Handbook for visiting staff and scholarship holders

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Handbook for visiting staff
and scholarship holders
lund university
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Living in a new environment
Welcome to Lund and Lund University.
Living abroad, working, studying and developing professionally at
a university in another country is always an adventure, and often
quite challenging.
The Handbook for International Staff: employees, scholarship holders and guests attempts to answer some of the many questions
you might have about day-to-day practical matters in your new
environment.
We hope that your stay at Lund University will be pleasant and
rewarding.
Learn more about Lund and Sweden
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www.lunduniversity.lu.se Lund University (English)
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www.lu.se Lunds universitet (Swedish)
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www.staff.lu.se Lund University Staff Pages (English)
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www.lund.se Lund Municipality
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http://www.informationsverige.se/Engelska/Pages/Start.aspx
Information to make your arrival in Sweden easier
•
www.movingtosouthernsweden.com
Moving to Southern Sweden
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www.visitsweden.com Visit Sweden
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www.sweden.se The official gateway to Sweden
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https://eng.si.se/ The Swedish Institute
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http://www.swedenabroad.com/en-GB/ Sweden in Touch
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www.researchinsweden.se Euraxess Sweden
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www.sweden.gov.se Swedish Government
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http://www.scb.se/en Statistics Sweden
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Contents
Sweden in brief 5
Lund 6
Malmö 7
Copenhagen 7
The University 8
University activities 8
Promotionen (the doctoral conferment
or graduation ceremony)
8
Professors’ inauguration 9
Nobel lectures 9
The Carnival (Karnevalen)
9
Traditional festivities 9
The university shop, AF building 10
Lund University Alumni Network 10
General information 11
Accommodation 11
Residence permits 11
ID cards
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Taxation 13
Banking 13
Bank accounts 14
Foreign currency 16
Foreign representation 17
Insurance 17
Medical care 18
Medical benefits 19
Pharmacies/chemists (apotek) 19
Dentists (tandläkare) 20
Children’s health care 20
Welfare benefits 21
Child allowance 21
Study allowance 21
Parental allowance on
the birth of a child 22
Temporary parental allowance
22
Education 23
Compulsory school
(9-year comprehensive) 23
International schools
23
Upper secondary schools
(gymnasieskolor) 24
Higher education
25
Leisure activities for children
25
Public transport 27
General transport 27
SJ trains (state railways) 28
Lost property (hittegods) 28
Transport to Copenhagen
28
Sweden in Brief
Private transport 28
Bicycles 28
Driving licences 29
To hire a vehicle
29
Importing and registering vehicles 29
Insurance of foreign vehicles
29
Speed limits 29
Traffic rules 30
Breakdowns and accidents
30
Safety 30
Petrol 30
Parking 31
Shopping 31
Tax-free shopping 32
Internet shop ”Blocket”
32
Open-air markets 32
Second-hand shops 33
Off licences (Systembolaget)
33
Specialist food shops/shops
34
Newspapers 34
Foreign language bookshops
34
Consumer advice 34
Communications 35
The Post Office 35
Telephones 35
Television 35
News broadcasts 36
Tourism, leisure activities, etc. 36
Public access to the countryside 37
City libraries 38
Church of Sweden 38
Lund Cathedral 38
Other churches 39
Museums40
Language courses 42
Study circles and hobbies
42
Sports and outdoor activities
44
Swimming pools
44
Sports halls 45
Theatres 45
Choirs 46
Concerts 46
Cinemas 46
Public holidays & traditions
47
Public holidays 47
Traditional festivities 47
Survival guide 49
www.sweden.se and www.visitsweden.com
Population: 9.42 million
Average life expectancy: Men 79 years, women 83 years
Capital: Stockholm pop. 1 600 000
Surface area: 450 000 sq. km (174 000 sq. miles) - larger than
California but slightly smaller than Spain. Third largest country in
Western Europe after France and Spain.
Geography: Half Sweden’s land area is covered with forest, and
less than 10% is farmland, mostly in the southernmost region, Skåne
(Scania), where Lund and nearby Malmö are situated. The distance
from north to south is 1 600 km, incorporating a wide spectrum of
climatic zones.
Climate: The warm Gulf Stream of the Atlantic gives Sweden a milder
climate than other areas equally far north. Due to the high latitude,
winters in Sweden, especially in the northern parts, are long and
dark while the daylight hours in summertime are long (midnight sun
in the north). In Lund, the number of daylight hours is approx. 7 in
December and 17 in July. The mean temperature in Lund in December
is 1.1˚C (34˚F) and in July 16.8˚C (62˚F). However, winter temperatures
may now and again drop to -15˚C (5˚F). Warm and windproof outdoor
clothing is therefore essential. By contrast, the indoor temperature is
always comfortable.
Religion: The Church of Sweden is Evangelical Lutheran. There are
also many other religions and denominations. Churches in major cities
usually have services in English once a week.
History: See www.sweden.se - for Sweden’s history and society
from the Viking Age in the 9th-11th centuries, with its expeditions
of plunder and trade, followed by centuries of expansion, trading
alliances, territorial wars and religious upheaval to the peaceful (since
1814) modern Swedish welfare state.
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Form of government: Constitutional monarchy with one
chamber parliament, the Riksdag, elected every 4 years by
proportional representation. King Carl XVI Gustaf exerts no political
power, performing only ceremonial duties as official representative of
Sweden. Political power rests with the Prime Minister (Statsminister)
and his Cabinet (Regering).
Lund
At the heart of Lund, by the Cathedral, in the Lundagård park are the
main university building (Universitetshuset), the Kungshuset and the
Academic Society (AF). Nearby is also the Museum of Cultural History
(Kulturen). (See map at the end of the handbook!)
From the University Hospital in the north, you can distinguish Copenhagen on the other side of the Öresund strait. At close range, you see an arc
of successful industrial enterprises: high-tech enterprises have established
offices at Ideon Science Park since its start in 1983. Many of these have
roots at Lund University and/or continue to collaborate actively with it.
www.lund.se
Lund is one of the oldest cities in Sweden. In the late 10th century it was
a permanent settlement centred on a church and a royal mint. It was the
seat of an archbishopric and a religious, political, commercial, cultural and
educational centre for all Scandinavia. In 1104 the Danish archbishopric
was established in Lund, centred on the bishop’s church, entirely rebuilt to
become the Archbishop’s cathedral and centre of Christianity throughout
the Nordic countries. The cathedral is still the centre of the city, visited
each year by tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world.
In the year 1658, Skåne (Scania) was conquered by the Swedes. Lund
University was founded in 1666 to consolidate the power of the Swedish
crown over the new territories. Since then the university has characterised the city. Along with the University Hospital – the centre for medical
care in southern Sweden – the University, with its approximately 47 000
students, dominates Lund. Lund Municipality with 114 000 inhabitants
includes several surrounding small towns and villages, particularly to the
east. The municipality includes Dalby and the adjacent Dalby Söderskog
national park.
Malmö
www.malmö.se/english
Only 20 km south of Lund lies Malmö. Malmö is Sweden’s third
largest city (pop. 647 300 including suburbs) and a lively cosmopolitan community with a wealth of cultural institutions. The
Science Park in Malmö, MEDEON, specialises in medical technology and pharmaceuticals and is situated close to Skåne University
Hospital’s Malmö site, which is also a teaching hospital. Malmö
is the home of the World Maritime University, located here by
the United Nations.
Copenhagen
www.visitcopenhagen.dk
Köpenhamn in Swedish/København in Danish, the capital of Denmark,
is the biggest city in Scandinavia, with all the exciting activities of a
major European city. Copenhagen is not far from Lund; less than an
hour by train.
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The University
www.lu.se
Established as the second university in Sweden in 1666, Lund University
includes all faculties. The heart of this very large centre of learning
must be said to lie in the square formed by the main university building
(Universitetshuset), built in 1882, the University Library from 1907, the
Student Union and the Cathedral. Like most universities in Sweden,
Lund University is state financed. At present (2014) about 47 700 students study and 7 540 staff and researchers work at the University. Of
these, about 1 400 are professors and lecturers with a doctor’s degree.
Professors’ inauguration
At least once each semester, the newly appointed professors are
ceremonially inaugurated. This ceremony takes place in the hall of
the main university building and is accompanied by speeches, music
played by the university orchestra and a procession of the student
societies. The ceremony is open to the public. Enquire for details with
the Office of Ceremonies (Promotionsexpeditionen),
promotionsexp@rektor.lu.se
Nobel lectures
A few days after the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm on 10th
December (which is always televised) some of the Nobel Laureates
give lectures at Lund University.
