Summer Skiing in Sweden

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Now you can ski in the middle of Stockholm all year round in Hammarbybackan – an appox. 9,000 m2 skiable surface in the form of artificial grass that mimics the feeling of skiing on snow. Why not try summer skiing in Stockholm, Sweden?

Hammarbybackan is Sweden’s first modern alpine skiing arena with artificial grass. The Summer Ski venture is an important milestone in SkiStar’s move towards year-round activities. First to try out the slope at the launch was World Cup skier Kristoffer Jakobsen.

Summer Skiing in Sweden
SkiStar’s ambassador, freeskier and Olympic medalist Jesper Tjäder.

However, Stockholm isn’t the only Nordic city with a dry slope. SNØ (Snow) outside Oslo in neighboring Norway is the world’s only year-round arena that combines cross-country skiing, snowboarding, alpine skiing, freeskiing and ice climbing under the same roof. Across the pond, in Copenhagen, a dry slope called CopenHill was constructed atop a power plant inside the city. Like SkiStar, it provides stellar views.

To learn more about CopenHill in Copenhagen, just click the image below.

Summer Skiing in Sweden
Click the image to learn more about CopenHill in Copenhagen.

The arena opened last year to allow curious skiing enthusiasts to take the lift up to the top and ski down the slope. The summer version of the SkiStar Snow Park offers a number of features like rails and boxes designed by SkiStar’s new ambassador, freeskier and Olympic medalist Jesper Tjäder. A beginner’s area can be reached easily by conveyor.

Summer Skiing in Sweden
Hammabybackan in summer. Photo: Skistar.

In Hammarbybackan you ride with the same equipment as you do when you go skiing during the winter – a helmet as well as ordinary ski boots and skis/snowboard. Equipment can be rented in SkiStarshop Hammarbybacken. Wearing full-length trousers is recommended.

If you want to experience real winter skiing in Sweden, Åre might be the right destination. Just click the image below to learn more.

Summer Skiing in Sweden
If you want to experience real winter skiing in Sweden, Åre might be the right destination. Click the image to learn more.

With ski school all year round, you can hone your skiing technique and become a better skier, even in the summer. SkiStar offers everything from regular group ski school to tailor-made private lessons for all ages and levels. All skiers between the ages of 4-9 will be able to participate in Valle’s summer ski school where they will learn to turn, brake, and ride lifts while meeting new friends.

Summer Skiing in Sweden, written by Tor Kjolberg

Feature image (on top): © SkiStar

Scandinavia’s Most Successful Blogger – and Business Woman

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Swedish Elin Kling (born 17 February 1983) launched her personal fashion blog ‘Style by Kling’ in 2007. Within two days her blog was the country’s most-followed fashion blog. Read more about Scandinavia’s most successful blogger – and business woman.

Last May, Elin Kling was awarded “Entrepreneur of the Year 2023” (”Næringslivets Mektigste Kvinne 2023”) by the Swedish business newspaper Dagens Industri.

Kling is a country girl, from a farm in Mariestad in Västra Götaland, where she grew up with three siblings. At school, she was so clever that she was allowed to skip a grade. The first important encounter with pop culture was with the artist Robyn.

You can also learn more about the top 7 Scandinavian influencers by clicking the image below.

Scandinavia’s Most Successful Blogger – and Business Woman
Click the image to read more about the top 7 Scandinavian influencers.

From Nowhere to Entrepreneur of the Year 2023

At the age of 22, she moved to Stockholm, where she landed a position as an invoice manager in a financial agency. The employer also paid for economics studies and her employment was successful. Eventually was aquanited with Stockholm’s nightlife around Stureplan. Many of her friends blogged, but Kling was skeptical. How was she supposed to update a page three times a day? She who didn’t know much about fashion? And who couldn’t care less about text?

Scandinavia’s Most Successful Blogger – and Business Woman
Elin Kling for Oeiflame.

However, in 2009, Kling co-founded digital media company Fashion Networks with Christian Remröd. The two also worked together to launch the brand Nowhere. She began her career in fashion at Swedish lifestyle magazine Solo and worked as head of the fashion desk at Sweden’s second largest newspaper, Expressen. Her personal fashion blog was also hosted on the website of TV4, Sweden’s largest television network.

Same year, she became head stylist for Swedish Idol and became known as Sweden’s “idol” stylist and then a full-time blogger for which she achieved great respect in the industry.

Scandinavia’s Most Successful Blogger – and Business Woman
Elin Kling amd her husband Karl Lindman. Photo: Browns Fashion.

Acclaimed designer

One year later, an email appeared in her inbox – from H&M. They wanted a meeting with Kling. At the meeting, they asked if she would create an autumn collection for them. The collaboration was top secret. No one had to know about it. Eventually, the clothing giant became so satisfied that they wanted her to create a larger collection and postponed the launch until spring 2011. She was the first blogger to design a collection for H&M. The same year, she launched her own magazine, Styleby. She served as the magazine’s fashion editor and creative director.

In 2012, Kling created a collection for Guess by Marciano. In 2014, she launched the clothing line Totême, with her husband, Karl Lindman. In recent years the brand has gained a foothold internationally.

In 2015, Kling shut down her blog, much to the dismay of many. The founding couple married in 2016 and today have two children and run Totême from Stockholm and New York.

Scandinavia’s Most Successful Blogger – and Business Woman
Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 Award.

When Kling was awarded the Entrepreneur of the Year Prize in May this year, the mother of two wrote on Instagram that she was both touched and proud.

“It is not often I stop and feel proud of myself, but today it was very emotional when I received the “Entrepreneur Of The Year” award from Dagens Industri. And in a room filled with Sweden’s most powerful women. Thank you for a wonderful and inspiring lunch and thank you for my award,” she wrote below two pictures of the framed award and herself.

Scandinavia’s Most Successful Blogger – and Business Woman, written by Tor Kjolberg.

