Swedish Architects Shaping the Future of Cities

Tor Kjølberg
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Swedish Architects Shaping the Future of Cities

Kjellander Sjöberg are a diverse community of architects, urban designers, and planners with exceptional talents collaborating closely across Sweden and the UK. The Swedish architects are shaping the future of cities.

Swedish Architects Shaping the Future of Cities
Kjellander Sjöberg

“Cities and architecture should be for everyone,” says Stefan Sjöberg, co-founder of Kjellander Sjöberg, a company reknown for urban sustainability applying the fundamentals of Nordic architecture to their architectural work.

Kjellander Sjöberg focuses on delivering creative architecture and masterplans, and participates in the innovative urban discourse of three vibrant cities in which the company’s studios are based: Stockholm, Malmö and London.

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Related: Swedish Architecture at its Best – World Wide
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The architects work has been featured in several national and international prestigious magazines. The company’s work with the regenerative masterplan Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community for Latimer by Clarion Housing Group in the UK was featured in a recent issue of Arkitektur – the largest architectural magazine in the Nordics which has been analyzing, evaluating and documenting Swedish architecture and urban design since 1901.

Swedish Architects Shaping the Future of Cities
Kjellander Sjöberg featured in Casabella magazine

Kjellander Sjöberg is one of the leading Scandinavian agencies of a new architectural generation – one they describe as an era where extensive variation and creative living combinations are preferred in lieu of white drywalls and deferred borders. According to the company, “these places champion the future of liveable environments and good growth development and allow us to drive new thinking which supports thriving communities based on the quality of life, social equity, and resilient, sustainable models.”

In the comprehensive article in Arkitektur ‘Big plans for small-scale cities’, Ylva Frid explored how garden cities of today can be designed, through four interviews with architects about the ideas for their current projects.

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Since its inception in 1998, Kjellander Sjöberg has kept to a clear vision to engage and involve people, companies and communities at large to sustainable living and working solutions. “We want to see what happens when you let the public sphere into the private room,” said Sjöberg.

Swedish Architects Shaping the Future of Cities
Earlier this month was the grand opening of Styrmansbron in Malmö

Collaborative by nature, the architects can also successfully fashion bespoke teams comprising leading UK practices to bring specialist expertise to large scale projects. The company’s Swedish and UK partnerships are valuable assets allowing it to combine the best experiences of both creative cultures to bring unique new perspectives to architecture, urban design, public realm strategies and spatial narratives.

Earlier this month was the grand opening of Styrmansbron in Malmö – the new pedestrian, cycle, and public transport route to the Varvsstaden neighbourhood. This awaited milestone designed by Kjellander Sjöberg marks a significant step in the ongoing regeneration of the area.

More than just a bridge, Styrmansbron is intended to be a lively new public space by the water and to serve as a vital connection between different parts of the city, while also symbolizing Malmö’s dynamic evolution. Where Kockums shipyard workers once cycled to their jobs, residents and visitors can now cross a bridge linking the city’s past with its future.

Swedish Architects Shaping the Future of Cities, reported by Tor Kjolberg

All images © Kjellander Sjöberg

Brunost in Seoul

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Brunost in Seoul

“Brunost” (Norwegian) simply means “brown cheese” and is made from goat’s and cow’s milk. The taste starts with a salty, rich caramel, and under the sweetness there’s a pleasant funk. Why has brunost become so popular in Seoul?

Eating brunost is momentarily overwhelming, as it sticks to the roof of your mouth before melting away. Its dense, sticky texture even requires a cheese plane, a special spatula-shaped tool for shaving off long pieces, invented by the Norwegian carpenter Thor Bjørklund.

Norwegian brown cheese is often hard to find outside of Norway, but times are changing. Dairy factories in Norway are struggling to keep up with demand from a surprising export market with very few Scandinavian connections.

In South Korea, they love brown cheese. They use brown cheese in their waffle iron and on their pizza. Norwegian dairy producer Tine is selling more than ever. Brunost is now everywhere across the nation, from cafes to street food stands. Interestingly, Koreans have made brunost their own, by adding its salty richness to all kinds of treats and confections.

