Travel guide Sweden

The famous vodka brand is made in Sweden. Its global marketing success has put this brand, originally from Skåne, in the top 30 best-selling spirits in the world. Nevertheless, Absolut vodka cultivates the paradox of being a product that is more expensive in its country of origin than in most countries where it is exported!

In Sweden, there are no private beaches and swimming is completely free. You have a wide choice of sandy or rocky beaches all along the Swedish coast. In the east, on the Baltic, the water is colder and less salty than on the west coast. In Stockholm, you can even enjoy a swim on one of the islands in the city centre.

The Swede's nature is calm and somewhat aloof, hence his often discreet body expression, which may seem surprisingly sober during his first visit to Sweden. The natural calmness of the Swedes has its advantage on the roads where such civic-mindedness could disturb French motorists on vacation!

Citizens of Europe, you should know that the Swedish model of gender equality is leading the way. In fact, half of Sweden's ministers are women and the country is known for its initiatives in this area. In addition, from the earliest age, children are treated as unique and equal individuals and not according to their gender; equality!

In Sweden, they reinvent the colours of nature for all kinds of furniture. So, it's wool and raw wood with modern materials, soft colours on warm colours, old and new, a mix that only the Scandinavians seem to master to perfection, for the happiness of their cosy homes.

This word is generally translated by "coffee", but its meaning includes the drink itself, the coffee break, the four hours... In short, the fika is a privileged moment, caffeinated, and more if affinities: cakes, cookies, pies or sandwiches! In the cities, there are cafés everywhere, the temples of this sacred time.

The traditional kanelbullar is a must of Swedish pastry, whose baking will perfume your homes with the scent of the Orient. This small rolled bun is a symbol, light, buttery and soft, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar pearls. There is also a version with cardamom, just as delicious and refined.

In Swedish cities, most people use public transport because of the many connections, the punctuality of the vehicles and, above all, because it is environmentally friendly It seems strange to them to take the car for a short trip in the city: because it is polluting but also because parking is expensive.

Ombudsmen are responsible for representing individual citizens in their conflictual relations with public institutions. They also monitor judges, civil servants and the military. They also denounce any abuse of power. More than 3,000 complaints are sent to them each year.

Skål is a word you should know, it is the Swedish equivalent of "Cheers". Before practicing it, it would be wise to practice in front of a mirror! At the table, look at a person of your choice, raise your glass and say the word loudly before toasting, even with strangers! A good opportunity to make new friends.

This spice is widespread in Sweden, as it is very popular, especially when it comes to traditional pastries. At Christmas time, for example, Lussekatter, the "S" shaped St. Lucia buns, whose dough is mixed with orange powder, are devoured by the locals. Another favorite spice of the country is cardamom.

It is true that they are not very talkative, these Swedes, and that they are often introverted and prefer to solve problems with calm and equanimity, or even simply with silence. But as it is, they can sometimes be overly enthusiastic. Toss them a topic that interests them and you will be rewarded.