I had a conference in Stockholm. Since that is the land of 'my father's heritage' he decided to come with me. We landed on a cold misty runway, with fresh snow blanketing the landscape. We were under no illusions - it was cold!
After checking into the hotel, we made our way to Skansen (an open air museum founded in 1891). On display were houses and buildings from the turn of the century. Each one was occupied by an 'actor' to help provide a history lesson and some extra authenticity. Unfortunately, due to the cold weather and the time of year, only a few houses were open.
We stopped by some of the farms (similar to where the Jacobson's used to live) to get a real taste of how things were. The take away - things were tough in Sweden during that time. These were some determined, hard-working people. Not a lot of joy in indentured servitude.
We were pretty much the only ones in the place (surprise!). Although it must be amazing in Summer.
We continued on to the old town (which was build on a small island!) once the pak shut down at 3 PM. We made a stop on the way to get warm by a wood burning fire (placed next to an hot dog stand... they really love hot dogs in Sweden).
We reached the old town at 5:30 PM, and it was already pitch dark. The town was charming. Narrow cobble stone streets lined with tall and colorful buildings. When we could stand the cold no longer, we ducked inside a small cafe for hot chocolate, and pie! Traveling with Dad is great.
I left my father to wander the city on his own the next day. He soon found out that all the tours had been stopped until Spring. I snapped a few pictures on my way to the conference out the subway window. It looked cold outside (because it was). However he subway was warm, efficient and clean (despite the fact they seem to allow dogs on the train).
It was a short trip, but enough to get a small feel for the city, and the people. My Dad can be proud (Viking blood not withstanding!)
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