Sweden is a very common destination to travel to nowadays due to their extensive history, famous music stars and love of sports. But, what are the most important aspects you need to be aware of before visiting? Here are four of the more unusual things that have been revealed about Swedes.
Small Talk
Swedes don’t like to be bothered while they are commuting or at any stage, to be frank. This means that small talk is off the table, so don’t expect to have a chat with a local while you’re waiting for your bus or train.
Even when they finish work and head to the local bars for after work drinks, it’s very rare that any Swede would head out by themselves, as they know that they will be sitting there by themselves with nobody to talk to.
Should you be sitting alone on the bus, you can always play blackjack online as most of the busses around the city have free wifi available. Online gambling is hugely popular in Sweden and you will join the millions of players that play while on commutes around the city.
Try not to make eye contact either because Swedes often think that this is rude and will believe that there is something wrong with you.
As much as they don’t like small talk, they do love meeting new people in their country who aren’t Swedish, as they are obsessed with accents. This is especially the case with Swedes who have a good level of English and want to show it off.
Tap Water
Tap water is delicious in Stockholm and is drinkable, while also being much better quality than most bottled water you can buy from stores. Swedes take an enormous amount of pride in how good their tap water is- something that I can appreciate.
That would be your one step stop to get into Swede’s good books within minutes of meeting you, compliment the quality of their tap water and they will love you.
Tipping
The tipping culture isn’t as prominent in Sweden as it is within the UK and USA, so you can have a great meal and avoid paying the extra 10% on tipping the waiters.
Mainly this is down to the excellent wages that restaurant and bar workers receive in Stockholm (typically around $15 an hour) and therefore the employees able to make a good living without gaining the tips.
However, if you would like to tip for excellent service, it is always well received. The simple rule is to round the price to the nearest round number- so if a meal comes to 280 SEK, pay 300 SEK. Like I mentioned before, if you don’t leave a tip, then the staff would still be friendly, but if you give a few kronor’s extra it is a good way of saying thank you.
The one place where I would encourage you to tip would be in the bars. Mainly down to the fact that as soon as you tip you would often jump into the front of the queue when there are long waits, always a positive when the bars are frequently busy during after work hours.
Carry Some Change
It is also vital that you have a little change on you, especially when commuting through the subways.
This is mainly down to the fact that should you need to use the restroom, you will need to pay. Although they are not expensive (20 SEK) it is easier to pay with change as the barriers have change holders.
They don’t take cards at these machines, so if you have a weak bladder- change is a must.
To read more on topics like this, check out the traveling category.
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