The Swedish North Star, continuously published since 1872. Volume 146 No. 8, May 15, 2018. Price per copy $3.50.
THE VASA STAR
travel in sweden
top to bottom Dreaming of Sweden
Where, dear reader, do you dream of going? Do you want a rush of excitement, peace and quiet, an enriching cultural experience? Maybe it depends on what province your Swedish ancestors came from. Sweden’s growing popularity with tourists is based on a wide-ranging appeal, including child-friendliness, excellent transportation, and a clean and safe environment. The old country might be the ideal destination, and we offer an overview, taking you from the top to bottom—starting in Sweden’s northernmost region and reaching all the way to Sweden’s southern tip. / P14 Apparently there’s a lot to say about knäckebröd / p13
Sweden’s consulate and honorary consul in Honolulu, Hawaii /p20
A little time consuming to prepare, but the rewards are great: smörgåstårta / p25
Year of Bergman continues
Already an established figure of international acclaim, Ingmar Bergman produced three films in the early 1960s that became some of his most powerful works. The three movies, made in rapid succession but with masterful detail and the awards to show for it, draw on Bergman’s own strict religious upbringing and are deeply personal, challenging and enriching works. Through a Glass Darkly, Winter Light, and The Silence are often called the Silence of God trilogy. Our movie critic offers his review during this Bergman centennial year. / P22
The legacy of Midsummer
It’s not too soon to talk about Midsummer, one of the most important celebrations in Sweden—and the U.S.—that brings together families and friends, music and good food, flowers and dancing and light. Celebrations in the U.S. don’t necessarily fall on the official date (June 22 in Sweden), but that doesn’t make them any less authentic. Nordstjernan will cover Midsummer events around the U.S. so check the calendar for what’s happening near you. It may be a lot like the party in Portland, Oregon, a tradition with roots nearly 100 years old. / P11
Björn Olin/Folio//imagebank.sweden
pages 29-43