 Stockholm OverviewThe Swedish capital, Stockholm, is not only Scandinavia's
largest city but also its most enchanting, with its centuries-old
alleyways and squares being spread across an archipelago of 14
islands. Locals are extremely proud of the fact that here one can
go ocean-fishing in the heart of the city. This historic metropolis with a small town heart also boasts a
multitude of museums, restaurants, parks, fun fairs, a never-ending
nightlife (licensing hours extend until 5am) and a rich cultural
tradition. It all adds up to 'never a dull moment', particularly in
the summer when the sun virtually never sets because of its
position in the far northern latitudes. Most tourists are initially drawn to the quaint Gamla Stan (old
town), a warren of narrow cobbled-stone streets overshadowed by
historic houses, radiating out from the sumptuous Royal Castle
where Swedish monarchs have resided since the 13th century. Despite
the medieval heritage, Stockholm is no staid, old-fashioned
enclave. Citizens have developed a reputation for being trendy,
daring and innovative, especially in the global realms of IT and
fashion, often setting the pace in the design and technology
fields. Stockholmers are also immensely concerned with the environment,
and the city-scape is made up of one-third water, one-third green
space, one-third buildings and the cleanest air of any city in the
world. Take a deep breath, pack a picnic, hop aboard a ferry, and
make for one of the parks where you will undoubtedly be treated to
a free concert; or head for the legendary shopping districts of
Biblioteksgatan (exclusive European boutiques), Odengatan (antique
treasures), and others. There is culture to be soaked up too, with
more than 150 museums to visit, art festivals galore, architecture
to be admired (including the beautiful City Hall where the Nobel
Prize banquet takes place), and a world-renowned opera or jazz
concert to attend. It may be old, but Stockholm is a destination for the young and
energetic, as yet not over-run with tourists like many other
European capitals. |
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