Stockholm - Day Three

The Vasa Museum was a revelation. Everyone who had been to Stockholm had said, “Oh, go and see the boat!” Brett had the impression that it was a Viking longboat and I hadn’t done any research of my own, so it was a bit of a surprise when it turned out to be a very well preserved, very ornate Man of War!

We spent a good couple of hours in the museum and I took quite a few photographs, although the lighting was dim. When I get some time, I’ll post them on the photoblog.

Once we had had enough though, we took a walk along the shore to the amusement park, Gröna Lund, which was giving free entry to anyone who had a weekend pride-pass. And they had certainly put the flags out for ‘Gay Day!’ Apart from all of the actual Pride Flags on the flag poles, the whole seafront walkway railing had the pride rainbow running along it. There were lots of gay couples and groups wearing their wristbands, but also lots of families out with the kids and not batting an eyelid; all very positive. I wasn’t expecting too much but it was closer to a mini-Alton Towers than the travelling fairgrounds you find at events in the UK.

The Haunted House was quite literally a scream; as well as good effects, they also had people in costume both in the tableaux and wandering around the house, sneaking up on you or suddenly coming to life in what you thought was a scene set up with mannequins. The Fun House was great too – plenty of stuff going on. Brett and I were like little kids again!

But after a final rollercoaster ride, it was time to head back to the airport. The trip was very smooth as we made good connections from park to bus to train. The airport felt pretty miserable though, as suddenly the happy, relaxed weekend felt like it was over and we were separating again.

The flight itself was timely, if crowded and I got back to the UK a little after 8pm and was home by 10.