'Cultural
contrast on the Baltic shores'
Sweden is a land of cultural contrast, from the
nomadic Laplanders in the wild Arctic north, to the Danish influence
of the southwest. And while urban Sweden is modern, stylish and
sophisticated, the countryside offers many simpler pleasures for
those in search of peace and tranquility.
The country's scenery has a gentler charm than
that of neighboring Norway’s rugged coast. Much of Sweden
is covered in forest, and there are thousands of lakes, notably
large stretches of water between Gothenburg and
Stockholm, the capital.
Most visitors opt first for the cities and the Baltic islands, the
largest island, Gotland, with its array of ruined medieval churches,
is a particularly popular and a highlight.
Another major attraction is the so called ‘Kingdom of Crystal’,
a forested area between Stockholm and Malmö boasting many fine
glassworks.
The land, as well as its people, has an atmosphere of reserved
calm, and while best known for its automotive and musical
exports, Volvo and Abba are pretty much household names, as well
as a strong historical past. History is most apparent in Stockholm,
where dozens of museums deal with all imaginable aspects of the
past, and medieval and Baroque edifices housing boutiques and cafes
overlook the beautiful harbor. |
