Q&A

What is considered polite in Sweden?

What is considered polite in Sweden?

‘Ursäkta’ always work, no matter whom you are addressing. It is more polite than just pointing at someone. We don’t need white knights coming to our rescue, Swedish people appreciate politeness but beware of treating women differently. In Sweden everyone is assumed to receive the same treatment, regardless of gender.

What is forbidden in Sweden?

Sweden protects freedom of speech and was a pioneer in officially abolishing censorship. A number of restrictions remain such as child pornography, hate speech and libel.

Why are Sweden’s colors blue and yellow?

The blue is symbolic of truth, vigilance, perseverance, loyalty and justice;while the yellow is representative of generosity. The colours of the flag are considered to have been inspired by the Swedish Coat of Arms, which is blue and gold.

What are some traditions in Sweden?

10 traditions that make Sweden one of the best countries to live…

  • Cinnamon Bun Day — October 4th.
  • Glögg — Christmastime.
  • Midsommar — the Summer Solstice.
  • Santa Lucia — December 13th.
  • Valborg — April 30th / May 1st.
  • Christmas markets — Christmastime.
  • Waffle Day — March 25th.
  • Julbock (Yule goat) — Christmastime.

Do Swedes shake hands?

The most common greeting in Sweden is a handshake. It is usually firm and accompanied with direct eye contact. Most adults will shake hands with each person present when entering or leaving a social setting.

How do people date in Sweden?

In Sweden, the ISO 8601 standard is followed in most written Swedish, but older forms remain. Dates are generally and officially written in the form YYYY-MM-DD, for instance 2001-08-31 for 31 August 2001, or using the full format (31 augusti 2001).

Why do Swedes only eat candy on Saturdays?

Lördagsgodis started in Sweden in the late 1950s as a government project to prevent children from getting cavities, says Richard Tellström, an associate professor, historian, and food expert at Uppsala University in Sweden. Candy was off-limits during the week, saved to be enjoyed on weekends.

What Colour is the cross on Sweden’s flag?

yellow cross
national flag consisting of a yellow cross extending through a blue field. The flag has a width-to-length ratio of 5 to 8.

What kind of etiquette do they have in Sweden?

Swedes are very proud of their own town or region. Do not criticize Swedish lifestyle, sexual habits, suicide rate, prices, etc. Do not compliment lightly. Insincere comments are considered rude. In Sweden, women make up 48% of the work force — the highest percentage of working women in the world.

What kind of clothes do people wear in Sweden?

Dress Swedes wear fashionable, but often casual, European style warm clothing. It is important to be well dressed in public at all times. For business, men should wear conservative suits and ties. Women should wear dresses, suits, and pantsuits.

When do you shake hands with someone in Sweden?

Shake hands again when leaving. Younger people generally do not shake hands when meeting friends. Older people expect a handshake when being greeted or when leaving. If no one is available to introduce you, shake each person’s hand and introduce yourself. Generally, Swedes are reserved in body language.

What’s the proper way to say thank you in Sweden?

It is polite to try everything served. When finished eating, place knife and fork side by side on the plate at the 5:25 position. Call or write the next day to thank your host and hostess. Do not ask for a tour of your host’s home unless you have a well established relationship.