University and academic activities
www.lunduniversity.lu.se
Promotionen
(the doctoral conferment or graduation ceremony)
In this ceremony, which takes place in the Cathedral, the graduates
who have presented their doctoral thesis during the previous year
receive the insignia of their doctorate and are hailed with canon salutes. Before and after the ceremony, the academic staff and other
dignitaries, together with the graduates, walk in procession from the
main university building through the Lundagård park to the Cathedral
and back. The ceremony takes place at the end of May or beginning
of June. http://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/admissions/phd-studies/
doctoral-conferment-ceremony
The Carnival (Karnevalen)
Every fourth year, in May, the students take over the city for three
days to celebrate their carnival. Lundagård is the centre of the carnival
activities, but the whole town is permeated with carnival fever. Next
time will be in the year 2018. http://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/studentlife/lund-as-a-student-city/traditions-at-lund
Traditional festivities within the university community
The coming of spring
30th April, at Tegnérsplatsen, on the side steps of the AF building:
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17.45 the Students’ Male Voice Choir sings the traditional
songs to usher in the spring.
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17.58 the Vice-President of the Student Union greets the spring.
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18.00 the students, old and young, don their white caps.
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1st May, in front of the main University building:
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12.30 the traditional exchange of greetings between the University
General information
Vice-Chancellor and the President of the Student Union.
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18.00 the Students’ Male Voice Choir gives the traditional spring
concert. This performance is always televised.
The whole population of Lund joins in these celebrations.
The university shop
Both in the AF building at Sandgatan 2, and at Winstrupsgatan 8,
Lund and here: http://shop.lu.se/
This shop carries a good variety of tastefully designed souvenirs and
presents, many featuring the original university seal from 1666. Also
available are jackets, t-shirts, etc.
Lund University Alumni Network
At Lund University former students, researchers and staff can stay
involved through the Alumni Network. Stay connected and remain
a part of the Lund community for years to come! Join the global
network of over 28 000 registered alumni.
Membership is free.
As a member of the alumni network, you get:
• An invaluable global network
• Support to organize reunions
• Invitations to alumni events and other promotions
• Career and further education info
• E-newsletter Lundensaren (4x/year)
• Access to the online alumni portal (alumni.lu.se)
• Special alumni discounts and offers
PhD students & Researchers: This network may have fellow researchers in your area that could be interested in networking or collaboration. Or there may be alumni who are interested stakeholders that are
working in a related industry. Maybe you’re interested in sharing your
latest work with alumni – hold a guest lecture at an alumni event!
Register at: www.lunduniversity.lu.se/lund-university-alumni
Contact: info@alumni.lu.se
Accommodation
All visiting staff should first turn to their host department for help
regarding housing, though we must point out that some departments
may be more helpful than others.
The following internet site is one useful place to look for accommodation: http://www.blocket.se
And a list over other accommodation possibilities is found here:
http://bopoolen.nu/links/?lang=en
AF Bostäder (PhD-students only)
Phone: +46 46-19 15 00
Visiting address: Sandgatan 2
Opening Hours: 08.00-16.00
https://www.afbostader.se/en/
Residence permits - www.migrationsverket.se
EEA citizens have the right to work in Sweden without a work or
residence permit. The same applies to your family members if they
join you. You and your family members are entitled to begin working
immediately. If you stay longer than three months, you have to register
with the Swedish Migration Board.
Non-EEA citizens from certain countries or regions require a visa.
These are issued for short-term visits and must be applied for before
entering the Schengen area (including Sweden). Visiting researchers
do not need a work permit. Note that if you are a visiting researcher,
you still need a residence permit if your stay is expected to last longer
than three months. Also note that the permit must be valid and entered into your passport before you travel to Sweden. To receive a
residence permit, you need to have a hosting agreement with the
research organisation.
When travelling to Sweden it is important to show a copy of the
Migration Board’s decision.
More information about permits, visas and application forms can be
found at www.migrationsverket.se.
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Remember that you can renew your visa either online or in person.
The waiting time could be up to five months.
All nationalities
On arrival in Sweden, you need to register with the Swedish Tax
Agency (Skatteverket) and apply for a personal identity number (personnummer) (if staying more than 365 days). The application is made
in person at the Tax Office and you need to have a home address in
Sweden.
Addresses
Skatteverket in Lund
Folkbokföring (population registration)
Stora Södergatan 45
Box 10, 221 00 Lund
Tel. 0771-567 567
Skatteverket in Malmö
Folkbokföring (population registration)
Kattsundsgatan 7
205 30 Malmö
Tel. 0771-567 567
http://www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/inenglish.4
.12815e4f14a62bc048f4edc.html
Documents required: passport with residence permit. If you have your
marriage certificate, this is also useful, but not necessary. At the Tax
Office you will be given a form called “Anmälan om Flyttning till Sverige” (Application to move to Sweden). This form is available in various
languages and the staff at the Tax Office will help. You are obliged
to inform both the Tax Office (Skatteverket) and the Swedish Social
Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan) when you move from Sweden.
Application for a Swedish personal identity number
The number consists of 10 digits: date of birth and four check digits. The
number is important in Sweden as it is used for all official transactions,
such as opening a bank account, the health system, car registration, etc.
Skatteverket will process your application. After approximately two weeks
you will receive a registration form with your personal identity number.
You will need to contact Försäkringskassan to confirm that you have been
registered at Skatteverket. In order to find out whether you have the
right to receive social insurance or not, please contact Försäkringskassan.
Försäkringskassan (Swedish Social Insurance Agency)
Customer Service
Stora Södergatan 45
Box 104, 221 00 Lund
Tel. +46 771 52 45 24
ID cards
ID cards are issued by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).
You can find information about how to apply on their website at
www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/inenglish/individualsemployees/idcard.4.76a43be412206334b89800039548.html
Taxation - www.skatteverket.se
(Please note: Scholarship holders do not pay taxes in Sweden.)
In Sweden, income taxes are almost always automatically submitted
to the tax authority, since employers are obliged to deduct taxes from
salaries paid to their employees. We strongly advise you to contact
a tax consultant or the national tax authority in your home country
before travelling to Sweden.
There are some exceptions to the ordinary tax system, e.g. tax relief
for foreign key personnel, see www.forskarskattenamnden.se, and a
special income tax for non-residents (SINK), see information at http://
www.skatteverket.se/download/18.15532c7b1442f256baec904/1396
015156868/315B02-11.pdf
Banking
As you may need to open a bank account before you have received
your personal identity number “personnummer”, most banks issue
an interim number (which they need to enable their computers to
handle your account), and you will be able to apply for a cash card
(uttagskort) to enable you to make withdrawals from the bank’s cash
machines/ATMs (uttagsautomater) all over Sweden. As soon as you
have received your “personnummer” from Skatteverket, notify your
bank of your “real” personnummer.
N.B. Your wages are paid around the 25th of the month. If you have
an account in another bank, please remember to give Nordea Bank
(Stora Södergatan 2) a standing order to transfer to your desired account.
The use of cheques in Sweden is very limited (and sometimes complicated and pricey). Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout
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Sweden at most shops and restaurants. You can get cash with your
Visa, MasterCard, Maestro or Cirrus card at any “Bankomat” or “Minuten” ATM.
Most bills are paid by postal or bank giro. For instance, to pay the
rent, or to pay for services, goods you have ordered by mail, etc. you
will receive a pre-printed PlusGiro bill (inbetalningskort) payable at the
bank. There are charges for bank transactions e.g. transfers between
different banks (not between branches of the same bank), cashing
cheques, payment of a bankgiro or PlusGiro and fees for postal orders.
These charges vary from bank to bank and over time. All banks now
offer transaction services online. This is convenient, avoids service
charges and saves waiting in a bank to be served.
Please note:
a) Contact your own bank to transfer money from your home country
to Sweden.
b) Notify your bank when you leave Sweden to close your bank account.
c) ID cards from other EU countries are not accepted by Swedish banks.
N.B. The banks have limited opening hours. Most banks have later
opening hours one day a week.
Bank accounts
In order to open a bank account in Sweden you need to show a
form of ID, for example a passport, ID card or letter of invitation
which shows that you are working at LU. You also need an address in
Sweden and personal registration certificate (personbevis).
You can open a bank account in Sweden without a personal identity
number (personnummer), but it makes everything easier if you have
a Swedish personnummer. The Swedish banks recommend that you
wait to open a bank account until you have your personnummer.
Phone switchboard: 046-3981220
Citizens of one of the Nordic countries need:
• Letter of invitation
• Valid ID
Citizens of an EU/EEA country need:
• Letter of invitation
• Valid ID
Citizens of Switzerland need:
• Letter of invitation
• Residence permit
• Valid ID
Citizens of a country outside the EU/EEA need:
• Letter of invitation
• Residence permit
• Valid ID
Citizens of the United States of America need:
• Letter of invitation
• Letter from the tax office (Skatteverket) stating that the student
has a Swedish personal number (social security number)
• Swedish ID card
• Letter from the tax office stating that the student is registered
in Sweden for tax purposes
Handelsbanken
Visiting address: Stora Södergatan 15, Lund
Tel. 046-15 99 00
Handelsbanken Direkt Privat (Customer Services): 0771-77 88 99
Open: Mon–Thur 10.00–18.00, Fri 10.00–15.00
You can open a bank account with Handelsbanken in two different
ways, with or without a personnummer.
