Stockholm with Benny, SWEDEN
Airing Date: Apr 3rd, 2006
Stockholm is one water based city spread across 14 islands and surrounded by an archipelago of some 24,000 Islands. So one of the main attractions is jumping on a ferry ride to check it all out.
Stockholm's main attractions are conveniently packaged close to the heart of the city on the island of Djurgrden. Here you'll find the entertainment options, museums, restaurants and wooded green space. Explore Sweden's past at the Skansen open-air museum and meet Nordic wildlife at the zoo. Also on the island is the National Museum of Cultural History and the Vasa Museum featuring a fully rigged restored 17th-century galleon raised from Stockholm Harbour.
The official Swedish Royal residence is one of the largest palaces in Europe, dating from 1754 (although it was built on the remains of an earlier medieval castle). The palace is situated in the heart of Gamla Stan. Visitors can check out the Hall of State, the Royal Treasury, Apartment of the Orders of Chivalry, Gustav III Museum of Antiquities and the Royal Chapel. In front of the palace the changing of the guard ceremony takes place twice a week in winter and more frequently in summer.
And if the winter weather's making you feel a little down, do as the Swedes do and head to the Iglo Ljuscaf. This is no ordinary caf, it's a light therapy room which aims to take away the depression people feel during winter. It can help people with S.A.D or Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is caused by a lack of sunlight, but it's also something that everyday people who would like a light boost can enjoy.
When you walk into the caf you are given a white robe to wear. Then you simply sit in a brightly lit white room for an hour. You can sit and talk to friends, read a book, eat breakfast or have a juice.
Further Information
Thai Airways International flies to Stockholm with prices starting from $1941 ex west coast and $2068 ex east coast. Includes taxes. subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply
Website: www.thaiairways.com.au
2 nights at Rival hotel & a Stockholm City Card starts at $295 a person. For details contact MyPlanet on 02 9020 5800
For more information on Sweden visit www.visitsweden.com
Prices correct at 03/04/06
