Weather In Sweden

Weather in Stockholm
The winters are cold, but not as cold as you might think! And the summers are nice and warm, maybe not that hot, but than and again, maybe not as cold as you might think either :-) In January the temperature is on average -1 Celsius and in July the average temperature is a nice +22 Celsius.
In the chart you can see the average weather for Stockholm. The upper brown line gives the average maximum temperature and the green one the minimum. The grey blocks indicate the amount of snow and rain per month and the sunny colour yellow indicates the amount of sunlight hours.
Here is the weather in figures for you:
Average temperature in Celsius ( min, max)
Jan -5 C, -1 C
Feb -5 C, -1 C
Mar -4 C, 3 C
Apr 1 C, 8 C
May 6 C, 14 C
Jun 11 C, 19 C
Jul 14 C, 22 C
Aug 13 C, 20 C
Sep 9 C, 15 C
Oct 5 C, 9 C
Nov 1 C, 5 C
Dec -2 C, 2 C

Read more: http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Sweden/Stockholms_Laen/Stockholm-173634/Packing_Lists-Stockholm-Weather_Related-BR-1.html#ixzz259BDhFJX

Average hours of sunlight:
Jan 1 hour
Feb 3 hours
Mar 5 hours
Apr 7 hours
May 9 hours
Jun 11 hours
Jul 10 hours
Aug 8 hours
Sep 6 hours
Oct 3 hours
Nov 1 hours
Dec 1 hours

Average Precipitation (mm):
Jan 43 mm
Feb 30 mm
Mar 25 mm
Apr 31 mm
May 34 mm
Jun 45 mm
Jul 61 mm
Aug 76 mm
Sep 60 mm
Oct 48 mm
Nov 53 mm
Dec 48 mm

Number of wet days (more than 0,25mm):
Jan 16 days
Feb 14 days
Mar 10 days
Apr 11 days
May 11 days
Jun 13 days
Jul 13 days
Aug 14 days
Sep 14 days
Oct 15 days
Nov 16 days
Dec 17 days

Read more: http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Sweden/Stockholms_Laen/Stockholm-173634/Packing_Lists-Stockholm-Weather_Related-BR-1.html#ixzz259Be1a00

Facts About Sweden


Quick facts about Sweden
Area: 174,000 sq mi (450,000 km²), the third largest country in Western Europe
Longest north-south distance: 978 mi (1,574 km)
Longest east-west distance: 310 mi (499 km)
Capital: Stockholm
Population: 9.5 million inhabitants
Languages: Swedish; recognized minority languages: Sami (Lapp), Finnish, Meänkieli (Tornedalen Finnish), Yiddish, Romani Chib
Form of government: Constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy
Parliament: The Riksdag, with 349 members in one chamber
Religion: In practice, Sweden is very secularized. The Church of Sweden is Evangelical Lutheran; co-exists with many other beliefs
Life expectancy: Men 79 years, women 83 years
 
Swedish society
Sweden remains one of the most egalitarian countries in terms of income distribution, and has one of the world’s lowest levels of poverty. It’s no surprise that Sweden consistently appears near the top of the Human Development Index, which ranks countries according to life expectancy, education and standard of living. While Swedes pay high taxes to maintain their prized social welfare system, they are no longer the highest-taxed people in the world.
Sweden has succeeded in creating a balance between social equality and economic success. Education is free (except for nursery schools and higher education, which are partly funded by the government), healthcare is cheap, childcare is universal and the streets are clean — but there is still the opportunity to control your own economic destiny.
The driving forces behind “the Swedish model” were the Social Democratic Party and the trade unions, although it has its roots in the 19th century when “poor relief laws” were passed. The Swedish model is still alive, if not as all-encompassing as it once was. There is greater privatization in the healthcare sector and the number of private schools is growing rapidly. But not even parties on the right of the political spectrum talk of dismantling the welfare state, as Sweden’s voters would simply not stand for it.
 
