Travel to Sweden (Europe)

Stockholm is one of the most progressive cities in the world, and nowhere is this reflected more than in its social policy. Citizens are provided with housing, health care, and educational opportunities, all of which makes for happy, productive people. While taxes may be high, the money they generate is used to create a high quality of life, which makes Stockholm extremely appealing to the many hopeful immigrants that flock there each year. You don't need to move all the way to Sweden to make the most of what Stockholm has to offer; a simple trip will also allow you to experience this utterly unique metropolis.

The weather in Stockholm definitely reflects the seasons, from snowy winters to balmy summers. Spring brings the heaviest flow of tourists to the city, so you might want to wait until summer or fall to visit. Summer, naturally, brings the warmest weather of the year, with temperatures starting at 68 degrees. Fall is considerably cooler, when temperatures range from 41 to 64 degrees. Both of these seasons also include the benefits of fewer people and lower lodging prices, two definite musts for the smart and thrifty traveler.

European travel can be pricey, but in a city known for its fantastic design sense, you don't need to spend a lot of money to stay somewhere stylish. Travel + Leisure Magazine sites Hotel Rival (Mariatorget 3, S-118 91 Stockholm) as one of Stockholm's best hotels. This boutique hotel-owned by former ABBA member Benny Andersson-features 99 beautifully decorated rooms (which start at less than $200 a night for a double), each with 32" plasma screen TVs, CD/DVD players, and wireless internet access. Other amenities include a bar, bistro, caf, and a bakery known for serving up the best bread in the city.

There is much to see and do in Stockholm, including over 100 museums and a wide array of dining and shopping options. One convenient way to experience many of these entertaining possibilities is by purchasing a Stockholm Card online ahead of time. A one-day pass costs about $38 (a two-day pass runs around $59, a three-day pass, $75), and with it you gain admission to 75 of the city's top tourist attractions and unlimited access to its excellent public transportation system, as well as special deals from local shops and restaurants. You can arrange to have your pass mailed to you, or you may pick them up at the Stockholm Tourist Centre (located at Sverigehuset, Hamngatan 27).

Stockholm's many museums target different audiences. There are some specifically geared toward children (such as the International Child Art Museum, located at Vrby All 14 , 143 03 Vrby), while others cater to niche interests, like maritime navigation (such as the Vasa Museum, Galrvarvsvgen 14, 102 52 Stockholm). Keep in mind that museums worldwide are closed on Mondays for maintenance, so make sure to schedule the start date of your Stockholm Card for another day. 

Each museum includes a permanent collection, as well as special visiting exhibits. There are also many dining choices for tourists, featuring cuisine from all corners of the globe, including Asia, the Middle East, and the rest of Europe. Shopping options are no less diverse, and visitors are sure to find that Swedish design extends to far more than just home dcor (a la IKEA). Make sure to check out Gamla Stan-an older region of Stockholm-for all your handmade gift needs.

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Helsingborg is another major tourist destination in Sweden. It is the place to go if you are looking forward to a full immersion in cultural delights, bask in the beauty of stunning gardens and survey several centuries-old buildings.

There is no better place to start your Helsingborg tour than from its namesake castle. From the site of the Helsingborg Castle, follow the archway steps that will lead you to the city center. Do be mindful of your surroundings and make necessary stops along the way to fully enjoy the spectacular view of the harbor it affords. As you find yourself in the center of the city, at the main square of Stortoget, you will find the medieval keep of Karnan. The tower is the only structure left of the 14th century castle that once stood here. You can climb up the tower to catch sight of the city's panorama with the sparkling harbor at the background.

From Karnan, you can pass by Fredriksdal's Open Air Museum. It was once a proud 18th century mansion that was transformed into a beautiful museum. Aside from the rare species of plants in its impressive botanical gardens, it also houses farm animals, old houses and a printing museum in the area. It is a great place for the entire family to visit. You will not only enjoy the wonderful gardens and interesting exhibits, you will also learn a lot during your visit. You may also want to cross the short distance from Fredriksdal to Tropikariet. It is a small zoo where you can interact with some exotic animals sans the cages.

For another interesting museum experience, check out Dunkers Kulturhus or the Dunker's Culture House. The museum's exhibits and art galleries are not the only reason for making a stopover. It also hosts various concerts that you might find worth watching. However, if you are looking for a livelier concert scene, you can check out Tivoli where exciting local and foreign bands usually give the audience a great time.

If you are interested in old churches, you can visit the 14th century church of Sankta Maria Kyrka, which served as a haven for plenty of herring fishermen back in the Middle Ages. There is also Raus Kyrka which dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest churches in the country.

Of course, you can't miss the crowning glory of all Helsingborg attractions. It is the 19th century Sofiero Castle. Its oceanfront location adds to its charm and romance. However, it is the castle's rhododendrons which make the area the most visited and easily the most favorite of visiting tourists. Timing is key if you want to fully appreciate the stunning beauty of these lovely blooms. Visit during early summer and you will see for yourself why the blooming plantation of rhododendron is a spectacle worth observing. You can also visit the modern art gallery while you are in the area. 

To cap your Helsingborg exploration, how about a tura experience? It simply means dinner on the ferries and is considered a unique Helsingborg experience. An advance booking is recommended to ensure that you have a place reserved for your romantic dinner getaway.