SWEDEN
Straddling between Finland and Norway the country of Sweden is located on the Scandinavian Peninsula. A country of enduring charm and is popularly known as ‘The land of the Midnight Sun’ because of the incomplete sunset in the summers along the Arctic region of Sweden. What can be the other reason to celebrate your beautiful occasions or vacation here? The sunset that never completes means extra day light and with all your stamina at stake you have numerous options to hangout. Sweden is a country that draws a tourist for its amazing blend of natural surroundings, visual beauty of the snowcapped hills in the winter and the aromatic smell of moss and spruce in the summer. Dotted with modern marvels, vibrant lifestyle, daylight summer nights and the buzzing street life all make Sweden a dream destination for any tourist. Physically placed on the top of world Sweden is blessed as not less then any paradise with huge forests, unspoiled wilderness, lakes, wetlands and rivers. While moving around and city in Sweden you will find lush green golf courses and not to wonder there are over 400 golf courses in the country, so its quite obvious that playing golf is the passionate/popular sport amongst Swedes. If you have heard that Sweden is one of the richest country in the world then you not wrong. The country has successful economy with remarkable high standards of living in the world. This became possible only because of the combined structure of private and government policies that aimed to achieve a high standard of living. Not only this, the physical placement of Sweden has vast natural resources that turned the country to industrial nation. A denominated 21 provinces of Sweden truly offer the citizen and as well as any tourist variety of outdoor activities girdling with lightening speed and excitement. Ask any tourist who toured Sweden- about the specialty of outdoor activity and to your surprise comes the ancient unwritten law known as ‘Allemanstratten’ which literally means the rights of all men. This law which is unique only to Sweden and its neighbours, grants each person the right to access any wilderness area or land, be it parkland, beachfront and public or private owned lakes and rivers. The Allemanstratten grants you the right of biking, hiking, skiing, boating or camping in addition to savoring the wild berries and mushrooms found anywhere.
CULTURE
Although the cultural, social, and political history of Sweden is similar to that of other Scandinavian countries the Swedes share common culture and ethnic origins. The national language of the Swedes is Swedish that is closely related to Icelandic, Norwegian and Danish. Other languages that are spoken here are the Sami and Finnish. For a tourist their absolutely no worries as Swedes also speak good English. Famous for film making Sweden is a land of most efficacious directors, Ingmar Bergman. Also the country’s architectural beauty can be vouched in some of the most dominant structures in the world. Sweden’s participation in the Functionalist movement around 1930 led to the modern architecture that is predominant in the world today. In addition to the Swedes there are other minorities in country like the Sami (Lapps), Finns, Greeks and the Turks available in small numbers. Most of the Swedes follow Christianity and belong to the national Lutheran Church. Basically Swedes culture is evident is their literatures, sculptures, Movies and productivity.
GEOGRAPHY
Located in the eastern region of Scandinavia this country ranks as the fifth largest country in whole Europe sharing its border with Finland and Norway. Its surprising that the Sweden though covers an area of about 449,964 sq.kms which is roughly the size of California, is sparse populated with only 8.9 million of population. The country has a coastline of 3,218 kms that borders the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, Skagerack, and Kattegat. Generally Sweden is divided into three regions- Gotaland, Svealand, and the Norrland. Like other countries Sweden doesn’t have common landscapes in the whole country, they vary from region to region. This can be witnessed of the forests, plains and valleys that lie to the south, 10000 lakes, Kolen Mountains in the west and the sandy beaches along the coastline. The highest peak of the Country is Kebnekaise measuring at 2,111 meters. Largest lake in the country is the Lake Venern and major river is the Gota River. The plateaus and mountains cover about two third of land area with lush green forests and mineral resources. One can also find small group of islands that lie off the coast.
WHEN TO VISIT
Sweden has salubrious climatic conditions with hot summers and cold winters. Known as the ‘land of midnight sun’ this period occurs during May to June in the north of Arctic Circle. The sun never sets in this part each summer which is one of the nature’s marvels to Scandinavia. Due the altitude difference in the country’s landscape the Kjolen range snow lies for as long as eight months. Winters are bitterly cold and Sweden also experiences Polar nights, so planning to travel in summer will make your holiday an unforgettable one.
