Look underneath the surface of really good Ikea meatballs.  There’s a country there.  It’s called Sweden.

Being a Swede myself, I choose to follow 2 of the basic tenets of the culture: Taking care of family and being kind to others.

Sweden, like any other country, has national treasures and important people, one of whom is world renowned football star Zlatan Ibrahimovic. This man has conquered football (Swedish for soccer) in Spain, France, Netherlands, Italy, and is currently playing for Manchester United. Ibrahimovic has been named the national football player of the year in Sweden for the past 1o years, only losing his title to Andreas Granqvist in 2017.

There’s also Björn Borg, Swedish tennis star and Wimbledon champion for 5 straight years between 1976-1980, with 64 career titles spanning of 10 years of wins. He’s considered one of Sweden’s most treasured athletes.

ABBA, the popular 80’s band, produced the most iconic Swedish music, including “Mamma Mia,” “The Winner Takes it All,” and “Dancing Queen.” 

Fika, the Swedish brunch or early evening treat  puts all other meals to shame.  According sweden.se, “Fika is much more than having a coffee. It is a social phenomenon, a legitimate reason to set aside a moment for quality time. Fika can happen at any time, morning as well as evening.” The Swedes do it right with coffee and tea, and delicious pastries that make your mouth water.

There’s a Mid summer festival on June 21 with large, extravagant feasts featuring Crayfish and Sil, a flavored herring.

Stockholm’s archipelago is one of the most beautiful places in the country. The Islands are the perfect setting on a dinner cruise. I have personally traveled down the river, a once in a lifetime opportunity with your family or a special someone.

Sweden is more than just a furniture superstore with great meatballs.