Society:
Openness and transparency — vital parts of Swedish democracy
Sweden is a free and open society. Its people have the right to take part in demonstrations, freedom of speech, a free press, the opportunity to move freely in nature and the right to scrutinize those in power. Openness is also about creating an equal society.
The Swedish constitution is governed by four fundamental laws: the Instrument of Government, the Freedom of the Press Act, the Fundamental Law on Freedom of Expression, and the Act of Succession. These take precedence over all other laws. The constitution states that all citizens have the right to freely seek information, organize demonstrations, form political parties and practice their religion.


Freedom of the press

In 1766, Sweden became the first country in the world to permit freedom of the press. Freedom of the press is based on freedom of expression and speech — a central tenet of most democracies. Those in authority must be held accountable and all information must be freely available. The identities of sources who provide publishers, editors or news agencies with information are protected, and journalists can never be forced to reveal their sources. The law on freedom of expression was passed in 1991 to expand this protection to non-print media, such as television, film and radio. The law seeks to ensure a free exchange of views, information and artistic creativity.
However, the right to express an opinion also brings with it responsibility. Freedom of speech, when abused, can be offensive, incite discrimination or violence, or have negative consequences for an individual or society. If a crime against the freedom of press or expression laws is suspected, the case is dealt with by the Office of the Chancellor of Justice, a non-political civil servant appointed by the government.

Public scrutiny

The principle of freedom of information means that the general public and the mass media have access to official records. This affords Swedish citizens clear insight into the activities of government and local authorities. Scrutiny is seen as valuable for a democracy, and transparency reduces the risk of power being abused. Access to official records also means that civil servants and others who work for the government are free to inform the media or outsiders.
However, documents can be kept secret if they involve matters of national security; Sweden’s relationship with another country or international organization; national fiscal, monetary or currency policy; inspection, control and other supervisory operations by public authorities; the prevention or prosecution of crimes; the economic interests of the general public; protection of the personal and financial position of private individuals; and the protection of animal or plant species.

Everyone is equal

In Sweden, human rights are protected primarily through three of the fundamental laws: the Instrument of Government, the Freedom of the Press Act and the Fundamental Law on Freedom of Expression. Public power should be exercised with respect for the equality of everyone and for the freedom and dignity of the individual. Public authorities should especially safeguard the right to work, housing and education, and should promote social welfare, security and a good environment for people to live in. Laws and other regulations may not lead to any citizen being disadvantaged because they belong to a minority, in terms of race, skin color, ethnic origin or sex.

Continuing the fight for human rights

Human rights are being integrated into all areas of Swedish foreign policy: security, development, migration, environmental and trade policy.
The European Convention on Human Rights has been incorporated into Swedish law since 1995. Sweden has also signed and ratified several human rights agreements within the UN, International Labor Organization and the Council of Europe. The government is prioritizing eight areas in its work for human rights in Swedish foreign policy:
Democracy building. Millions of people still live in dictatorships. The government wants to strengthen public opinion in favor of democracy, support the work of NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and establish better ties with democratic states.
Strengthen freedom of expression. Sweden believes freedom of expression is a moral necessity and a practical tool in the fight for human rights.
Abolish the death penalty. Sweden and the EU have long sought the abolition of the death penalty on the grounds that it is incompatible with human rights.
Combat torture. The Swedish government draws attention to such abuse wherever it occurs and supports organizations that help victims of torture.
Combat summary executions and arbitrary detention. For many years Sweden has supported a UN resolution concerning summary, extrajudicial and arbitrary executions, and will continue to act to bring this issue to international attention.
Protect the rule of law. Sweden promotes the principles of the rule of law through organizations such as the UN, the Council of Europe, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and in talks with other countries.
Protect human rights and international humanitarian law.
Fight discrimination. In many countries, large groups of people receive far from equal treatment. The Swedish government wants to direct special attention to the rights of women, children and people with disabilities.

Openness on the internet

Sweden has the highest level of internet usage within the European Union. Out of a population of 9.4 million, more than 85 percent have access to an internet connection.
More than 97 percent of people aged 12—44 use the internet on a regular basis. Sweden has the top ranking in the UN ICT development index as well as the World Economic Forum’s Network Readiness Index.

