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Tips for Visiting the UK from Sweden on a Budget

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Due to its relative proximity, the UK is a popular destination for many expats living in Sweden.  Plus, if you’ve already obtained Swedish nationality, you don’t need a visa to visit the UK. However, you might have to apply for a UK ETA for Swedish Citizens unless you have another passport.

Sponsored by ETA UK

Nevertheless, one downside of visiting the UK is that it can be quite expensive, even for those used to the cost of living in Sweden. But don’t worry, it’s possible to explore the UK without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we provide you with some practical tips for visiting the UK from Sweden on a budget. We cover topics such as group tours, planning your budget, travel deals, and more. So, let’s get started!

Consider a Group Tour

Group tours are an excellent way for budget travellers to explore the UK. These tours often offer a discounted rate for accommodation, transportation, and some meals. 

Moreover, group tours typically have guides who can provide valuable insights and knowledge about the places you visit. However, keep in mind that group tours may have a fixed itinerary and less flexibility.

Plan Your Budget Accordingly

It’s essential to plan your budget carefully before your trip. Compile a list of all your potential expenses, including transportation, accommodation, food, attractions, and souvenirs. 

Look for ways to cut costs, such as staying in hostels or budget hotels and using public transportation. Additionally, think about exchanging your currency to GBP (Great British Pounds) in Sweden as it might be more cost-effective than exchanging it in the UK.

Winter and Spring Are The Best Time for Travel Deals

We’d advise spending your summer vacation in Sweden and saving your British exploration for the spring or winter. Travelling during the off season, from November to April, can help you save significantly on accommodation and attractions. 

Although the weather isn’t the best, these are the times when the tourist crowd is thinner, and many hotels and attractions offer discounts. Nevertheless, we’d also suggest avoiding the Christmas holidays in the UK, as the spike in tourists can also lead to increased costs. 

London Isn’t The Be All and End All

While London is certainly a must-visit city, the UK has much more to offer. Consider visiting other cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, or Liverpool. 

Not only are these destinations rich in history and culture, but they are also often cheaper than London. Additionally, you could plan to spend more time exploring the countryside and smaller towns, where the cost of living is lower.

Bus and Train Travel Is Often Cheaper than Domestic Flights

While domestic flights might seem like a quick and convenient way to travel across the UK, they are typically more expensive than bus or train travel. Moreover, travelling by bus or train can be a more scenic and enjoyable experience. 

Look into getting a discount pass for the National Rail service. Alternatively, consider the Megabus and National Express bus services for even more affordable transportation.

Avoid Eating Out Around Tourist Hotspots

Eating out in touristy areas can be quite expensive. If you have a tight food budget, look into cooking your own meals in your hostel or Airbnb or eating in less touristy areas. 

Supermarkets and local markets are great places to buy fresh and affordable ingredients.  Trying street food or eating in pubs are also often cheaper than restaurants.

Look into Discount Passes for Historic Attractions

The UK is home to many historic attractions, which can be quite expensive to visit. However, there are several discount passes available that can help you save on entrance fees. 

For example, the English Heritage Pass offers unlimited access to over 100 historical attractions in England, including Stonehenge. Similarly, the National Trust Touring Pass offers access to more than 300 sites across the UK, from ancient castles, to parks and woodland. 

Take Advantage of Free Activities

The UK offers a plethora of free activities that can help you keep your expenses low while still having a great time. Most cities have free attractions, such as museums, galleries, and parks. 

For example, many of London’s top museums, like the British Museum and the Tate Modern, offer free entry. Similarly, the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh and the Museum of Liverpool are also free to visit. Many cities in the UK also offer free walking tours. 

Additionally, many cities in the UK host free events throughout the year, such as concerts, markets, and festivals. One of the most notable is the month-long free offshoot of the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh during August. Check the local event calendar for the city you are visiting to see what’s on during your stay.

AirBaltic Compensation Policies: A Comparative Analysis

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AirBaltic is the national airline of Latvia, and it operates flights to over 70 destinations in Europe and beyond. As a major carrier, AirBaltic has a responsibility to its passengers to provide fair and equitable compensation for flight disruptions. This article will provide a comparative analysis of AirBaltic compensation policies as well as touch upon some compensation policy trends.

Sponsored by AirBaltic

Airline Compensation Standards

As a prominent aviation entity, AirBaltic bears the obligation to redress passengers for flight perturbations attributable to its own shortcomings. Such disruptions may encompass flight abrogations, delays exceeding a three-hour threshold, and instances of boarding refusal.

The quantum of compensation mandated for AirBaltic to disburse is contingent upon both the flight’s span and the underlying cause of the disturbance. 

  • For aerial journeys not exceeding 1,500 kilometers, the redress amounts to €250 for each passenger. 
  • For distances spanning between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, the obligation escalates to €400 per individual. 
  • Should the flight traverse in excess of 3,500 kilometers, a sum of €600 per passenger is necessitated.

Beyond mere pecuniary recompense, AirBaltic is further enjoined to furnish passengers with auxiliary support in the wake of flight disarray. Such succor may encompass provisions of sustenance, hydration, lodging, and conveyance to the ultimate destination.

Regional Variation in Compensation

The delineation of AirBaltic compensation and support to passengers is orchestrated in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, a statute pertinent to flights embarking from an aerodrome within the European Union, as well as voyages conducted by a Community air transporter originating from a non-member nation en route to an EU airport.

The pecuniary redress levels are regimented, contingent upon the flight’s longitudinal extent and the particular character of the disruption, such as abrogation, delay, or boarding interdiction.

Thus, the compensation and assistance guidelines appear to be consistent and do not indicate any regional variations within AirBaltic compensation policies.

Competitor Compensation Benchmarks

AirBaltic’s compensation policies are consistent with EU Regulation 261/2004 and are in alignment with major competitors such as Ryanair, British Airways, and Lufthansa. The adherence to common European regulations ensures a standardized approach to passenger rights and compensation across these airlines. Passengers can expect similar treatment and compensation structures regardless of which of these airlines they choose. 

While the compensation policies are guided by EU regulations, there are specific nuances in how each airline handles delays, cancellations, and overbooking. For example, British Airways provides detailed guidelines on expenses that can be claimed, while Lufthansa outlines specific compensation for downgrading. AirBaltic’s compensation policies are outlined on their official website and provide a comprehensive overview and guidelines for most cases of flight disruptions. 

