The Kingdom of Sweden is a highly advanced post-industrial country located on the Scandinavian Peninsula of Northern Europe. Sweden has a population of just over nine million, slightly larger than New York city, with most residents living in the southern cities.
Sweden experiences extreme cold in the winter, particularly in Arctic regions, and gentle heat in the summer with temperatures hitting highs of around 30°C (86°F) in the south. Travelling can be difficult because of the bitter cold and long hours of winter darkness. Winter driving conditions can become hazardous due to snow and ice, and drivers are legally obligated to winterize their vehicles with snow tires between 1 December and 31 March.
Although one of the big upsides of the freezing weather is the myriad of opportunities to get involved in winter sports, and it’s estimated that about half the population is active in some sort of sport. Summertime gives residents and visitors the chance to make the most of the wonderful beaches Sweden has to offer. Other outdoor activities include excursions, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming in the thousands of different lakes.
In the evening, Sweden offers a unique fine arts scene, which includes various operas, theatres, ballets, and symphonies. Live performances and concerts can be found any where from a local park to a jazz club or bar. Sweden’s bustling nightlife is world-renowned, especially in the capital city of Stockholm.