Copyright and innovation

The growth of the internet has brought the world file-sharing, leading to debates about the infringement of copyright on books, music, films and software. The loud conflicts about piracy some years ago seem to have calmed down, partly because of the introduction of successful products and companies that offer legal alternatives for music and video streaming.

Social media in Sweden

Social media have become an integrated part of many Swedes’ everyday lives. Sweden has around 100,000 Twitter users and more than 3 million active Facebook users. Many Swedes are also active bloggers.

Open aid

In an effort to create further trust for government aid and humanitarian activities, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs together with Sida (the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) launched a website in 2011. The site collates official government data so it can be accessed and studied easily by individuals, NGOs, aid recipients and officials. The aim is to further transparency and openness in humanitarian efforts and to inspire other institutions to increase their transparency and openness towards the public. This openaid.se initiative is part of a larger movement where Swedish government agencies provide more open interfaces to their data, strengthening openness and transparency in general.

Praque Castle, Czech Republic


 

Prague Castle is the largest medieval castle complex in Europe and the ancient seat of Czech kings throughout the ages. It is Prague's premier tourist attraction.
Several destructive wars and fires (and the subsequent renovations), along with differing political forces have combined to create an intriguing mix of palaces, churches and fortifications, spread over 7 hectares (18 acres).The Prague Castle complex comprises three courtyards and a great many buildings, including Saint Vitus Cathedral (the most recognisable landmark in the city), several palaces, viewing towers, museums and art galleries, cafés, a monastery and Golden Lane.It is possible to wander around the courtyards for free, but for a meaningful visit and to enter any of the buildings, the interiors of which are quite stunning, visitors need to purchase a ticket or visit the complex as part of a tour.
Classical concerts are a popular feature of the Prague Castle complex, and are held at Lobkowicz Palace and St. George's Basilica - classical concert listings.The first known building on the site of Prague Castle was erected in the 9th century. In the 12th century it was replaced by a Romanesque palace. In the 14th century it was rebuilt in the Gothic style, under the reign of Charles IV.
A further reconstruction of the Royal Palace then took place under the Jagellons at the end of the 15th century.Following a fire in 1541, Prague Castle underwent further works. The Spanish Hall was added during the reign of Rudolf II. And final alterations were made by Empress Maria Theresa, under the direction of the celebrated architect M. Pacassi.After World War I, renovations to the castle buildings and to the Prague Castle Gardens were undertaken by the architect J. Plecnik.Today, Prague Castle is the seat of the President of the Czech Republic and serves as the historical and political centre for both city and state.The Changing of the Guard at the front gates takes place every hour. At noon the ceremony includes a fanfare.
 


Old Town Square

Step into the Old Town Square in Prague and journey back in time, 600 or 700 years. As you stand in awe, the dramatic history of Prague permeates the air.
The Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) is one of two main squares in Prague (Wenceslas Square is the other, just 5 minutes walk away).With its ancient buildings and magnificent churches, this is one of the most beautiful historical sights in Europe.Dating from the 12th century, the Old Town Square started life as the central marketplace for Prague. Over the centuries buildings of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic styles were erected around the market, each bringing with them stories of wealthy merchants and political intrigue.The Old Town Square's most notable sights are the Old Town Hall Tower & Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Tyn and St. Nicholas Church.At the centre of the Old Town Square is the Jan Hus statue, erected on the 6th July 1915 to mark the 500th anniversary of the reformer’s death. The groundswell of supporters for his beliefs during the 14th and 15th centuries eventually led to the Hussite wars.To fully appreciate the beauty of the Old Town Square, sit back and soak up the atmosphere over a coffee or a cool beer at one of the pavement cafés lining the square. Or climb the Old Town Hall Tower for a stunning view over the square.