TOP ATTRACTIONS
The enticing and fascinating natural beauty of landscapes with flat farmland and marvelous cities make as whole the Kingdom of Sweden. There is a striking contrast in the climatic and the physical conditions in different nations of the Country. Generally in Sweden four cities are popular- Norrkoping/Linkoping twin cities, Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. To the country’s south is the beautiful sandy beaches with rural landscapes and woods, while the central part is full of small islands and to the north lies Lappland famous for alpine environment. Whatever region you select one is sure to be enthralled by the beauty astound landscapes and eternal summers only possible in this land.
Stockholm
The capital city that is built of 14 islands which is known for spending summers in beautiful cottages. All filled with historic charm depicting in the architectural styles of high raised buildings, turrets, towers, and churches. This place has over 70 museums, 100 art galleries and many castles. It’s built along the Malaren Lake makes it possible for the tourist to swim in clear waters or go fishing. The beauty of the skyline and broad boulevards can be seen in the reflection of deep blue waters. Not to miss is the boat ride from Lake Malaren to the Viking island of Birka displaying the remains of medieval times or to Drottningholm noted residence of 17th century. Then is Mariefred with fascinating castle of Gripsholm. If you are interested in seeing the ruined churches and rune stones visit the countryside Sigtuna. Some tourist also named it as ‘Venice of the North’ because of its built of 14 islands. Famous is the Vasa Museum that displays the only remaining intact 17th century warship in the world. If your evening is free then walk around Stockholm that has numerous parks and cafes to its credit.
Gothenburg
After the capital city Gothenburg is popular city of Sweden located at the Gota Alv River. This city in Sweden is somewhat inexpensive with reasonable accommodation and not to forget the magnificent attractions. The place name is commonly known as Goteborg in Swedish and the English name ‘Gothenburg’ is also widely in use. It is also the most used port in the Sweden which makes the place quite busy with beautiful boulevard known as the ‘Champs Elysees’ only adds to the beauty of port. Sites of interest can be from the huge list of museums, fortresses, parks and gardens, most visited and famous is the Liseberg amusement park. One should not miss the Universeum and the Maritime Centrum that are worth exploring. Maritime Centrum is the only largest floating ship museum in the world which has about 13 historical ships at display. The Elfsborgs Fortress at Gota alv dates back to 17th century is definitely alluring attraction. Tourists often visit the Kronhusbodarna where Swedish handicrafts are displayed; also the artisan houses dating back to 18th century catch the attention.
Skane
Popularly called as the ‘Castle Country’ Skane is green and as in name there are castles everywhere in the town. These castles are witnesses to the architectural knowledge and the Swedish history of 14 to 15th centuries. If you have a good budget you can also select to stay in one of them as few are turned to hotels. Don’t misunderstand it to only place of castles the city has lot more in store for a tourist, there are golf courses, beaches along the Baltic and north Seas, museums and galleries. Other places of visit are Malmo, Osterlen, Lund, Helsingborg, and Ven.
Norrland
Extending from northern border of the country to the southern border of Jamtland and Gavleborg the Norrland region is full of flowing rivers, thick forests and mountains. You would have seen in the television the herds of reindeers but now catch the glimpse and experience it in Norrland where reindeers outnumber cars on road. Mount Kebnekaise the highest mountain adds a jewel to the country’s pride which is 2111 meters in height. This region that is above the Arctic Circle experiences the unending daylight in mid summers making it an interesting place. Top attractions are the Sarek national park and Abisko, Jukkasjarvi, Arvidsjaur, Riksgransen & Bjorkliden, Jokkmokk and Jamtland & Harjedalen. Visit Jukkasjarvi the ice hotel that is world’s largest igloo and rebuild every year with tones of ice and snow. Inside the igloo there are churches, cinema halls, bar side, accommodation for letting out, and surprisingly a golf room.
GETTING HERE
Because it’s a vast country getting there by air is the most feasible and worth option. Sweden is home to many airports but most of the travelers travel to Gothenburg and Stockholm which are the main gateways to international travel. Look out for good deals all through the year and especially during peak season of June to August the prices are at its best while the low season marks reasonable price drop in the air fare i.e. April through May. Anyhow the neck to competition in airlines resulted in introducing new classes of travel making it easy for a budget traveler. After reaching the destination airport you will find various buses and taxis to reach the accommodation or attraction directly.
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