Customer Satisfaction Ratings

AirBaltic, Latvia’s low-cost carrier, has gained a reputation for offering a combination of affordability and service quality. According to reviews on Flight-Report, the airline has an average rating of 7.3/10 and is one of the top ten low-cost carriers. Frequent travelers appreciate the low base fares and value the cabin crew, entertainment/WiFi, and cabin comfort. The buy-on-board menu is highly regarded, although the entertainment/WiFi is slightly below compared to competing carriers. Over the last 12 months, the rating has been trending upwards, reflecting a positive shift in customer satisfaction.

On Tripadvisor, AirBaltic has received a mixed rating of 3.5 out of 5, based on 15,590 reviews. The airline is praised for its legroom, seat comfort, in-flight entertainment, and value for money. However, some passengers have expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the service, such as flight coordination and customer service responsiveness. AirBaltic’s commitment to innovative services and reshaping its business has earned it numerous international awards, but the mixed reviews suggest that there may still be areas for improvement to enhance overall customer satisfaction.

Future Compensation Policy Trends

  • Personalization and dynamic compensation models

Airlines like AirBaltic may adopt personalized compensation models, tailoring packages based on individual passenger preferences and specific circumstances, enhancing customer satisfaction.

  • Automation and instant compensation

The future may see fully automated compensation processes, where passengers are instantly notified and can claim compensation through a simple click, streamlining the entire process.

  • Sustainability and alternative compensation options

With growing eco-consciousness, airlines might offer compensation options like carbon offsets or donations to environmental causes, appealing to environmentally aware travelers.

  • Regulatory changes and standardization

Changes in regulations governing passenger rights could lead to more standardized compensation policies across different countries and airlines, fostering a more competitive and transparent industry.

In conclusion

In conclusion, AirBaltic’s airline compensation standards are generally in line with those of other major airlines. These policies provide fair and equitable compensation for passengers who experience flight disruptions. AirBaltic passengers who have experienced a flight disruption should be aware of their rights and should follow the procedures outlined in AirBaltic’s compensation policies to claim compensation.

How do I get compensation for a cancelled or delayed flight?

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It’s been a while since many of us set foot on a plane. Let alone an airport. The pandemic put a serious stop to visiting friends and family back home or just traveling in general. But things have looked up lately in regards to being allowed to travel. Just to be followed by some other flying related problems:-)

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Chaos at the airports, long waiting lines, few tickets, expensive tickets, cancelled flights, massive delays – you name it. Flying is still a bit of a headache. We read in the newspapers about people missing weddings, funerals, vacations etc, not to speak of the delays or waiting for hours at the airport just to get through the security check. But hey – it should get better soon right?

However, delays and cancelled flights are unfortunately not that uncommon even during the best of times. And when that happens you may actually be entitled to some compensation. Did you know that? I didn’t until just recently and I am now remembering a particular annoying 13 hour delay to Thailand that I got nothing out of, except some spongy sandwiches. #notbitter.

But let’s look at the practical parts of it all. According to European Commission Regulation 261/2004 and Turkish Regulation On Air Passenger Rights, if your flight was delayed, you are eligible for compensation.

How do I get compensation for my cancelled or delayed flight?

There are two main ways to get your compensation. Once you know your rights, you can compile all the necessary documents, send them to the airline and keep the communication going with them until you do or do not receive your compensation.

If you wish to try this route, you can get some advice from HallåKonsument, a website from The Swedish Consumer Centre. They will not help you with your application but can advice you on your course of action.

The other version is to use a service that specializes in getting passenger compensation. There are a number of services that provide that service, so shop around and have a look at which one fits you the best.

Flyghjälp*

Flyghjälp helps passengers get financial compensation for flight delays, cancellations and overbooking. You have the right to a compensation up to 6 000 SEK if your flight has been cancelled, overbooked or delayed by more than three hours – within the last 2 month.

Compensair*

Compensair does all the work for you. Well, except that you have to fill in a form first so they know all the details of your case in order to assess if you can get compensation or not. Basically it goes like this:

  1. Submit the application which you can do here with us. (Once you’ve clicked send on the first application, it can take a little time to process but just wait, you will get to the second step in the application)
  2. They will assess your case and inform you of the probability of you receiving compensation and the amount.
  3. If you have a case, they will get all the necessary documentation and start negotiations with the airline company.
  4. If they are successful, you get your compensation.

Can I get compensation for a delayed or cancelled flight?

The compensation for a delayed/cancelled flight or denied boarding can be €125-€600. The amount can vary with flight distance and delay duration. The condition is that one of the following happened to you:

  • Your flight is delayed for more than 3 hours.
  • Your flight is cancelled.
  • Your flight is delayed for less than 3 hours, but you miss a connection flight and arrive to your final destination more than 3 hours late.
  • You were denied boarding because of lack of vacant seats (overbooking).

However:

  • The flight must not be delayed due to weather or other extraordinary conditions.
  • The flight must have been started no later than 6 years ago;

How much does it cost, how long does it take and other frequently asked questions

Pretty simple right? But I know, I know – you want to know more. So here are some commonly asked questions:

What will it cost to get the compensation?

These companies usually provide you with all necessary services for free. But they will charge a success fee according to their price list, (you can see Compensairs price list here to get an idea) which is usually somewhere between 10-30% of the compensation. They charge this fee only after receiving the compensation.

How long does it take to get compensation?

Some airlines respond in 2-3 days, some other – in 4-6 weeks. On average they ensure pre-court acceptance within first 8 weeks after claim submission. If court process is involved, the duration can reach 16-20 weeks.

I already submitted a claim to the airline and got rejected. Can they still help?

This is a normal situation, since airlines hardly ever agree to pay at once. That is where their experience working with airlines maximizes the chance to get compensation before court. If the airline still rejects to pay, they may involve third parties to prepare for court procedure to ensure successful resolution of the case.

Do I have to be an EU or Turkey citizen to be able to use their services?

No. You can claim your compensation without holding a EU or Turkey citizenship, which does not affect the implementation of the regulation.

My cancelled or delayed flight happened a long time ago. Can I still get compensation?

If your flight was delayed or cancelled, or you were denied boarding within last 2-6 years (depending on the operating airlne and your route), you are entitled to compensation and can submit an application to Compensair* or Flyghjälp*.

Do you know your rights as a passenger on a plane?

Let’s look at some of your rights. The compensation is only a supplement to the relief provided by airlines for the passengers of delayed flights. The provisions must include:

  • Refreshments.
  • Free meals appropriate to the delay.
  • Free hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is required.
  • Hotel transfers if an overnight stay is required.
  • Two free phone calls, faxes or emails.