Contacts for LU international staff at the banks in Lund:
SEB Lund
Visiting address: Kyrkogatan 1-3 in Lund
Contact person: Cecilia Wendt, student coordinator
Phone: 046-3981225
E-mail: Cecilia.wendt@seb.se
Without Swedish ID:
• Handelsbanken creates a preliminary personnummer for the
customer.
• an account, internet banking and Maestro card are included in
the package.
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•
automatic salary transactions or autogiro to/from the account
are not possible.
With Swedish ID (Tax Office ID card):
• Automatic salary transactions and autogiro are possible.
• The possibility to choose a VISA card instead of a Maestro card.
Sparbanken Skåne
(In cooperation with Swedbank)
Visiting addresses: Kyrkogatan 9, Lund; Emdalavägen 4, Lund (Ideon),
Edison Park
Switchboard: 0771-12 20 00
Nordea
Visiting address: Stora Södergatan 2, Lund
Open Mon–Fri 10–16 and Thur 10–18
Contact person: The bank’s floor manager takes care of new customers
General questions: Customer Services 0771-22 44 88 (choose 9 for
English)
To get a bank account without a Swedish personal identity number,
you will need: letter of invitation, paper with coordination number
(samordningsnummer) from the Swedish Tax Agency. If you don’t have
a Swedish coordination number or Swedish personal identity number,
we will only open a savings account. A passport or international ID
card is acceptable if you are coming from the EU.
To get a bank account with a Swedish personal identity number, you
will need: letter of invitation, paper with Swedish personal identity
number from the Swedish Tax Agency and passport. An international
ID card is acceptable if you are coming from the EU.
Foreign currency
The FOREX bureau de change offers competitive rates and low
commission. www.forex.se
Bangatan 8, Lund (opposite the railway station) and at
Botulfsgatan 2, Lund.
In Malmö there are several offices, one located in the Central Railway
Station.
Foreign Representation
(embassies and consulates)
About 25 countries have consulates in the Malmö area. See www.
eniro.se – enter “Ambassad” in the first window, “Malmö” in the
second then click the search symbol. This will generate a list of the
consulates in Swedish. For both embassies and consulates in Sweden:
http://embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-in/sweden
For Swedish embassies and consulates abroad:
www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/4189
Insurance
Insurance of personal belongings can be obtained from one of the
companies listed under “Försäkringar” in the telephone directory. The
landlord is responsible for the insurance of property belonging to the
owner of the accommodation you are renting, but the tenant must
always have his/her own insurance too (double insurance).
At Staff pages, The internal website for Lund University, you’ll find
information about insurances here:
www.staff.lu.se/employment/terms-of-employment/insurance
and more specificly for international staff at:
www.staff.lu.se/employment/for-international-staff/insurance-forinternational-staff
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Medical care
In emergencies for which an ambulance is needed,
dial 112!
112 is the emergency number for fire, ambulance and police. You will
be asked to explain what has happened, where it has happened and
from what number you are calling.
If you suddenly become seriously ill or injured, you can go directly
to the accident and emergency department (Akutmottagning) of
the University Hospital (Universitetssjukhuset) in Lund or Malmö for
adults, or the children’s accident and emergency department.
Hospital accident and emergency departments receive accident victims and patients with sudden, serious illnesses 24 hours a day.
Addresses:
• Universitetssjukhuset i Lund, Getingevägen 4,
tel. 046 17 10 00, E-mail: sus@skane.se
• Universitetsjukhuset i Malmö, Södra Förstadsgatan 101,
tel. 040-33 10 00
Lund University has a security service that operates 24 hours a day,
seven days a week. Employees are free to contact them if in need of
help. They can assist in an emergency, if you are a victim of theft, lose
your ID card and cannot get into work or if you are seriously ill. The
phone number is: 046-222 07 00
For a normal medical appointment there are the following
options weekdays from 8.00-17.00:
1. Contact the health care centre (Vårdcentralen) serving your area.
Their addresses and phone numbers can be found at gulasidorna.eniro.
se Search for “Vårdcentral”, “Lund/Malmö”. You are advised to call
and make an appointment.
2. You can also visit a private clinic (Läkarhus). These are where a group
of doctors, both specialists and general practitioners, hold their surgeries. You need to make an appointment. Visit gulasidorna.eniro.
se/ and search for “Läkare, läkarhus”, “Lund/Malmö”.
3. Private doctors can be found at gulasidorna.eniro.se Search for
“Läkare”, “Lund/Malmö”.
Bring your passport, documents and health insurance.
Those with a Swedish personal identity number are entitled to the
same medical services as the Swedes. The fees per visit are then SEK
160 for a visit to a general practitioner and SEK 300 for a visit to a
specialist (2015). The charges for a private consultation are similar
to those charged by the public health service. A “high cost card”
(högkostnadskort) gives discounts on the cost of medical consultations
and medication in the case of frequent medical needs. (Enquire with
your doctor or nurse).
EU citizens without Swedish personal identity must bring EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or a certificate to show that you cannot
get a EHIC in order to get a discount. Without the certificate you have
to pay the full price.
Non-registered visitors from outside the EEA and Switzerland
must pay in full and be refunded by LU’s insurance company, Kammarkollegiet.
An interpreter service (tolk) is available in Lund. Tel. 046 35 59 41. Ask
the doctor or nurse in charge of your case.
Medical benefits
All Swedish citizens and all foreigners who are resident and registered
in Sweden are entitled to subsidised medical consultations, hospitalisation and prescriptions.
Pharmacies/Chemists (apotek)
Medical prescriptions must be taken to a pharmacy (apotek).
Prescription-free medication is also available at the chemists, at some
other shops and supermarkets. Costs of medication vary. For frequent
needs, a “high cost card” gives progressively lower prices over a
calendar year (enquire with your pharmacist).
There are many different pharmacies in Lund and Malmö and here
are just a few:
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Lund
Apotek Hjärtat
Mårtenstorget 12
Mon-Fri 09.00-20.00
Sat 09.00-19.00
Sun 10.00-19.00
Tel. 0771-40 54 05
www.apotekhjartat.se
Other important addresses
Kvinnojouren in Lund
For women and children who have been victims of domestic violence.
They also offer shelter. Tel. 046-12 19 60.
You can also send an e-mail: kvinnojourenlund@telia.com.
Malmö
Apotek Hjärtat
Södra Förstadsgatan 41
Triangeln Köpcentrum
Mon-Fri 10.00-20.00
Sat 10.00-17.00
Sun 11.00-17.00
Postal address:
Kvinnojouren i Lund
Box 1663
221 01 Lund
Dentists (tandläkare)
The district dental clinic (Folktandvården) is often located in the same
area as the health care centre (Vårdcentralen). There are also private
dentists; visit gulasidorna.eniro.se, search for “Privata tandläkare”,
“Lund”.
In an emergency it is possible to go to any dentist during working
hours without an appointment, but you should call to make an
appointment if possible. After hours, at weekends or holidays,
tel. 11 77, ask for the dentist on call (jourhavande tandläkare). Dental
care costs are partially covered if you are registered in the Swedish
census office (mantalsskriven) (and have a personal identity number.
If you are insured only under the university scheme for foreign visiting
staff, only emergency dental treatment is covered. Tel. 0771-52 45 24
– Försäkringskassan (Swedish Social Insurance Agency).
Children’s health care
In every medical district there is a children’s health clinic (Barnavårdscentral). Here, parents of pre-school children receive advice regarding
their children’s health. Their development is monitored and any necessary
vaccinations are given. Be aware that the sequence and ages at which
children receive their vaccinations often vary from country to country.
For more information on all entries below please contact Försäkringskassan (Swedish Social Insurance Agency) www.fk.se/sprak/eng
Tel. 0771 52 45 24 E-mail: fk.lund@fk12.sfa.se
Open weekdays 9.00–12.00 & 13.00–16.00.
Fridays open until 15.00.
http://kvinnojourenlund.se/ (In Swedish)
Poison information
Tel. 08-33 12 31 (daytime) or tel. 112 if it is an emergency.
Medical information hotline
You can call the medical information hotline “sjukvårdsrådgivningen”,
24 hours a day, seven days a week on 11 77 (be patient and stay on the
phone while the recorded message in Swedish is played). Experienced
medical staff will then advise you. If you have an acute life threatening
health problem dial 112.
Welfare Benefits
The following information does not apply for
scholarship holders.
Child allowance
Automatically paid for all children under 16 years of age to families
registered in Sweden.
Study allowance
Children over the age of 16 have their child allowance extended. This
is called study allowance (studiebidrag) and is paid for 9 months of the
year until the student completes or discontinues his or her schooling.
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Parental allowance on the birth of a child
When a child is born, parental allowance is paid to the mother or
father for a total of 480 days. It may be taken out at any time before
the child is eight years old.
Education
Temporary parental allowance
This allowance may be claimed by a parent for loss of income, for
instance when a child is ill. It is paid for a maximum of 60 days per
year until the child is 12, in some cases up to 16.
