Week 3 - Cultural Development (Trip to Göteborg, Why is everything so expensive?) 28/01/12 - 03/02/12

The lovely buildings of  Göteborg  City

This weekend was very busy as we decided to travel to Göteborg (Gothenburg) to explore the city. We were joined by Chase an American and Bo a Student from the Netherlands. We got the train to Gothenburg were we took the bus to our Hostel Backpackers Inn. The city is the Second largest in Sweden therefore; it was much bigger than Trollhättan.

The 'Haga' District

Firstly, when we arrived we explored to the old town called the Haga district, it was very beautiful and was lit up with candles and cute wooden houses. Whilst exploring this area we came across a Nordic fort called Skansen Kronan. We decided to test our fitness by climbing all the steps to visit this fortress. It was definitely worth it as there were some lovely views of the city from the top. Although, it was extremely cold and I lost the feeling in my toes. I found this City much colder than Trollhättan perhaps this is due to the cold winds coming from the coast.

The Icy Steps 

Skansen Kronan

Rebecca, Megan, Bo and Me at the top.

We went to a local restaurant on Friday where we had some tapas and after visited a few local bars. Once again the prices were very expensive and you must take of your coat when you enter any bar and pay for it. We also experienced some nightlife and I noticed that the nightlife in Sweden goes on much later than In Northern Ireland. The dress code is also much more relaxed and I don’t think I will make the mistake of wearing heels out In this country again especially when you cannot afford a taxi. You have to catch the trams and this means waiting and maybe changing with some walking in between. I found myself running to the hostel at the end of the night to get heat.

On Saturday we got up early, invested our money in a City Card which got us into most things free. Unfortunately a lot of the sites were closed due to it been the winter, as I was looking forward to visiting the Theme Park but that will give me an excuse to return during the spring time.

Scandanvias biggest Science Centre

Our first stop was the Science Centre, we had a lot of fun exploring what they had to offer including a tropical rain forest and aquarium. I found it very different than the Science Centre back home in Belfast (W5) and it was interesting to see what they had to offer. Although, I don’t think it offered as much interactive activities as in W5. 

Testing the storm activity

We also visited the Feskekörka (Fish Church), a ‘Skyscraper’, Gothenburg Museum of Art and the Botanical Gardens. Overall, it was a really enjoyable trip and I am already looking forward to my next weekend away to explore some other cities within Scandinavia.

Gothenburg Museum of Art 

The Botanical Gardens

I have finallly joined the gym and swiming complex and have been enjoying the relaxing area. The sports facilties here are excellent and I think I will visit regulary. Also, we have managed to find a new local badminton club. The club caters for all levels and is on throughout the week. The Swedish people were very friendly and have invited us to watch a badminton competetion.

  

On Thursday, we attended a Crepe party which The French students decided to host as It is their tradition it was a great evening with the rest of the Erasmus group.

This week has been really busy but filled with fun and again I am looking foward to next week.

Me at Gothenburg's Canal near the Fish Church