| What is special or unique about your city? |
| Stockholm’s archipelago of 30,000 islands is bordered by Lake Mälaren in the West and the Baltic Sea in the east. It is the hub of the Baltic region allowing convenient access to the Nordic capitals and the Baltic countries. Stockholm is popularly known as ‘Beauty on Water’. For the past 30 years, Stockholm has pursued a determined policy of environmental consideration and adaptation. For that reason, the city today offers unparalleled opportunities to swim and fish in downtown waters. Waste sorting by source is well established and inner-city pollution levels have decreased substantially. The City of Stockholm has a particular responsibility in promoting culture and sports. Besides an extensive network of public libraries, the City manages and operates cultural centres, museums and galleries. It also operates hundreds of in- and outdoor sportsgrounds and playing fields. In addition to the many musems, theatres and exhibition halls throughout Stockholm, the City offers residents and visitors these permanent cultural venues. Stockholmers are actively involved in sports. The city’s many parks and proximity to forests, provide ample opportunities for outdoor exercise. Running and cycling are year-around activities while the Stockholm winter provides a chance to go skating and skiing. There are plenty of skating rinks free of charge in downtown Stockholm as well as naturally frozen lakes outside the city centre. |
| |
| What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city? |
| Stockholm is a vibrant place. There are adventures to be had at every corner – on the streets, on the stages, at the museums and in the parks. Experience the beauty of Stockholm from the water or the many faces of the city ashore. Stockholmers are known for their friendliness to tourists, and their skills in English. It is a big city, but has a small town personality. Places of interest and attractions are within short walking distance. The country has some of the most beautiful nature, and is especially beautiful in summer. Winters are often long and cold. |
| |
| Are these impressions likely to change? |
| Impressions are likely to change once you become adapted to the environment, and be familiar with the language and culture. |
| |
| What is the local language? |
| The local language is Swedish. However, English is commonly spoken as well. A large share of the Swedish population also speak some German, French and/or Spanish. |
| |
| How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language? |
| For as long as you would like, since many people here are able to communicate in English. It is always an advantage to know some phrases or words. |
| |
| What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city? |
| The people are generally polite, and punctuality is an important factor to remember where appointments are concerned -- be it social or business. Displaying emotions especially in a noisy manner implies a very low status among Swedes. |
| |
| How might the local weather affect my daily life? |
| Sweden has long winters and short summers. Therefore, it is important that the correct attire be selected to keep oneself warm during the winters, especially for those coming from warmer regions. A factor be be aware of is also the lack of light during the winter and the opposite, the short nights during the summer. |
| |
| Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people? |
| They are generally low anxiety people who do not reveal their emotions as often and overtly as people from other cultures. Discussions should be kept in an atmosphere of harmony and accord. However, Stockholm is a very international city with inhabitants and visitors from many cultures. Therefore, the population is used to different views, ways of thinking and behaving. |
| |
| Useful Links |
| www.stockholm.se, www.stockholmtown.com, www.sweden.gov.se |