Dating back to the 17th century, Norwegian brunost is made from leftover whey during the cheese-making process, so it isn’t technically a cheese. In Norway, it’s still popular on waffles, crisp bread and rolls. Last year, Tine exported 130 tons of brown cheese to South Korea.

Brunost in Seoul
There are three “Synnøve” cafes in Busan, with brunost as the main draw. Phot: Synnøve Finden

“We like to eat brunost and ice cream together. It’s savory and salty,” says Irang Choi, who lives in Busan. “We eat it with croiffle too.” The croiffle is a hybrid pastry made by pressing croissant dough into a waffle iron. Brunost is then shredded on top, which is the preferred way for Koreans to eat it. Brunost is grated onto desserts, on coffee, and even on steak. It’s also used as a flavoring in treats like cookies, macaron fillings, and donut glazes.

It’s not just Tine enjoying success. Another Norwegian dairy producer, Synnøve Finden, has also exported several tons of brunost to South Korea. “There is a strong tradition of combining sweet and salty in our country, and this goes very well with brown cheese,” says Heesook Shin.

Brunost in Seoul
Heesok Shin, brand manager Seoul Dairy. Photo: Private

She is global brand manager at the cooperative Seoul Dairy, and says they expect further growth in brown cheese sales in the coming years.

While brunost is just as common as white cheese in Norway, its traditional uses are pretty narrow: sliced thinly and served on bread or a soft waffle alongside butter is about as far as it goes.

The person deserving the credit for turning brunost into a Korean phenomenon is Jeonmi Eom. “They call me Brown Cheese Lady,” she laughs. Through her family, she was introduced to the Norwegian dairy Synnøve Finden, and four years ago, she set up her own company as an independent brunost importer, with an exclusive license with Synnøve to develop their products and branding for use in Korea. Eom’s company now has three “Synnøve” cafes in Busan, with brunost as the main draw. “My Norwegian friends are shocked by how we use brown cheese,” she says.

Brunost in Seoul
Korean street food: Brown cheese waffle. Photo: YouTube

South Koreans sure must have a taste for the stuff, because import of brown cheese is steadily growing! Personally, I can’t imagine enjoying a brown cheese pizza, but each to their own.

Brunost in Seoul, written by Tor KJolberg

Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports

Tor Kjølberg
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Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports

A total of 2.8 million tons of Norwegian seafood worth NOK 175.4 billion was exported in 2024, best year ever for Norwegian seafood exports.

This corresponds to 38 million meals every single day – all year round. Paul T. Aandahl, Seafood Analyst at the Norwegian Seafood Council, noted that “the US was the largest growth market for both fresh and frozen salmon fillets, with export value to the US increasing by NOK 99 million ($8.9 million), or 11%, compared to the same period last year.” This rise reflects broader economic trends, with the US showing increases in GDP, real wages, and household consumption in the third quarter.

Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports
“Several factors are contributing to increasead purchasing power supporting consumers’ willingness to pay a premium for Norwegian seafood.” says Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council.. Photo: Intrafish

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Global popularity

While seafood remains a cornerstone of Norwegian exports, it’s less popular on home dinner tables, where red meat consumption outpaces fish nearly threefold.

“2024 was characterized by quota cuts for cod, significant production challenges for salmon, geopolitical fluctuations and economic turmoil in the global market. When the value of seafood exports nevertheless rises to a historically high level, it is incredibly strong,” says Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council.

Poland and the Netherlands remained the largest European destinations for Norwegian salmon, absorbing a substantial portion of Norway’s total exports. Exports to Poland continued to rise in value as Norwegian suppliers catered to growing demand for processed and fresh salmon products.

Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports.
Norwegian mackerel. Photo: Mynewsdesk.

China emerged as the largest growth market, with exports increasing by NOK 886 million (+10%), driven by demand for salmon and mackerel. Thailand and Vietnam also saw notable growth, with export values rising by 13% and 20%, respectively. The Norwegian Seafood Council is working to boost local consumption through campaigns promoting quick and versatile dishes like sushi and poke bowls. The success of Norwegian sea food abroad underscores its global reputation, with Asia leading the way in 2024.

Consumer willingness to pay a premium for Norwegian seafood

“Once again, Norwegian seafood exports have set new records, and I am impressed by everyone who has contributed. The Norwegian seafood trade is a fantastic example of how sustainability can be combined with economic value creation,” says Marianne Sivertsen Næss, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy.

Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports
Paul T. Aandahl, Seafood Analyst at the Norwegian Seafood Council. Photo: Mynewsdesk

“Economic conditions in the EU continue to support demand for Norwegian salmon, with record-low unemployment and real wage growth driving household consumption,” said Chramer. “These factors are increasing purchasing power and supporting consumer willingness to pay a premium for Norwegian seafood.”

“Norwegian seafood exports have experienced marvellous growth. In the period from 2020 to 2024 alone, the value increased by around NOK 70 billion. This shows what a strong global position our seafood has. Last year, we exported more than 60 different species to over 150 countries around the world,” he adds.

Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports, Tor Kjolberg reporting based on press releases from the Norwegian Seafood Council.

Nordic Culture in the Digital Age

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Nordic Culture in the Digital Age

A new report from the Nordic Council of Ministers highlights the crucial role of digitalization in Nordic cultural policy, focusing on opportunities and challenges. Read on and learn more about Nordic culture in the digital age.

Digital tools and platforms have become central not only to how culture is created and consumed, but also to the design of the political governance of culture. The publication underscores that the effects of digitalization are far-reaching, influencing everything from artistic expression to democratic accessibility and the economic structures within the cultural sector.

The report reveals that digitalization has presented both opportunities and challenges for culture in the Nordic Region. On the one hand, technology has created new arenas for artistic creation and participation, enabling people to interact and engage in ways that were previously impossible. Virtual exhibitions, streaming platforms, and digital concerts are just a few examples of how culture has moved into the digital sphere.

Nordic Culture in the Digital Age
The report reveals that digitalization has presented both opportunities and challenges for culture in the Nordic Region. Photo: Johannes Jansson/norden.org

On the other hand, the digital transition has also raised new questions about copyright, digital equality, and how cultural practitioners can sustain themselves in a world where content is increasingly distributed for free. Digital tools and platforms have become central not only to how culture is created and consumed, but also to the design of the political governance of culture. The publication underscores that the effects of digitalization are far-reaching, influencing everything from artistic expression to democratic accessibility and the economic structures within the cultural sector.

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“Digital platforms have become central to the cultural infrastructure and changing cultural habits in the Nordic countries. The policies of these platforms and their automated recommendation systems can influence the content and distribution of culture. This presents new cultural policy challenges, as a few global platform companies dominate the market, and their priorities don’t necessarily align with the cultural policy goals of the Nordic countries,” says Anna Gavanas, researcher at Kulturanalys Norden.

Nordic Culture in the Digital Age
One of the great advantages of digitalization is its potential to improve access to culture. Digital exhibition at the National Nordic Museum.

A more inclusive cultural sector

One of the great advantages of digitalization is its potential to improve access to culture. The report highlights how digital solutions can break down physical and geographical barriers, offering opportunities for individuals who may not have previously had access to cultural experiences. This is particularly important in sparsely populated parts of the Nordic Region, where distances to cultural institutions such as theatres and museums can be significant.

Furthermore, the report emphasizes how digital tools can be used to amplify marginalised voices and create a more diverse cultural sector. Through social media and other digital platforms, artists and cultural practitioners can reach a wider audience without relying on traditional distribution channels.

Nordic Culture in the Digital Age
The report also points to the challenges posed by digitalization.

Shared challenges require co-operation

However, the report also points to the challenges posed by digitalization. A key issue is the digital divide – the gap between those who have access to and knowledge of digital tools and those who don’t. To ensure that everyone living in the Nordic Region can benefit from cultural opportunities, both as consumers and creators, efforts are needed to reduce these disparities.

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You might also like to read: 10 Major Scandinavian Trends in Educational Environments

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Another challenge concerns copyright and the financial conditions for cultural practitioners. As cultural content becomes digital and widely accessible, questions arise about how artists and creators can be fairly compensated. The report highlights the importance of establishing common guidelines and laws at the international level to protect the rights and income of creators.

Read more about the Voice of the Nordic region on a global stage.

Read the report here (in Swedish)

Feature image (on top) © Aline Lessner/​Image Bank Sweden

Nordic Culture in the Digital Age, a press release from Nordic Council of Ministers.