Compulsory (9-year comprehensive) school
State schools
Schooling is compulsory between the ages of 7 and 16. A preparatory
year for six-year olds is optional. In this nine-year period, all teaching
materials are provided free of charge and routine medical checks are
carried out free of charge by a school doctor and nurse.
Anyone receiving any of these allowances must notify the Swedish
Social Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan) when the child leaves
Sweden. Försäkringskassan has booklets in several languages for
further information.
In Sweden all parents have the right, on the payment of an incomebased charge, to register their children (ages 1–6) at a nursery or with
a childminder. Parents who are working or studying can apply for
municipal childcare at a nursery (daghem/dagis) or with a childminder
(dagmamma). In the year of their sixth birthday all children in Sweden
have the right to go to pre-school.
If your child is not at a nursery or with a childminder the options
available include:
•
Play schools and open pre-schools (öppen förskola). Öppna
förskolor are for young children accompanied by a parent or
childminder.
www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Education1/
All foreign children receive instruction in Swedish in special classes
until their proficiency in Swedish enables them to participate in the
normal Swedish school system (about 4 to 6 months). In addition, the
school will arrange tuition in the child’s native language and culture
(modersmål). Tuition in at least 33 of the world’s major languages
is offered. The classes are usually small and of mixed ability. It is,
however, considered important for children to continue to study their
native language – see www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Education1/Mothertongue-first-language-education/
Preparatory Swedish lessons to enable children to attend
Swedish school.
To register your child for Swedish lessons, please contact the
“förberedelseklass” (preparation class) at Lerbäcksskolan. Tel. 046 35
73 81, Öresundsvägen 2, 227 64 Lund .
International schools in the Skåne region
http://www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Education1/International-schools-andeducation/
•
•
•
•
•
The International Pre-School in Lund (IPSL) at Tunastugan close
to Tunaskolan www.ipsl.se
Bilingual Montessori Pre-School www.bmsl.org – also teaches
in French
Lund International School www.lundinternationalschool.com
The International School of Lund (ISLK)
http://www.lund.se/en/ISLK/
The International Baccalaureate Programme Malmö Borgarskola, Regementsgatan 36
http://ib.malmoborgarskola.se/ (In Swedish)
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•
•
Bladins International School in Malmö
http://www.bladins.se/?page_id=39 (In Swedish)
The International School of Helsingborg
http://www.helsingborg.se/internationalschool/
Independent schools
• Bilingual Montessori School, Lund, www.bmsl.se
• Freinet School in Lund, www.freinetskolan.se
• St Thomas School, Catholic school in Lund
www.sanktthomasskola.se
• Rudolf Steiner School – Waldorf school, Hardeberga
www.waldorf-lund.com
• Kunskapsskolan, Lund, www.kunskapsskolan.se
• Maria Montessori-skolan, Lund
www.pysslingen.se/mariamontessoriskolan
• Skrylleängsskolan, Södra Sandby
www.dalbysandbymontessori.se
Upper secondary schools (gymnasieskolor)
These provide 3 and 4 year academic and vocational courses leading
on to university or employment. In Lund there are four municipal
upper secondary schools: Katedralskolan, Polhemskolan, Spyken
and Vipan. In addition, Magleskolan offers pupils individual study
programmes.
Independent secondary schools
• Bladin’s International School – English is the main language of
instruction, http://www.bladins.se/?page_id=39
• Consensum Vård & Hälsogymnasium – health care,
www.consensum-lund.se (in Swedish)
• Humanus Gymnasium – individual programmes, internationalisation, www.humanus.se (in Swedish)
• Lars-Erik Larsson-gymnasiet – science and music.
http://www.lel.nu (in Swedish)
• Lunds Fordonstekniska Gymnasium – mechanics,
www.lundsfordonstekniskagymnasium.se (in Swedish)
• Rudolf Steinerskolan – Waldorf pedagogy, art,
www.lundswaldorfskola.se/information-in-english/
• Turismgymnasiet i Lund – tourism
Higher education
• The educational system for higher education in Sweden:
www.ace.lu.se/masters-programme/the-swedish-educationsystem
• Lund University www.lunduniversity.lu.se
• Malmö University www.mah.se/english
• Folkuniversitetet gives language courses
www.folkuniversitetet.se/In-English/
For information about language classes at Lund University
www.staff.lu.se/employment/for-international-staff
Leisure activities for children
For children of school age, supervised after-school activities are provided at youth recreation centres (fritidshem), including activities such
as carpentry, ceramics and animal care. (For further information, ask
at your child’s school).
Kulturskolan
Community music and art school, www.lund.se/kulturskolan (in
Swedish only)
LIMUS – Lund International Music Salong
http://www.lundsmusiksalong.se/?page_id=2774
Friluftsfrämjandet
(the Swedish Outdoor Association)
Friluftsfrämjandet runs a wide selection of outdoor activities for all
ages, www.friluftsframjandet.se/lund (in Swedish)
Hiking MLV (Malmö-Lunds Vandrarlag)
http://infoo.se/www/MalmoLunds_Vandrarlag
Enjoying the outdoors - LUFS
(Lundabygdens Naturvårdsförening)
www.naturskyddsforeningen.se/kretsar-lan/skane/lund/in-english
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Naturbussen
A bus to the countryside runs at weekends from spring to autumn.
http://www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Environment-housing-and-urbanplanning/Parker-och-natur/Naturomraden/Skrylleomradet / TheNature-Bus-No-159/
Gerdahallen
This health and fitness centre offers some parent-child classes.
www.gerdahallen.lu.se/english-default.aspx
Scout groups
Scout groups in Sweden are always mixed-sex.
• Svenska Scout Förbundet, Kapitelhuset, Kraftstorg 12, Lund,
www.scoutkarenfinn.se (in Swedish)
• Skåne-Blekinge Scout Region. The YMCA and the YWCA,
Sunnanvägen 18D, www.kfuk-kfum.se/skaneblekinge
(In Swedish)
Public libraries
Public libraries (bibliotek) in Sweden are free even for temporary residents. Apply for a lending card at the information desk.
www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Culture-and leisure/Libraries/
The central library in Lund, S:t Petri Kyrkogata 6, has various activities
for children and books in many languages.
The central library in Malmö, Regementsgatan 3, has similar facilities.
Stadsbiblioteket Kung Oscars Väg 11, 211 33 Malmö,
www.malmo.se/bibliotek (in Swedish)
Museums
Museums catering for children in an interesting way are:
• Kulturen in Lund
www.kulturen.com/besoksinformation/welcome/
• Malmö Museum and Malmö Museum of Technology
http://malmo.se/Kultur--fritid/Kultur--noje/Museer--utstallningar/Malmo-Museer/Sprak/In-English.html
For further leisure activities, see http://www.lund.se/en/Citizen/
Culture-and-leisure/
Public transport
General transport
The public transport system in Sweden is usually very reliable. The
Lund city buses (Stadstrafiken) converge at the bus station on Botulfsplatsen and serve the whole city. The regional buses (Skånetrafiken)
serve all of Skåne and have their main terminal at Lund railway station.
The railway station in Lund serves the purple local trains (Pågatåg) for
destinations within Skåne, the Öresundståg (around the Öresund),
as well as long distance trains run by Swedish Railways (SJ). Please
note that tickets for SJ and Skånetrafiken are not interchangeable and
tickets cannot be bought on the trains.
Relevant websites:
• http://www.skanetrafiken.se/templates/StartPage.
aspx?id=34318&epslanguage=EN
• http://www.oresundstag.se/
• http://www.sj.se/start/startpage/index.form?l=en
• http://www.flygbussarna.se/en
Jojo-kort (discount card for public transport)
The magnetic plastic Jojo-kort (discount cards) can be bought loaded
with SEK 200 at newsagents or at the Skånetrafiken office at the
railway stations (2015). These cards give about a 20% reduction on
fares in Skåne and 20% on travel across the Öresund to Copenhagen.
The card can be recharged at Skånetrafiken offices, at ticket machines
at the Pågatåg stations and on regional buses (credit card only). Hold
the discount card against the machine on the bus to pay (tell the driver
your destination on the regional buses – city buses have a flat rate)
or use it to buy a ticket in the ticket machines at railway stations. You
cannot pay by cash on the bus or train. Credit cards are accepted on
regional buses. On city buses you can only pay by Jojo card or text
message (SMS).
Timetables, tickets and other information for the bus and train
services are available from the Skånetrafiken offices (in Lund, the
building north of the railway station; in Malmö in the centre of the
central railway station. See also the competitor Transdev/Snabbtåget.
http://www.snalltaget.se/en
N.B. Timetables change for the summer on all public transport. Sum-
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mer cards “Jojo Sommar” cost around SEK 605 and give you free travel
throughout Skåne 15 June–15 August (2015).
shop around early and get a good lock. In the city of bikes, there are
also a lot of bike thieves!
SJ (state railways) long distance trains
The state trains have an array of different prices for families, students,
youths, groups, last minute tickets, etc. – see www.sj.se or check at
the ticket office in Malmö (no SJ ticket office in Lund).