However, you are not entitled to compensation if:

  • You were informed about the cancellation 14 days prior to the flight.
  • The airline has offered you an alternative flight on the same route and time.

In case of flight cancellation due to extraordinary circumstances, the airline has to offer its passengers one of the following:

  • Ticket refund (full price or the unused part of it).
  • An alternative transport to your destination.
  • Rebooking your flight to a later date, providing that it fits the passengers and the airline.

So if you have been unlucky enough to have a cancelled or delayed flight, see if you are eligible for some compensation. And don’t wait too long like I did.

Good luck!

Travelling Sweden as a volunteer

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Written by Malena Rasetto

I lived in Sweden for 5 months, and the unique thing is that I didn’t live in one place but around. 

I decided to travel to Sweden as a volunteer, which means to work in exchange for food and accommodation. In some places, I stayed 1 week, in others two months… 

Travelling Sweden as a volunteer

Skåne, Sweden
Skåne, Sweden. Photo by Malena

The question is how I found volunteer jobs. There are many platforms you can use, in my case I used Workaway. Workaway is an online website that you use to travel the world in exchange for accommodation and food. 

I was staying in my first workaway in Denmark when I found a volunteer job in Sweden. It was mid-December when I moved to Lönsboda to help to rebuild a house and do some gardening. Lönsboda is a small town in the south of Sweden, there’s literally nothing to see or do, but it’s amazing to explore the culture. After my stay in Lönsboda, I went to Stockholm to spend few days before travelling to the arctic circle to spend a month catching Auroras Borealis. 

Once I arrived in Kiruna, I stayed in a hostel, spent Christmas and never seen the Northern Lights. However, I never gave up, and after 4 wonderful days in Kiruna, I went to my second workaway in Sweden, in Jokkmokk, still in the arctic circle. It was there where I caught two northern lights. 

It was time to leave the north and keep travelling Sweden as a volunteer, so in mid-January, I moved to Östersund, a city near Åre. I had the time of my life learning how to ski and going back to ice skating. 

After those two wonderful months in the middle of Sweden, I went to Gothenburg for few days and finally to Klagstorp to my last workaway in a yoga retreat. 

Why do I recommend travelling Sweden as a volunteer?

Jokkmokk, Sweden. Photo by Malena

It’s an experience you will never forget! It gave me a glance at the culture and Swedish people. Here’s my article about Swedish people through an Argentinian´s eyes.

In my experience, Sweden is beautiful from north to south, from west to east. I had the opportunity to spent winter and the beginning of spring in such a country. It was wonderful to see the snow melting and the green trees appearing.

Sweden in winter is a white country. Snow and darkness are the protagonists from December to February. The sunrise is at 11 am and the sunset is at 14 pm. During the night, however, given it’s completely white it looks like it’s daylight. You’ll feel you are in a movie. 

My personal experience

Skåne, Sweden. Photo by Malena

I have never imagined living up north and in the southest point of the same country. Sweden is a huge country to travel to and enjoy. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in every season. So, if you are thinking about moving or travelling to Sweden, stop asking yourself when and just go! And remember you can enjoy Sweden travelling as a volunteer 🙂 

About the Author

Hej! I’m Malena. I’m an Argentinian travelling Sweden. After living in Ireland for 2 years and a half I decided to start backpacking Europe. I’ve been living with different families since then. I love to be around different cultures, I love outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. I love blogging, reading and writing. You can find me on Instagram as @malenarasetto. I really hope you enjoy my articles! Vi ses!

 

Eco-travel around Skåne

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Written by Joseph Mukama

There is no cheaper place to travel in Sweden during the summer than Skåne. Skåne is the southernmost region (län) of Sweden and it holds the most fertile lands. In addition, there are just so many beautiful places one can visit in the 33 municipalities (kommuner) of Skåne during the summer – at the lowest of cost.

Three-pointer to keeping it on ground

Flying shame (Flygskam) is a term coined in Sweden in 2019 to ‘shame’ people traveling by air and encourage the use more climate-friendly and sustainable transport means. Walking, running, cycling, and travelling collectively (bus, train, trams) are the ‘new green’ for the climate-conscious travellers.

Obviously, flygskam is not the reason why I am not flying back to Uganda this year. This year is the COVID-19 year. Before the thought of writing it off as a year that did not happen, this post opens up to more possibilities to not feel locked in.

It’s cheap(er). Period!

Did someone say cheap(er)?

Normally, unlimited travel within the entire Skåne is about €120 per month. Every summer, between June 15th and August 15th, skånetrafiken offers a more than doubly discounted summer ticket (sommarbiljetten) €69.9 for the entire two months. Closer to the summer time have a look at their ticket page and the summer ticket will be there. 

Furthermore, this ticket can be transferable (for 4hrs, 8hrs, 24hrs, 48hrs, 1 week) to a maximum 5 people during the period.

All you need is to download the skånetrafiken app and set up your online payment options – cashless.

On what medium

One may use the summer ticket on all yellow buses (regional), the green buses (within a city), the Skånetrafiken commuter trains (pågatåg) and the Öresundståg (*within the region Skåne).

 Regional Bus in Skåne
Photo credit @ J Mukama, Commuter train in Skåne

Caution before travelling collectively

During this COVID-19 times, Skånetrafiken has set up visual representations of how occupied the bus is. It is recommended for everyone to take this into consideration before taking a bus/train to help in reducing the potential spread/infection of the corona virus.

Here, you can find live updates for bus and train travel within Skåne. A quick guide to the map shows what is displayed depending on how occupied the bus/train is.

Buses

  • 1 green field: Less than 25 % of the seats are occupied
  • 2 green fields: Between 26 and 50 % of the seats are occupied
  • 2 green and 1 yellow field: Between 51 and 75 % of the seats are occupied
  • 1 red field: 76 % or more of the seats are occupied

Commuter trains

  • 1 green field: Less than 20 % of the seats are occupied
  • 2 green fields: Between 21 and 40 % of the seats are occupied
  • 2 green and 1 yellow field: Between 41 and 60 % of the seats are occupied
  • 1 red field: 61 % or more of the seats are occupied

How far does it take you

From Kullens Fyr down through Malmö, south to Skanör and Falsterbo, eastwards through Ystad to the Ales stena. Do not miss one of the best white-sand beach, Sandhammaren beach. Further northwards through Simrisham, to Bromölla.

