Why I love Stockholm - A Top-10 of Reasons

Although I was always attracted to mysterious North, it took a while before I first visited Sweden. Actually, it was my editor who asked me to go there. In 1990 I attended a conference near Stockholm, and fell in love with both country and its capital.

Since then city has become a dear friend of mine. Maybe even a relative, as every new visit feels like a sort of homecoming. Stockholm never lets me down.

Nevertheless, my love for Swedish capital does raise an eyebrow when I mention it to others. Most people simply don't know anything about Stockholm, except that it's capital of Sweden.

So let's clear things up. Here is a Top-10 of reasons why I love Stockholm - listed in no particular order.

• Stockholm is blue. If there is one thing that makes Stockholm stand out, then it is its relationship with water. The city was built on 14 islands, all connected with bridges for cars AND pedestrians, and you never have to walk far to get a stunning view over water.
• Stockholm is like Swedish design: it's functional and almost defines latest trends, yet it looks great and shows respect for history. The city is very easy to navigate, has everything a big city should offer - excellent shopping facilities, a vibrant nightlife, great business opportunities - but never loses its beauty.
• The city has an atmosphere that is so calm and relaxed compared to other capitals. I don't know why, really. Maybe it's mentality of people. Most Swedes are friendly, patient, quiet - and helpful. Maybe it's because there are so many open spaces, water and parks. Or because houses are so colorful. Maybe it's all of this together.
• Stockholm has great tourist attractions, but never feels touristy. Even in most popular part of town - historical Old Town or Gamla Stan - there are enough quiet streets to make a relaxing stroll.
• Stockholm is green. About one third of Stockholm consists of parks. One third! It is first city in world to have a national park within city borders. Yes, a nature reserve right in heart of a capital with 1.5 million people. And all of these parks are accessible.

Medical Information for Foreign Travelers

If an American citizen becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, a U. S. consular officer can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends. If necessary, a consular officer can also assist in transfer of funds from United States. However, payment of hospital and other expenses is responsibility of traveler.

Before going abroad, learn what medical services your health insurance will cover overseas. If your health insurance policy provides coverage outside United States, REMEMBER to carry both your insurance policy identity card as proof of such insurance and a claim form. Although many health insurance companies will pay "customary and reasonable" hospital costs abroad, very few will pay for your medical evacuation back to United States. Medical evacuation can easily cost $10,000 and up, depending on your location and medical condition.

THE SOCIAL SECURITY MEDICARE PROGRAM DOES NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR HOSPITAL OR MEDICAL COSTS OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.

Senior citizens may wish to contact American Association of Retired Persons for information about foreign medical care coverage with Medicare supplement plans.

To facilitate identification in case of an accident, complete information page on inside of your passport providing name, address and telephone number of someone to be contacted in an emergency.

A traveler going abroad with any preexisting medical problems should carry a letter from attending physician, describing medical condition and any prescription medications, including generic name of prescribed drugs. Any medications being carried overseas should be left in their original containers and be clearly labeled. Travelers should check with foreign embassy of country they are visiting to make sure any required medications are not considered to be illegal narcotics.