Fourteen thousand years ago the whole of the present country of Sweden was covered by thick ice. As the ice slowly retreated, Sweden turned into one of the most amazing countries in the world. Considering the fact that Sweden is located on the same latitude as Alaska and Siberia, with its northern parts above the artic circle, it is quite remarkable that this area has one of Europe’s most fascinating scenery. As a matter of fact, few nations in Europe offer such an exceptionally diverse landscape, rich in both flora and fauna, as Sweden. And no, there are no polar bears walking the streets.”

Sweden is the third largest country in Western Europe with a size nearly the same as France and Spain. But with only nine million inhabitants, Swedes have plenty of space. Sweden is long and narrow and has therefore a great coastline. The smooth, rocky outline with its small, idyllic fishing villages are characteristic for the west coast, whereas the eastern archipelago is dominated by flat and green islands. Due to the northern location, the sun hardly sets in summertime in Sweden. You can spend the evenings watching the sun set late at night knowing that it will rise again a couple of hours later.

Volvo, Ericsson, the Nobel prize, Carl von Linné, Ingmar Bergman, ABBA, Greta Garbo, Björn Borg and Pippi Longstocking. You have probably heard of them before; the industries, musicians, scientists and culture celebrities that originate from Sweden. Few are aware of the fact that this little country, with less than half as many inhabitants as New York city, actually is the mother country of these world famous people and inventions. First time visitors to Sweden are often amazed of how many ingenious machines, gadgets, trademarks and celebrities that actually origin from Sweden.

Swedes take it for granted; the fresh air and clean water, the unique Swedish Right of Public Access and the classic welfare state that, for instance, gives everyone free medical care and the opportunity to free university studies. The country has all the advantages associated with modern society, but few of its common problems. Sweden remained one of the few neutral countries during the Second World War and has not been to war since 1814. It is a country where both its inhabitants and people travelling here can feel at ease, comfortable and safe. Traditions and family life have a huge impact on the Swedish way of life, in a way that visitors often find exotic and attractive. However, Swedes are unusually reluctant to show the magnificence of their own culture openly, and they often show an apparent lack of national pride. Do not be fooled by the moderate Swedes! Join a trip with Sweden Experience where you will meet both Sweden and the Swedes, and decide for yourself.