Because of change in environment around Thailand, rivers are emptying more quickly into ocean, which is going to become a problem for farmers as far as irrigating their fields, and providing water for their livestock to drink.

Another result that I think is often overlooked, is amount of pollutants that were deposited into waves went over land. This can include substances like gasoline and oil, and other dangerous chemicals.

This is only a short look at some of effects that great tsunami is having in Thailand and in other parts around world. I would urge you to become more informed on situation and learn what it is that you can do to get involved, and to assist in recovery of these nations.

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With around 90 museums to choose from, visiting Stockholm is a cultural feast. And there's a museum for every one. The city has some of Europe's best art museums, but also world's first open-air museum (Skansen), several museums that display all aspects of Nordic history, an old warship on display (Vasa Museum) and even special places for kids (Junibacken, toy museum). The state-run museums have free admission.

Stockholm is safe. OK, crime rates have gone up in recent decades, like everywhere in Western world. Still it's one of world's safest capitals. There are no neighborhoods you should avoid and it's usually no problem to walk outside at nights.

Art is an integrated part of Stockholm city life. On pavement along Berzelli Park a worker pops out of ground, lifting a manhole cover. From a distance you won't notice it, but it's a statue ('Humor' by KG Bejemark). There are sculptures and statues all over Stockholm, often at unexpected places. Many stations of Stockholm underground (tunnelbana) are decorated with paintings, sculptures, mosaics, installations and engravings. And architecture is incredibly eclectic. Italian, German, Dutch, French style - it's all there, and often in one design.

Which city has 24,000 islands and rocks in its backyard? Stockholm. A huge archipelago connects city with Baltic Sea and you can visit it by boat. Spend a day or so on one of these attractive islands - you won't regret it.

Every modern city has negative aspects. Too much traffic, pollution, drunks, criminals ... I don't believe a city built by humans will ever become perfect. But compared to other capitals, Stockholm comes very close.

The author Marc A. de Jong is a Dutch journalist currently living in Antwerp, Belgium. He is the owner and editor of www.stockholm-sweden-travel-guide.com - a unique online travel guide based on personal experience.