Old Town Hall Tower & Astronomical Clock, Old Town

The Astronomical Clock, built in to one side of the Old Town Hall Tower, dates from the 15th century.
To fully appreciate the clock's intricate construction, join the crowd in front of the tower to observe the procession of the Twelve Apostles: on the hour, every hour, a small trap door opens and Christ marches out ahead of his disciples, while the skeleton of death tolls the bell to a defiant statue of a Turk.Below the Astronomical Clock are 12 medallions with the signs of the zodiac, added by Josef Manes in 1865.The Old Town Hall Tower, built in 1338, is one of the most striking buildings in Prague. Inside is a staircase and an elevator. For a fee, visitors can climb or ride to the top to experience terrific views over the Old Town Square and the rest of the Old Town.In 1364 the Old Town Hall Tower was joined to a private house adjoining it, which in turn was knocked into other houses beside that. This amalgamation of buildings became known as the Old Town Hall.Extensive renovation in 1470 further integrated the various houses of the Old Town Hall, and refurbished the whole in the Gothic style.


Today the Old Town Hall hosts civic ceremonies in its many rooms, and also houses the primary Prague Tourist Information Centre

How to get from Stockholm to Oslo (Norway)

How to Get from Stockholm to Oslo

...and from Oslo to Stockholm.

Train Transportation in Scandinavia
Train in Scandinavia
© Courtesy of Freefoto
1- Stockholm to Oslo by Air
You can get from Stockholm to Oslo with a quick, direct 1-hour flight. They depart several times daily, most offered by SAS and Norwegian. Roundtrip airline tickets from Stockholm to Oslo (and from Oslo to Stockholm) start around $150 but depending on the time of year, they sometimes offer ticket prices under $100. A fast option, but involves getting to the airport. 2- Stockholm to Oslo by Train
Taking the train from Stockholm to Oslo can cost less and you can reserve tickets online, but the trip takes longer. Expect travel times of 5-7 hours between Stockholm and Oslo. RailEurope offers unlimited train travel in Sweden and Norway.The quickest (and priciest) between Oslo and Stockholm is a new high-speed train operating 2-3 times a day in each direction. Cheaper is Swedish Railways (SJ.se), where InterCity train tickets cost around SEK 300 one way. Adults traveling with SJ can bring 2 passengers under 15 for just SEK 5 per child. Those trains connect Stockholm with Oslo through a 6-7 hour trip.

3- Stockholm to Oslo by Car

If you'd like to rent a car to get from Stockholm to Oslo, know that it's just over 500 km (310 mi) or a 6 1/2 hour drive. Depending on your location in Stockholm, get to Oslo using road E18 or E20 (the distance is equal). If you use the E20 first, merge onto E18 at exit 121 toward Örebro/Oslo. Going from Oslo to Stockholm, simply use E18 all the way. Getting from Stockholm to Oslo (and back) by car is one of your slower options, not to mention the gas prices.

4- Stockholm to Oslo by Bus

There are buses connecting the cities of Stockholm and Oslo. Be warned, I don't recommend this transportation option unless you have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, and don't want to pay much. Getting from Stockholm to Oslo by bus takes at least 8 hours. A single ticket from Stockholm to Oslo starts around 200 SEK. You can purchase your bus ticket online, at Cityterminalen in Stockholm, in Swebus offices, by cell phone, or on the bus (no cash accepted by bus drivers). The bus terminal in Oslo (Vaterland) is located next to the Central Railway Station. Swebus Express operates this bus connection (departing 4 times daily) but doesn't offer online ticketing

Umai-Ya Japanese Restaurant @ KLCC

Umai-Ya Japanese Restaurant has a term of expert conducting research and development on the uniqueness of food taste and quality as well as ensuring the accuracy of Japanese culture in its food presentation. Each Umai-Ya outlet offers more than 300 delectable dish items on menu and specializes in the concept of fusion cuisine where traditional Japanese cuisine mixed with local savor gives a delightful and sensational taste bud experience.
The chic and modern outlook of the private VIP dining rooms is the trademark of Umai-Ya Japanese Restaurant where customers can indulge in reasonably priced fine cuisine while enjoying good ambience.
When it comes to food quality and presentation, Umai-Ya prides itself on setting the highest standard and has been awarded with high accolades from our patrons.