Two of the Biggest Snowboarding Stars in the World

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Two of the Biggest Snowboarding Stars in the World

Two films on professional snowboarding were created last year, by two of the biggest snowboarding stars in the world, Norwegians Torstein Hogmo and Mons Røisland.

Last winter, Torstein Hogmo, Mons Røisland and professional photographer Celia Miller journeyed to Canada to explore its legendary light and powdery snow, Together they created Crystalline, a film that dives into the deeper meaning of snow from the perspective of professional snowboarders.

The power team of Torstein Horgmo, Charles Beckinsale and Jeff Pensiero from Baldface, collaborated in the making of the film Return. Together they visited the north island of Japan and British Columbia in Canada. According the Torstein and the producers,Valhalla in Japan changed the landscape of snowboarding by melding big mountain riding with man-made fantasy. Flowy lines that have never been attempted before were created. With the skills of Tim Manning and Gabriel Kocher behind the lens, this is a cinematic journey that stirs the senses.

Norweigan Mons Røisland rose to the international stage as a uniquely talented slopestyle machine. Over the course of his career, he’s been a regular appearance on podiums at every major international freestyle snowboard event, from X-Games, to the World Championships and even the Olympics themselves, bagging a well-earnt silver in 2022’s unique Big Air showdown in Beijing.

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Two of the Biggest Snowboarding Stars in the World
Norweigan Mons Røisland rose to the international stage as a uniquely talented slopestyle machine. Photo: Process Films.

A true master of his craft, Mons’ trick repertoire is one of the best in the game, whilst away from the floodlights, Mons is already carving a niche for himself in the media landscape, as a regular in Torstein Horgmo’s Shredbots shorts, as well as producing his own edits.

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Two of the Biggest Snowboarding Stars in the World
Torstein Horgmo did the world’s first “frontside 1080” in 2007. Photo: Red BGull.

Torstein Horgmo became known for his difficult tricks. He did the world’s first “frontside 1080” in 2007. He completed a “triple cork” in 2011 and competed in the X-games in Aspen, Colorado that same year. Horgmo has won numerous international competitions in his favorite sport, slopestyle.

Two of the Biggest Snowboarding Stars in the World, written by Tor Kjolberg

Feature image (on top) © Ilya Shishikhin / Unsplash

Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025

Tor Kjølberg
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Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025
The Northern Norway Tourism Board takes great pride in seeing Lofoten globally recognized as one of The Best Places to Eat in 2025 by Condé Nast. Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025

This prestigious mention highlights the region’s world-class culinary scene where sustainable, locally sourced ingredients meet wild landscapes, together defining a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Among the standout restaurants featured in Condé Nast’s list is Landhandleriet Café in Nusfjord, Børsen Spiseri in Svolvær, and Villa Lofoten in Kvalnes to name a few, which are part of putting Lofoten on the global culinary map. Adding to this recognition is Holmen Lofoten, home to the renowned concept Kitchen On The Edge (Feature image on top). This culinary series brings world-class chefs to Lofoten’s remote shores, where they create and serve a unique, four day experience, showcasing the farm to table concept driven by the changing seasons.

Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025
Recently, head chef Halvar Ellingsen at Kvitnes Farm was named Best International Chef by the prestigious Italian food magazine Identità Golose. Photo: Visit Lofoten.

Beyond Lofoten, Vesterålen is also mentioned in Condé Nast for making waves in the culinary world. Kvitnes Gård, a farm to table dining destination, has received significant international recognition. Recently, head chef Halvar Ellingsen was named Best International Chef by the prestigious Italian food magazine Identità Golose. Ellingsen is the first Norwegian chef to receive this honour, marking a historic milestone for both him and the broader culinary scene in Northern Norway.

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Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025
Several standout restaurants featured in Condé Nast’s list. Photo: Visit Lofoten.

Savoring Success
With the growing global trend of food tourism, Northern Norway is increasingly gaining attention as a destination for travellers seeking authentic, local culinary experiences. As the travel and tourism market in the Nordics continues to grow, the region is seeing increasing interest in its local food traditions.

“We’re proud to see Northern Norway recognized worldwide for its local food culture,” says Siw Sandvik, Head of Communication and Marketing at the Northern Norway Tourism Board.

Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025
Siw Sandvik, Head of Communication and Marketing at the Northern Norway Tourism Board. Photo: Mynewsdesk.

“The recognition from Condé Nast, along with Halvar Ellingsen’s prestigious award, is a testament to the dedication of local producers, chefs, and everyone who contributes to using local, sustainable ingredients. This global attention is just the beginning, and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors to experience the flavours of Northern Norway,”
she adds.

Lofoten Ranks Among the Top Food Destinations for 2025, a press release from the official Tourist Board of Northern Norway.

Feature image (on top) © Holmen Lofoten.

 

Tesla’s Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Tesla’s Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway

Car registration data shows that the U.S. electric vehicle maker faces a test of popularity following billionaire CEO Elon Musk’s high-profile foray into politics. Tesla’s Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway.

A total of 405 new Teslas were registered in Sweden in January of 2025, down 44% from January of 2024.

Registrations in Norway fell to 689, a decline of 38% over the same period, despite soaring overall demand for cars in the two countries.

Tesla's Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway
Elon Musk’s involvement in US politics causes many Scandinavians to feel ashamed of driving their Teslas. U.S. Air Force photo by Trevor Cokley/Wikipedia
Tesla's Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway
Elon MUsk’s involvement with President Donald Trump, which resonated negatively in Europe. Photo: Wikipedia

This is notable amid a 14% overall rise in car registrations in Sweden and an impressive 82% in Norway, suggesting strong economic conditions and consumer activity. Tesla’s decline has been attributed to CEO Elon Musk’s political endorsements, particularly his support for US President Donald Trump, which resonated negatively in Europe. A Novus Group survey highlights a dip in positive views from 19% to 11% among Swedes, alongside increased negative perceptions.

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While Tesla’s Model Y crossover SUV was the most sold car in both of the two Nordic countries in 2024, the group’s image has taken a hit in recent weeks, a market sentiment survey by Sweden’s Novus Group found according to Swedish news agency TT.

Tesla's Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway
Musk has waded into European politics drawing criticism from Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere. Photo: Wikipedia

In addition to his strong backing for US President Donald Trump, Musk has waded into European politics drawing criticism from Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere.

The drop in Tesla’s registrations raises implications for its market stance, with potential risks from consumer sentiment influencing demand shifts. While Musk’s controversies may deter European buyers, it’s vital to consider factors like production cycles and new model launches, which could also affect these numbers. Investors should be mindful of potential volatility from public perception and competitive product environments.

Tesla's Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway
Tesla’s model Q,

The registration volume of individual auto brands can, however, change significantly from month to month dependent on production cycles, product offerings and competition.

Tesla’s Market Share Tumbles in Sweden and Norway, reporting by Tor Kjolberg

Denmark Introduces Hygge Diplomacy

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Denmark Introduces Hygge Diplomacy

The hardening of geopolitics in Europe, and above all, the Ukraine war, has documented a twist in the way the hard side of foreign policy combines with the soft version of diplomacy and international relations. Denmark has experienced that dealing with Donald Trump isn’t just politics — it’s an art form – and introduces Hygge diplomacy.

Denmark is one of the countries that in the decades bridging the 20th and the 21st centuries has been able to navigate between the two extremes most effectively, and without doubt most credibly. This is so, in part, because they devised – not in words but in deeds – a culture of egalitarianism, of social rights, of solidarity between free individuals and turned it into a new identity and a new way of navigating themselves throughout the world.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has for weeks conducted a high-level diplomatic tour across Europe to rally support against renewed interest from US President Donald Trump in acquiring Greenland—a Danish territory rich in minerals and strategically located in the Arctic.

As she’s toured Europe’s capitals to meet Nordic, German, French and UK leaders, her Trump playbook has become increasingly clear: Get support from your neighbors, project unity, and float modest concessions, but above all, avoid escalating the conflict by not publicly engaging with Trump’s threats.

The Danish reinvention of enlightened values ​​is not just a statement of intent; it has a practical anchor, and if there is anyone who believes in the founding principles of the EU – beginning by keeping their own backyard in a decent state, which is the origin of all unimposed cosmopolitanism – it is the Danes.

