A deep dive into Sweden

When thinking of Sweden, we often think of their classic long, cold and grey winters.  Little is known that Sweden has a more colourful side– beautiful warm summers and a truly vibrant autumn and spring. Best known for being a winter wonderland, it is also the land that truly witnesses all four seasons. Not to forget, the northern lights, the midnight sun, the moose and reindeers. Starting off as a student in Sweden, little did I know that this would be a journey of a lifetime.

Embracing the Outdoors

Swedes have an obsession with fitness, both the young and old. While most people would be tucked under their blankets during the winter. People here are ice-swimming or chasing the Northern Lights during the peak winter months. Despite the pouring rain or the slippery melting snow, there are always people going for a run.  Amidst, sub-zero temperatures, there are children playing soccer and riding their sledge. Seventy year olds ride bicycles on a slope much better than I do and indulge in competitive sports. It was refreshing to see that recreational sports are such a natural part of growing up. This is probably the best way to ward off seasonal depression.

The Land of Sustainability

Their commitment to the environment is simply striking. One of the things I will take back is to sort waste for recycling.  In fact, buses in Stockholm run on biogas from food waste. People prefer to bike not just alone but with children. You will be surprised to see parents biking away with two toddlers in a child carrier attached to the back of the bike. Truly, a sweet combination of both fitness and eco-friendliness.

The art of balance

Sweden embraces a culture of innovation without compromising on work-life balance and well-being, be it in terms of generous paid maternity and paternity leave or health and fitness benefits. In fact, in 1974, Sweden became the first country in the world to introduce a gender-neutral paid parental leave benefit.

Sweden ranks highly as Europe’s most innovative countries and is home to several organisations that shaped our world today. Some of these are household names- Ericsson, Electrolux, Volvo, Spotify etc. Not to forget, unicorn start-ups such as Truecaller or King- the producers of the viral game, Candy Crush to name a few.

A culture with safety at its heart

With the introduction of the three-point safety belt by Volvo in 1959 or the recent launch of the Hövding, an air bag-like helmet for cyclists or never forgetting to use reflectors on their jackets, bags or even purses to be visible to vehicles during the long, dark winter nights, safety is an inherent part of the Swedish culture. Speaking of safety, it is also one of the safest countries in the world for women as well as for the LGBTQ+ community. And, last but not the least, Sweden is one of the most equal societies in the world and lets you truly embrace yourself!