See the Skånetrafiken map for the possible bus and train connections.

 

Is it the end of the bus/train road

Most parks and forests are clearly marked with different color codes and distances to guide people running, walking by themselves or walking their dogs, cycling, or even hiking (in larger areas). Follow the marked tracks/trails for the distance you want. It is popular for people to experience parts of the Skåne trail (skåneleden) following the orange marking.

Photo credit @ J Mukama, Tracks and trail marks, Skryllegården, Skåne
 

Skåne too small for you? Try Sweden

Do you have more time on your vacation? Then you can try a ‘train holiday’ (tågsemester). SJ trains open up a hop-on-hop-off travel card (tåglufforkort) all over Sweden (*wherever the SJ operation reaches) to everyone, not only students (as it was last year). This is similar to the Interrail pass allover Europe.

See the different SJ train routes and stations (cities) within Sweden one can take with this offer.

Summary

With neighbouring countries putting restrictions and even denying travellers from Sweden, with the need to stay/travel within the ‘neighbourhood’, the Region Skåne has a lot to offer. Imagine how much carbon footprint one saves?

 

About the Author

Photo credit @ J Mukama

Kodheyo banna! Joseph here. I moved some years back to Gothenburg for studies from Uganda, the ‘Pearl of Africa’ located in East Africa. I later moved to Lund/Malmö for work. I am married, and I love meeting people, nature, and physical activities. I like to read books and try out new things. My favourite Swedish word is beroendeframkallande. Hoping to share interesting moments with you all.

Missing Sweden While Being Abroad

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Written by Tatiana Sokolova

Sometimes the best way to understand what you like and dislike about a country is to leave it for some time. The cultural translation, bracketing, brokerage; the cultural shocks one experiences in transitioning between two places, allow to understand deeper what we cherish and what we abhor about them.

Every year I travel to India with my husband and son for a month or two to escape the Swedish winter and spend time with our Indian family. This time I took it as an opportunity to reflect on our life in Sweden through my experience of being outside it; more than that, being in a country which is drastically different economically, socially, and culturally. I am not comparing them, because such a comparison is meaningless. Rather, I note what I missed about Sweden while in India – and what I miss about India when I am back in Sweden.

What I’ve been missing about Sweden while being in India…

Beauty and elegance

No other country I have been to beats Sweden when it comes to the beauty of the surroundings, both natural and human-made, and the incredible sense of connection of the two. Stockholm is a thing of beauty, where architecture and landscape perform a little pas-de-deux. Nowhere have I seen the ability of landscape architects, city planners, interior designers to create such a perfect sense of unity between the natural and artificial elements of the surroundings. The Swedes, a highly educated, humble and sophisticated nation, have magically managed to preserve a connection to nature which, I suspect, has a religious status in this highly secular society (I have this religious feeling when I go, for example, to Artipelag).

Even though, to be frank, Scandinavian design tires me a bit after six years of living here, I still hold it as an absolute benchmark of beauty and elegance. I often find that, whenever I go south, things tend to start looking a little gaudy. Christmas decorations, packaging, clothing, interiors – nowhere I find these mundane elements of everyday life as elegant and tasteful as in the North. Of course, I have seen designs of breath-taking beauty in the South of Europe and in Asia, and, as I said, sometimes it is the very simplicity and neutrality of the Scandinavian aesthetics that tires me – but it has become a home base to which I will always return from my east- and southbound adventures.

Privacy and independence

While in India, I was desperately looking for a more diplomatic synonym for ‘people minding their own business’. Privacy is a coveted and rarely found luxury in India – but it Sweden it is ample and, perhaps, sometimes a little bit in excess.

The respect of the other’s personal space is coded firmly into Swedish etiquette, organisation of public spaces, educational programmes, the very fabric of society, for better or worse.

Privacy and inviolability of a person go hand-in-hand with the value of absolute personal independence. Of course, independence is to some extent an illusion – we all depend on each other as long as we live in a society, because that’s how it functions – but nowhere else in the world have I enjoyed such extreme sense of freedom and autonomy as I have in Sweden.

Reliability

In Sweden, surprises are minimised. Of course, there are hiccups with trains and buses on a regular basis – but those are usually quickly fixed. Everyone, especially Swedes themselves, are complaining about Swedish bureaucracy, Swedish public services, Swedish weather – but to be honest, after having lived in Russia and India, I find the Swedish bureaucracy, the Swedish public services and the Swedish weather (at least on the East Coast) the most predictable and benign things in the world.

Reliability is also the trademark of the Swedish working life. Here you generally know what is expected of you, and you are given a large credit of trust from the beginning, and, as long as you prove you are worthy of that trust by delivering the best results you can, you will be able to achieve your goals and be respected by your colleagues. By the same token, transparency and accountability is something you can expect from others, and teamwork is usually valued very highly.

Equality

Equality may not readily be seen as something one can directly observe in a society – but it is. Unfortunately, like everywhere in the world, this foundation of the modern Swedish society has been somewhat eroding in the past years, but still, this feature is quite striking – just as striking as the contrasts between castes and classes immediately observable in India.

However, ‘equality’ may not be the right word for what one sees in Sweden. A more precise term would probably be ‘the existence of a large middle class’. The highly educated middle class with an adequate quality of life, social security and personal freedom has dictated the values of the Swedish society. This society is far from perfect and, offering a generous gesture of acceptance of large numbers of asylum seekers, has struggled to become a cohesive multicultural society. And yet, I hope that the values of equality, solidarity and mutual respect are deeply enough ingrained in the Swedish mentality, and they will be able to prevail, and multiculturalism in Sweden will be able to live up to these values on a practical level.

What I will miss about India when I am back in Sweden…

Diversity and vibrancy

In India, you can find everything under the sun. And I mean it. This society constantly defies and de-defines itself; as soon as you think you’ve figured it out, it shows you its other face. Or faces. As soon as you say something, anything about India – it proves to be the opposite.

There is something liberating in this experience. You can sit and stare at everything and everyone – it is a never-ending spectacle. There is no uniform, no universal standard. At times, it gets tiring, visually and sensually overpowering. But it is enjoyable.

Being fashionably late

In Sweden, we come on time and in time. Once I confused the time of my regular check-up appointment at the BVC (the childcare centre), and came twenty minutes early, as I thought – but actually ten minutes late. We were asked to reschedule the appointment, although we still had twenty minutes in which we could be admitted. It was explained as being to the benefit of the child, ‘so that we don’t have to rush things and it doesn’t become stressful’. I couldn’t but agree. But it also feels funny, as in a country like India the timing of an appointment is a relative thing.

