You might have struck it lucky if you are relocating to Sweden. With so many ponds and an unlimited supply of pastries, the Scandinavian nation is known as one of the top places in the globe for living standards.
But there is a lengthy list of information you need to get before you relocate and begin residing there. Gaining knowledge of these topics may make it simpler for you to socialize and fit in right away.
- Swedish people adore coffee.
The Swedes are among those who consume the most coffee. The “fika” custom, in which friends, family, or coworkers gather for coffee or tea with frequently little delectable on the side, promotes coffee consumption in Sweden. The majority of Swedes consider fika as a chance for socialization.
- You’ll see dads pushing cradles
The country is a forerunner in gender equality, and the men there do their share of the work by remaining at home and caring for young kids.
In Sweden, couples can split the 480 days of paternity leave that are allotted to couples.
- The Swedes enjoy being outside.
Perhaps not all of them, but many enjoyable outdoor activities. In Sweden, no matter the weather—rain, snow, or wintry blizzards—there is always at least one game that may be enjoyed outside. Additionally, the administration has made it simple for citizens to enjoy its natural beauty by granting them access privileges.
- Not all medical and schooling are free.
Most of the funding for the Swedish medical sector comes from taxes. Education is also free for local or foreign students, but this is not the case all the time.
In some circumstances, you are required to pay for ordinary doctor’s appointments. The costs that universities charge students range from SEK 80,000 to SEK 295,000 per academic term in certain situations.
- Denim is considered work casual
Sweden’s general way of dressing is basic, carefree, and informal. The same idea has subtly crept into more formal work environments. Your coworker is likely dressed in pants and a long-sleeved shirt except when they are dealing with overseas customers or attending a high-stakes business meeting.
- Days set aside to honor food
Yes, the Swedish people do also observe Christmas, Easter, and Halloween, but they are not as much celebrated as food days. The holidays honoring specific meals are more significant. These include Cinnamon Bun Day, Waffle Day, and Shrove Tuesday. Enjoy said meal to the fullest without feeling guilty.
- July: a sluggish month
The country allows full-time workers to take at least 25 days of compensated vacation time each year, and many do so in July, which is historically the hottest period there. Therefore, services are normally poorer in this period. This is the reason why the month has seen many small enterprises shut down.
- The winters are chilly and dim
It’s no surprise that Sweden experiences chilly, dreary winters due to its physical position. There may be as little as three hours of sunshine each day in some northern regions of the country. So while winters may be difficult, don’t worry, summer will make up for it.
- Better be barefooted
In Sweden, it is common to practice removing shoes before entering residential homes. Some merely attribute it to the notion that Swedes are predisposed to bringing in the mud since they spend so much time outside. Others claim that doing so shows admiration for the house. In either case, you must rethink wearing fully laced footwear when you visit someone.
- Be punctual
It is accepted practice in this area to always respect “time,” whether you are attending a casual Fika or an appointment. With or without you, gatherings will start on schedule. Sweden values timeliness.