Feature image (on top): © Oriflame

Musical traditions in Sweden

Dalarne in Sweden is famous for its music and marrymaking of Midsummer. Music is one of the most defining characteristics of Dala culture. Read more about musical traditions in Dalarne, Sweden.

To experience culture and Heritage in Dalarna is a must if you want to explore the Swedish “kulturarv” ( heritage). The place to start is in the Lake Siljan region. Many of the symbols you might think typically Swedish is deeply rooted in Dalarna: Midsummer celebrations, red-painted cottages, the gorgeous folk costumes, foot-tapping folk music and – of course – the Dala horse.

Musical traditions in Sweden
Joining a Midsummer celebration with dance around the May pole should be on your bucket list. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

Week 27

The music festival Music on Lake Siljan (Musik vid Siljan) ended in 2019, after 50 years as one of the country’s oldest (and largest) music festivals. However, the classic “week 27” is carried out in new forms every year.

The people of Dalarna are proud of their culture. Traditions, festivities such as midsummer, their “folkdräkter” (traditional clothes which are typical to a village or a region) and outdoor music festivals are what makes Dalarna unique. In the summer you can also participate in outdoor church services.

For other attractions in Dalarne click the image below.

Musical traditions in Sweden
For other attractions in Dalarna, click the image.

There are many cultural attractions in Dalarna and some of them have to be on your Dalarna ‘bucket list’. One is joining a Midsummer celebration with dance around the May pole in any town or village in Dalarna at the end of June.

Musical traditions in Sweden
Dalhalla. Photo: Wikipedia

Spelmansstämman

Distinctly Dala are the spelmansstämman, folk musicians’ rallies, particularly the one held each July in Bingsjö. In the summertime, you can also find restaurants where they play popular country style music. If you enjoy classic music head for the acoustically superb Dalhalla open-air concert venue near Rättvik. The setting, in a disused quarry, is as spectacular as the acoustic sounds. The annual summer festivals here feature artists of international standing.

Musical traditions in Sweden, written by Tor Kjolberg

Feature image (on top) © Jonna Eriksson, Visit Dalarna

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System

Norwegian resource sustainability company TOMRA and Danish Aarhus City center collaborate to create Scandinavian innovative reuse system.

TOMRA has been selected to set up a new reuse system to deposit takeaway packaging in the city of Aarhus, Denmark. The people of Aarhus can soon enjoy coffee in a reusable cup that is good for the city and for the environment. The three-year trial focuses on take away cups with a deposit.

Convenient and sustainable system

The system is expected to be established in the city center of Aarhus and will help the city to gradually conduct transition from single-use packaging to reusable packaging. The plan is to expand the system to also cover all types of takeaway packaging ensuring a holistic, convenient, and sustainable system.

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System
The system is expected to be established in the city center of Aarhus and will help the city to gradually transition from single-use packaging to reusable packaging.

Deployment of this convenient and sustainable system will further contribute to maintaining a circular economy across the city.

Read about Norway’s successful plastic and metal recycling system by clicking the image below.

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System
Click image to read about Norway’s successful plastic and metal recycling system.

Shift from single use to reusable packaging

“We are excited to be able to develop and test a deposit system to enable the shift from single use packaging to reusable packaging and are very happy to begin our first pilot in Aarhus. It is our aim to create a system which makes it as easy as possible for people to reuse their packaging and can also meet the wishes and needs of the local business community,” says Geir Sæther, SVP Circular Economy TOMRA.

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System
Geir Sæther, SVP Circular Economy TOMRA.

TOMRA said that disposable cups are used for 15 minutes or less on average before they are discarded. In the search for ever more convenience, we have created waste mountains. In Europe alone an estimated 60-70 billion single use takeaway containers are used per year and most of the packaging that gets collected today is not recycled, so there is much to do to enable a world without waste. A disposable cup is used for an average of 15 minutes before it ends up as waste. If we reuse the cup instead of throwing it away, we save both the earth’s scarce resources and reduce waste.

You may also like to read about the Swedish designers who change the way companies think about waste. Just click the image below.

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System
Click image to read about the Swedish designers who change the way companies think about waste.

Shared ambitions and visions

“Aarhus must dare to be frontrunners and test new green solutions. We are happy to have found a business partner who shares our ambitions and visions, and who wants to invest in a system that can potentially reduce our consumption of disposable packaging significantly,” says Nicolaj Bang, Alderman for Technical Services and Environment, Aarhus Municipality.

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System
Nicolaj Bang, Alderman for Technical Services and Environment, Aarhus Municipality.

A million plastic bottles are sold every minute. TOMRA has made it its mission to stop them reaching the ocean.

Scandinavian Innovative Reuse System, based on a press release from TOMRA.

Celebrating the Flavors of Autumn With a Scandinavian Barbecue

In countries like Sweden, around 65% of people with electric grills prefer outdoor grills, with garden parties and outdoor lunches holding sway when the weather permits. Far from belong limited to the summer, barbecues are celebrated on warm days in Autumn, and indeed, many would say that this season in Scandinavia is one of the most flavorful of the year. Just now, Scandinavians are celebrating the flavors of autumn with a Scandinavian barbecue.

The air grows crisper, the temperature drops, and comfort foods abound. Of the many cooking styles that appear in the fall, barbecue, grilled, and smoked foods appeal, owing to the wonderful warm sensations they bring and the myriad of delicious sauces and sides that make for a perfect meal. Below are just a few ways in which you can give your barbecue meals a distinctly Scandinavian flavor this autumn.

Choosing Your Grill

Most Scandinavians have their own home-cooked barbecue set-up, but if you are in Scandinavia for a visit or you don’t want to invest in a home grill, you may be tempted to buy an engångsgrill (or one-time grill), which you can find at typical convenience and grocery stores. These are disposable aluminum pans that people use on beaches and in parks. They are cheap and easy to use, but the downside is their environmental footprint.

