Winter Travel? You must visit the famous ICEHOTEL and take in the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). This hotel is the first and largest hotel entirely built of snow and ice. It is completely constructed from scratch every year and many rooms have unique ice sculptures that are created by artists from around the world. They also have some warm rooms and they have added a permanent cold structure so you can stay in a cold room year round. The best time to catch the lights in Sweden is September to March.

Costs? Staying in Sweden is not for the budget traveler. It can be done but it is really hard to do it well. People are often surprised at the cost of simple things like food, drinks and hotels. Sweden is a socialist country which means that everything is taxed very high. Sweden provides many services to their people like 480 days of parental leave (for both parents), free college educations and very strict labor laws that ensure most people get paid a decent salary. I remember the first time going to the grocery store in Sweden and was shocked at the cost of the food! It was probably almost double what I would have paid at home.

Safe? In general, it is very safe to travel to Sweden and most people are eager to speak English.

Food? There is a lot of pride in Swedish cuisine and it is often simple but tasty and healthy. A common practice is "fika" which is a coffee break often taken 1 or 2 times a day with sweets and of course, coffee. One thing to note is that Swedes like their coffee very strong!

Tipping? If you are going out to eat, there is no need to tip but if you do feel the need, a tip of 10% is more than enough. I have found that the service level is not what I am accustomed to here in the States unless you are in a heavily touristy area so just beware.

Drinking? Swedes like to drink and beer is a popular beverage choice. If you order a "light" beer, it refers to the low alcohol content rather than the color or amount of calories. Although, I suppose a low alcohol content equals less calories. They are also VERY strict about drinking and driving so if you are going to partake in even a low alcoholic beverage, make sure you have a designated driver, take a taxi or walk. I have known Swedes who won't drink the next day if they have been partaking in alcohol the previous day!

Timing? Swedes are very punctual and are rarely early or late to anything.

Sustainability? You have probably heard of Greta Thunberg right? She is one of the leading activists on the environment and really she is a result of what most Swedes care about. Sweden prides itself on sustainability and being eco-friendly.

Gender Equality? With 83.8 out of 100 points, Sweden ranks 1st in the EU on the Gender Equality Index. Sweden is actually one of the most gender equal countries in the world so chivalry seems to be an outdated custom for them. Some people might find the people cold and unfriendly but really it is just a different way of life!

Shoes? If you are invited into someone's home, please remove your shoes upon entering. This really appeals to my Japanese side!

Arctic Plunge? Take a dip in the Scandinavian waters! Whether it's in the middle of summer or the depths of winter after coming out of a sauna, give it a try! It's very refreshing, and it's definitely a story to tell back home. I mean, who can say they took a splash in Arctic waters? (Make sure there's a Sauna nearby, so you can warm up quickly!)

Nature Lover? Sweden is a great place for an active traveler and even those who just like some soft adventure activities. It is a beautiful country with so many lakes, forests and awesome archipelagos. It is not a hugely populated country so it is easy to find space to explore nature and solitude. Also, Sweden allows everyone to have access to walk, cycle, ride, ski and camp on any land (with some exceptions) and they call it the Freedom to Roam. No matter what season you visit, there is bountiful nature to explore.