In India, I find some kind of a quirky joy in trying to figure out, by how late should one actually be, depending on the occasion. A movie? Twenty minutes after the time shown in the ticket (to skip the commercials). A wedding function? At least an hour in Mumbai, at least two hours in Delhi. A business meeting? You set out around the time you need to set out to get there on time, and then ring the other person on the way to update them on the traffic. Because you will be at least an hour late, unless you’re meeting in the middle of the night. So it’s not about what time you need to be there, it’s about how late you can be.

Spontaneity

Flexibility and spontaneity do not really exist in Sweden. At least not spontaneously – they need to be built into the design, the schedule, the plan. Being very far from a spontaneous person myself, I enjoy that. But I also enjoy the opposite – the opportunity to ‘go with the flow’, ‘see what happens’, ‘take it as it comes’. Well, at least as an exercise to toughen my nerves a little. And test my level of ‘zen’.

The ecology of interconnectedness

And this is the actual reason why I come to India. The reason, perhaps unconscious, why I married an Indian in the first place. As much as I crave freedom, independence, self-sufficiency, autonomy – I know they are illusions. For better or worse, everything and everyone is interconnected and interdependent – and India is a way to experience it.

The Swedish Theory of Love is of course nothing but a caricature of Sweden, and yet it shows a perspective on to what extreme the idea of independence of an individual can lead – and that perspective also has a right to exist. We are all dependent on something or someone. Unity with others comes at a high personal cost – but it is ultimately meaningful and rewarding. In a paradoxical way, the Indian society may be unequal, male-dominant, with deeply rooted prejudices – and yet it often feels much more cohesive, tightly knit than the Swedish one.

I am sure that all of us, newbies and not-very-newbies, expats and migrants, have similar experiences of finding a home away from home in Sweden. What is it that you miss most about it when you are out of the country?

About the Author

Tatiana Sokolova is an investigator, collector and classifier of cultures, places, and ways of expression – the very things which often defy classification. She lives in Stockholm with her intercultural family. She is a researcher, a freelancer of various trades, and a little bit a photographer. Also a little bit a writer of short stories, and an aficionada – a lover of flamenco song, guitar, clapping and dance.

Enjoy Winter in Måkläppen

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Only during 12 weeks a year, the wildlife sanctuary Måkläppen is open. From November 1 to January 31 you have the chance to explore this nature reserve. And it is worth it! Målkläppen is the home to many birds, but most excitingly, you can observe seals very closely there.

Målklappan is located in the southern tip of Sweden, around 30km south of Malmö. It is the extension of a peninsula, next to Falsterbo. 

It took me, however, 3 years until I finally went out there for the first time. As the Nature reserve is only open during November to January, the following scenario happened all the years before: On the first weekend in February, and I remember that I wanted to go to Måkläppen! So take the advice, and mark it in your calendar, else you will forget about it.

Målkläppen. Sandbank surrounded by water, with people walking
Måkläppen in Winter. If the weather is good, and its not windy, many people will have the same idea as you…

So, why is Måkläppen so special?

Let’s start with a little history. Måkläppen is already under protection for more than hundert years. Actually already since 1902, which makes it Sweden’s oldest nature reserve. Very interestingly, the area has changes a lot, and not because the governemtent increased the size, but because the shape of the peninsula changed. Måkläppen is a sandy peninsula, that in the 30s only was around 50x100m of exposed land.Over time, the sand shifted and changed the shape. Because Mäklappen increased in size, it is today connected to the mainland. 

But the history of Måkläppen goes back much further. They found traces there from early hunter-fathere societes that date back to after the last ice age. These traces include old stone tools that are over 8000 years old. They also found shipwrecks from the Viking and the middle age around Måkläppen.

Sandy beach with with houses
On the mainland of the peninsula, you find many huts along the beach.

Why is Måkläppen protected?

Måkläppen used to be home to more than 20 bird species. However, when the sand back made contact with the mainland, the diversity went drastically down. Also the human influence had a big impact. The nature reserve is now closed during most of the year. This makes it possible for thousands of birds cross now the peninsula in spring and autumn. Many of them use it as a stop during the migration. But also many birds breed there. 

Seal watching

The nature reservate not only includes the sandbank. Most of it its water. And this water is home to two different seals, the harbor seal and the grey seal. It’s the only seal colony in Skåne. For the grey seal, its even the only place in the southern Baltic sea. The grey seal is bigger than the harbor seal. It can reach up to 3 meter in length! When you walk around Måkläppen, you can see both types of seal swimming in the water and laying on the beach. IF you are lucky, you will see some young harbor seals as well!

Seals laying on the beach at Målkläppen
The highlight of Mälkappen, the seals laying on the sandbank

Plan your trip to Mälkappen

You can get there easily with either the car or the bus. Then you can take a walk around the peninsula, which takes around 2-3h. Make sure you take good and waterproof walking boots. Wear warm clothes, and bring a hat, as it can be quite windy. Remember to bring a camera to take pictures of the seals and birds. If you have, also take a pair of binoculars with you! This is especially helpful to see the seals with some distance. You should never try to get to close to them and do not disturb any of the wildlife. That’s also one of the reason why you can’t bring your dogs on this walk.

We always take a little fika with us, and drink a warm coffee/tea on the way to warm us up. Unfortunately, this walk is not well suited for wheelchairs or other walking aids, as it is completely on soft sand.

So, now its your turn. Remember that you can only go there until the end of January! For those that have been already there, did you like it? Which other nice spots do you know in Sweden where you can see seals? Let us know in the comments!

Written by Michaela Roth

My name is Michaela and I grew up surrounded by mountains in Switzerland. When I moved to flat Lund to do my Ph.D., I initially thought it would only be for the 4 years that it takes to obtain this degree. Of course, life had other plans, and falling in love with a Swede changed my life completely. I am passionate about science, outdoor activities, and balancing multicultural traditions.

November Visit to Copenhagen

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It might still be a couple of weeks until Christmas, but therefore there is enough time to plan a pre-Christmas trip. Sweden is wonderful during the Christmas season. Swedes really know how to bring light to this dark season. But even after seeing several Christmas markets in Sweden, my favorite markets are still in Copenhagen! Plus, it already opens in the mid of November. So there is plenty of time to get into the right mood and to survive the gloomy November days and explore advent in Copenhagen.

