Malmo

  Malmö, Skåne, Sweden
Tuesday, July 13, 2004

After something like a 9 hour train journey it was good to finally arrive in Malmo and it wasn't long before we frequented the local drinking establishment, the Vagabond.

2 pints later and Tom was skipping through the streets of Malmo to the Rundagrillen for wonderous falafel! This was the night we met Gary, an America chap who'd stowed away on a boat from Estonia, who told us some fabulous stories, and shared in the wonders of falafel.



Malmo indeed turned out to be a place of culinary delights, another of Tom's favourites being the charmingly named Plopp.



There was also a falsely advertised carnival, a visit to the extremely windy beach and pier, a random swimming pool and the joys of crazy golf to be had in Malmo, along with a spot of shopping, and the obligatory wandering around town, marvelling at buildings and locals.



Malmo scores... hmm, 5.5/10 maybe? And thats well considered. A day too many here perhaps. An inoffensive place, but one lacking excitement. Thus explaining why we derived so much joy from falafel and Plopp.
The best things: Most definately my introduction to falafel, now one of my favourite foods, and a great reminder of the SVONE. Honourable mentions to the game of crazy golf though.
The worst things: The experience of numerous naked people in the hostel communal showers. More Swedish rain. A carnival that we were lead to believe was on, actually being a bit of a hoax :(
Return visit? I'm afraid I became disillusioned with the carnival and even that wouldn't draw me back. The only thing that would would perhaps be a novelty visit to classic old haunts such as the Vagabond and Rundergrillen, but I wouldn't be going out of my way.

So, Sweden overall: less expensive than Norway but still quite steep, great public transport, awful weather, a couple of good hostels, some great food experiences, but slightly lacking in things to see and do. I do get the feeling that better weather would have vastly enhanced our perceptions of the country, and I would like to see other parts, specifically Stockholm.

Experiences in Sweden: 5/10 - Average.
Glad we went: Of course ;)
Favourite bit: Rundagrillen, Malmo.
Next time: Stockholm. And packing an umbrella.