Summer In Sweden- Bright, Warm and Festive

If you think Sweden is all about ABBA (Swedish pop music group), Volvo (does it need any introduction?) and snow, its time to think again. No argument on that, these are the most commonly associated names and images that occupies the mind when we think of this beautiful Scandinavian nation. But it is not all that Sweden stores in her kitty.

A land of intriguing and interesting cultural paradox, Sweden presents a stark contrast in the ways of life between the urban and rural folks as the former is modern and sophisticated and the latter calmer and is the epitome of simplicity and serenity.

Geographically situated in the vicinity of Finland and Norway, Sweden naturally comes across as a amazingly enchanting country with sights to take your breath away. Fifth largest country in Europe in terms of land mass with a low population density makes it a comfortable vacation option for the travellers.

Even though the colder side of the weather earns Sweden its reputation as a snow covered country, the summer is no less mesmerizing with warm sun light in the backdrop of a cleat blue sky and colourful landscapes decorated with flowers and green trees.

Enjoy a crazy outing under the midnight Sun: A natural but very unique phenomena that takes place in countries like Sweden, Norway and Finland, the midnight sun has fascinated the human race for centuries. The event becomes more enjoyable during the summers when the light of the midnight sun blesses the landscape with a mystic aura. It is a time when the day time lasts long and the night comes with a dimmer version of the normal daylight. Just imagine going for a hiking trip on the Lapland mountains or enjoying a pensive horse ride near the lakes and you check our watch to see it is 2 in the midnight! Mad and memorable, to be precise!

Be a part of the Spring Festival (Valborg): Move down to Uppsala, the fourth-largest city in the country and one of the oldest ones to be witness of the celebrations during the Valborg festival. The placid waterways, the calmly busy bicycle lanes and most of all, a young student population sets up the perfect stage for the jubilations. A very unique and defining feature of Valborg is the custom known as Champagnegalopp when thousands of youth gather around the Carolina Rediviva, the old university library and eagerly wait for a signal from the balcony. As soon as the signal comes, they charge towards the nearby clubs to get plunged in the sea of champagne.

Cycling across Gotland: Like many other European destinations, Sweden also boasts of its cycle trips. And very few can come closer to the largest island of Sweden- Gotland when it comes to a soothing cycling experience. You can easily hire bikes and camping equipments and set out for a educating trip on the cycles to roam around in this island with over 100 medieval churches, numerous prehistoric sites and awe inspiring ruins of old forts. Owing to the tourist friendly laws of the land, camping anywhere comes with less hassles. Sounds fun and adventurous, isn't it?

Strolling down the Gamla Stan: Better known as the Old Town in the Swedish capital of Stockholm, Gamla Stan is a compressed maze of cobbled streets with souvenir shops and ice cream parlours. The best way to feel the vibe of this place is to take a stroll across the narrow lanes of this queer locality to explore the past of the beautiful and artistic city that Stockholm is today.

Try your hands at Kubb: This game is basically a lawn game where the objective is to knock over wooden blocks by throwing wooden sticks at them. Summer comes with abundance of Kubb games played all over Sweden and as a tourist it is the best time to get immersed in the local colours by playing a traditional game. If you are good at Skittles, it might be a help for you as both the game are close to each other in terms of execution.

Cottage pleasure: During summers, the ice melts in the lakes and they become radiant with sparkling water that reflects the bright sun light. Check in a urban cottage near any lake to spend some relaxed and cozy moments while enjoying the splashing of the waters in the shore.

Take out time off the daily routine to treat yourself with the fun vacation in Sweden during the summer