Stockholm, Sweden (March 27 - 31 1999)
"Beauty on Water" is how Stockholm markets itself to tourists. From our first glimpses of the city from the steps of City Hall, our group could see
why. Though temperatures averaged in the upper 40s during our trip, Stockholm's appeal was obvious. Straddling a series of thawing waterways, the city comprises a peninsula and numerous islands.
The best known of these islands is Gamla Stan -- Stockholm's old town. Its
narrow brick streets proved to be a shopper's delight, with crystal shops
the obvious highlight. Gamla Stan is also home to the Royal Palace and the
Storkyrkan cathedral. The Swedish parliament is just steps away on another
island. Stockholm is a wanderer's city. Leisurely strolls will take you to
City Hall, where the annual Nobel Prize banquet is held, and to Stockholm's
many parks, statues and museums. The Vasa Museum is a must-see. It houses
a full-size warship that sank 20 minutes into its maiden voyage in 1628.
Stockholm is best visited in summer, when tour boats can take you through
the city's winding waterways and out to the Archipelago. In July,
temperatures average 70 degrees and it stays light almost around the clock.
When you go, make sure you buy a "Stockholm Card". Our 3-day tourist passes
cost US$60 and gave us free admission to almost every museum, unlimited
public transportation, and assorted discounts and benefits.
