First Impressions -- Sweden

So when we landed, we were assaulted with new sounds, sights and smells.  We didn't have many preconceived notions about Stockholm, Swedes, or anything for that matter, so we were surprised by some things and unfazed by others.  Clearly these impressions are through our eyes and I'm sure that other people might find other things surprising.  I have no idea if these hold up in other parts of Sweden, but it seems to be what we have seen in Stockholm thus far.

Here is a quick list of some of the cultural differences that we noticed upon landing:

• Both men and women (especially in the 20-35 age group) tend to be model-esque, tall, thin, well dressed and made up
• People dress fashionably -- I saw a woman walking her baby stroller/pram in a taupe cape with a fur lined collar and a poodle who could easily prance as a show dog
• There is a noticeable lack of large businesses -- such as Home Depot, Target, WalMart.  For example, we saw 4 corner shops that specialized in keys only.
• Lots of Italian and Asian restaurants
• People walk the streets quickly -- understandably as it's cold.  You need to get where you are going.
• People walk everywhere -- we have averaged walking about 6 hours a day thus far.  If you need to get across the city, you walk.
• Everyone is pushing a pram/baby stroller.  Everyone.  Men by themselves. Women in groups.
• Salmon is cheaper than chicken.
• I've seen 2 cars with the baby's car seat in the front passenger seat...
• Stockholm is fairly condensed -- we've walked 1/4 of it in 2 hours or so
• The city is extraordinarily clean -- even the metro station, the Tunnelbana, is devoid of trash and graffiti
• There is lots of green space -- almost every neighborhood has multiple parks and there is generally an off-leash dog park in the larger parks.
• The city water (from the tap) is delicious and clean
• The architecture and geography is absolutely beautiful.  Gamla Stan (Old Town) was built in the 12th century and is picturesque.  I don't think it photographs nearly as beautiful as it actually is.
• Kids are outside all day -- sledding and playing outside or riding in prams on errands

Here are few pictures to show some of the beauty -- even in winter ;-)

Ready to go for a stroll

Bundled up!

Rosy cheeks from the cold

On the water

In Gamla Stan (Old Town)

Semla and coffee.  Money CAN buy happiness!

Jon strolling in Gamla Stan

Impressive statue in Gamla Stan

Store window

Street scape, Gamla Stan

Royal Coin Library

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In front of the palace

Palace (see the guard in the back?)

we just thought this was funny