Student blogs

Hello there! I’m excited to share my journey into the heart of Swedish culture with you. In this blog, I’ll be sharing my experiences of embracing Swedish culture, from the love for coffee to the art of conversation.

Stockholm, the city at the heart of it all, has a history spanning centuries and boasts a blend of safety, cosmopolitan charm, stunning architecture, trendy shopping districts, captivating museums, lively theatres, pulsating nightclubs, and a diverse culinary scene that draws culinary enthusiasts from near and far.

As I immerse myself deeper into the rich tapestry of Swedish life, I’ve come to realize that I’ve inadvertently adopted certain Swedish behaviours. The most amusing of these is the unmistakable tendency to avoid striking up conversations with strangers in public – a charming quirk that defines the Swedes’ inclination toward privacy.

The Swedish love for coffee, it is not just fika – it is more than that

Sweden is more than a place on the map; it’s a way of life. And at the heart of this culture is a deep love for coffee.

Back in Ethiopia, my friends and I would gather for lunch and savour a cup of coffee, paying homage to Ethiopia, the birthplace of the renowned coffee arabica. But since I arrived in Sweden, my coffee experience has transformed from a cup to a bottle, kicking off in the early morning hours.

In Sweden, coffee is not just a drink; it’s a revered cultural ritual known as “fika.”

This tradition has become a comforting constant in my daily life, whether I’m on a break between classes, catching up with friends, or exploring the charming coffee spots that dot the landscape of Stockholm. If I were to borrow a phrase commonly posed to those struggling with alcohol addiction – “Have you ever felt you needed a drink first thing in the morning (Eye-opener) to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover?” – my answer, in the context of coffee, would undeniably be a resounding yes. The aromatic embrace of a morning coffee has become my Swedish ritual, a fragrant symphony that heralds the beginning of each day.

The Swedish way of commuting where personal space is king

Another interesting aspect of my immersion into Swedish culture is the unwritten rules of commuting. Swedes love their personal space so much that they treat it like a VIP section at a concert – only the most important people get to be there. If you’re not on the guest list, you’ll have to find another seat. It’s like musical chairs, but instead of music, it’s the sound of silence that plays in the background.

So, if you’re ever in Sweden and see an empty seat next to someone, don’t be offended if they don’t want to sit next to you. It’s not you, it’s them – and their love for personal space.

In Sweden, it’s customary not to take a seat on public transportation unless there are at least two vacant spaces. This unspoken etiquette reflects the respect Swedes have for personal space and the unspoken understanding of communal harmony during transit. Adapting to this cultural norm has not only become second nature to me but has also allowed me to appreciate the thoughtfulness embedded in everyday actions.

Why Swedes avoid small talk

It’s interesting to note that in Ethiopia, striking up a conversation with strangers is the norm, and could even lead to a budding friendship. People who have never met before would strike up a conversation on a bus, and before you know it, the entire bus is engaged in the topic and has become friends.

In contrast, Swedes are like master chefs when it comes to conversations – they only use the finest ingredients and carefully craft each sentence to perfection. They believe that conversations should be like a gourmet meal – rich, flavourful, and satisfying.

So, if you’re ever in Sweden and someone doesn’t strike up a conversation with you – it is weird I know, but don’t be offended. They’re just waiting for the perfect moment to share something meaningful with you. It’s like a game of verbal chess, and the Swedes always win.

And honestly, I can feel myself completely changing from the most talkative person to a Swede type of quiet person. I am not sure which one to keep though.

These are just a few glimpses into the Swedish culture. Stay tuned for the next part of the blog, where I’ll explore more of this fascinating way of life. I’m curious to hear your thoughts. What’s your take on Swedish culture? Share your insights as we continue this cultural journey together!