Denmark Introduces Hygge Diplomacy
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has for weeks conducted a high-level diplomatic tour across Europe. Photo: Virginia Mayo/AP/dpa dpa-Bildfunk

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Despite a bruising phone call with Trump — followed by near daily remarks from the president and his circle — Frederiksen has tried to remain measured and composed, maintaining that the US is Denmark’s closest ally.

For decades, Denmark has been at the forefront of initiatives that mean to strengthen horizontal ties between countries, championed throughout the world by the international institutions that emerged after the Second World War with the aim of fighting poverty and hunger, helping the displaced, or combating climate change.

Denmark Introduces Hygge Diplomacy
Denmark is one of the countries that in the decades bridging the 20th and the 21st centuries has been able to navigate between the two extremes most effectively.

“Denmark is a small country with strong alliances. Together with our European partners, we have faced great trials before, and European cooperation has proven its worth in handling crises,” Frederiksen has been quoted by the media when she emphasized the need for unity amid shifting geopolitical realities, including the war in Europe and rising competition in the Arctic.

It’s a strategy distinct enough that Finland’s president, Alexander Stubb, has given it a name: “hygge diplomacy.” The term “hygge” (think candles, fuzzy sweaters, and warm conversations over tea) has become Denmark’s most famous cultural export in recent years. It embodies the feeling of coziness and togetherness and emphasizes the Danish culture of slowing down and fostering meaningful connections.

Denmark Introduces Hygge Diplomacy
For decades, Denmark has been at the forefront of initiatives that mean to strengthen horizontal ties between countries. Photo: Mark Konig/Unsplash

Big words and soft speeches are increasingly difficult to hold together on the basis of a reality that requires ever tougher policies, so it makes sense for countries like Denmark to break new ground.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has managed to keep tensions from boiling over. But Danish diplomacy will face more tests ahead, from Trump as well as from an emboldened independence movement in Greenland.

Denmark Introduces Hygge Diplomacy, written by Tor Kjolberg

The World’s Largest Airship Fleet – in Finland

Tor Kjølberg
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0
The World’s Largest Airship Fleet – in Finland

The Finnish company Kelluu Oy, specializing in environmental data collection with airships, is one of 75 companies chosen for the NATO DIANA Program 2025. The company claims it is the world’s largest airship fleet. Kelluu Oy is based in Finland.

Terrafame, a Finnish responsible battery chemicals producer for electric vehicles, has selected Kelluu to provide accurate and geo-referenced terrain data for continuously monitoring its 60 km² industrial site in Finland.

Based in Joensuu, easter Finland, Kelluu, operates in a niche between drones and aircraft. The former has a short flight time, while the latter are expensive, environmentally harmful and fly above the clouds.

The World’s Largest Airship Fleet – in Finland
Kellu team

The Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) aims to discover new technological solutions for defense and security through collaboration with companies. The program is designed for startups and SMEs developing dual-use technologies—products or services that support both defense and civilian markets. DIANA provides resources, networks, and support from experts and investors to aid in development.

Kelluu’s hydrogen-powered airship, mounted with several spectral cameras, sensors, and scanners, gives Terrafame an accurate and dynamic 3D digital twin of its 60 km² industrial production site in Finland.

What Kelluu actually does is imaging, and instead of flying people from place to place, Kelluu’s airships photograph the Earth. With state-of-the-art cameras, they can capture incredibly detailed photographs of a wide area.

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The World’s Largest Airship Fleet – in Finland
Janne Hietala, CEO Kelluu oy

“With just five of our airships, we are able to photograph the entity of Germany with a level of accuracy that no satellite can match,” says Janne Hietale, CEO of Kelluu Oy and continues, “With NATO’s support, we can push our technology further alongside professionals who demand the best. A changing world needs companies like Kelluu to enhance both security and societies, and this collaboration with NATO is a great example.”

The combination of high-resolution RGB, multispectral, and Flir images, combined with the same 3D mesh, is a fascinating tool, especially in a heap leaching and open pit slope stability modelling.

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The World’s Largest Airship Fleet – in Finland
Clients are diverse and forestry companies that are keeping an eye on the health of the land are on the list of customers.

