Stockholm

The hour long direct train journey from Nynäsham was relaxing even with the 20 or so stops on the way arriving at just after 9am .
The sun & wind were waiting for us when we emerged from the depths of central station. We took in the scenery, noting the bouncing boats caused by the huge number of ferries & leisure trips, along with the vey windy day & we felt we'd made a good decision to take the train rather than bring Whisper in to the city- well this time anyway. See photo of the wooden logs used as fenders, an unusual use for all that forest wood.

So first stop just had to be the Vasa museum - the incredible preservation of the King's ship that sunk on its maiden voyage in 1628 after just 20 minutes /1300 metres. Lifted in 1959 and is one of the oldest preserved ships in the world.
Both of us were really excited to see this and it didn't disappoint. The museum exhibition spans 6/7floors, and the Vasa is easily viewed at every angle and height with so much interesting information on every aspect - from the build through to the voyage, salvage and preservation. Beautiful extravagant carvings and 95% original ship. I could go on and on about our visit - the nearly 4hours we spent there probably says it all!
So after a lunch stop, we were ready for some lighthearted fun, so I managed to persuade Ron that a little bit of ABBA is what he needed!
So Benny and Frida Ball took to the museum. It was great and we came out singing and laughing. .. I joined the avatars for a dancing queen moment, obviously !
Walking around the city through the old town Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace , through the archways passing the government buildings and window shopping.
The great thing about the Swedish days is that they are long, and we've been making the most of them. So much so that we were pretty weary by the time we'd eaten and began the journey back on the train at about 9pm. But still, we will be back - there is so much more to see, including some very chic shops I hadn't even got close to stepping inside.Read more