Once a race of feared warriors and intrepid seafarers, even after the Viking legacy the Swedes became a major world power in the era that followed the Renaissance, conquering almost half the Holy Roman Empire during the seventeenth century. Today it remains a deceptively large and powerful country, but the cultured neutrality and chic sophistication is a far cry from ancient Viking barbarism.
The capital, Stockholm, draped over fourteen islands surrounded by shimmering blue Baltic seas, is a triumph of architecture and design. While the old town is a complicated maze of medieval passages, the modern city is a mirage of saffron and terracotta that makes it one of the most consistently beautiful major cities in the world.
Yet the real value of this vast country is out in the expansive wilderness; the icy mountains of Lapland or the pocked, glacier-carved Bohuslän Coast. Closer to civilisation, try a culinary tour of the west coast, for understated yet attractive seaside villages and divine seafood dishes. Or spend a night in the Ice Hotel at Jukkasjärvi, carved anew each year, for a truly breathtaking and original experience.
The economy is export-orientated, based on Sweden’s extensive natural and mineral wealth. Hydro-power, telecommunications and auto manufacture are also important sectors. The country is highly liberalised – the World Economic Forum rates it as the fourth most competitive in the world – and business is conducted efficiently and with minimal fuss. There are a great many opportunities for the creative entrepreneur.
Getting there
There are several international airports; the largest are at Stockholm and Göteborg. Frequent ferry connections exist throughout Scandinavia. Bus and train journeys are possible to most European countries but distances are large.
Getting around
Public transport is heavily subsidised and well organised. The Tågplus system makes single tickets valid on buses and trains. Domestic flights are a good alternative, but book well in advance to avoid astronomical fares.
Local information
Language: Swedish
Time: UTC+1
Climate: Cold continental. War summers, cold winters, moderate rainfall throughout the year. Temperature: Max 22°C (July), Min -7°C (January). Rainfall: Max 70mm (August), Min 25mm (March)
Currency: Swedish krona (SEK)
Business etiquette: Business suits are the norm. Greet with a firm handshake and eye contact. Business people are reserved and dealings are formal at first. Long-standing relationships are not required. Avoid shows of emotion when negotiating. Decisions tend to be made across teams and not by an individual.
Tipping: Tip only where you have genuinely enjoyed the food and service; about 10 percent.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 1l spirits over 22 percent or 2l fortified or sparkling wine, 2l wine and 32l beer; A reasonable quantity of perfume; Gifts up to a value of Kr.1700
Safety: Crime rates are low.
Laws: Heavy penalties for drink driving and a low blood alcohol limit (0.02).
Healthcare: Vaccination for tetanus required. Excellent medical facilities available, European citizens get free healthcare with an EHIC card. Non-EU may be charged and should have health insurance.
Socket type: Type C
