Frommer's Favorite Experiences in Sweden

Shopping in the "Kingdom of Crystal": Many visitors come to Sweden just to shop for glass. In the "Kingdom of Crystal," which stretches some 112km (70 miles) between the port city of Kalmar and the town of Växjö in Småland province, some of the world's most prestigious glassmakers, including Kosta Boda and Orrefors, showcase their wares. At least 16 major glassworks welcome visitors to this area and offer cut-rate discounts in the form of "seconds" -- goods containing flaws hardly noticeable except to the most carefully trained eye. Visitors can see glass being blown and crystal being etched by the land's most skilled craftspeople.

Viewing the Awe-Inspiring Northern Lights: In the darkest of winter in the north of Sweden (called Lapland or Norrbotten), you can view the shimmering phenomenon of the northern lights on many clear nights, usually from early evening until around midnight. The sun and solar winds create this amazing light show when electrons from the sun collide with atmospheric atoms and molecules.