Copenhagen is not only having one Christmas market, but the entire city turns into a Christmas winter wonderland! No matter where you live in Sweden, consider visiting Copenhagen for a day (or weekend) during this advent. To help you plan a Christmas walk through the city, walk along with the following steps.

First stop: Tivoli

I can still remember the first time I went to Tivoli during Christmas. It’s like you jump into a Christmas dream. They decorate the entire park in the Christmas wonderland theme. Full-on American Christmas. Anywhere else, it would be too much. But for Tivoli, it’s just the perfect mix of getting you into the Christmas mood. Start by strolling through the park, and have your camera ready. Each corner is differently decorated, and the millions of lights are bringing joy to your heart. Make sure you check the time of the water light show on the lake!

Advent in Copenhagen, dark night, with lights in tree and a lake
Advent decoration in Tivoli.

Next up: stroll along Størget

After being at Tivoli, walk along Strøget towards town. Each of the squares is hosting its little Christmas markets, which are filled with lots of special treats. First up is Højbro Plads, where you find cute traditional handcraft and food. You find Hojbro when you turn towards the right when you get to Amagertorv. Before you head further on Strøget, walk into Illium Bolighus. Illium Bolighus is a Royal shopping center selling danish design. Especially during Christmas time, their entire focus is on Christmas decorations, which makes it a spectacle to just walk through the center.

Next stop: Kongens Nytorv

Follow the brightly decorated Strøget further until you reach Kongens Nytorv. This Christmas marker will be especially interesting this year! In the last couple of years, there was a big construction site for the new metro line, limiting the Christmas market. Now that it is done, it will be exciting to see how the Christmas market looks. Don’t forget to check out the facade of the Hotel Angleterre!

Last highlight: Nyhavn

Every trip to Copenhagen involves a visit to Nyhavn, and during advent that is no exception. Along the iconic colorful harbor front, you can enjoy a cute Christmas market. Buy a warm Gløgg here (one bonus of Copenhagen is that its proper Glögg that is served!). And of course, have your camera ready. Nyhavn is the perfect place to capture an ideal winter-time picture of the city!

Christmas decorated Nyhavn with colorful houses along harbour
Nyhavn during Advent time

There are many more interesting Christmas markets in Copenhagen. The once above mentioned are all open from the middle of November until the end of December. Check out Copenhagens’ own homepage for a list of other Christmas markets that are open on more specific dates! Also, head over to a previous post about the Christmas market in Stockholms Old town here

Have you been to the Christmas market in Copenhagen? Do you agree with me that it is a must?

Written by Michaela Roth

My name is Michaela and I grew up surrounded by mountains in Switzerland. When I moved to flat Lund to do my Ph.D., I initially thought it would only be for the 4 years that it takes to obtain this degree. Of course, life had other plans, and falling in love with a Swede changed my life completely. I am passionate about science, outdoor activities, and balancing multicultural traditions.

Apps that help you to settle in Sweden

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Sweden loves innovations. If Swedes love something, there is a big chance to succeed with a product in other regions. Everyone’s heard about Spotify, but there are multiple apps that will help you to settle in Sweden for good. Check our list and let us know in the comments if any of these made your Newbie life easier. 

Disclaimer: To keep The Newbie Guide free, we use affiliate links (marked with *) and may get a commission if you buy using these links. This does not affect our opinions and our writers always recommend their best for your Swedish experience. So if you want to support our work, simply use these links if or when you need to buy a service or product.

Swish and Bank-ID 

You won’t survive a day in Sweden without Swish. And even if you will, why would you? Swish is a comfortable tool to send money to your friends and family or to pay for goods purchased online. You will hear swisha mig as often as tack and god morgon. Once Swish is downloaded, you don’t need to remember difficult account’s numbers, IBAN, addresses, codes… Just the number of your cellphone. Do not forget to download the app called Bank-ID, which increases the safety of in-bank logging and makes everything easier.

E-learning course: Preparing your move to Sweden

Are you already feeling a bit overwhelmed about all the stuff you need to figure out how to move to Sweden? We’ve got you covered. Over the years we’ve been repeatedly told just stressful this process can be so we created a digital course with all the information you need to move. Here you will learn about:

 

  • Short (and long facts) about Sweden.
  • The history and background of Sweden in regards to democracy, religious freedom, gender equality, social security, child welfare and LGBTQIA+.
  • The types of visas and residence permits that are available plus the requirements.
  • Important Swedish agencies, and trust us, you DO need to know about these ones.
  • How to find a place to stay and how to avoid rental fraud.
  • How to pack for your move depending on the season.
  • And there will be some quizzes to make sure you are paying attention and not falling asleep at your screen. 

After finishing this course, you will have a greater understanding of what has made Sweden what it is today, how you best prepare for a move here and to get your stay here started in the best manner. 

 

Sign up to your course here

Wish, Blocket, Tradera 

In urgent need to buy or sell something? Both Wish and Blocket are C2C online markets. They enable the users to exchange or sell the products. If you miss gumtree, these two should be your first choice. And if you have ever tried eBay, you will love Tradera, a Swedish eBay’s brother. 

Doktor.se* 

It is not easy to go to the doctor with a 40 degrees fever, pain in the muscles and a general feeling that the flu you caught in the office is actually terminal and you want to spend your last days with Netflix and a cup of tea instead of waiting in Vårdcentralen. Well, in Sweden you don’t have to. With doktor.se you can connect with a doctor and discuss your symptoms and get medical advice.

GoFriendly/SE 

Did you know that Sweden was named the worst place in the world for expats looking to make friends? That is why GoFriendly is a real treasure. Only for friends. And only for girls. If you want to have a friend to have a fika with or to go shopping together. You can download GoFriendly from AppStore or Google Play.  

YEPSTR 

Good app for families, parents and pet owners. The app offers reliable help with tutoring, babysitting, gardening and pet care. 

Västtrafik, SL, EasyPark 

Have you ever tried to park your car in the city centre? EasyPark will help you with that and point the best places to park depending on where you are and what time it is. It will also enable you to pay the parking fee and avoid tickets, which, as we know, can make your wallet thinner. Well, we also know, that sometimes driving in Sweden is crazy. Why don’t you take a bus that you can check with SL (Stockholm) or Västtrafik (Gothenburg) or any other local app.