In addition, the cameras can provide hyperspectral imaging, which its clients can use in monitoring metrics such as humidity and temperature. The images can also be used to construct detailed 3D maps, or what the company calls “digital twins”. Clients are diverse and range from forestry companies that are keeping an eye on the health of the land and power companies monitoring the state of its lines in remote locations to urban planners, who need to know how the traffic is flowing.

Kelluu’s airships are highly efficient, emitting 99.5% fewer CO2 emissions than traditional aerial monitoring, and frequently cover mission times of over 12 hours. The airships are effectively operational in subzero temperatures. Kelluu’s facility in Finland is the only airship factory and product development laboratory in Northern Europe.

The World’s Largest Airship Fleet – in Finland, Tor Kjolberg reporting

All images © Kelluu Oy

Taxis Around the World

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Taxis Around the World

Taxis are a popular option when traveling to a new destination. While pricier than a bus or train, taking a taxi will get you to your destination faster without having to pay attention to the route as closely as you would while taking a train or bus. And if you’re splitting the cost with your travel partner, it might be cheaper. We’ve taken taxis around the world, and prices and availability varies enormously.

If you opt for a taxi, it’s imperative to research the typical fare for a trip to the city center, especially when interacting with opportunist taxi drivers who claim their meter is broken and charge an exorbitant rate to foreigners.

With the rise of ride-hailing apps like Uber, getting a taxi has never been easier, especially in major cities.  All you have to do is sign up with your full name (e.g. Grace Gail) and email address. Essentialliving.co.uk analyzed 38 major cities to determine the best taxi services globally. Washington D.C. in USA scored best, while Stockholm, Sweden and Oslo, Norway ranked 23 and 27 respectively.

Taxis Around the World
Do not be afraid to negotiate with taxi drivers.

I always refuse to ride in a taxi with a ‘broken meter’ as you will find the agreed upon fare mysteriously increase once you get to the destination.

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In some countries, the common practice is to have a flat rate from the airport to the city center. In this case, do not be afraid to hop in the taxi. I find it good practice to have the driver write down the agreed-upon fare before getting into the car. This way it is more difficult for the driver to change the price once you arrive at your destination. Always handle all these things before you get in the car or begin loading your luggage. Once you get in the vehicle and the driver begins the trip, you have lost your leverage.

Essential living reports that the most-costly Uber in the world is in Warsaw, Poland. Helsinki, Stockholm and Oslo rank 15, 16 and 17 respectively.

Do not be afraid to negotiate with taxi drivers as well. I often try this tactic after already having researched the typical fare. Sometimes I try it without knowing the typical fare. You will know that you are not that far out from a fair amount if the taxi driver keeps following and pestering you. If a taxi driver leaves you alone after you take a hard line on an amount, you will know that your offer was too low. I always act as I am not in a hurry and have gotten as much as a 50 percent discount on their original offer by waiting them out.

Which city has the longest waiting time for an Uber. Some examples according to Numbeo: Shortest waiting time has New Delhi, India with 3 minutes. In Stockholm, you have to wait 6 minutes, while the waiting time in Oslo is 18 minutes.

Taxis Around the World
I always act as I am not in a hurry and have gotten as much as a 50 percent discount. New York taxi. Photo: Wikipedia.

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Recently, I arrived at the airport in Bucharest, Romania and watched where the locals went to get a taxi, which was a bit further to the left of the exit doors. I found a ride to the city center for $15. Later, I was told that the normal ‘tourist’ price was double. Get a lay of the land before choosing your ride and it can save you a lot of money. Be wary of taxi drivers who offer to take you to your destination in an unmarked car. Most likely the driver is simply trying to earn a living on the side, but drivers of these unmarked cars are more likely to participate in kidnapping or robbery schemes since they do not have a taxi company or government authority to answer to. That is not to say that taxi drivers who work for companies in marked cars do not participate in these schemes, they simply have more to lose if reported.

Taxis Around the World
Many countries have a taxi desk inside the airport near the exit.

Many countries have a taxi desk inside the airport near the exit. You pay a predetermined fair at the desk and receive a coupon that you present to the driver at the front of the line of taxis outside the airport.  This is a great way to avoid corruption and make tourists feel confident they are not being taken advantage of. A lot of these kiosks accept credit cards as well – an added bonus.

Taxis Around the World, written by Tor Kjolberg

 

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