Some places are so enticingly beautiful, you feel the shutter of your camera clicking at every moment, with something incredible to see. Stockholm was one of these places. The highlight of my summer, this trip had been planned for years between Ester Wingfors and me, and it blew all my expectations out of the water. From its architecture-packed streets to its waterfront views, nearly everything felt worth capturing. We spent our days shopping, walking the length of the city, and capturing memories with a freshly-bought digicam. This beautiful city, in all its elegance and stature, was reflected in the people and their fashion as well. Looking around was a culture shock; everybody was pristinely made up from head to toe for all kinds of occasions, strutting the streets in heels, even with biking and walking being the only forms of transportation deemed socially normal. Between the gorgeous buildings, ostentatious people, and tasteful food, Stockholm immediately hiked up the energy of our trip. Though we only stayed in this city for three days, we packed in 60,000 steps, hundreds of photos, and enough memories for a lifetime.
On the other hand, some places are so breathtaking and immersed in nature that the concept of technology slips your mind entirely. Our second destination, Umeå, transcended this description, surrounded by calm water and scenery that made the man-made city of Stockholm seem almost secondary. The most surreal part of the experience, however, was the unwavering daylight that prevailed for twenty-four hours a day. Due to how far north this part of Sweden lies, the sun remains visible in summer at all hours of the day, remaining a glowing sunset from nine p.m. to six a.m. My favorite part of Umeå was simply sitting on the rocks by the water (wow Cami you’re so boring, what the heck?) I get how it sounds…but the tranquility I felt as the water lapped against those rocks is something I don’t think I’ll ever attain again. With no technology and nowhere I needed to be, I could just sit and ponder my thoughts surrounded by an untouched landscape–I’m getting happier just thinking about it. It sounds almost too simple to be memorable, but that was exactly what made it so special. After spending crazed days in Stockholm, rushing from one end of the city to the next in a commercialized, tourist-central environment, the novelty and thrill were dimmed by how sheerly overstimulating it was. In Umeå, I was perfectly content walking calmly, laughing with my awesome friend, and spending quality time with people I care about–never feeling like a precious moment was lost in the craze.
However, Sweden’s greatest and perhaps most permanent contribution to my life may have been its yogurt culture. I know I sound insane, but when I say Swedish markets have literal aisles stocked with yogurt, I say it with importance. This matter demands attention–WHY do we not have this blessed haven in the States? I digress. The variety, flavors, and consistency of every yogurt was new to me, and we went through maybe ten cartons throughout my stay. Wow, what a trip. My favorite flavor was pear vanilla, with cereal and fresh fruit placed on top. Guys, this is the #1 way to start your day, I promise. Well, despite there not being even a close alternative to the same bliss-providing yogurt, I have carried this habit back home, and now I hope I can spread it with all of you–can we get our own yogurt aisles? I’ll make a petition!