Titti Qvarnström, the head chef of Malmö’s renowned Bloom in the Park, recommends simply digging a hole in sand, topping the hole with a mesh grill, piling on some charcoal, burning it, and using an aluminium container as a pot to cook freshly caught fish. Keep your grilling experience safe by avoiding the use of accelerants, preheating your grill (so your meat does not bond to the metal), and making sure to marinade meat beforehand. Doing so creates a protective barrier on meat and helps stop heterocyclic amines (HCAs) from forming on meat.

By clicking the image below you can learn about a Swedish BBQ revolution.

Celebrating the Flavors of Autumn With a Scandinavian Barbecue
Click the image to learn about a Swedish barbeque revolution.

 Top Choices for Grilled Meat

At a typical barbecue or grill party in Sweden in the Autumn, you can expect to find a host of different meat types—including korv (sausages), shellfish, salmon, veal liver, and lamb. Game is also big in the autumn in many Scandinavian countries. For instance, in Norway, traditional barbecued dishes can include reindeer (served with game sauce), whale steaks, and mutton chops. Marinades are not as sweet as traditional sweet barbecue sauces in the US. A simple but well-loved recipes involves marinading meat in a blend of vegetable oil, beer, soy sauce, garlic gloves, onion, and smashed whole black pepper. Feel free to add a little jalapeño chili if you like things spicy!

To learn more about how to serve Norwegian fish at your outdoor barbeque, just click the image below.

Celebrating the Flavors of Autumn With a Scandinavian Barbecue
Click the image to learn more about how to serve Norwegian fish at your outdoor barbeque,

Fruit and Vegetable Sides

Scandinavians also enjoy celebrating seasonal fruits during their barbecue bashes. Skewer up your favorite autumn fruits—including apples, pears, and strawberries. Of course, vegetables make the perfect sides so instead of serving mash or fries, boost the antioxidant goodness of your meal with root vegetables like squash, carrots, and parsnips. These ingredients can also form part of a warm soup or sautéed dish to accompany your grilled meats. Swedish yellow pea soup will warm your guests up while they are waiting for meat to grill, while a lovely Vitkål sallader (featuring cabbage tossed in a warm vinaigrette) will be perfect once your meat dishes have been served. Don’t forget to bring corn-on-the-cob. It’s a staple at most Scandinavian barbecues, as are cherry tomatoes, green and red peppers, mushrooms, and onions. If you love umami flavors, opt for chanterelle or porcini mushrooms. Pop them directly on the grill or in your favorite side soup.

Celebrating the Flavors of Autumn With a Scandinavian Barbecue
Scandinavians also enjoy celebrating seasonal fruits during their barbecue bashes. Photo: Nordic Expat Shop

Fruit-Based Sauces

A myriad of berries grows in Scandinavia in the autumn, and just a few you can use to make beautiful sauces to accompany your grilled meat and vegetable fests include lingonberries, bilberries, and elderberries. It is easy to make lingonberry sauce (a firm favorite) and you can do so in advance, reducing the amount of work you have on the day of your barbecue party. Simply place around 4 cups of clean berries in a pan with ½ cup of water and heat to boiling point. Add 1 cup of sugar and simmer for around 10 minutes, stirring the mixture. Finally, place the pan in cold water and stir the sauce for around 2 minutes. Refrigerate the sauce and serve it cold with your grilled fare.

Scandinavians love a good barbecue, and they don’t let the coolness of autumn stop them from enjoying an outdoor get-together. To prepare a barbecue in the winter, aim to combine your favorite meat dishes with seasonal fruits and vegetables. Make sure to follow traditional recipes for delicious starters and sides, ranging from warm soup to delightfully fruity sauces.

Celebrating the Flavors of Autumn With a Scandinavian Barbecue
Karoline Gore

Celebrating the Flavors of Autumn With a Scandinavian Barbecue, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Karoline Gore. Karoline is a freelance writer from Stoke on Trent in the UK who left the corporate grind when she started a family and has never looked back. She enjoys contributing to a range of online publications on the topics that are important to her.

Feature image (on top): © Joshua Kantarges/Unsplash

Pet Friendly Norway – A Guide to Oslo’s Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots

Dog owners share a special bond with their furry friends, a relationship that is filled with loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love. This unique bond often makes it difficult for many canine enthusiasts to leave their fluffy companions behind, especially when venturing outdoors. Learn more about pet friendly Norway – A guide to Oslo’s best dog-friendly dining hot spots. 

Traveling or dining out can sometimes pose a challenge, as not all places accommodate these beloved pets. But fear not, dog lovers in Oslo, Norway. This guide is tailor-made for you, offering a comprehensive list of top-notch dog-friendly dining hotspots in the city. So, keep reading to discover your next favorite restaurant where you and your four-legged friend are welcome.

Pet Friendly Norway - A Guide to Oslo's Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots
Holmenkollen Park Hotel. Photo: Wikipedia

Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel

Overlooking the city of Oslo and the enchanting Oslofjord, the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel is a remarkable 4-star establishment nestled in a pastoral setting adjacent to the Fridtjof Nansen statue. As you immerse yourself in the panoramic vistas, you’ll appreciate the hotel’s tranquil environment juxtaposed against its city proximity.

Canine companions of all sizes are welcome and sincerely embraced at the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel for a fee. This inclusive pet policy ensures that you needn’t leave your beloved pet behind while you indulge in a delightful dining experience.

Pet Friendly Norway – A Guide to Oslo’s Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots, article continues below the image.

Pet Friendly Norway - A Guide to Oslo's Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots
Grand Hotel, Oslo

Grand Hotel Oslo

The Grand Hotel Oslo, a beacon of sophistication and elegance in Norway’s capital city, offers more than just a luxurious stay for its human guests. This iconic hotel has also rolled out the red carpet for furry friends, ensuring that man’s best friend is treated with the same hospitality and care.