•
•
Lost Property (hittegods)
For the city buses in Lund – www.skanetrafiken.se. It is important to
write a telephone number on the back of your Jojo card; then you
might get it back if it gets lost!
For Pågatåg and SJ: www.hittegodssverige.se/england-page.html
Transport to Copenhagen
Since Copenhagen has so much to offer, with all the amenities of a
capital city, and since it is so near, we urge you to take a day trip to
the other side of the Öresund. Among many sites we recommend the
amusement park Tivoli in the centre of Copenhagen. Travel is a simple
and speedy matter of a train ride. The trains run every twenty minutes
between Lund and Copenhagen via Malmö. Remember to carry your
passport, with valid visa if required.
Private transport
Bicycles
Cycling is the most common mode of transport in both Lund and
Malmö, and not only among students. If you would like to purchase
a second-hand bicycle, try bike shops where second-hand bicycles
are sometimes sold. Check the local newspapers and noticeboards
in supermarkets, look on www.blocket.se or put up a note on the
noticeboard at your department.
By law a bike must have reflectors on both wheels and also a proper
front and rear light for cycling after dark.
N.B. The police can issue on-the-spot fines for disobeying the rules
of the road! Keep in mind that bicycles are in great demand, so try to
https://online4.ineko.se/trafikverket/Product/Category/12050
http://erso.swov.nl/knowledge/content/40_pedestrians/traffic_rules_and_regulations_for_cyclists_and_their_vehicles.htm
Lund city bikes (Lundahoj)
Rental bikes are located at rental stations situated around Lund
www.Lundahoj.se/en/
Driving licences
For information about whether your driving licence is valid in
Sweden, see: http://www.korkortsportalen.se/upload/dokument/
Ovriga_dokument_TS/International/engelska.pdf
To hire a vehicle (biluthyrning)
Contact rental firms, gulasidorna.eniro.se, search for “Biluthyrning”,
“Lund”.
Importing and registering motor vehicles
This is a major undertaking, and needs much time and patience, and
preferably the assistance of someone who speaks Swedish. Tel. 077152 05 20
Insurance of foreign vehicles
Foreign vehicles must be covered by an insurance company in the
country where the car is registered. Third-party liability insurance
(trafikförsäkring) is compulsory.
Speed limits
Sweden has speed limits ranging from 30 km/h to 120 km/h (18 to 75
mph), where 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 km/h are used within towns and
cities. Outside schools and hospitals the limit is often 30 km/h. 70, 80,
90 and 100 km/h are mainly used outside built-up areas where the
speed limit depends on the standard and safety of the road. 110 km/h
and 120 km/h are the main speed limits on motorways. 120 km/h
(75 mph) is only set on the best, safest and straightest motorways,
usually the newest, which are mostly present in the southern parts
of Sweden (E4 and E6).
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TrafFIc rules
Some important points:
• Do not drink and drive! Sweden has stricter regulations than
many other countries about drinking and driving. An alcohol
content in the blood of more than 0.2 mg/ml when driving is
a punishable offence. (This corresponds to no more than one
glass of wine)
• It is compulsory for both drivers and passengers in the front and
the back seats of cars and light lorries to have their seat belts
fastened.
• Dipped headlights are mandatory when driving, even in daytime.
• You must give way to traffic approaching from the right, unlessthe road signs indicate otherwise.
• You must give way to pedestrians at all zebra crossings withouttraffic lights.
• Cars must always be parked on the right-hand side of the road.
• You must not leave your car idling for more than one minute;
the engine must then be turned off.
• Motorcyclists and moped drivers must wear crash helmets.
• Be aware when driving in Lund – there are bicycles everywhere,
at every turn and where you least expect them. If you don’t see
one, you haven’t looked carefully enough.
Breakdowns and accidents
All vehicles must carry a red reflector warning triangle, which is displayed in the event of an accident or breakdown. In the event of an
accident it is not mandatory to call the police, but the drivers involved
must exchange names and addresses, and must not leave the scene
until this has been done, even if the damage is slight.
For help with towing in the event of a breakdown, you can contact
Assistancekåren. Tel. 020-91 29 12.
Safety
When driving in the countryside keep an eye out for wildlife (elk,
deer, foxes, wild boar and, further north, reindeer and sometimes
bears). Collisions with large animals are a relatively common cause of
accidents, especially at dusk and dawn, and all such accidents must
be reported to the police.
Petrol
Most petrol stations are self-service (tanka själv) and many have automatic pumps accepting SEK 100 notes (sedelautomat) or credit cards
(kontokort); at others you pay at the cash desk (kassa).
Parking
Vehicles must be parked on the right-hand side of the road. If you park
overnight, look out for the sign that indicates which night of the week
the street is cleaned. The sign for Prohibited Parking (parkering förbjuden) is circular with a blue background, red border and a red diagonal.
For Restricted Parking, the sign is circular with a yellow background.
The parking zone signs indicate at what time of the day parking tickets
are required. The times given in brackets indicate times on Saturdays
and times in red indicate Sundays. Blue signs with Biljettautomat and
an arrow indicate the location of the nearest ticket machine. A parking
disc (P-skiva) can be used in certain areas. Parking is free but the disc
must be displayed on the dashboard and the hand on the disc should
point to 1/4 hour after your time of arrival. The disc can be obtained
from the Tourist Office and is free.
Shopping
Banking & shopping hours
Banking hours
Monday–Friday 10.00 am–3.00 pm
Thursday 10.00 am–4.00/5.30 pm
In some cities banks may stay open until 6 pm. All banks are closed at
weekends and on public holidays. Banks at airports, ports and main
railway stations are generally open longer. Swedes generally do their
banking via internet, open 24/7.
Credit cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout Sweden (some
restriction may apply to American Express).
Please note: In order to pay or withdraw cash with your credit card
you must have a card with chip and PIN (Personal Identification Number). The older magnetic strip cards won’t work.
You can get cash with your Visa, MasterCard, Maestro or Cirrus card
at any “Bankomat” or “Uttagsautomat” ATM.
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Shopping hours
Monday–Friday 9.30 am–6 /7 pm
Saturday 9.30 am–2/4 pm
In larger towns, department stores remain open until 7.00 pm or
longer. Some are also open on Sundays between approx. 12 noon and
4.00 pm. Shops generally close early the day before a public holiday.
N.B. In many shops a queue ticket system is in operation.
Tax-free shopping
www.global-blue.com
If you are a resident with a Swedish personal identity number, you
cannot take advantage of this. Otherwise, if you reside outside the European Union (EU), you are entitled to a tax refund on your purchases.
In Sweden, as in most European countries, value added tax is included
in the sales price on the tag. Tax-free shopping by Global Blue is a
simple system that puts cash in your hand when you leave the EU.
You get refunds of up to 15–18% on your purchases. The minimum
purchase is SEK 200.
Global Blue Sverige AB, e-mail: info.se@global-blue.com
Internet shop “Blocket”
Here you can buy almost anything second-hand, but do not pay in
advance. Be careful with things that are extremely cheap; they may be
stolen goods. Always ask for a receipt. www.blocket.se
Open-air markets
In Lund there is an open-air market on Mårtenstorget, open 8.0014.00 weekdays, but it is especially good on Wednesdays and Saturdays. There is also an indoor market (Saluhallen) on the same square,
open during normal shopping hours, and flea markets depending on
the weather on Clemenstorget near the railway station, and along
Södra Esplanaden on Saturdays 8.00-14.00, where anything and
everything can be found.
In Malmö there is a good fruit and vegetable market on Möllevångstorget which is open daily 8.00-14.00, except on public holidays.
There are also a variety of specialist stores around Möllevångstorget
such as Asian, Arab and Polish stores, where exotic ingredients can
be bought at a good price.
Second-hand shops
There are several second-hand shops where you can find household
goods, clothes, furniture and sometimes bicycles.
• Erikshjälpen Second Hand, Stora Södergatan 25, Lund.
Open Tue–Thu 11.00–18.00 and Sat 11.00–16.00.
Closed on holidays.
• Erikshjälpen, Tornavägen 11, Lund. Open Tue–Thu 12.00–
18.00, Sat. 11.00–15.00 E-mail: lund@erikshjalpen.se
• Erikshjälpen, Lundavägen 51, Åkarp. E-mail: akarp.sh@erikshjalpen.com. Tue & Thu 14.00–18.00 and Sat 10.00–15.00
• Humana, Kyrkogatan 5 . E-mail: humanalund@gmail.com.
Open Mon–Fri 10.00–18.00 and Sat 11.00–16.00
• Emmaus Stora Södergatan 35, Lund.
Open Mon-Fri: 11.00-18.00 och lör: 11.00-15.00
• Amnesty International, Bredgatan 8.
Open Tue, Wed & Thu 16.00–18.00 and Sat 10.00–14.00
• Uggleboden Råbygatan 17.
Open Mon–Fri 12.00–18.00. Saturday 10.00–14.00
• Svalorna, Spolegatan 5. E-mail: info@svalorna.org.
