As soon as the stitches were out and life began to return, I booked my ticket to Sweden to join my partner in Stockholm. I knew that all I needed to do was get myself there and he would do the rest. It was extraordinary how quickly all the difficulties of the past weeks and months vanished the moment he met me at Arlanda with a big hug and an unexpected beard!
.JPG)
Stockholm dazzled in the bright sunshine, city of water and light. Beautiful old buildings in muted shades of paprika, vanilla, saffron and pistachio line the waterways of the old town, Gamla Stan, the buildings packed together along the narrow streets and alleyways, with bars, cafes, shops and restaurants vying for trade, as we set off to explore.
We soon left the teeming crowds for the peace and quiet of the old Lutheran Cathedral, Storkyrkan.
The rest of the day was spent exploring the city on foot, the weather far too glorious for serious museum and church visiting. We wandered from one island to another, crossing the bridges that link the islands of central Stockholm, each with its own particular charm and character.
 |
| Katarina Kyrka, Sodermalm |
Sodermalm lies directly to the south of the old town and is the residential, bohemian area. Quieter and more low key than Gamla Stan, this is where young Swedes live and play and raise their families.
Then back to central Stockholm for some serious window shopping, sightseeing and eating.
 |
| Music Museum |
 |
| Riddarholmen |
 |
| Under Kastanjen, Gamla Stan |
