First Day in Stockholm

My first day out exploring Stockholm got a late start. 

When I booked my reservations at the hotel the only room available the first day was a single room with no window. The hotel was completely full so I had to wait until someone checked out and the cleaning service had readied my next room. A double with a window. I was told on checkin that worst case it would be 12pm before I could change rooms.

I changed rooms at 11am after a fantastic complimentary breakfast. I used Google Maps to find my first destination, Djurgãrden, where the Vasa Museum and other Stockholm attractions are located. Google Maps showed that the Vasa Museum was a short 20 minute walk of 1.6 km or about 1 mile from my hotel. A nice leisurely walk on a gorgeous day in Stockholm.

The Vasa Museum houses the Swedish warship Vasa that sunk after sailing just 1300 meters on its maiden voyage in the summer of 1628. This after two years of construction in the Stockholm shipyard. The Vasa has impressive craftsmanship and an absolute fiasco of engineering all in one. 30 men running from one side of the ship to the other was enough to roll the Vasa! I spent almost two hours on the 3 floors of Vasa observation walkways and the exhibits. The following photo is of the Vasa's stern.

My next stop was the Viking Museum also in the Djurgãrden. I joined an English speaking tour that just started as I bought my ticket. The tour guide was enthusiastic and entertaining. The museum is small but has a comprehensive collection of Viking artifacts and exhibits. I left shortly after the tour ended, about 30 minutes.

I walked back to my hotel to refresh myself and get Google Maps directions to Ǒstermalmshallen where I wanted to get a bite to eat. The indoor market is described as a foodie paradise, offering a wide selection of fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheese, and gourmet specialties. Google Maps showed it as a 4 minute walk from my hotel. The market is as impressive as the description. The variety of seafood was amazing and the selection of gourmet items included bear and reindeer sausage. After exploring the entire market, I settled on a smoked salmon and cream cheese salad at one of the many vendors. 

My energy after lunch needed a boost, so I opted for a cup of coffee at one of the markets vendors. I sat outside enjoying the strong black coffee and people watched for 45 minutes before again returning to my hotel.

I got back to my hotel around 5 and decided not to venture out again. My energy for the day was waning and the jet lag was compounding my fatigue. I spent the rest of the day writing out my blog and reading my latest novel.