We agreed it had to be a frugal day as last night we had our first meal in a Swedish restaurant, one recommended by the staff at the hotel. Perhaps my fancy new cane gave them an incorrect estimate of our means - the restaurant was absolutely fabulous but extreme in cost! Here is a photo of us there, take by a friendly waiter. We are still smiling here as the food had arrived, looked incredible, but the bill hadn't!
This morning we arose slowly, and got downstairs to breakfast just in time! It was a lovely day, so walking as much as possible was a first goal. We headed for "Old Town" Stockholm, an island in the middle of what is now the modern city. Buildings first erected in as early as 1290 can be viewed there - awe-striking! This church is closed at the moment; given it's base structure is 722 years old, we were not surprised! I touched the outside in multiple places, thinking of all the other humans that must have done so over all those years. The stone has a notable spirit to it!
We walked for a time along the water, noting that there were only low (18") bars to prevent one from spilling in to the water! We determined that Swedish children must be very quiet creatures, or parents very relaxed! Here is the main man, happy to be beside the water. Behind him are the buildings of Old Town Stockholm.
Next to the palace! What a palace it is! It was such a gorgeous day we opted not to go in this time - but will definitely see this before we leave. Swedish Royalty used to be voted in by all the King's Men! Related or not, the best man for the job used to be voted in. It is not that way now, and the heir to the throne is a Princess - the current King's daughter.
It was time for some lunch and a break from walking (for me)! We decided to pick a small restaurant in a residential area to reduce costs and support Swedish small business. Found a quaint corner cafe, very busy with locals and pictures for the menu. Very helpful, especially when the proprietor can speak little English. As always he was helpful and gracious, and the food fresh and tasty!
From here we went to Sweden's largest second hand store, which turned out to be right down the road! Oh my goodness! If we only had a way to bring home the antique sewing machines, the beautiful vases and plates, and lovely furniture.
Next it was on a quest to find a McDonald's coffee - even in Sweden where they value and support the local economy and multinationals are much rarer than elsewhere. I had lasted this long but today was the day. Stuart patiently drove to the locations the gps told us to until one actually worked! With a McDonald's coffee in hand, off to the stable we went to walk the aisles and pet the horses. A heavenly activity for me. And Stuart befriended the local stable manager, who chatted with him about cars and life in general. Here is one of the friendliest horses I have ever met - he absolutely loved the soft fur on my cuffs. Another treasure I would gladly bring home if I could find a way ;-):
And that is how Stuart and I spend a quiet Saturday in Sweden ..... ;-).
Cheers,
TPP
And we're thoroughly enjoying the Swedish experience, albeit vicariously. :) Great posts! D & J
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