Swedish Holiday Fling in Malmo
It was my second European weekend getaway of the year and despite the rain and cold weather, I fell in love with Malmo’s forward vibe and overall goodness. A few tips from my Swedish immersion experience on this fine Christmas day.
1- Christmas Trek
Had selectively chosen my weekend to get a sense of European Christmas markets and Malmo was positioned as hosting one of the best in Sweden. Visited 4 different types of markets including an upscale craft market, a Harry Potter themed and a farmers market. Overall slightly underwhelmed as these were small in scale and offerings were limited. I missed the market at charming Folket park, perhaps this would have thwarted my opinion. In any case, Chicago is still winning the Christmas market scene so far in my books - and it boasts a strong Swedish influence too!
2- Swedish HELLO
Malmo culture seemed guarded and i was eager to learn more. Friendliness was felt with frequent smiles and Heg’s (pronounced Hey with an elongated H).
3- Brightly!
The lighting in the city after dark is stunning, neon displays, hand lit torches and twinkles in trees make the city particularly charming during the holidays. The rapport with light might be a counter-effect to the fact that sunlight is more scarce at this time of the year.
4- Palate Paradise
Had the pleasure of trying Far i Hatten and Riket - both had a pleasant assortment of organic wines and delicious menu! Far i Hatten treated me to a pumpkin pizza with local cheese and cider of the likes of orange wine. The fried artichoke with seabuckthorn cream, goat cheese and chervil sprouts at Riket was one of the best and most experimental dishes i have ever tasted! Fika time is also unreal with ginger cake and clotberry cream, cardamon buns, coconut cones and more! Do hit Noir kaffekultur, AB Smaland and Malmo SaluHall St Jakobs Stenugnsbageri.
5- Design Haven
I was inspired by how Malmo embraces design culture in all aspects. Youthful, edgy yet composed. Top shops included Grandpa, Olssen & Gerthel and AB Smaland which included the cutest self gift wrap corner with ribbons, pine branches and brown paper - so scand! If you don’t have time for shopping that’s OK too - there is always the infamously stylin Copenhagen airport.
6- Bike it UP
Biking is the best way to get around with many bike paths, parking, cool looking city rental bikes and pumping stations. Otherwise you can easily walk and use caution after dark. The bus is also an option although would reco to download app from home country and purchase from there. Almost forgot the best part - Malmo is 30 minutes away by train from Copenhagen airport.
8- Oat Milk Trumps
Not a surprise to see how healthy and glowy Malmonians are -gluten free and oat milk are the norm and so are ginger shots. Expect veg friendliness too! Could I have been Swedish in my past life?
9- What Money?
Most places including restaurants & cafes don’t take cash - bring your cards and don’t worry, even street vendors will have portable readers.
10- Swan Story
Imagine waking up to seeing two swans drifting out into the sea. Yes, this happened to me. #oceanviewroom #storyhotel
Special tack to myscandinavianhome in helping make this an affair to remember - with the taste for more... this summer
