What Surprised Us in Sweden: Newcomer's Perspective

Moving to a new country always comes with its share of surprises, and Sweden is no exception. Here are a few things that shocked us as we settled into Swedish life:

1. Lack of Washing Machines in Apartments

One of the first surprises was the absence of washing machines in many apartments. Unlike in some countries where laundry machines in apartments is a common thing to have, many Swedish apartments rely on communal laundry rooms, known as "tvättstuga." These shared facilities are typically booked in advance and can be a new experience for those used to having their own machines.

One of the biggest local sins is not arriving on time for your laundry and not cleaning filters in a drying machine. And 'laundry time' is a normal excuse for not being able to meet your friend.

2. Limited Calling Hours to Authorities

Navigating bureaucracy can be challenging anywhere, but in Sweden, we found that many government offices and medical facilities have limited calling hours. This means you need to plan your calls carefully to ensure you can reach the right department during their open hours, which can sometimes be quite short.

3. Limited Information in English on Official Websites

Despite the high proficiency in English among Swedes, we were surprised to find that some official websites, like those of the tax agency and social security, offer limited information in English. This can make it a bit tricky for non-Swedish speakers to find the information they need. Google Autotranslation is definitely a saver!

4. Dog Kindergartens

We were amused to discover the concept of dog kindergartens. These facilities cater to the needs of busy pet owners, providing a place for dogs to socialize and play while their owners are at work. Sometimes even a pickup in a dog bus can be arranged! Isn't it the cutest thing you have ever heard of?

5. Everyone Gets Paid on the Same Day

Lastly, it was interesting to learn that most people in Sweden receive their salaries on the same day each month—the 25th. This synchronized payday can lead to a bustling atmosphere in shops and restaurants as people celebrate their payday.

We are often attracted to a certain country based on Instagram pictures, single success stories and other facts, but what does daily life look like in Sweden? If you consider Sweden as a country for relocation, we recommend you our guidebook Sweden Bound where we describe what to expect upon moving to Sweden. It can motivate you to speed up your relocation process or can save you several years of unhappy life and spare your budget for another country.