Open Mon–Thur 13.00–18.00 Sat 10.00–15.00
• IM Indivuell Människohjälp, Spolegatan 12
• Hep Cat Store, Sankt Lars väg 21, 222 70 Lund
Off licences (Systembolaget)
www.systembolaget.se/English/
Alcoholic drinks can be purchased only from these state-run shops,
which have a very impressive selection of wines, spirits and beers as
well as knowledgeable shop assistants.
N.B. Systembolaget shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays,
e.g. Christmas, Midsummer and the day immediately preceding these
holidays. They are very busy on days before such holidays and also on
Thursdays and Fridays.
The main drink in Sweden is a lager-type beer (öl). It comes in three
strengths:
• Class I, light beer (lättöl) min. alcohol content 1.8%
• Class II, medium (mellanöl/folköl) 2.8%–3.5%. I and II are
available at supermarkets.
• Class III, strong beer (starköl) over 3.5% available only at
Systembolaget
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Specialist food shops in Lund and malmö
•
Mediterranean Frukt och Grönt (Mediterranean food),
•
Kattesund 6A
•
Alfredo in Saluhallen on Mårtenstorget sells Italian specialities
•
Salehan LIVS. Mediterranean food. Vårfrugatan 8 in Lund
•
American Store in Malmö, Södra Vallgatan 3, 211 40 Malmö
•
http://americanstore.se.
•
The English Shop, Engelbrektsgatan 6, Malmö
www.englishshop.se
•
British and American specialities, www.foodfromhome.dk
•
Asian supermarkets, Stora Södergatan 29 and Tullgatan 9, Lund
Specialist shops in Lund
• Individuella Människohjälpen, St Petri kyrkogata 13
http://manniskohjalp.se/im-fair-trade-butiken-i-lund
• Klotet, on the corner where Östra Vallgatan, Biskopsgatan and
Tunavägen meet, sells fairtrade labelled merchandise
• Africa Daily Market, Lilla Tvärgatan 5, Lund.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 13.00–18.00, Sat 10.00–15.00
Newspapers
Foreign newspapers/magazines are sold in Lund at Pressbyrån, at the
central station. Foreign newspapers are available in the cafeteria at the
central library (Stadsbiblioteket) in Lund and also at the main university
library (Universitetsbiblioteket). Foreign language books and newspapers are available at the public libraries (bibliotek) in Lund and Malmö.
Foreign language bookshops in Lund
Librairie Française stocks French, Spanish, Italian, German and some
Japanese and Portuguese literature. Lilla Tvärgatan 21, Lund.
www.sprakbokhandeln.se
Consumer advice
www.konsumentverket.se (click on other languages)
“Öppet köp” means that you have the right to return purchased goods
within a certain number of days, provided that you have retained the
receipt. The length of time you have to return items varies and may
be only a few days – check in the shop.
Consumer Guidance provides free help to citizens concerning
consumer questions. You can send an e-mail to this address:
konsument@lund.se
Malmö has a consumer advice office open for queries for Malmö
residents at Bergsgatan 17. E-mail: konsument@malmo.se
Communications
The Post OfFIce
www.posten.se
Post offices are integrated into various shops; supermarkets, kiosks,
petrol stations, etc. The opening hours therefore vary according to the
specific store. Generally the opening hours are very generous. Look
for the blue postal sign.
Stamps are available for sale at various shops and most newsagents.
There are two different types of postbox. The blue box is for local
deliveries only (in Skåne, for post codes beginning with 2), and the
yellow box for national and international deliveries.
Telephones
When calling Sweden from abroad dial 0046 followed by the area
code (omitting the initial zero) and the number required. 046 is the
area code for Lund and 040 for Malmö.
When calling abroad from Sweden: dial 00 plus the country code,
followed by the area code and phone number.
Directory enquiries (Nummerupplysning): 118 118 (118 888 automated
service in Swedish), or www.eniro.se and www.hitta.se
Telecommunications are handled by different companies and it is impossible to present a complete picture. It is safest to compare different
companies to get the best conditions.
Television
Television sets can be bought or rented in most TV/radio shops.
A non-Swedish citizen may not rent a television unless a Swedish
citizen signs the agreement. If you acquire a television set, the official
licence authority (Radiotjänst) must be notified on a form you will
receive with your purchase or rental, or you can apply for a licence by
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calling Radiotjänst (answering machine in Swedish). Tel. 020-91 00
00. The licence fee is at present (2015) SEK 519 a quarter. Failure to
pay can result in a fine.
http://www.radiotjanst.se/en/
News Broadcasts
www.sr.se/international and www.bbc.co.uk/news
(news in 27 languages)
Information on broadcasts in English, German and certain other languages, is available from Radio Sweden (Sveriges Radio). tel. 08 784 72
09 / 08 784 72 06 e-mail: desken.sr.international@sverigesradio.se
BBC World Service is best on SW 9.410MHz (31.88 metres). BBC Radio
4 is received on LW 199KHz.
Tourism, leisure activities, etc.
Tourist ofFIces (turistbyrån), Lund–Malmö tourism
http://www.visitlund.se/en
http://www.malmotown.com/meetings-events/
http://www.malmotown.com/en/
Tourist Office Lund
Botulfsgatan 1, Lund Tel. 046-35 50 40
Mon-Thur 8.00–16.30
Fri 8.00–16.00
Tourist Office Malmö
Börshuset, Skeppsbron 2
211 20 Malmö
Telephone: 040-34 12 00
E-mail: malmo.turism@malmo.se
Opening hours
Mon–Fri 9.00–17.00
Sat–Sun 9.00–14.30
These tourist offices have tourist information on their own district
and also on Denmark.
For further information on travelling in Skåne and Sweden:
www.visitsweden.com
Public access to the countryside
http://www.swedishepa.se/
Sweden has an age-old law, “Allemansrätt”, giving everyone the right
to walk, cycle, ride a horse or ski freely in the countryside and across
other people’s land, provided they don’t cause any damage to crops,
tree plantations or other sensitive land. Don’t disturb and don’t destroy - that’s the main rule when it comes to understanding this law.
Visitors are requested to observe a few common-sense guidelines:
• Show care and consideration towards people, animals, plants
and wildlife. You may move across other people’s land and
water provided that you don’t get too close to houses, or walk
over gardens or on land under seed or crops.
• You can pick wild berries, mushrooms and flowers, unless they
are protected species.
• You may not cut down trees or bushes, or break branches or
strip the bark off trees.
• Do not camp close to houses, and ask the landowner for
permission if you wish to pitch a group of tents or stay in one
place for any length of time.
• Do not light a fire if there is any risk of it spreading. Fires must
not be lit on bare rocks because they may crack and split.
• Show care for animals and wildlife, and do not disturb nests
• or young.
• Do not drive cars, caravans, motor homes, motorbikes or
mopeds off road.
• Free fishing along Sweden’s coasts is allowed only with rod
and line.
• Don’t leave litter!
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City libraries
http://www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Culture-and-leisure/Libraries/
http://www.malmo.stadsbibliotek.org/search/
On the above websites you can find information about libraries in
Lund and the rest of Sweden, including opening hours. The central
libraries (stadsbibliotek) are at:
• S:t Petri Kyrkogatan 6, Lund. Tel. 046-35 59 90
stadsbiblioteket@lund.se
• Kung Oscars väg, Malmö. Tel. 040-660 85 00
info.stadsbiblioteket@malmo.se
Public libraries are free for all, including visitors. A lending card is
necessary and is issued at the information desk. The main libraries
have a good selection of books, periodicals and newspapers in many
languages. There is a large multilingual children’s department as well
as a music library at the central libraries. Most suburbs have branch
libraries or a mobile library (bokbussen) that visits regularly. Details are
available from the central libraries or the tourist offices.
The famous astronomical clock dating from the 14th century plays
Mon–Sat at 12.00 and 15.00, Sundays and public holidays at 13.00
and 15.00. Every Saturday at 10.00 a half-hour organ recital is given
at the Cathedral by the cathedral organist. This is free of charge. Open
Mon–Fri 8.00–18.00, Sat 9.30–17.00, Sun 9.30–18.00. E-mail: info@
lundsdomkyrka.org
Concerts in conjunction with religious festivals are given both at the
Cathedral and at All Saints’ Church (Allhelgonakyrkan). Both churches
have good choirs.
Look at the noticeboards and pamphlets in the entrance hall of the
public libraries for information about films, concerts, theatre performances, art exhibitions, etc.
Church of Sweden
http://www.svenskakyrkan.se/english
Lund Cathedral
http://www.lundsdomkyrka.se/english/
…is an important religious, historical, architectural and archaeological monument, with a history dating back to King Knut in the 11th
century. A pamphlet in several languages, with a brief description of
the main features, is available near the entrance.
Other churches
For information about specific churches and denominations, please
see gulasidorna.eniro.se, search for “Kyrkor”, “Lund”.
