5 Surprising Cultural Differences When Moving to Sweden

‍

1. Fika Culture

‍

This tradition is usually really appreciated by foreigners. If you have lived in Sweden for a while, chances are you have heard about Sweden's fika culture. This tradition of taking a coffee and something sweet is more than just a snack, it's a moment to slow down and connect with others. Whether you're at work or with friends, fika is a daily ritual that reflects Sweden's appreciation for work-life balance.

‍

2. The Winter

‍

The winters in Sweden are very long and dark. Depending on where you are, the sun might barely rise for weeks at a time. For those not used to this, it can feel overwhelming. However, Swedes have mastered the art of embracing coziness, known as mys, during this time. Stock up on candles and warm blankets to keep your spirits up.

3. Water

‍

One great thing about Sweden is that you can drink water straight from the tap basically everywhere. Swedish tap water is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world, so there's no need to worry about filters or bottled water.

‍

4. Social Life

‍

Swedes are known for being a bit reserved, which might come as a surprise if you're used to a more outgoing culture. Small talk is sparse, and strangers typically avoid making eye contact in public.

‍

The streets are often calm, especially in smaller towns, which can be quite different from the vibrant urban environments of many other countries. That said, once you get to know people, Swedes are incredibly kind and loyal friends.

‍

5. Cash-free society

‍

Sweden is highly digitized, and cash is very rarely used. A lot of stores don't accept cash and nearly everything from restaurant visits to public transport is paid for by card or mobile apps like Swish. While this can be very convenient it does take some time getting used to, especially if you're used to relying on cash. Make sure you have a working bank card or a mobile payment app to navigate everyday transactions seamlessly.

‍