west coast, best coast

One of the things I like best about traveling is seeing where and how my friends live. Over the past several days I have had the privilege of staying with Maria in Göteborg, Sweden's second city. It's home to Volvo and Ericsson, a center for trade and industry in a 18th century wrapper. The city itself is beautiful and I would recommend a visit to anyone to enjoy art, hiking, sailing, history, manufacturing... Just about anyone can find something to do here! But what had made the city come alive to me is the people.

Post-swim, the wind blown look. It was actually warmer than the sea at home!

Stockholm

Stockholm, my first experience of Scandinavia. I don't know what it is exactly, but there is something wonderful about this country. There seems to be a sort of warmth and kindness in every person I've met here.  Maybe it started when I went to the airport to get into town. The bespectacled man behind the information desk confirmed that I was "youth" (25-), suggested that I save a few SEK and take the bus with a youth fare, and directed me to the bus stop.

I woke up on a 747.

Leaving Amsterdam after such a short visit was a little strange, but I don't think the city took it personally.

I knew I'd be getting in late to ARN (Stockholm airport), so I booked the closest hostel I could find ahead of time. Just a quick jump on the free shuttle bus and i was there. It also happened to be the most unique hostel I've ever stayed in.