• The Catholic Church in the south of Sweden welcomes students and visiting staff! There are masses in Swedish, English,
Spanish, Polish and Latin at St Thomas Katolska Församling in
Lund (see: http://www.stthomas.se/english-information/masstimes.html Contact: Father Johan Lindén (email: johan.linden@
katolskakyrkan.se)
• Comunidad hispanohablante: La misa en español se realiza el
segundo y cuarto domingo de cada mes en la Iglesia St Thomas Katolska Församling, Lund (www.stthomas.se. Contacto:
Padre Leonel Larios (faderleonel@gmail.com). Visita nuestro
blog: http://catolicosensuecia.blogspot.se/ Encuéntranos en
Facebook: Católicos en Suecia
• The Islamic Centre in Malmö, Address: Jägersrovägen 90.
E-mail: icmalmo@mosken.se, www.mosken.se (in Swedish)
• Jewish Centre in Lund, http://www.jcl.se/index_en.html
• The Jewish Community of Malmö. Kamrergatan 11
info@jfm.se, www.jfm.se
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•
•
•
At Lund University there is a Student Chaplaincy. If you would
like to talk or get information about services held in English,
you are welcome to call or visit Kraftstorg 12. Tel. 046-35 87
37, http://studentprasterna.wordpress.com/in-english/
Pingstkyrkan (Lund Pentecostal Church) has translation at
its main Sunday services and meetings in various languages.
http://www.pklund.se/om-oss/international-services/
Församlingen Ad Fontes has translation into English at its Sunday services. http://www.bricksite.com/adfontes?id=277184
Museums in Lund
Kulturen is an exciting exhibition of the history and archaeology
of the city of Lund and its surroundings. There is also an outdoor
museum of houses from various periods and social strata, from various
parts of Sweden. Kulturen also runs many interesting activities for
children, especially during school holidays. Address: Tegnérsplatsen,
www.kulturen.com/besoksinformation/welcome/. Entrance fee.
Kulturens Östarp, situated about 20 km south-east of Lund among
very pretty, rolling hills, is an outdoor museum run by Kulturen, where
furnished farm buildings of different types are open to the public.
There is a typical Skåne farmhouse from 1812, a windmill, a water-mill
and also a restaurant. Information about opening hours and more:
http://www.kulturen.com/besoksinformation/welcome/ostarp-ourfarm-from-19th-century/. Free entry.
Historical Museum
In the exhibition Sacred Objects and Religious Matters, visitors can
marvel at a unique collection of precious medieval ecclesiastical
objects. It tells about the origin and meaning of everything from
aquamanile to censer and how they were used.
Barbaricum – Uppåkra and the Scanian Iron Age has moved up to
the second floor to a new, beautiful and secure hall! The information
has been made more accessible and is now also available in English.
Address: Krafts torg 1.
Open Tue–Fri 11.00–16.00. Sunday 12.00–16.00.
Entrance fee.
http://www.luhm.lu.se/
Botanical Gardens
Address: Östra Vallgatan 20, park open daily 6.00–20.00 (winter)
21.30 (summer), greenhouses open daily 11.00–15.00. Free entry.
http://www.botaniskatradgarden.se/in-english.html
Lund University Museum
www.universitetsmuseet.lu.se (in Swedish)
Entrance is via Kulturen (see above).
The Museum of the Artistic Process and Public Art
(Skissernas Museum)
This is a special museum of models and sketches of famous monumental art, both from Sweden and from other European countries.
Address: Finngatan 2,
http://www.adk.lu.se/en/. Entrance fee.
Lunds Konsthall (The Gallery of Modern Art)
http://www.lundskonsthall.se/en-gb/
Address: Mårtenstorget 3. E-mail: lundskonsthall@lund.se. Free entry
Museums in Malmö
http://www.malmotown.com/en/#fun-at-malmo-museer
Malmö Museum, housed in the oldest remaining Renaissance castle
in Scandinavia “Malmöhus”, has exhibits of zoology, botany, history
and handicrafts, as well as an aquarium, furniture from different periods, art, and many other interesting things.
The Art Museum, the City Museum and the Natural History Museum
can all be found in the historical buildings. But the name Malmö
Museer includes several other places, for example the Technology
and Maritime Museums and several others that are also situated in
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the vicinity of the castle, or elsewhere in Malmö and its surroundings.
Tel. 040-34 44 00, e-mail: malmomuseer@malmo.se.
The address is Malmöhusvägen 6.
Open every day 10.00–17.00. Entrance fee.
Malmö Konsthall, S:t Johannesgatan 7, was opened in 1975 and is
one of Europe’s largest exhibition halls for contemporary art.
Not usually an entrance fee. For opening hours, exhibitions etc, visit
http://www.konsthall.malmo.se/o.o.i.s/2741
Language courses
If you have time, we strongly recommend that you try to learn at least
some Swedish during your stay here. Even just a reading knowledge
simplifies everyday life and helps you to feel “at home”. The libraries have
good courses on CD for beginners and for those unable to attend classes.
Lund University offers Swedish courses for international staff.
Visit www.staff.lu.se for more info on registration, levels etc.
Folkuniversitetet in both Lund and Malmö holds language classes at
various levels.
Study circles and hobbies
There are a wide variety of study circles offered by adult education
associations in Swedish. See the yellow pages under the heading
“studieförbund” or search for “studieförbund” at gulasidorna.eniro.
se. IRSO keeps up-to-date catalogues of the courses offered by these
study associations. Besides language courses, these organisations
also arrange courses on a wide selection of handicrafts, art, music,
dance, etc. These courses consist of approximately twenty lessons
which usually begin in September and in January. However, it may
be possible to join at other times. A fee is charged for these courses.
Folkuniversitetet is a foundation run by the University, the Student
Union and the Folk University. It offers university level study circles
in law and social sciences, languages, on-the-job training and other
study circles. http://www.folkuniversitetet.se/In-English/
Folkuniversitetet
Skomakaregatan 8
223 50 Lund
E-mail: info.lund@folkuniversitetet.se
Folkuniversitetet
Regementsgatan 4
211 42 Malmö
E-mail: info.malmo@folkuniversitetet.se
Komvux offers Swedish for Immigrants
Address: Glimmervägen 12, Lund.
E-mail: komvux@lund.se
Studieförbundet Vuxenskolan
Fabriksgatan 2, 222 37 Lund
E-mail: lundabygden@sv.se
http://www.sv.se/en/this-is-sv/
Studieförbundet Vuxenskolan in Malmö
Grynbodg. 20, Malmö
E-mail: malmo@sv.se
ABF, Lund
Kiliansgatan 9, Lund.
E-mail: info.mittskane@abf.se
ABF, Malmö
Spånehusvägen 47, Malmö.
http://www.abf.se/Om-ABF/About-ABF-in-English1/
Medborgarskolan,
Bangatan 6, Lund
E-mail: lund@medborgarskolan.se
In Malmö: Hans Michelsensgatan 6A
Studiefrämjandet
Fabriksgatan 2, Lund.
E-mail: info@studieframjandet.se
In Malmö: Ystadsg. 53.
www.studieframjandet.se (in Swedish)
region.syd@medborgarskolan.se
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Sports and outdoor activities
www.lund.se/en/Citizen/Culture-and-leisure/Sports-and-outdoors/
•
•
There are many sport clubs and outdoor activities available in both
Lund and Malmö. Information on opening hours (and costs) can be
obtained from Kultur & Fritid, Stortorget 1, Malmö. Tel. 040-34 48 50
It is possible to buy six-month and annual season tickets for individuals and for families. These are valid at all council swimming pools.
Simmarklubben Poseidon is a swimming club which caters for water
activities for all age groups. Address: Högevallsbadet, Högevallsgatan.
Tel. 046-35 52 17
Skryllegården
www.skryllegarden.se (in Swedish)
This outdoor recreation centre is run by the Lund branch of Friluftsfrämjandet. There are nature trails of varying lengths and a floodlit
running track for those who want to go for a run after dark. There are
saunas, a sports hall with various kinds of equipment, and a small cafeteria. Skryllegården is situated between the villages of Södra Sandby
and Dalby and it is possible to get there by bus, car or cycle along the
special cycle track which follows the former railway line from Lund
to Södra Sandby, called the Hardeberga Track (Hardebergaspåret).
Malmö has a similar centre for sports and outdoor activities at Torup
Castle.
•
•
Friluftsfrämjandet (Association for Outdoor Activities) www.
friluftsframjandet.se/lund (in Swedish)
Naturbussen is a bus to the countryside that runs every day
from spring to autumn, www.naturbussen.se For tickets see:
www.skanetrafiken.se
If there is a group of more than 15 people you need to
preregister on tel: 0771-77 77 77
Swimming pools
Indoor pools:
• Högevallsbadet, Högevallsgatan 1 (Stadsparken).
www.lund.se/hogevall
This houses a series of pools, a wave pool, water slide and high
diving boards.