SAOL and Lexin Pro 

Bored with completing your Duolingo tree? Try SEOL and Lexin Pro. These two will increase your vocabulary and make your Swedish more fluent. Very helpful tools when learning Swedish.

Weather by WeatherBug 

Yes, we all complain about the weather in Sweden. But if you think that the slushy streets in Stockholm are the worst, notice that there was -39.3C in Naimakka this year! If you don’t want to learn about it too late and cry that you’ve forgotten your varmabyxor, download Weather by WeatherBug and follow the weather alerts.  

A few hours in Malmö

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Written by Abhimanyu Tvagi

This summer I went to the third largest city in Sweden. It is also, the birthplace of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the most bike-friendly city of Sweden. It’s Malmö! While on my way to Copenhagen from Stockholm I decided to stop there for a few hours. Consider this as a mini guidebook. Here’s what you can do in Malmö if you only have a few hours to spare.

Alright, let’s begin!

Getting here is pretty straightforward. The city has its own airport, railway station and bus station. Since I was travelling from Stockholm, the best choice for me was to take one of the many SJ trains. There are various options and one is often spoilt for choice. Since my whole journey would be long (approximately 4.5 hrs in total) I decided to depart early to arrive around noon in Malmö and enjoy a few hours there before continuing my journey.

Once you arrive, you can drop your luggage at the train station in the lockers for a fee (which I did). More information can be found here. Once that was done, I headed to the tourist information center which is next to the huge green building in front of the station. I would recommend the bus tour of the city. It is a service which is new and it gives a beautiful overview of the city. It is an audio guided tour where the information system comes to life when the bus reaches an important place.

The whole tour lasts for about an hour so I recommend doing this first because it covers the major tourist attractions (apart from Stortorget). During this time the information system also takes you back in time and tells you about the historic side of the city and how it was an important fishing industry hub. One more reason for the history buffs to join in.  One can then decide where to go from there.

The courthouse in the background (building in black), from the bus tour

If just sitting on a bus for an hour is not for you and prefer to be more active and earn your visual treats, one can also rent a bicycle from the same tourist information centre. It would be good to know a bit about the route that you plan to take beforehand and optimize your time. Here are a few places that I had the opportunity to visit:

1. Saint Petri-Kyrka.

Sorry for the tent, there was a fair that day.

This has to be one of the most impressive churches/cathedral structures I have seen (the first place is a tie between Alexander Nevsky cathedral, Tallin and Frederik’s Church, Copenhagen). It just appeared out of nowhere and left a lasting impression on me. It was, however, undergoing restoration work and was closed. But I am certain it must be beautiful from inside as well.

2. Stadsbibliotek

One side of the library. The other side has a modern look

I know, you might be thinking that I have lost my mind by recommending a library when you just have a few hours in the city. But the library building is a real gem. Thanks to its architecture, It looks like it is telling a tale of Malmö’s past and future at the same time. Along with that, you can sit inside with a book of any topic of your interest and have a great view of Kungsparken.

3. Kungsparken

Just out of a fairytale

Yes, it’s a park, but oh my, what a great one! I cannot tell why it felt so different from the parks in Stockholm or even Copenhagen. Probably because it was right in the city, had a lot of bridges and water surrounding it, with lots and lots of trees. No wonder people of Malmö love their parks!

4. The old town square

My heart belongs to the cobbled streets

While I did not go to the square (Stortorget), I roamed around the old town of the city around Saint Petri-Kyrka. I loved it. While I found it similar to most of the architecture of Östermalm in Stockholm, it’s different and quite beautiful. Enjoy a coffee in one of the cafés there and plan your next move. I feel that this part should not be missed.

Be sure to roam around the central station as well, the bridge connecting the station to the old town was very picturesque to me.

A picturesque stone bridge

After a few hours, I headed back to the central station and it shocked me how empty that area looked compared to the rest of the city. Perhaps everyone took a part of it in their hearts while departing.

There are some things I didn’t visit  (because of the Sun and extreme heat) but you should consider such as the turning torso (the tallest skyscraper in Scandinavia), Västra hamnen (the western harbor) and Malmohus Slott. Also, if you are a Zlatan Ibrahimović fan and wish to see where he used to play during his early days, you can go to Zlatan court.

My tips:

  1. Become a member of SJ (SJ prio). It is free and you get points for each journey you make. These points can be redeemed on the next one.
  2. For food, the central station has a good food court however you can always explore the city and get to know more eateries.
  3. Along with Malmö, plan for a nearby place as well. Lund and Copenhagen are very close.
  4. If you are planning to use the busses for visiting the various places mentioned above then probably download the Skǻnetrafiken app where you can see journey details and can buy the tickets as well.

So, how motivated are you to plan a trip to Malmö­? Do you know of any cool place that I missed? Do let me know.

About the author

Hej allihopa!! I am Abhimanyu from Mumbai, India. Currently doing my master’s at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden. I have spent close to a year here and will be presenting my insights on my experience. It’s my first time trying something like this, hence I am really looking forward to it. I like to read novels, cook, travel, play football and sometimes just stay at home watch some movies or TV series.

Gothenburg – my 5 favourite places

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Written by Sara Costa

Summer is here and the entire country seems to have slowed down and gotten into vacation mode. Many like to escape the country in search of warmer and sunnier places, but this year, that’s not necessary as the Swedish summer has brought us endless beautiful sunny days. This is the perfect opportunity to travel within Sweden and get to know other places. I can make a small contribution and tell you about my favourite places in Gothenburg, where I live.

Skansen Kronan

I’ll start with the obvious: Gothenburg’s city centre. There’s a lot to do and see in the centre. Very well described in most guidebooks. Do walk around and get lost in the cozy streets of Haga, walk up and down Avenyn, have fun in Liseberg, feel the artistic atmosphere of Majorna or eat and have a drink at Linnégatan. My favourite spot in the city is, however, Skansen Kronan, a fortress from the 17th century that offers a splendid view over Gothenburg.

How to get there. 

Walk! – It’s right in the heart of Haga. It requires some energy to climb all the way up, but it’s well worth the effort.

 

Eriksberg

An old shipyard industry area that has been renovated into one of the most vibrant and modern neighbourhoods of Gothenburg. It’s right by the river, across the city centre and the 84m crane used for shipbuilding is still there, like a trademark. Eriksberg is perfect for an afternoon walk or fika in one of its cafes.

How to get there

Bicycle – Cycle by Majorna and cross the river through Älvsborgsbron bridge and turn right afterward. On the way back, cycle through Eriksberg and cross the river through Götaälvbron. This is one of my favourite bicycle rides in the city.