While specific dog amenities are not listed on the hotel’s website or in online reviews, it’s clear that the Grand Hotel Oslo welcomes pets. It’s wise to contact the hotel directly to inquire about specific services such as dog beds, feeding bowls, or special treats.

Pet Friendly Norway – A Guide to Oslo’s Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots, article continues below the image.

Pet Friendly Norway - A Guide to Oslo's Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots
Radisson Blue Hotel, Oslo

The Radisson Blu Park Hotel

The Radisson Blu Park Hotel, Oslo, renowned for its beach locale and highly praised property conditions, welcomes human guests and their canine companions. Situated in the picturesque Lysaker area, this 4-star hotel is just outside the bustling city center, providing a serene retreat for you and your furry friend.

The hotel’s dog-friendly policy embraces dogs of all sizes, ensuring they are treated with the same hospitality as their owners. For a nominal fee of NOK 200 per night, your canine companion can enjoy the comfort and luxury of the Radisson Blu Park Hotel.

However, contacting the hotel directly for details about specific dog amenities, such as beds, feeding bowls, or special treats, is always wise.

Restaurants That Are Pet Friendly

In addition to hotels, several restaurants in Oslo warmly welcome patrons accompanied by their furry friends. Notable among these are L’Ardoise, a charming bistro renowned for its French-inspired cuisine, and Mama Pizza Osteria, where you can enjoy authentic Italian pizza in a cozy setting. Cha, offering aromatic Asian fusion, and Pégneria, known for its exquisite wine selection and European dishes, also open their doors to dogs and their owners.

Additionally, eco-conscious diners with dogs might prefer Loving Hut, a vegan eatery promoting sustainable dining practices. Most of these establishments permit dogs on their patios, provided they are on a leash and well-behaved, thus ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all patrons.

Also, most hotels will require you to see a dog’s health certificate, so ensure you prioritize your dog’s health if you hope to take it to food establishments. Food plays a critical role in dog health, so ensure your dog gets a balanced diet. You may also want to give it occasional prebiotic and a probiotic supplement for improved gut and overall health. Keeping your dog up-to-date on vaccinations will also be a critical factor in admission to establishments.

You can read about the rules for bringing your dog with you to Scandinavia by clicking the image below.

Pet Friendly Norway - A Guide to Oslo's Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots
Click the image to learn the rules for bringing your dog with you to Scandinavia.

Pet Friendly Norway – A Guide to Oslo’s Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots Conclusion

Oslo’s warm embrace of furry friends makes it an exceptionally dog-friendly city, where dining with your canine companion is possible and delightful. This guide has curated some of the city’s finest hotels and restaurants, where hospitality extends beyond human guests to include your four-legged friends.

Pet Friendly Norway - A Guide to Oslo's Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots
Nadine Westwood

Pet Friendly Norway – A Guide to Oslo’s Best Dog-Friendly Dining Hot Spots, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Nadine Westwood. Nadine is a registered dietitian, travel blogger & fitness lover. In her spare time, she helps save stray animals. Nadine really does enjoy sharing her fitness journey with others who might need help with weight loss or finding a stress reliever.

Feature image (on top): © Wolfgang Claussen/Pixabay

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture

Embarking on a journey to immerse oneself in a different culture is a remarkable experience that broadens horizons and enriches lives. The diverse cultural landscape of Scandinavia, combining historical, cultural, and modern elements, offers an absorbing journey. Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture.

The unruffled landscapes of Denmark and the storied Viking legacy of Sweden, intertwined, form a spellbinding fabric of adventures. The Scandinavian culture is our focus here, as we examine its distinctive aspects, rituals, and habits. Leveraging the inside knowledge and tips provided, this guide will embark you on an engaging Scandinavian journey, indulging you in its resplendent heritage and preserving the essence of Scandinavian flair.

Exploring Danish Culture: Embracing Hygge and Tradition

With a deep dive into Danish culture, your heart will inevitably be left with a memorable impact. Denmark’s center holds the dominance of “hygge”. An untranslatable term encapsulates the intrinsic value Danes place on the warm, close connection of togetherness. From the bustling city to the charming villages, you experience the distillation of hygge in the beaming countenances of the Danish people.

You can read more about Danish hygge by clicking the image below.

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture
Click image to learn more about Danish hygge.

The Role of Essay Writing Services in Cultural Exchange

As we venture deeper into the Scandinavian realm, it’s essential to acknowledge how essay writing services promote cultural understanding. In the age of technology, there is now access to conveniently pay for essays that provide valuable insights into various cultures, including Scandinavian culture, thus fostering a greater understanding globally. These essay writing services act as a conduit, unveiling obscure details, customs, and viewpoints to readers. Foreign cultures’ intricacies are illuminated through well-crafted essays, fostering cultural exchange and weaving a rich global cultural fabric.

Viking Museum Stockholm: A Glimpse into Viking Daily Life

During a visit to Stockholm, Scandinavian culture unfolds through a historical perspective. Transporting visitors to the realm of ancient Norse seafarers, the Viking Museum resides on Djurgården Island. Interactive displays and meticulously preserved artifacts paint a comprehensive picture of Viking life, encompassing their navigation prowess and intricate social dynamics. Surrounding oneself with Scandinavian culture allows for a more nuanced grasp of its historical development.

You can learn more about the Vikings by clicking the image below.

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture
Click the image to learn ore about the Vikings.

Unveiling the Traits of Scandinavian People: Nordic Looking Beings and Minimalist Modernity

Curiosity often leads travelers to ponder: How do Scandinavian individuals typically appear? Their Nordic background is defined by a set of common physical traits, including fair skin, light eyes, and towering frames. The region’s historical and geographical context is mirrored in these physical attributes. After a closer examination of Scandinavian culture, the richness of community, endurance, and mutual connection with nature becomes apparent.

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture
Scandinavian minimalism has gained international acclaim in today’s context.

