COMMUNICATING IN STOCKHOLM

Communication in Stockholm is generally smooth, as English is widely spoken, and Swedes are known for their proficiency in the language. Here are some key aspects of communicating effectively in Stockholm:

Language:

  • Official Language: Swedish is the official language in Stockholm and throughout Sweden.
  • English Proficiency: English is widely spoken, and many Swedes are fluent in English. In most situations, you can comfortably communicate in English.

Learning Basic Swedish Phrases:

When traveling to Stockholm, it’s helpful to know some basic Swedish phrases to enhance your experience and communicate effectively. While English is widely spoken, making an effort to use the local language is appreciated. Here’s a mini guide with common phrases for various situations:

In Shops:

  • Hello: Hej (hey)
  • Excuse me: Ursäkta (oor-sayk-ta)
  • How much is this?: Hur mycket kostar det här? (hoor myk-et koo-star det hair)
  • I would like to buy this: Jag skulle vilja köpa detta (yag skool-de vil-ya kur-pa de-ta)
  • Thank you: Tack (tahck)
  • Goodbye: Adjö (ad-yoo)

At the Airport:

  • Where is the baggage claim?: Var är bagageutlämningen? (var air bah-gah-gay oot-lam-ning-en)
  • Can I have a taxi?: Kan jag få en taxi? (kan yag fo en tah-xi)
  • I need a map: Jag behöver en karta (yag beh-hoor-ver en car-ta)
  • Help: Hjälp (yelp)
  • Airport: Flygplatsen (fleeg-plahts-en)

In Hotels:

  • Reservation: Bokning (book-ning)
  • Check-in: Incheckning (in-check-ning)
  • Check-out: Utcheckning (oot-check-ning)
  • Room key: Rumnyckel (room-nook-el)
  • Breakfast time: Frukosttid (froo-coast-teed)
  • Can I have the bill?: Kan jag få notan? (kan yag fo no-tan)

On the Street:

  • Where is the nearest metro station?: Var är närmaste tunnelbanestation? (var air nair-mas-teh toon-el-bana-staht-ee-on)
  • Left: Vänster (ven-ster)
  • Right: Höger (hoo-ger)
  • Street: Gata (ga-ta)
  • Excuse me, do you speak English?: Ursäkta, talar du engelska? (oor-sayk-ta, tah-lar doo ing-gel-ska)

Using Public Transportation:

  • Bus stop: Busshållplats (boos-holl-plahts)
  • Train station: Tågstation (towg-staht-ee-on)
  • Ticket: Biljett (beel-yet)
  • Which platform?: Vilken plattform? (vil-ken plat-form)
  • Is this the right bus/train?: Är detta rätt buss/tåg? (air de-ta ret boos/towg)

In Hospitals:

  • Emergency: Akut (ah-coot)
  • I need a doctor: Jag behöver en läkare (yag beh-hoor-ver en lay-kar-e)
  • Hospital: Sjukhus (shook-hoos)
  • Where is the pharmacy?: Var ligger apoteket? (var lee-ger ah-po-te-ket)
  • I am not feeling well: Jag mår inte bra (yag mar in-te bra)

At the Pharmacy:

  • Pharmacy: Apotek (ah-po-tek)
  • Prescription: Recept (reh-sept)
  • Pain reliever: Smärtstillande (smert-stee-lan-de)
  • Cold medicine: Förkylningmedicin (fur-kil-ning me-de-sin)
  • Can I have a bandage?: Kan jag få ett plåster? (kan yag fo et plot-ster)

Greetings:

Learn basic Swedish greetings like “hej” (hello) and “adjö” (goodbye).

Politeness:

  • Greetings: A handshake is a common form of greeting in business and social settings. Swedes may use a light hug or a simple wave among friends.
  • Politeness: Swedes appreciate politeness and may use titles like Mr. (Herr) and Mrs. (Fru) in formal settings. It’s customary to say “please” (snälla) and “thank you” (tack) in everyday interactions.

Public Transportation:

  • Announcements: Public transportation announcements are often in Swedish and English. Ticket machines and signs at metro stations are also in English.
  • Ticketing: If needed, transportation staff can assist you in English. Familiarize yourself with common transport-related phrases or use translation apps for convenience.

Restaurants and Cafés:

  • Menus: Many restaurants have English menus available, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s helpful to learn basic food-related Swedish terms.
  • Service: Tipping is included in restaurant bills, but rounding up the total is customary. Servers are usually proficient in English.

Emergency Situations:

  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for police, medical assistance, and fire emergencies. Operators typically speak English and can guide you through the situation.
  • Medical Care Guide: For non-emergency medical advice, call 1177. English-speaking healthcare professionals can provide guidance.

Shopping:

  • English Signs: Most shops and malls have signs in English, and staff often speak English.
  • Currency: While the official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK), credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Cultural Sensitivity:

  • Respect Personal Space: Swedes value personal space and may stand at a comfortable distance during conversations.
  • Equality: Sweden places a strong emphasis on equality, and people are generally treated with fairness and respect.

Social Customs:

  • Punctuality: Being on time is important in business and social settings. Inform your hosts if you’ll be late.
  • Fika: Embrace the Swedish tradition of “fika” – a coffee break often accompanied by pastries. It’s an excellent way to socialize.

Technology and Communication Apps:

  • Mobile Connectivity: Stockholm has reliable mobile networks. You can get a local SIM card for easy communication.
  • Translation Apps: Apps like Google Translate can assist with translating written or spoken words.

Business Communication:

  • Professionalism: Business communication in Stockholm is formal and professional. Emails and meetings are typically conducted in English. –
  • Dress Code: Business attire is generally formal. Follow the dress code specified for meetings or events.

Social Media and Networking:

  • LinkedIn: LinkedIn is widely used for professional networking. Connect with locals and fellow travelers to expand your network.
  • Local Platforms: Consider exploring Swedish social media platforms for local events and gatherings.

Local Events and Meetups:

  • Meetup Groups: Joining local Meetup groups can be an excellent way to meet people, practice Swedish, and immerse yourself in the local community.