Embarking on this class trip to Sweden has been a remarkable experience filled with learning, exploration, and bonding. From the moment we landed in Sweden, our days have been packed with insightful business visits, enriching activities, and cultural immersion. We wanted to share some more facts we learned about Scandinavian work-life balance and then talk about it in action. We have witnessed Swedes enjoying the days at various parks, museums, and all around the cities exploring the gorgeous surroundings. In fact, on our first day in Stockholm, we saw some pretty incredible scenery and culture that we cannot wait to share. But first, let’s talk business.
One company that we thoroughly enjoyed visiting so far was Imagimob. We learned about their operations at the company and how they are driving AI innovations into the future. After listening to presentations by Anders, Sam, and Clare, we were fortunate enough to have an office tour. Once the tour was complete, we spent time asking Clare some questions about work-life balance in Sweden. Clare, who was originally a Los Angeles native, moved to Stockholm almost 15 years ago and has not looked back since. She raved about the great public transportation to get to work, making her office easily accessible and relieving her of the burden of being stuck in traffic (unlike in LA!). Clare also pointed out that Imagimob, along with many other Swedish companies, has flexible work from home policies for employees who prefer to work remotely.
While talking to Clare, we also learned that 5 weeks of vacation is the guaranteed minimum in Sweden. Her advice was to be smart with vacation days and to not take all of them in the summer. As we have learned in our time here, Sweden spends about half of the year in a wintery blur! This past year, winter continued on into April with snowy days and cold weather. Clare said that people should take some time off during the winter and visit sunny destinations to escape the cold. Lots of Swedes run off to Greece or Spain to spend a few weeks of winter by the beach, laying out in the warm sun. While Clare obviously misses her family, she believes that Stockholm has been an incredible destination to live both for work and everyday life.
Now to talk about our experience, we have seen people enjoying the sunny weather and walking around Stockholm. On our first day arriving in Stockholm, we ventured out for a leisurely stroll through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town. This destination was incredible, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Stortorget Square. We enjoyed our dinner at a cute Italian cafe, where we started to appreciate the slower, more intentional pace of life here. People certainly seem to enjoy their time in Sweden, leaving work early and staying out late, enjoying the incredible ambiance it has to offer.
The fun is not over yet! We get to spend a couple more days in Stockholm, before departing to Piteå in Northern Sweden. Until next time, we will be exploring more of what these incredible Scandinavian cities have to offer! See you soon!
