Gay Malmo is found in Skåne, Sweden, part of what has long been one of the most LGBTQI-progressive countries in the world and it was recently confirmed by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA).
It is a land of beautiful landscapes, where rolling hills like those in Benestad Backar Nature Reserve fall into green beech forests in Hålehall and luscious sandy beaches in Skanör.
Its people are just as beautiful as the vistas, Swedes are known to be among the most beautiful people in the world, inside and out. You’ll find the regions fine gay and lesbian specimens in Malmö’s laid back, but diverse LGBTQ scene.
Image via Visit Skane
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Image via Stockholm Visitor’s Board[/caption]
Known as the gay capital of Scandinavia, a visit to Stockholm at Christmastime will not be short of romantic, but also quirky, Nordic cliches. Think Christmas markets, wholesome and warming food, ice-skating under the stars and of course, the story of Santa Lucia.
It’s a place where beautiful, narrow streets meet even more beautiful open minds, so whether it’s a traditional or contemporary Christmas you like, Stockholm has something for you. It’s a fascinating time of year to visit, so here’s our guide to Swedish Christmas in the nation’s capital.
Christmas Comes Early
Swedish Christmas kicks off as early as the 13 December (or in and around), on St Lucia’s day. The celebration is derived from folklore of the first two monks who brought Christianity to Sweden. Lucia was a young Christian girl who was martyred for her faith, way, way back in 304. She would secretly smuggle food for the persecuted Christians in Rome, who lived in the catacombs under the city.
Stockholm is one of the world’s best cities for gay people, according to a new ranking. LGBTQ travel site GayCities collected more than 23,000 votes from its members and named Stockholm as the winner in the Up-And-Coming category.
“Sweden has always been a the forefront of the LGBTQ rights movement, so we are proud to provide Stockholm with the Up-And-Coming award in the Best of GayCities2016,” Tim Winfred, director of marketing at Q Digital which is behind GayCities, told The Local.
The Swedish city was picked ahead of US hubs Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Richmond and Buffalo.
Image by Beatrice Tornros[/caption]
Myself and another LGBT journalists were graciously invited by Visit Sweden to attend their West Pride festival, and see how just how different gay life is for the Scandinavians in the welcoming city of Gothenburg.
Travelling to Gay Gothenburg
It’s 8:30 in the morning, and after two days of less-than-fortuitous encounters with trains, tubes and buses, I am well and truly sick of London transport and ready to get the hell out of this city… At least for a little bit.
Sat at Gatwick Airport after clearing security, I get a few moments to sit and watch the melee of stag and hen dos downing glasses of wine before scurrying off to catch their flights to Ibiza, Prague, etc. Classy as ever England, let’s go see how the Swedish do things.
My flight was delayed, but then this is Gatwick so it’s no big surprise, but before long I am jetting out on Norwegian Airlines to the second largest city in Sweden.
The beautiful West Sweden, with Gothenburg as its gateway, is emerging as a hotspot for all things food. It’s gaining an international culinary reputation as the foodie capital of Scandinavia because of its passionate local producers, imaginative chefs and bounty of organic, natural produce.
The west coast’s shellfish, in particular its lobster and oysters, are among the best in the world. Visitors can partake in hands-on trips to learn about the West Coast’s seafood, joining local fishermen for unforgettable catch-and-cook experiences.
Further inland, the forests also provide a variety of game. Other districts are known for producing fine cheeses. Meanwhile, the fertile agricultural land is ideal for growing fresh produce and raising animals in the best organic tradition.
Listen, I know you hear “Stockholm” and you might first think “cold.” But you’re wrong. Well, you’re not entirely wrong. The city can be cold (it’s Sweden, after all). But it’s also just so very cool. There’s an incredible mix of art, culture & design, world-class shopping & style, plus (perhaps obviously?) beautiful outdoors and adventure activities all easily accessed on the outskirts of the city.
Stockholm really has it all. It’s a big city, spread out over 14 islands in the archipelago, but it never really feels like you’re moving far between neighborhoods. And the typical Swedish culture just adds to the allure of the city.
Before visiting, it’s good to know that Stockholm really embraces trends. Probably the coolest city in all of Scandinavia, Stockholm seems to get all the latest trends while the news is still hot in Brooklyn. All types of trends. Food, fashion—even music! This is a city of trendsetters (have you ever heard Swedish pop music before?
It is a well-known fact that Stockholm is an open-minded and progressive city but some say that Stockholm is also expensive. What is lesser known is that the city offers an abundance of gems that provide great value for your money. With the strong US dollar and with the low-cost carrier Norwegian adding Las Vegas to their growing repertoire of gateways, there has never been a better time to visit the Swedish capital. That is why a number of American travel agents and journalists set out to discover the hidden treasures of tolerant Stockholm.
Over the course of four days, the travelers got to experience many sides of Sweden – from the traditional to the new and modern. Between hotel inspections and museum visits, there was plenty of time to shop innovative Swedish design and experience a traditional Lucia celebration.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the island of Soedermalm and the bustling, queer-friendly SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) area in particular. SoFo is known for being one of the trendiest areas in Stockholm, with a high number of vintage shops, boutiques, bars and restaurant. Also, the nightlife is known for being among the best in Stockholm.