Escape to a Swedish summer , May 2016.

Ok. I’ll admit it. I absolutely fell in love with Stockholm and similar to many love stories for the ages, it hit me when I least expected. Stockholm and the surrounding areas are undeniably beautiful, well at least in Summer when there seems to be at least 20 hours of daylight. Unfortunately, the wonderful weather only really lasts for 3 months of the year after which it is plunged back into darkness and face numbing temperatures.

Exploring Stockholm is like a picturesque storybook unfolding in front of you. The area is made of islands and more islands that you can either visit by ferry or walk to via bridges. I spent most of my time walking around Djurgarden lying on the grass and eating cinnamon buns and Sodermalm where you can find glorious views of old town and the city and an interesting mix of modern characters and old world charm. 

I spent 4 weeks here and it was hard to leave. I wish I had more time and money to explore the rest of Sweden but I might save that for another trip. Or perhaps, when I eventually move there.

Shout out to my ‘brother’ and spirit animal Gustav for letting me take over his life, home and family while I was there.

Top 5 takeaways:

1. The tap water is delicious, I couldn’t get enough of it and unfortunately paid the price by needing to take toilet breaks every 20 minutes. Bring a water bottle because taps are a plentiful, especially in food courts, to fill up around the city.

2. Stay away from Urban Deli and Fabrique. I learnt my lesson the hard way by blowing half of my savings in the first week. Everything is delicious and your hips, specifically your wallet will definitely pay the price but it is totally worth it. There is an awesome rooftop bar in the same building as Urban Deli in the city on Sveavägen so get up there.

3. It’s not a budget friendly city. Whatever you think you might spend, double it and then some. Groceries are also expensive (even at the asian groceries) so plan wisely.

4. Travel by ferry as often as you can. Public transport is easy to navigate and reliable. If you get lost, just ask a Swede, everyone speaks english and is super friendly once you get them talking.