something new and exciting to discover.