I recently traveled to Malmo, Sweden by way of Copenhagen, Denmark. It was my first time in Scandinavia and I already look forward to going back.
I arrived at the hotel around 10A and after a well-deserved nap, I took a walk down the street. I saw a couple outside with two beautiful salads and instantly my lunch was determined. I went in and could only make out salmon on the menu but luckily the shop owner spoke English. Because I totally eat with my eyes…I told her that I’d have what they’re having. This is what I got:
It was so good! The salad combined fresh shrimp, avocado, tomato, cucumber, kidney beans and couscous over tender garden fresh greens.
Later that evening, I was invited to a dinner party where I learned to make a simple, delicious cake of fresh Swedish strawberries and cream.
Traditional Swedish meals consist of meat and potatoes. The meat is often pork or beef. However, the proximity to the ocean makes this a haven for salmon, herring and other fresh ocean edibles. One of my favorites was this “salsa verde” made with fresh basil, garlic, avocado, parsley and of all things sardines. It was a fresh and delicious topping for the pork tenderloin – which was marinated in a mild yet flavorful caper sauce. I’m not a big meat eater so I was happy to indulge in the salad of grilled red pepper, artichoke, asparagus and fresh greens.
It was refreshing to see the bikes outnumber the cars all over this quaint city. The people were beautiful and fit – maybe from all of the protein, walking and biking…oh and the smoking.
The weather in Sweden was absolutely perfect until the evening when the temperature fell to a chilly 50 degrees. And because we were so far north, it was interesting and strange to experience the 18+ hours of daylight. Makes for a tough recovery from the jet lag. I tried melatonin but it didn’t work.
Copenhagen
I was only here for a day. Walked the city. Very expensive. Was cold, windy and at times rainy. The airport was amazing… every high end store you can imagine, good food and a two story H&M!
(Market just outside Central Station)
(Copenhagen at 10 o’clock at night)
Next Up…
AMSTERDAM in photos…
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