Scandinavian minimalism has gained international acclaim in today’s context. A byproduct of this design principle, Scandinavian homes are characterized by spaciousness and simplicity. By prioritizing simplicity and consistency, a minimalist Scandinavian home reflects the philosophy of minimalism. With global recognition, individuals are motivated to incorporate this design style into their personal spaces.

The Swedish Lifestyle: Embracing Nordic Traditions

By effortlessly fusing the old and new, Sweden cultivates a harmonious ambiance. Pride in their Nordic heritage is evident in the festivals, cuisine, and mundane activities of the Swedes. Midsummer festivities exemplify Scandinavian culture’s respect for nature and the sun’s role. At these events, the joy of bonding with loved ones is forged through shared customs, transcending the limitations of time.

Benefits of Essays in Understanding Scandinavian Culture

Exploring the depths of Scandinavian culture, academic papers hold weighty significance. A unique perspective into the complex world of tradition, history, and customs is provided by these windows. Essays offer a rich analysis of Scandinavian culture, providing a thorough understanding. Offering a thorough exploration of daily life’s intricacies, ancient customs’ cultural significance, and the modern developments impacting Scandinavian populations.

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture
Essays offer a rich analysis of Scandinavian culture. Photo: Fjord Tours.

The Allure of Scandinavian Culture: A Journey Worth Embarking On

In summary, Scandinavian culture offers a journey that guarantees enrichment and enlightenment. The Scandinavian region is an open invitation to uncover its age-old customs and historical gems. This cultural experience is distinct due to its striking balance of minimalism, community, and historical richness. Following this guide, delve into the intricate particulars of Danish hygge, the enchanting mystique of Swedish culture, and the vibrant characteristics of Scandinavian individuals. Your exploration of Scandinavian culture through essays will not only allow you to observe but also become a part of its living and evolving story.

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture – Final Thoughts

Set against the vibrant background of diverse cultural traditions, Scandinavian character emerges as a brilliant thread, intertwining accounts of Viking history, alluring ceremonies, and sleek sophistication. This life-altering journey, led by a Scandinavian, forces individuals outside of their conventional limits. Beneath the dynamic spirit of Copenhagen, Stockholm’s acclaimed cultural institutions, and Sweden’s nurturing way of life, there lies an essential connection between Scandinavia’s core and the multifaceted sagas and communal experiences that shape its distinct personality. Leaving behind the mundane, step into this mesmerizing realm, and witness Scandinavian customs come alive before your eyes.

Immersing Yourself in the Warmth of Scandinavian Culture, written exclusively for Daily Scandinavian by Mark Hiskey. Mark harnesses the potency of language to shape enthralling narratives and deeply connect with readers. Employing his keyboard as a canvas and imagination as an endless wellspring, he breathes life into concepts through the medium of content writing.

Feature image (on top) © Visit Sweden

Editor’s notes: Scandinavia consists of three countries; Denmark, Norway and Sweden.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You

Known for its high standards of living, its natural beauty that’s ideal for outdoor lovers, and work-life balance, there are many reasons to want to work and travel in Scandinavia. Learn more about jobs you can have while travelling in Scandinavia that are great for you.

But what are the requirements to do that? And what jobs can you have while on the move, exploring all that this subregion of Northern Europe has to offer?

Work nomadically 

One of the easiest ways to travel and work is to land yourself a job that allows you to work remotely. However, there are some things you’ll need to do your research on when it comes to being a digital nomad in Scandinavia.

If you are from an EEA, EU or Schengen country, then you’re in luck: you’ll be able to work nomadically with no need for a work permit or visa. You will have to register in whichever country you find yourself in though, should you stay there for longer than 3 months.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You
One of the easiest ways to travel and work is to land yourself a job that allows you to work remotely.

Unfortunately, if you hail from elsewhere in the world, getting the right to work in Scandinavian countries is a little more complicated. In both Sweden and Denmark, you will need to prove that you are working for a company or clients based in that country to obtain a work permit.

While Norway differs, offering the Svalbard Digital Nomad Visa, it comes with its own hoops to jump through. The cost to apply is approximately €600 and you will be expected to have a yearly income of around €35,000. For more information on how the Scandinavian working world works, check out dailyscandinavian.com.

Remote jobs

Although there are certainly lots of boxes to check, working in Scandinavia is very possible. All it takes is getting your ducks in a row, and a clear idea of a nomadic career path to follow. So, what are your job options?

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You
As a virtual assistant, a stable internet connection is vital.

1. Virtual Assistant 

This is a position that demands a variety of skills, from calendar optimisation and overall organisation to writing, marketing, social media management, and sometimes some designing. So, if your wheelhouse involves a little bit of everything, then this could be a great choice for you.

If you’re working full-time as a virtual assistant for a company, then you’ll need to make sure you have some kind of office set-up available to you, even when you’re travelling. That could look like the corner of your hotel room or a co-working space.

In that office space, a stable internet connection is vital. As are noise-cancelling headphones to ensure that your meetings aren’t disturbed by the comings and goings around you. While you’re travelling, you run a greater risk of distractions seeping into your working life. Invest in the tech you need to mitigate that.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You, article continues below image.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You
While you may not need an office set up, a quiet corner, free from distractions is never a bad idea.

2. Freelance Writer 

If you have an eye for detail, a passion for words, and the ability to consistently meet deadlines, then why not consider becoming a freelance writer? There is a plethora of blog posts, articles, listicles, and website copy out there for the taking. So polish up your pitch-writing skills to start forging a career.

Once you’ve published a few pieces, consider setting up a website to show off your portfolio to continue attracting new clients. Not only will this make you look more professional, but you’ll be able to let your writing do the talking. Remember to keep your portfolio updated with your most recent work.