Ferry – take the ferry from Stenpiren or Lilla Bommen, both in the centre, or from Klippan, near Majorna.

Bus – number 16

Delsjönområdet nature reserve

Skatås motionsspår with different routes marked with colours
Skatås marked trails (source: Sara Costa)

I started by writing just Delsjön but then I understood that I actually like the whole area. Delsjönområdet is a significantly large nature reserve not far from the city, with a lot of green, forest and lakes. One can go there to walk or run on the trails (there’s a lot to choose from, marked or not), swim or paddle in the lakes, or simply lay on the beach by the water. I have done them all and I don’t get enough of it.

 

How to get there

It’s a large area so it depends on what and where you want to go.

Bicycle – Cycle past Liseberg towards Skatås (better to have a map with you).

Tram – number 5, get off at Topelsgatan and then walk 15 min to Stora Delsjön (lake) or get off at Welandergatan and walk 10 min. to Skatås motioncentrum, for the trails.

Bus – number 50, get off at Kallebäck. From there is a 10 min walk to Stora Delsjön.

 

Gunnebo area

Another green and pleasant area not far from Gothenburg, featuring the Rådasjön lake, several walking paths and the Palace of Gunnebo (more like a big gorgeous manor house) and its beautiful baroque gardens. The palace can be visited and behind it there’s a shop and a lovely vegetable garden that belongs to the restaurant that’s beside it, making it the perfect spot for a well-spent afternoon.

Gunnebo Slott and its gardens
Gunnebo (source: Sara Costa)

How to get there

Bicycle – Cycle towards Mönldal, south of Gotheburg and then head east (again, better to bring a map).

Bus – number 751 and 753 take you to near the lake. From there is about 10-20 min walk to the gardens.

 

Askim/Fiskebäck

Askim and Fiskebäck, both located by the sea, were formerly inhabited by fishermen and are nowadays charming neighbourhoods of Gothenburg. I like to cycle around and explore the area. I enjoy watching the boats in the marinas, observe the beautiful villas and have a picnic by the sea overlooking the small islands that populate the water. When it’s warm, one can also bathe or paddle in the sea.

How to get there

Bicycle – This is highly recommended as it is a fairly large area and you get to see more. Head southwest from Gotheburg and bring a map for the details.

Bus – number 82 or Rosa X go to Askim. Numbers 90 and 97 go to Fiskebäck.

 

Come and have a good time in Gothenburg!

 

About the Author 
Hej! I’m a Portuguese Newbie in Sweden. I have also lived in Brazil, Poland and the Czech Republic. It’s been fun to be a foreigner in so many different countries and I enjoy learning about other cultures. I’m a fan of sports, some to watch and some to practise, my favourite being running. I also love food, reading and blogging. I hope you enjoy my posts!

Summer Tips in Sweden

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Summer is one of the most anticipated times of the year and for good reason! The days are longer and people are generally in a happier mood. There’s a positive energy and atmosphere (stämning) all around!

Here is 8 Summer Tips you try to enjoy the summer in Sweden.

Eat Ice Cream

Summer Tips
Every one of these ice creams are associated with happy memories.

Summer has just begun and I have already lost track of how many ice creams I’ve had. It feels like there’s an ice cream stand on every street corner with happy customers tempting you with their purchases. It doesn’t usually take long for me to become one of these customers too. Your ice cream order can be very customized. Just be aware of the costs because they can stack up if you get too excited! If you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, you could always go to a convenience store and buy a ice cream or popsicle from the freezer and they also hit the spot.

Have a Picnic or BBQ

The weather in Sweden can be a little unstable but when the weather cooperates, you should consider taking advantage of it by having a picnic or BBQ party (grillfest). Food, nature and good company is a great combination that is sure to bring a smile on anyone’s face. For those with a playful side, you can bring out a frisbee, ball or maybe try playing Kubb, a lawn game you play with wooden blocks that’s kind of a combination of bowling and horseshoe.

Enjoy the Nature

Enjoy the Nature

You’re never too far from nature in Sweden. There are parks within cities or you can always go outside the city for a little more untouched nature. Sweden has Allemansrätten or “the everyman’s right” which allows everyone to enjoy the Swedish nature freely. You can hike on a trail, pick flower or berries, go swimming or just enjoy a walk in the park.

Enjoy a Fika or Meal Outdoors

Enjoy a Fika or Meal Outdoors

Many cafes and restaurants have outdoor seating during the summer so you can enjoy a fika break and being outdoors at the same time. Invite a friend to catch up with or just bring a book and enjoy your company. Eating out in Sweden can get quite expensive but it’s nice to treat yourself once in awhile!

Visit the Archipelagos

Visit the Archipelagos

The islands along Sweden’s coastline are really something. It’s not uncommon in Sweden to have a summer house (sommarstuga) away from the city and near the water. It’s a great way to relax and slow down from the stress of everyday life. There are usually nice hiking trails, you can swim in the ocean. The views you’ll find on the islands are almost magical. Don’t forget to wake up early or stay up a bit to catch the sunrise or sunset.

Go to Events or Festivals

The summer is full of events and festivals to celebrate different things. You might find music, food or culture festivals. There’s something for everyone. Do your research and see if there’s something for you. You could also consider volunteering for some of these festivals and get a different perspective. Many events and festivals happen annually so if you miss something, just check back again next year.

Take a Vacation and Travel

Take a Vacation and Travel

It still blows my mind how many vacation (semester) days people get in Sweden. Employees in Sweden are entitled to 25 days of annual leave, and that’s not including the many public holidays throughout the year. With so many vacation days, many people travel and go abroad. You can also take this opportunity to explore more of Sweden or just be a tourist in your own city! It’s great to explore and be curious about your own city wherever you are.

Relax and enjoy

Summer Tips

Summer in Sweden is a really special time, so make sure you give yourself a chance to enjoy it. Life can get pretty hectic sometimes so just slow down and take a moment to literally smell the flowers and enjoy yourself.

Hope you all have a lovely summer!

Written by Joanne Lau

My name is Joanne and I’m a Canadian Interaction/UX Designer who moved to Sweden at the end of 2016. I’m really enjoying living in Sweden and am borderline obsessed with learning Swedish. When I’m not in sketching, designing or trying out the latest gadget, you’ll find me taking photos, climbing rocks or reading with a cup of tea. You are welcome to visit me over at my blog.