“Falun” in Love with Sweden
The first time Kyra Fox traveled to Sweden was in 1983 when she was 19-years-old.
“My grandfather was an immigrant from Sweden,” said Fox, Director of Corporate Travel at Avondale Travel. “I went to visit family and friends.”
Fox immediately “falun” love with the country and its people. She has since been back seven times.
As our resident Sweden expert, Kyra recommends people visiting the country to travel to its capital, Stockholm.
Downtown Stockholm
“Stockholm is built on a series of islands connected to bridges,” said Fox. “Each one has a different vibe.”
On the island of Djurgården rests Skansen, Sweden’s first open-air museum and zoo. Visitors can travel back in time to see how Sweden used to be. With Swedish traditions, craftsmanship, and wildlife flourishing on the island, the past meets the present. Kyra especially enjoys traversing the multiple parks.
“They are great for walking around and getting out to nature,” said Fox.
Stockholm Museum of Modern Art
Along with island hopping, Stockholm itself is full of museums for history buffs to explore. The Vasa Museum is one of Scandinavia’s most visited museums and offers guests views of the preserved warship Vasa. A fully preserved 17th-century warship, the Vasa sank in the harbor of Stockholm in 1628 on its maiden voyage. After 333 years underwater, the intact ship was raised from the depths. The Vasa Museum was built around the ship after it was salvaged and restored on dry land.
The famous Poseidon statue in Gothenburg
The famous canals of Gothenburg
Kyra also loves traveling along the west coast to the city of Gothenburg. Home to Liseberg, the largest amusement park in Scandinavia, the city is full of canals, parks, and restaurants.
“The city is cutting edge and modern, with great restaurants. Spending a night on the coast, walking along the harbor, is nothing short of amazing,” said Fox.
West Coast of Gothenburg in the Archipelago Islands
Gothenburg is also the perfect place to explore the Swedish archipelago. With easy access to the ferry, visitors can go by boat and explore the vast islands, each with its own personality.
“You have to visit an island for a day,” encourages Fox. “There’s such a beautiful, laid-back atmosphere.”
The seafood of of Sweden… Shrimp!
For first-time visitors, Kyra says they must try eating at an authentic Smorgasbord restaurant. Not only is it a deep dive into Swedish cuisine and culture, but it’s also a great way to truly experience the country’s rich heritage.
Ice Bar in Stockholm
While most people visit Sweden in the summertime, Fox says that the land is beautiful any time of the year. Each season has its own festivities, so whether they’re celebrating the Midsommar Festival or setting up Christmas markets, visitors are guaranteed a treat!
“My life changed when I first visited Sweden,” said Kyra. “I’m so happy that I can help my Avondale Travel clients experience this majestic country.”
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