Karlstad Conclusion (20 to 23 July 2006)

It's the end of my travels in Sweden. I made my last trip to Karlstad in Varmlands from 20 July to 23 July. It was decided on the spur of the moment, since Eleanor so graciously invited us, and Maru and I were expectedly free.

The bus journey took a little more than 4 hours each way and each time we were in the bus, the weather was simply perfect. Dark, cloudy and cold. But upon reaching our destinations (Karlstad or Uppsala), the sky cleared. It seemed as though the sun shone specially for us.

I have to extend my grateful appreciation to Eleanor and her family for so graciously opening the house to us and for their hospitality. Most of our meals were provided for and the family took us around.

It was on our first morning on 21 July that we went around the city to learn about its history, and see the sights. While we took the second morning to cycle up to the water tower to see the view of the city. The view was absolutely spectacular. And it was equally amazing that the city actually rents out bicycles to tourists without charge! I really loved the bicycle ride, going up to the water tower from the city, then down to Mariebergskogen and later to Hammaro. It was simply an enjoyable and relaxing way to see the place.

Our afternoons were spent by a beach in Hammaro and a rocky outpost near Karlstad. We were relaxing by Lake Vanern, the largest freshwater lake in Europe (or Western Europe in some guide books). The combination of just lying on the beach, taking a dip in the lake and talking about everything in general was the perfect way to end the wonderful time I had here in Sweden.

Perhaps autumn is here slightly early this year. Some trees have started to turn a magnificant shade of golden yellow and earthy brown. I guess I'm just lucky to have been able to see this transition. No doubt it will only be autumn will only arrive in the end of August and be in full force only in September, this bit of autumn-like colours was icing on the cake.

It has been six months. How time flies. I'm really going to miss this place and the many wonderful friends I made here. I've had an excellent time, thanks to all of them. But all good things have to come to an end. Next stop: Home sweet home - Singapore.