My husband and I had the most romantic, exciting and unforgettable getaway in Gothenburg, Sweden last weekend! 🇸🇪 Not only was it one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, but it was also the farthest we’ve ever traveled together, which made the trip feel even more special. There was something so charming and different about Sweden the gorgeous scenery, rich history, beautiful people, delicious food and little cultural traditions that made me fall in love with the experience. I already know this is one of those trips we’ll be talking about for years to come!
So, naturally, I had to come home with a few fun facts! Here are five things I learned while exploring this amazing country plus one very important honorable mention!
1. Swedes REALLY know how to use their utensils!Â
Okay, this one caught me completely off guard! Swedes traditionally eat using both a knife and fork at the same time, and apparently, it’s considered the proper way to enjoy your meal. I thought it was so funny at first, but our Swedish friend Elvira explained that this tradition goes back decades. Meanwhile, us Americans? We just pick up whichever utensil feels right and keep it moving! We’re over here making our own rules!
2. Â Everyone is gorgeous and TALL!
Listen… I was not prepared! Everywhere I turned, I felt like I was surrounded by Swedish models. Tall, beautiful people everywhere from the little ones to the grown-ups! I definitely felt like the shortest person in the room half the time. And my adorable goddaughter Olivia? Please! That little cutie could absolutely book a Baby Gap campaign!
3. Sweden is seriously high-tech!
I was fascinated by how much technology is incorporated into everyday life. We went into a grocery store where you can scan your own items and its makes check out so much easier and you simply walk out when you’re finished. How cool is that?! I kept thinking, Would this work back home? Then we went shopping at Zara, where you place your items into a special scanning box and like magic it recognizes everything, you pay with your phone and you’re done! Shopping made fabulously easy.
4. The history is absolutely everywhere!
Gothenburg has such a beautiful connection to its past. We walked along cobblestone streets and roads with centuries of history, and it was surreal to think about how many generations had walked those same paths before us. There are so many historic places, charming streets and beautiful sights to explore that you really feel like you’re walking through a storybook.
5. Fresh fruit straight from the tree!Â
This was one of my favorite surprises! Sweden still has fruit trees that feel incredibly rare to see in many places here in the States. Our friends Elvira and husband Dan grow plums right in their front yard, while her neighbors have apple trees. I absolutely loved being able to walk outside, pick fresh fruit right from the tree, wash it and eat it! There was something so simple and beautiful about it. Farm-to-table? More like tree-to-table!
And my honorable mention… FIKA!
Oh, I cannot leave out Fika! This might be one of my favorite Swedish traditions. Fika is essentially taking a mindful little pause in your day to enjoy coffee or tea, usually with a pastry or something sweet. But it feels like so much more than simply grabbing a cup of coffee it’s about slowing down, connecting with people and enjoying the moment.
And honestly, I think we could all use a little more Fika in our lives!
Sweden, you definitely left a little piece of your magic with me. From the cobblestone streets and beautiful scenery to the technology, traditions, fresh fruit and unforgettable memories made with my husband, this was truly an adventure I’ll treasure forever. Until next time, Sweden… tack så mycket for the memories!
Some images by Elvira Strale