While you may not need an office set up, a quiet corner, free from distractions is never a bad idea so that you can transform your ideas into high-quality copy with ease. And most importantly, ensure you have cloud storage of some kind. A rookie digital nomad mistake is having to start an article from scratch because you had technical problems and forgot to back up your files.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You, article continues below picture.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You
First-hand insights into the ESL industry afre important.

3. ESL Teacher

Regardless of prior experience, or which field you’ve previously worked in, so long as you’re proficient in English, you can train to become an ESL teacher. What’s more, with the possibility to complete your training course online, you can learn to teach from anywhere in the world.

The industry standard is the 120-hour course, and it will consist of a variety of modules that will cover teaching methodology, the ins and outs of English grammar, and much more. You’ll also get the opportunity to pick the brains of experienced tutors who can give you first-hand insights into the ESL industry. For more information on courses read this blog article from The TEFL Org.

Once you’ve qualified, your next step is finding clients. In terms of starting out as an online English teacher, you have two choices. You can apply to online teaching companies, which often provide teachers with the lesson material and handle the marketing side of things. Alternatively, you can go completely freelance and focus on your own preferred niche.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You, article continues below image.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You
Programmer is a position you can opt to either do freelance or by working for a company that allows remote working.

4. Programmer

If you don’t mind spending a lot of time staring at a computer screen and are adept at problem-solving, then programming could be a good fit for you. Like teaching, this is a position you can opt to either do freelance or by working for a company that allows remote working.

Things to consider include that you may find yourself working in a fast-paced role that requires you to learn new information regularly. While it could feel as though your training for this job never really ends, continued education could also make for very engaging work.

Another plus is that most programmers have a standard working day, from Monday to Friday, with no need for weekend availability or evening hours. So wherever you find yourself in Scandinavia, you’ll be able to clock off, just like everyone else, and make the most of your weekends exploring.

Overall, what makes a job great for you while you’re travelling in Scandinavia will depend on what it is you’re looking for in said job. There are many ways to explore a country and often countless things to do while you’re there and not on the clock. But what makes a job the right fit for you is your own personal goals and interests.

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You
Gemma Jackson

Jobs You Can Have While Traveling in Scandinavia That Are Great For You, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Gemma Jackson. Gemma is a London-born poet and freelance writer currently based in Italy. Her publications include Fil/Uh (Salò Press, 2023); Aprire (Broken Sleep Books, 2020); and Delineate (Blurb, 2016). Her work has also appeared in Litmus, DATABLEED, Molly Bloom, Adjacent Pineapple, and most recently, Londnr Magazine.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources

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Technological investments experienced a significant shift in priorities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes appeared in various industries. Learn more about post-pandemic tech investments: Where Scandinavian IT companies are allocating resources.

Even with industrial and regional varieties, there are several common trends.

First, the shift to remote work led to increased investments in technologies supporting virtual collaboration, communication, and remote access. Another essential change concerns digital transformation. Due to changing consumer behavior and operational challenges, many businesses require digital transformation to adapt to these new realities.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
E-commerce has always largely depended on IT.

E-Commerce

E-commerce has always largely depended on IT, though the COVID-19 pandemic directed IT firms’ attention to enhancing online shopping platforms, including those for mobile devices. It improved user-friendly interfaces, intuitive navigation, and enhanced search and filtering capabilities. IT companies used the development of AI and machine learning to analyze customer data and behavior and provide personalized product recommendations and targeted marketing campaigns.

One of the exciting features developed is virtual try-on and augmented reality (AR). It compensated for the limitations of in-person shopping. Advancements concern payment options, either. IT firms provided streamlined checkout processes and multiple payment options, represented by digital wallets and mobile payment solutions.

Scandinavian IT companies modernized supply chain and inventory management systems that allow businesses efficiently manage stock levels, optimize order fulfilment, and ensure timely delivery to customers. Additionally, to meet the increased demand for online shopping, Scandinavian IT companies have developed last-mile delivery solutions, including route optimization algorithms and real-time tracking capabilities.

IT firms have also succeeded in providing e-commerce platforms with integrated click-and-collect options, enabling customers to order online and purchase from desired pickup points. The customer base also got expanded due to the facilitation of cross-border e-commerce. The process covered solutions for international shipping, customs, and currency conversion.

E-commerce also implemented analytics tools, bringing businesses valuable insights into customer behaviour, sales trends, and performance metrics. Significantly, reflecting the region’s commitment to sustainability, Scandinavian e-commerce technologies may incorporate eco-friendly practices, such as carbon footprint tracking, sustainable packaging options, and transparency regarding product sourcing.

Want to expand your e-commerce into the Nordics? To learn more, just click the image below.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
Want to expand your e-commerce into the Nordics? Click to learn more.

Lanars is an international hardware & software development company creating custom IT solutions to help businesses be in time for tomorrow.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
Scandinavian IT companies focused on enhancing healthcare delivery.

Healthcare

Healthcare technology was revealed as a crucial one at times of the pandemic. Scandinavian IT companies focused on enhancing healthcare delivery, improving patients’ experience, and ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare providers. Remote patient monitoring solutions allow healthcare providers to track patients’ vital signs, symptoms, and medication adherence from a distance, which is particularly valuable in the case of managing chronic conditions and monitoring COVID-19 patients in quarantine.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
learn more about similarities and differences in Nordic healthcare systems compared to other countries by clicking the image.

Modern digital health apps provide users with information, symptom assessment, self-care guidance, and mental health support. Scandinavian IT, including Lanars,  firms took an active part in developing healthcare analytics and data management. It allowed for tracking and analyzing the virus’s spread, predicting outbreaks, and allocating resources efficiently. After receiving these tools, healthcare authorities can make informed decisions based on real-time data.

A substantial brunch of healthcare technology development was the development of platforms for managing and tracking COVID-19 vaccine distribution. It helped to ensure the delivery of the vaccines to the correct locations and administered to the appropriate individuals.

