Here we are in Stockholm in superb weather. Rain is forecast in a couple of days but that prospect was not a worry today. It got to 23C - get your shirts off folks! I think this is the warmest day we have had in Europe in our 5 weeks here.
We flew SAS from CPH to ARN. It was quite a pleasant short flight although the boarding process was chaotic. I had not experienced group boarding through electronic gates before. Group A was called (having no *A status we were group G!). Of course, inevitably every man and his dog headed for the electronic gate. The 75% who were Group B and beyond were rejected and it was chaotic as those entitled could not get to the gate through the jumble of bags and people. I reckon it took twice as long to board as other priority systems.
Anyway, we got to Stockholm only a little late and took the ARN Express for the 20 minute trip to the city. The train is somewhat dated now but still works well. The taxi fare to the Hilton Slussen from Central Station came as a shock (see above) but we got here in good time and in good condition. Today was spent wandering though
Gamla Stan and
Sodemalm, behind the hotel, at
Austman's suggestion. Both were impressive. Soldermalm appears to be a very livable and diverse neighbourhood on the edge of the CBD.
Tonight we have been to an excellent restaurant called
Tradition on Gamla Stan - a modern take on traditional Swedish cuisine. The meatballs were to die for!
The colours of Stockholm remind me of Australia. This pic is taken from the Hilton Slussen lounge.
The same pic taken 5 hours later at sunset. I think the change in the light is amazing.
We found this on the room guide. It is good to know that there are still pedants in the world!
Royal guard at the Palace.
In Sodermalm.