Sweden enabled me to catch up with friends of mine from my days of living in south beach Miami. They had a brand new family since I had last seen them and it was a real pleasure to meet the new additions and spend some time with them in Stockholm suburbia.
I was actually surprised how much I loved Stockholm. In true fashion I hadn’t done my homework and was surprised to learn that the greater Stockholm area is really a ton of islands an archipelago in fact. One of the highlights is to explore these islands away from the city so a trip on a boat to Vaxholm
Vaxholm could be enjoyed by just about anyone, you can even get there by road and bridge. There are quaint little cafes, a fort but I got off on a hike past these more touristic (less touristic than other islands) spots and found some excellent beaches and areas that seemed so unspoilt and with the smell of pine I had a feeling that I was finally really in the Scandinavia. The hike was perhaps an hour long stopping off at an excellent gallery on the way which was a nice surprise. I found my resting place a beach at the far end of the Island from where we debarked the boat, itself a great ride and kind of tour.
Returning to Stockholm I found the architecture stunning though not always beautiful, there is a gothic-ness that I’m not so into. But it is beautiful none the less. I liked the Archipelago Hostel where I stayed, great location in the old town between the two main Islands you are centrally located, amazingly 6-7 minutes from the Palaces ! Don’t miss the comedic walking tour of the old town enquire around or do a search for galavant productions walking tour Stockholm. There are some fantastic residential areas in Sodermalm and it’s a more local going out area try the metro station medborgarplatsen in Sodermalm the larger island south of the old town island which is called Gamla Stan. The Swedes spend so much time in their homes due to the weather and darkness that they make a real effort that their homes be immaculate and stylish. The upper class areas on the north east shore of sodermalm provide some good views and some beautiful shots of homes. This wasn’t always the rich part of Stockholm as it was once the poor part of town. The northern land mass Kungsholmem is more modern less exciting architecturally but there are very worthwhile spots for sure. Don’t miss the magnificent Vasa Museum. The opera has some interesting mannequins inside in dress for plays that have passed along with its ornate and gold interior it should be considered an attraction in itself ! There was so much that I didn’t see I know but what I did I liked. I didn’t get the weather I had had in Denmark but I was surely amazed.
Stockholm was one of those few towns that I have said I wouldn’t mind living in at least for a while, sure it was summer but for a year it must be a great experience. The bus ride out to Skavsta airport and my Ryan air flight was very well organised and frequent enough that the 80 minutes it takes for the duration not an issue. So find a cheap flight and get out there if you can. Though not immediately cheap you can do things on a budget or just stay a shorter time, I hope you like it as much as me.