Want to learn more about similarities and differences in Nordic healthcare systems compared to other countries? Just click the image below.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
Scandinavian IT companies have also explored the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR).

Virtual Reality

Scandinavian IT companies have also explored the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in healthcare, aiming to enhance medical training, simulate surgical procedures, and facilitate remote consultations and collaboration among healthcare professionals. Healthcare robotics and automation technologies development improved healthcare settings, particularly tasks such as disinfection, medication delivery, and patient monitoring. Considering AI and machine learning (ML) in diagnostics, Scandinavian IT companies have developed these technologies to enable them to analyze medical images and clinical data to support accurate and timely diagnoses.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
With people spending more time at home, there was a surge in investments in streaming platforms, online gaming, and digital entertainment content.

Entertainment

With people spending more time at home, there was a surge in investments in streaming platforms, online gaming, and digital entertainment content, and Scandinavian IT companies have been actively involved in it. IT companies have contributed to the evolution of video content, music, and gaming streaming platforms. IT companies have created tools and software that empower content creators to produce high-quality videos, music, and other digital media. Scandinavian IT companies have explored VR and AR technologies, including VR gaming, AR apps for entertainment, and virtual tours of cultural attractions.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
Scandinavian companies have contributed to the growth of e-sports and online gaming ecosystems.

e-Sports and online gaming

Moreover, Scandinavian companies have contributed to the growth of e-sports and online gaming ecosystems, expanding gaming platforms, tournament management systems, and interactive experiences for gamers. A lot of it was done by leveraging AI and machine learning to personalize recommendations concerning movies, music, games, and other kinds of entertainment. The overall goal appeared to be gaining a new level of accessibility and inclusivity of digital entertainment content. IT companies cater to consumers’ changing preferences and behaviours, seeking entertainment options in the post-pandemic era.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
The pandemic demonstrated how vital sustainability and environmental concerns are.

Environmental concerns

The pandemic demonstrated how vital sustainability and environmental concerns are. Scandinavian IT firms have advanced sustainability, creating smart grid solutions that improve energy distribution, storage, and consumption management. Their software and hardware solutions for monitoring and optimizing energy consumption in buildings, industries, and transportation systems help reduce energy waste and greenhouse gas emissions. The development of the special platforms allows connecting businesses and consumers to promote the exchange of used products, materials, and resources, facilitating the transition to a circular economy where people reuse, recycle, and repurpose resources.

Scandinavian IT firms develop solutions for better environmental management, represented by air quality sensors, water management systems, and wildlife tracking technologies. Furthermore, IT companies have contributed to sustainable transportation technologies, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure, smart traffic management systems, and mobility services platforms.

Other essential aspects of IT firms’ involvement in sustainability development include waste management technologies, agriculture technologies, building information modelling (BIM) software, energy-efficient building management systems, and sustainable construction materials.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
Scandinavian IT companies often collaborate with universities, research institutions, and other companies.

Cross-functional collaboration

Scandinavian IT firms have a reputation for innovation, high-quality products, and a strong focus on sustainability. To maintain leading positions in the competitive technology landscape, Scandinavian IT firms invest heavily in research and development to create innovative solutions and praise talent. They often collaborate with universities, research institutions, and other companies. The following central strategy outlines user experience and design thinking for creating user-friendly, intuitive, and aesthetically pleasing products that resonate with customers.

Many Scandinavian IT firms prioritize sustainability and corporate social responsibility, presenting environmentally friendly products, reducing their carbon footprint, and contributing positively to society. They choose agile methodology and open and collaborative culture. It also concerns the focus on flexible work arrangements. While rooted in their local markets, Scandinavian IT firms have a global mindset. They expand internationally, seeking partnerships and markets beyond their home countries. The discussed IT firms are open to emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, IoT, and blockchain. Significantly, quality assurance and cybersecurity are paramount for Scandinavian IT firms, which allows their products to be associated with reliability, security, and data protection.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources – Conclusion

Though the strategies discussed are not exclusive to Scandinavian IT firms, the Scandinavian countries’ unique cultural and societal values often contribute to a distinctive approach to business and innovation.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources
Arslan Tayliiev, CEO at LANARS.

Post-Pandemic Tech Investments: Where Scandinavian IT Companies are Allocating Resources, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Arslan Tayliiev.  Taylijev is CEO at LANARS, a hardware & software development company with a headquarter in Oslo, Norway. 15 years of experience as an entrepreneur and a degree in Business Economics, he is interested in the latest IT technologies, cryptocurrencies, blockchain, and space science. Arslan is enthusiastic about the versatility of fields and topics to dive into — Internet of Things, fintech, or manufacturing challenges. His biggest business drive lies in learning as much as possible about the specifics of the domain he is working with, to find the right solution for the optimization and digital transformation of a client’s venture or project.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia

Scandinavia might not be a golfing destination, but there’s something special about teeing off in the midnight sun. Check out these courses, exploring golfing opportunities in Scandinavia. Teeing off in the midnight sun: Exploring golfing opportunities in Scandinavia.

Ever dreamt of teeing off under a sun that never sets? Imagine the golden glow of the midnight sun illuminating the vast greens, the crisp air kissing your cheeks, and the soft hum of nature as your only distraction.

Welcome to golfing in Scandinavia! A place where the allure of the game combines magically with Mother Nature’s whimsical wonders. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual enthusiast, Scandinavia’s golfing landscape promises not just challenges and triumphs but a surreal experience that’s out of this world.

So, grab your golf clubs and join me as we venture into this Northern European golfing paradise. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t forget anytime soon. Here are some of the best golfing opportunities in Scandinavia for golfers of all levels.

Sweden

They may have a long, cold winter, but when golfing season arrives in Sweden, you’ll be blessed with a vast array of golf course choices. Here are two we love.

Bro Hof Slott Golf Club – The Castle Course

With a scenic Scottish- links-style layout with what’s known as “playable waste areas”, you’ll be spoiled with a diverse range of holes on this course. Narrow fairways, small bunkers, and curvy greens up the challenge.

