Gamla Stan

An early morning walk to the bus stop and about half hour ride into Rygge, Norway airport. Very small airport, only 8 gates and one security point, glad I wasn´t any earlier. The shops were barely opening as I got there. A smooth check in and under an hour to wait...goodbye Norway and Hello Sweden:)

Landing early once again, warm sunshine welcome as we step off the plane. Next bus to Stockholm (landed about 80 min south of the city, Ryanair thing) left in 20 min. Did my best to take in the countryside, full of trees like Norway, farming looks like it could be wheat? Stockholm is surrounded by water as well, sparkling in the morning sun as we pull into the bus terminal. First impressions were good, big city mix of old and new-new town side. Turnned around when I walked out of the bus station, I went the wrong way four times...street name and water landmarks could have gone either direction- which way does the map face? On the right track at once (wasnt in a hurry, no need to ask for help) I fall in love with this place more every block I cover.

Staying in Gamla Stan, which means Old Town in Swedish, I cross the river to the island where it sits. Several unique bridges lead to the old town, buildings extened into the water, streets narrow and turn to the beloved worn cobblestone. Sun washed buildings surround as I follow the directions to Best Old Town Hostel, oldest church in Sweden in view. Businesses just opening, setting out flowers and outdoor seating, opening windows for the effect of being outside. My hostel is in an ideal location, just off the square with the Stockholm museum, Royal Palace and Church surrounding (main square of Gamla Stan).

It was too early to check in but I left my pack and put on a cooler shirt, so excited to see more. Love the openness of the cafes and shops, the look of the buildings- like they all have a story to tell. Antique shops, handcrafted jewelry and art galleries are abundant as the smell of fresh flowers and waffle cones fill the streets. I am reminded of Italy, never expected Sweden to look like this- a place I would love to return. I walk to the Marina, Stockholm city extends to both sides of Gamla Stan. The smell of the waffle cones lures me to look at one of the several cafes with Swedish made Gelato in many flavors- making the cones right in front. Glass shops, chocolate specialty shops and used book stores line the narrow streets as well. I wonder into a chocolate shop-just to look- and get free samples:) Handmade by the shopkeeper, dark choc macademia, espresso and choc caramel-lucky me:)

Back to check in and send emails before grabbing lunch. Anxious to see more, I go to the Royal Palace which is the residence of the King, changing of the gaurds was taking place. I am pretty sure I walked every street in Old Town, had a mozzarella, sundried tomato and pesto on brown seeded bakery bread while sitting in an öutdoor¨cafe and reading my book. More exploring and I found another, much older though, waffle cone place, I broke- only here a short time...cinnamon cone with walnut, brownie and toffee caramel gelato--to die for, I savored every bite as I sat on the window bench just outside. Watching the people go by and listening to a violin duet. Definetely tourist season-always getting in my pictures ha- oh, yeah I am one. I have been so lucky with the off season.

I decide to see some sights in the newer part of Stockholm. Old Theatre, Opera House, large shopping centers, more old buildings and a few large parks with monuments and fountains. I settle into a park bech to read after getting some food at a market to make dinner later. I get lost in new supermarkets, so many diverse things and figuring out what they are can be a challenge. I am sure the workers though I was crazy, oh well! A good brief chat with the love of my life and a rounda bout way back to catch up my blog before making dinner.

Another new language, new currency and new culture. Still very laid back. Never though it would be so warm or so old in Sweden - loved it!