Moving to Sweden from The UK Trick or Treat — it’s Easter in Sweden When you’re moving to Sweden from The UK you may find it quite odd to observe a halloween setting during Easter. Folklore states that Easter was the time when witches stole the household brooms and flew to the (imaginary) Blue Mountain (somewhere in Germany) to consort with the devil. Now, children dress up as Easter witches. They paint their...

Health Care in Sweden Pensions in Sweden Before describing the state of health care in Sweden, you should know that, if you plan to retire to Sweden, make sure you have sufficient funds, as it is quite an expensive place to live. High taxes on your income and pension contribute to that state. You also have to budget for private health insurance. You have to have an income at least as great as the Swedish pension (around 6 850 SEK (£620.50)) per month...

Driving in Sweden Public Transportation in Sweden Driving in Sweden is not the preferred way to get around, since public transport is heavily subsidised and very efficient. There are 24 regional networks and an over-system where one ticket is valid on both buses and trains. In the south there are express buses where you do not have to reserve a seat, and there may be discounts for seniors and students. Buses and trains are often well integrated, with little difference...

Social Life in Sweden Language Learning Swedish might be useful for establishing a social life in Sweden. It is the official language, spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is similar to both Danish and Norwegian. There are five minority languages, including Finnish and Sami, which is spoken in the far North. English is widely spoken, followed by German and French. In fact, Sweden has been ranked “best in the World” at...

Living in Sweden Cost of living in Sweden is rather similar to what you’re used to in UK. Except for groceries, which are much more expensive and rent prices which are significantly lower in Sweden. Buying a house in Sweden In 2013, Sweden’s housing market recorded its strongest performance in three years, although economic growth was slow. In Sweden there are no legal restrictions for foreigners buying property. It can be easy and fast to buy...

Facts about Sweden Facts about Sweden Stockholm is very similar to any major UK city, unless of course you arrive in winter when the temperature is -20°C and a thick layer of snow covers everything. In my article I describe basic facts about Sweden which can be very helpful once you move to this country. The signs at the central train and bus stations are in English and the streets are...

Accommodation in Stockholm How to find accommodation in Stockholm? Stockholm is not that different from any major UK city, unless of course you arrive in winter when the temperature is minus 20°C and everything is covered in a thick layer of snow, but looking for some accommodation for the first time can be very weird experience. Finding a Flat Finding accommodation in Stockholm, and generally in Sweden,...