Falsterbo Golf Club

Located almost in the Baltic Sea itself, Falsterbo Golf Club is unique in both its atmosphere and its play. The wind blows off the ocean almost constantly, so you’ll need to adjust your game if you want to get a good score. You’ll also be playing inside a nature reserve, so bird life and wildlife add to the magical feeling of the course.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Kongsvinger Golf Course in Norway.

Norway

This modern-meets-old-school Viking country has otherworldly natural features and culture of its own, and it also happens to be an amazing place to play a round of golf.

Lofoten Links

Visit Lofoten Links in the summer, and you can play right through the night under the midnight sun. It’s also a spectacular viewing point for the Aurora Borealis, so it’s well worth putting on your golfing bucket list!

Aside from the once-in-a-lifetime natural wonders of the course, you’ll have rugged rocky ground and striking water hazards to contend with. Plus, you’re playing on Viking burial grounds… So there’s always a chance of a supernatural encounter too!

Kongsvinger Golf Club

Near the Swedish border, you’ll find this gem of a club hidden in a pine forest. The dense trees give it an intimate feeling, instantly calming a racing mind and bringing it into a state of quiet harmony.

Wind your way through the woods, going from one great hole to another. The layout ebbs and flows along with the natural landscape, making you feel like you’re a part of the forest itself as you play the lush green fairways and sizable greens.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia, article continues below the image.

Read about expat Jordan Fuller rediscovering Scandinavian golf courses as gems for golfers by clicking the image below.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Rediscovering Scandinavian golf courses as gems for golfers. Click image. 

Denmark

The most metropolitan/medieval mix of a country, Denmark, is a worthwhile stop if you’re in Scandinavia. It’s also known as one of the happiest countries in the world… Maybe it’s the golf!

Great Northern Golf

A resort course on a small island, Great Northern, is a bit out of the way but an exciting play nonetheless… And the microbrewery on site is a bonus! The course itself is open and spacious, but half of it meanders up a sizable hill, adding to the test. Lightning-fast greens, intrusively-sized bunkers, and 7 man-made bodies of water make it an interesting round.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
The Scandinavian Golf Club.

The Scandinavian Golf Club

Tee off on two exquisite 18-hole courses, each a masterpiece of design and challenge, set amidst enchanting forests, serene lakes, and rolling hills. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, an unforgettable golfing adventure awaits on this course and if you’re a nature-lover, you’ll revel in the unspoiled landscape.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia, article continues below the image.

Check out these golf courses in the land of the midnight sun by clicking the image below.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Check out these golf courses in the land of the midnight sun by clicking the image.

Finland

Despite almost ⅔ of the country being covered in, Finland features some amazing golf courses built into those landscapes. It also boasts some of the happiest residents in the world… And with a strong sauna culture, it’s a great place to be if you want a little after-golf TLC.

Kytäjä Golf, North-West

The front nine of this course runs through fields and farmland before diving deep into the forest landscape for the back nine. Rocky cliffs, undulating ground, and visually intimidating holes throughout make it a spectacular course to play.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Pickala Golf Club

Pickala Golf Club – Forest Course

Similar to the above course, the Pickala Forest Course is split into a parkland nine and a forest nine. The holes run in a circle around a resort, so it’s an unusual layout. Trees, water, and sneaky bunkers will try and get in the way of a good score here.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Keilir Golf Club, Iceland.

Iceland

Play a round in the Land of Fire and Ice. While golf is only available for about 5 months of the year, if your visit happens to coincide, grab your chance.

Keilir Golf Club – The Hvaleyrarvöllur Course

Swing your clubs on a unique course here, with the front nine’s natural architecture carved from volcanic lava, giving it a distinctly different feel to most. Once you reach the back nine, you’ll be treated to picturesque views over the Alftanes peninsula and the Snaefells glacier, an ice-covered volcano.

As for golf, it’s more about accuracy and precision than power, so your iron game needs to be strong if you want to score well.

Brautarholt Golf Course

You’ll only be able to play here from May through September, but you can be on the course 24 hours a day, so there’s plenty of time for everyone to get a chance. Perched on rugged cliffs hugging the ocean, you’ll play through volcanic rock formations and past black sand beaches on your way to a decent score here. It’s just 12 holes right now, but it’s got 18 holes’ worth of action packed into it.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Torshavn Golf Club.

The Faroe Islands

With just one golf club, the Faroe Islands aren’t likely to be on your golfing list. But if you love a chilled, old-school way of life and the fact that there are more sheep than people in this territory, head out there for a day or two with your golf clubs.

Torshavn Golf Club

It may be the lone golf club in the Faroe Islands, but it’s worth traveling for. Craggy landscapes covered in green and dotted with sheep may deceive you into thinking there can’t possibly be a good golf course here, but you’ll be shocked at the quality of this little 9-hole course.

It’s about as rugged as they come, and you’ll feel like you’ve just set up an impromptu course in the middle of a shepherd’s field. But we guarantee it’ll be a golfing experience you’ll never forget… And you’ll definitely be back if you’re in the area again.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia – Conclusion

Heading to Scandinavia soon? Explore the rugged Viking landscape, stay up all night just because you can, marvel at the Northern Lights, and enjoy the cuisine… But don’t miss your chance to get a round (or a few) of amazing golf in as well.

Teeing Off in the Midnight Sun: Exploring Golfing Opportunities in Scandinavia
Jordan Fuller

Teeing off in the midnight sun: Exploring golfing opportunities in Scandinavia, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Jordan Fuller. Jordan s a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence

Feature image (on top): © Guide to Iceland

Editor’s notes: Scandinavia consists of three countries only; Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Finland and Iceland is part of the Nordic region, but not one of the Scandinavian countries. This is a widespread misunderstanding, also among some Scandinavians.