To grasp the full character of Stockholm, island hop. Stockholm sprawls across 14 islands; each inhabited island is unique and interesting. One must-see is the Marionettmuseet (International Puppet Theatre Museum) which has puppets, masks and monsters from around the world. Tel. 46/8/10 30 61. Stockholm’s Leksaksmuseet (Toy Museum) has a playroom to entertain the kids while you nose around a fascinating collection of nostalgic and international toys, including Mickey Mouse toys from the early 20th century. A cafe offers snacks. Tel. 46/8/641 61 00.
Sergels Torg, a central square located in Norrmalm, serves as the hop-off point for modern Stockholm. On Helgeans Holmen, the tiny island immediately south of Norrmalm, sits the Riksdagshser (Parliament Building) followed by the medieval Gamla Stan (Old Town) island and then the large Sodermaim, a bohemian enclave in a former blue-collar quarter. Across the Strommen lie the two scenic islands of Skeppsholmen and Kastell-Holmen. Farther east, Jurgaden Island houses a number of city museums and connects to the northern Ostermalm, a pricey residential neighborhood that adjoins Norrmalm. A stunning combination of man-made gardens, medieval castles, high rise buildings and natural scenery guarantee you’ll be fascinated at every step.
U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for up to a 90-days in the land of the Nobel Prize, ABBA, Greta Garbo, Absolut Vodka, the Volvo, IKEA and the smorgasbord. (Visitors from other countries should check requirements, however.) Higher prices are offset by fresh air, incredible landscapes, mountains and national parks, endangered bird and seal reserves, botanical gardens, over 40 species of orchids and extensive cultural delights in the over 450,000 sq. km., (170,000 sq mi) area. Skating, downhill and cross country skiing and winter sports dominate the winter; canoeing on calm lakes or conquering river rapids, hiking, camping, swimming and diving for sunken treasure in old wrecks and camera safari for scenery and abundant wildlife are summertime pleasures.