Address:
Lot No.428, Level 4, Suria KLCC, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel : +603 - 2161 3939

Website: http://www.umai-ya.com
Operating Hours
Daily : 11.30am - 02.30pm, 06.00pm - 10.30pm

Delicious Restaurant @ Dua Residency

What started off as a quaint tearoom behind the floors of Ms. Read has grown successfully.Overwhelmingly popular and rightly so. From the excellent breakfasts to lighter lunches and fresh, hearty and well-prepared mains (not to mention the to-die-for cakes and desserts), Delicious is an institution in Kuala Lumpur. The food is consistently superb and always served quickly.
Check out signature mains like the chargrilled grain-fed chilled tenderloin steak (250gm or 300gm) served with bearnaise, balsamic reduction or beef jus. Guests can opt for a choice of two sides with this extravangant dish. Recommended with a side of sauteed mange tout and rosemary garlic fried potatoes.
The kids’ menu is a little limited but the rest of the menu is generally kid-friendly if you don’t mind sharing. And the chocolate brownie, served with vanilla ice cream and swimming in chocolate sauce is a surefire winner. Michelle Whytcross


Address:
Lot 1.1, Ground Floor Dua Annexe, No. 211, Jalan Tun Razak, 50450 KL
Tel: 03 2166 2066
Website: http://www.delicious.com.my/
Opening times: Open daily, 9am–1am
Child friendly: Yes
Other Outlets:
Bangsar Village II
Jalan Telawi 2,  59100 Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.
03 2287 1554

1Utama Shopping Centre
No 1, Persiaran Bandar Utama, Bandar Utama,
47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
03 7724 1086

Mid Valley
Lot G(E)-001 & G-001, Ground Floor,
Mid Valley Megamall,
Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra
Kuala Lumpur
03 2287 5770

Marc Residence
A-6-01 Ground Floor,
3 Jalan Pinang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur
03 2166 9099

Daidomon Japanese BBQ Restaurant Buffet @ Great Eastern Mall

Daidomon is one of those buffet places where you can order all the dishes serving to your table. Ranging from RM 40+ to RM 60+ per person, depending on which day and time, it was actually quite reasonable for the amount of beef and sashimi that I've had. While for the RM 88++, you'll get unlimited order of wagyu beef, scallop, oyster and freshly cooked ebi tempura.


 


3.04, Third Floor,
Great Eastern Mall,
303 Jalan Ampang 50450 Jalan Ampang,
Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
03-4252-8155
Business Hours: Opens daily from 11:30am - 3.00pm and 5.30pm - 10.30pm

West 57th St Cafe Restaurant @ Pavillion

West 57th Street Cafe is owned by the brother of world renowned fashion designer Zang Toi who is now currently based in New York busy designing for the likes of Eva Longoria, Ivanka Trump and even Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas.
This cafe tucked in the corner Parkson in the Pavillion just exudes class and simplicity. A delicate and elegant decor, white walls decorated with long hanging mirrors with the burst of bright colours from the beautiful floral arrangements in the cafe courtesy of Connie the designer florist they have on board.
 

West 57th Street Cafe
Parkson Pavilion ,
Lot4-42, Level 4,
Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur.
Halal
Tel: 03-21457701
Opening hours: 10am – 1030pm ( Last order 930pm)
Email: Zangtoi@streamyx.com
Website : www.zangtoicafe.com

Ben's Restaurant @ KLCC

 









 
Address:
Ben’s KLCC
First Level, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03 2163 1655
Website: www.thebiggroup.co
Opening times: Open daily, 10am-11pm
 
Address:
Ben's Pavillion
Level 6, Pavilion KL, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03 2141 5290
Opening times: Open daily, 10am-11pm



Kiku-Zakura Japanese Restaurant @ Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall



Kiku Zakura
Lot 02-15, 02-16, Level 2,
Berjaya Times Square, Jalan Imbi
55100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2145 1101
Business Hours: 10.30am - 11.00pm (daily)

Overhead Restaurant @ Singapore