Olivia in Sweden: Back in Stockholm!

February 23, 2017

Went back to Stockholm!

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We went to one of the Royal Palaces that hosted the Treasury! This museum hosts some of the monarchy’s most treasured jewels, crowns, and swords. We were not permitted to take photos of the artifacts but here’s a stunning picture of what you see when you first enter the museum.

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The Hallwyl Museum allowed for some photography! This house once belonged to the Count and Countess von Hallwyl and boy oh boy did they live up to their noble names. It was a really cool insight into the late Victorian period of Stockholm (and it was free!) Check out their pool table, their marble bathtub, and marble shower!

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We also swung by the Royal Dramatic Theatre. The beautiful building was founded in 1788 and renowned architects, artists, and interior designers worked to make it so breathtaking. Unfortunately, most of the shows are solely Swedish, but maybe if I learn Swedish in time I can give it a try?

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Here is also a pic of Gamla Stan, or the Old Town. Very interesting to see where old meets new. It’s one of the greatest preserved medieval areas in Europe. Stockholm was founded in 1252.

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There were many attractions, such as bookstores, bars, restaurants, and little ice cream shops, including this Nutella haven.

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There’s so much to do in this city. It is so convenient that it’s only 40 minutes from Uppsala. Uppsala itself has some great historical attractions, which I can’t wait to share.


Dan in Argentina: Playing the Tourist Role

September 23, 2015
Ahh, el Tango... The Tango is not only a seductively romantic dance but also a popular type of music. In Buenos Aires, although the Tango may be becoming antiquated to everyday culture, it is still very much alive for the tourists and those authentic porteños (residents of Buenos Aires) who wish to maintain the tradition. I went to a traditional milonga where the locals go to dance, and it was amazing. The sounds of the accordion and violin create the perfect backdrop to the most beautiful dances you can witness.

Ahh, el Tango… The Tango is not only a seductively romantic dance but also a popular type of music. In Buenos Aires, although the Tango may be becoming antiquated to everyday culture, it is still very much alive for the tourists and those authentic porteños (residents of Buenos Aires) who wish to maintain the tradition. I went to a traditional milonga where the locals go to dance, and it was amazing. The sounds of the accordion and violin create the perfect backdrop to the most beautiful dances you can witness.

 

As one might expect in Latin America, the fruit is very fresh. At the bottom of my apartment building is a fruit and vegetable shop. Every day, my host mom buys fresh vegetables for that night's dinner and fresh fruit for the next morning. Every day, when I get home, I always peer over and smile at the vibrant colors and amazing smells!

As one might expect in Latin America, the fruit is very fresh. At the bottom of my apartment building is a fruit and vegetable shop. Every day, my host mom buys fresh vegetables for that night’s dinner and fresh fruit for the next morning. Every day, when I get home, I always peer over and smile at the vibrant colors and amazing smells!

 

From the steps of the Central Bank, you have a beautiful view of the modernity of great skyscrapers and the history of the Casa Rosada (Pink House). The Casa Rosada holds the executive offices of the President. I toured the building and got to see all its beauty inside and out. While some old wallpaper held small stains and the original floors looked a little beat up, these imperfections added to the authenticity of its history. Interestingly, the building is pink because at one point it was believed that, to protect against the summer humidity in Buenos Aires, it was good practice to preserve the exterior walls with a mixture of lime and cows blood.

From the steps of the Central Bank, you have a beautiful view of the modernity of great skyscrapers and the history of the Casa Rosada (Pink House). The Casa Rosada holds the executive offices of the President. I toured the building and got to see all its beauty inside and out. While some old wallpaper held small stains and the original floors looked a little beat up, these imperfections added to the authenticity of its history. Interestingly, the building is pink because at one point it was believed that, to protect against the summer humidity in Buenos Aires, it was good practice to preserve the exterior walls with a mixture of lime and cows blood.

 

The Colon Theater is ranked as the third best concert hall in the world. Its acoustics are unmatched and its beauty is ridiculous. I am unsatisfied with the photos I got inside because they do not properly display the grandeur of the building. I plan to go back with my friends from UR and we'll be sure to get a group pic!

The Colon Theater is ranked as the third best concert hall in the world. Its acoustics are unmatched and its beauty is ridiculous. I am unsatisfied with the photos I got inside because they do not properly display the grandeur of the building. I plan to go back with my friends from UR and we’ll be sure to get a group pic!


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