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The
Hotel Lydmar, Stockholm, Sweden
Sailing 17 hours from Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia to the enchanted fairytale land of Sweden was an adventure unto itself. The massive, eight story ship offered every possible amenity, pool, sauna, steam room, bars, lounges, live music, fine restaurants, as well as budget eateries, shops, arcade games, mini casino and open air decks for the hearty. The sea spray and the cold night air of middle September kept most indoors, but I wasn't to be deprived of a full moon on an open sea. I live to be outdoors... anywhere...anytime and under any conditions. Stimulation is crucial to good living! After a few hours of exploring every inch of the exterior decks we then strolled through the ship's interior. The smell of aromatic food drove us toward one of their several restaurants. We savored a divine meal and proceeded to the lounge. Then, armed with a cold drink, settled down for some music in the nearby lounge. The solo entertainer was quite talented and played a wide assortment of songs, including many American ballads. The music and relaxing atmosphere soon reminded us that the day had been full and with the ship's gentle movements we were eventually lured to our cabins. The hum of the engine, the soft roar of the sea and a firm inviting bed contributed greatly to a deep and restful night's sleep. At daybreak, up first, I rushed through the morning rituals and with my camera's loaded, headed out to the upper deck. I let my son sleep for a little while longer, wanting to enjoy the privacy of being the only one on deck. I was totally engulfed in anticipation with visiting Sweden. As with every journey and every adventure, just being alive...was my greatest inspiration. Sweden, the Nordic land with the golden hair maidens, inspiring tales and legends for countless ages. Stories of damsels in distress, the beautiful princesses, knights, kings, castles, vikings and their adventures were my favorite reading while growing up. Standing on board this ship, as we slowly worked our way to Stockholm, I felt like a dream was eventually coming true and this gave fuel to my overactive imagination. The questions that rocked my thoughts were constant and could only be answered by visiting and learning for myself.. Was Sweden the home of some of the most beautiful women on earth? Was this one of the magical lands that bred the mighty Nordic warriors? Who among the living haven't heard of their legends. Some were probably fictional, but most were true. Stories of these daring men in their long ships and their great adventures around the globe have been told for centuries. Even their discovery of North America is well documented in written history and confirmed by the discovery of remnants of a viking ship, recently found in Newfoundland Canada, dating back centuries before other European explorers. Upon deck the morning sun was bright, the sky clear and the warmth of the new day was welcoming. As the ship approached the rugged coast of Sweden it slowed and cautiously began its twisting journey through and around hundreds of small knolls and islands. Some were inhabited, others laying naked in the glimmering sea, providing only anchorage for wandering fishermen. The sheer beauty of the sea surrendering its borders to the countless islands was panoramic, but changed so rapidly it was almost impossible to capture each image on film. Before landing in the capital city of Stockholm, I reviewed some of my books on Sweden, picked up along the way, and discovered that the medieval town of Stockholm was not centered in just a small area, but actually extended along the Baltic Sea for quite some distance and had an archipelago of 24,000 islands, atolls and lumps of rock providing protection from the open seas. The calm seafaring conditions and coastal access made Sweden's northern passage ideally situated for trade and maritime activities. A majority of the land surrounding the city of Stockholm, not including its suburbs, is mostly uninhabited. The fact that boating is more than just recreation to these sea loving people, it is nearly impossible to find anchorage in fair weather even in the mostly uninhabited areas so its best to hire a boat and guide. Stockholm is best viewed from the water and you may either rent a boat or take one of the many boat tours, found in the city harbor. The bays and canals provide easy access to the city. To enjoy the parkland's of Djurgården or the alleys of Gamla Stan renting a bicycle or walking are the best options. Believe me, the great city of Stockholm will entice you to explore each of its narrow canals, beautiful harbors, wide lanes, cathedrals, palaces the homes of stunning European architecture. To truly enjoy this marvelous city make sure to allocate enough time when planning your trip or vacation. For your more immediate requirements, the city of Stockholm offers a wide selection of first class hotels and many intermediately priced. If you're into budget travel, there are many centrally located hostels. Want to try something extremely different? If so, look into staying in a boat hostel. Several of these unique boats are moored at Skeppsholmen, just south of Gamla Stan. They have become increasingly popular, so book your stay early. For your pallet, the city center boasts many fine dining experiences and a number of less expensive to mid-priced restaurants, most offering a variety of good meals. The city is also abound with small sidewalk cafes and street vendors selling everything from hot dogs to specialty items. Of course, there is also the countless convenience stores offering snacks and a wide assortment of food items for just a few Swedish kronor. Our tours are primarily designed for adventure, but on this occasion, we decided to stay in the heart of the city, as it offered easier access to the cultural center and the harbor. Our choice of accommodation was the city's absolute best hotel...The Lydmar. Containing the number one bar in the entire city was admittedly a factor in our choice. The Lydmar's location is absolutely superb and is a landmark in its refreshing new look for a luxury hotel. The hotel lobby flows effortlessly into their bar and restaurant, which offers a multitude of elegant cuisines. When the comforts of the hotel are added...The Lydmar offers a truly enjoyable & unique experience. Excellent accommodations, fine dining, active bar & lounge and inviting rooms, all without having to leave the building. Obtaining a room is as easy as entering the hotel, walking through the bar & restaurant and proceeding to the black desk in the far right corner. The on duty staff will take care of you with prompt and attentive service. Their warm, polite and informal style instantly makes you feel at home. As a guest, you will have full use of their computers, internet, printers, scanners and copiers. For other services, such as arranging a tour or rental car, just ask one of the staff and they will either help you with the arrangements or even make them for you...No Problem! Maps and brochures of the city are also available at the front desk. Your comfort is assured and the rooms offer different decors giving personal preferences to guests. You might say...a room to suit your individuality. The lounge offers live music several times a week and it does get a little crowded, but not unpleasantly so. There's always a blended crowd of locals and wayward travelers to brighten your day or evening. Hotel Lydmar is a refreshing and unique combination of luxury, hospitality, location, personal service and accommodating amenities. As you walk through its doors...you'll know that you made the right choice. Welcome to Stockholm! Welcome to...The Hotel Lydmar! Click here for Rates, Reservations, or just Inquiries! Review written by the touring editor; Mike Smith. This editorial in its entirety is the sole property of Travelers Digest and may not be distributed, sold or copied without prior written permission of Travelers Digest and/or its licensed representatives.
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