Gym: www.actic.se
• Delphinen, Magistratsvägen 55A, Lund. Tel. 046-13 15 78
www.actic.se (in Swedish)
Outdoor pools (open summers only, no Vikings here!):
• Källbybadet, Badarevägen. Tel. 046-35 51 88
• Dalbybadet, Lögarevägen, Dalby. Tel. 046-35 66 44
• Sandbybadet, Hällestadsvägen 16, Södra Sandby. Tel. 046-582 32
Veberödsbadet, Näckrosvägen, Veberöd. Tel. 046-801 24
Genarpsbadet, August Wallins väg 18, Genarp. Tel. 040-48 23 78
Sports halls
Victoriastadion has a range of activities available including: badminton, gymnastics, judo, rugby, skiing, squash, volleyball, etc.
www.lugimotion.se (in Swedish)
Gerdahallen is a sports hall for many different gymnastic activities,
mainly aerobics and body-building. Helgonavägen 8, Lund.
www.gerdahallen.lu.se (in Swedish)
Friskis&Svettis in Lund
Friskis&Svettis is a non-profit sports association, where membership
is compulsory if you want to buy one of their activity cards. Accessibility, quality and fun are the key words for Friskis&Svettis. In our
modern gym you will find machines of the best quality, traditional
training machines or full range of motion cable machines as well as
free weights. As a Friskis&Svettis member with a valid activity card
you have the benefit of making an appointment with one of the gym
instructors who will help you to set up a personal training programme.
It is very cheap to become a member and once you are a member you
can also join the hiking group. http://web.friskissvettis.se (in Swedish)
Skating rink in Lund – Open only during the winter period. Skate
hire available.
Address: Stattenavägen. Contact: bengt.norden@lund.se
http://www.lund.se/Medborgare/Uppleva--gora/Idrott-motion-ochfriluftsliv/Idrottsanlaggningar-och-hallar/Ishall/ (in Swedish)
Theatres
• Lunds Stadsteater, www.lund.se
• Malmö Opera, www.malmoopera.se/d/1/inenglish
• Nöjesteatern, www.nojesteatern.se
• Malmö Stadsteater, www.malmostadsteater.se
• Skånes Dansteater, www.skanesdansteater.se
• Helsingborgs Stadsteater, www.helsingborgsstadsteater.se
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There are also independent theatre groups, see gulasidorna.eniro.se
search “Teater”, “Lund/Malmö”. Malmö’s theatres sometimes give
performances from their repertoire at Lunds stadsteater. There is also
a student theatre in Lund. Performances are advertised in the local
papers under “Nöjen”. Some university departments have music and
theatre agents who will help you book tickets for performances in
Lund. www.juliusbiljettservice.se (in Swedish)
Choirs
There are several choirs in Lund, and for those interested in joining
one, here’s a list: http://www.lund.se/Global/F%C3%B6rvaltningar/
Kultur-%20och%20fritidsf%C3%B6rvaltningen/Kultur/
K%C3%B6rer%20i%20Lund.pdf
Concerts
In Malmö concerts are given every week at “Konserthuset”
www.mso.se (in Swedish) for which season tickets are available.
Kulturbolaget (KB) is a popular club, mostly rock concerts
http://kulturbolaget.se/ (in Swedish).
The Lund music scene is rich and varied, with everything from large
church concerts and performances by the Lund City Symphony
Orchestra to rock shows at Mejeriet. These activities are advertised
in the daily newspapers. Also check out the Swedish versions of
www.lund.se, www.malmo.se
Cinemas
www.sf.se, www.kino.nu (in Swedish)
Public holidays and
traditional festivities
Public holidays
•
The majority of establishments in Sweden are closed on:
•
New Year’s Day (Nyårsdagen)
•
Epiphany (Trettondagen)
•
Good Friday (Långfredagen) – March or April
•
Easter Day (Påskdagen)
•
Easter Monday (Annandag påsk)
•
May Day (Första maj) – 1st May
•
Ascension Day (Kristi himmelfärdsdag) – a Thursday in May
•
Whit Sunday (Pingstdagen) – in May or June
•
The Swedish National Day (Nationaldagen) – 6th June
•
Midsummer Day (Midsommardagen) – a Saturday towards
the end of June
•
All Saints’ Day (Allhelgonadagen) – first Saturday in November
•
Christmas Eve (Julafton) – 24th December, the main celebration day
•
Christmas Day (Juldagen) – 25th December
•
Boxing Day (Annandag jul) – 26th December
N.B. Summer time: the clock goes forward one hour, the night between the last Saturday and Sunday of March. Winter time: the clock
goes back one hour, the night between the last Saturday and Sunday
of October.
Traditional festivities
Easter (Påsk)
Easter includes traces of pagan rites of spring, with witches flying to
“Blåkulla” on broomsticks. Paper Easter eggs, symbolising new life,
are filled with sweets, and great baskets of birch twigs bedecked with
wildly coloured feathers brighten the open markets!
Walpurgis Eve (Valborgsmässoafton)
On the evening of 30th April, the arrival of spring is celebrated in
Sweden with bonfires and choral singing.
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1st May (Första maj)
is marked by trade unions parading and the students’ traditional greeting
to the spring (for Lund, see the programme on page 10 of this handbook).
Survival Guide
Here is a “first approximation” guide for you, because you will
certainly be confronted with fewer surprises if you know some
of the small peculiarities of how Swedish people behave.
Punctuality
Both at work and in social life, one is expected to be punctual. A major
exception is the “akademisk kvart” (15 minutes past the hour during
the day and “dubbel kvart”, 30 minutes in the evenings), which is the
practice (only) in the academic world.
Midsummer (Midsommar)
At midsummer, in late June, the nights last only a few hours. Dancing
around the flower-bedecked midsummer pole is a remnant of ancient
fertility rites.
Crayfish party (Kräftskiva)
On warm August evenings people eat boiled cold crayfish and wash it
down with Swedish “snaps” a culinary custom illuminated by colourful
paper lanterns.
St. Martin’s Eve (Mårtensafton)
10th November in Skåne is when we brighten up the autumnal darkness with an ample meal of goose to honour St Martin of Tours.
Lucia
Early in the morning of 13th December we are awakened by a girl
with a crown of candles in her hair, to serve very early coffee with
Lussekatter (Lucia buns, which are sweet, yeast buns, fragrant with
saffron). Lucia is a symbol of hope that the light will return after the
long winter darkness.
More about Sweden, Swedes and traditions: https://eng.si.se/
Queues
Whenever you are waiting for something: in a cinema queue, to pay
in a shop, etc., you are expected to wait in a proper queue. No excuse
is good enough to get in front of the people who arrived before you.
Many institutions, e.g. banks, post offices, shops, etc. use a system
of “queuing tickets”. Take a ticket from the dispenser and when your
number shows on the screen, or the shop assistant calls your number,
it is your turn.
Laundry
As all apartment buildings provide washing machines for their tenants,
the market for launderettes in Sweden is low (non-existent). If you’re
living in a flat with a common laundry, you are expected to book a
time slot according to instructions, to launder only then, and to leave
the laundry room (and the dryer’s lint filter!) clean behind you. This
is otherwise known to sometimes be a major source of irritation between Swedish neighbours. (Tip: 90˚C=Hot, 60˚C=Warm, 40˚C=Cool
and 30˚C=handwash)
Answering the telephone
What do you say when you pick up the receiver? In Sweden it may be
considered impolite to answer “Hello!” only; you answer with your
name or with your phone number.
Keep talking...
Some foreigners complain that it is difficult to meet Swedes socially.
Swedes often take longer before inviting people home or going out
with them in the evening. Since you will probably be here for a relatively short period of time, if you are anxious to make Swedish contacts,
you might consider taking the initiative.
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...but listen too
When talking, Swedes usually do not interrupt. When you speak,
people are normally interested in what you have to say and listen, so
do not forget to listen to them!
Tipping
Tipping is not a widespread custom in Sweden. A service charge is
automatically included in most Swedish hotel bills. Tipping for special
service provided by hotel staff is fine, but it is not expected and is simply
a matter of personal taste – likewise with doormen at restaurants.
Note that information in this folder is subject to constant
change. Always check information for any updates through
the websites.
Contact
Sigurborg Ragnarsdottir
E-mail: sigurborg.ragnarsdottir@pers.lu.se
Tel. +46 46 222 71 51
At restaurants, a service charge is included in the bill, but a small gratuity is expected for evening meals (approx. 7–10%)
Taxi drivers should be given a few extra kronor. A good rule is to round
up the fare shown on the meter.
No smoking
Smoking is not allowed in any public buildings including restaurants
and bars and, as in many other countries, regulations against smoking
are getting stricter. Nowadays, no one smokes inside, even in their
own homes. Stepping outside after a dinner can still be accepted.
Kick off your shoes!
It is not usual (and it gets pretty hot) to wear outdoor shoes indoors.
Remember this when you visit a Swedish home. You will find it convenient to follow the Swedish habit and bring a pair of light shoes
with you to wear indoors.
When invited it is customary to have a small present for the hostess
and also say thank you for the evening when you leave and also on
the next occasion you meet (“Tack för senast”).
Weeks have numbers in Sweden
Swedes count weeks. Each week has a number on the calendar. If
you want to organise a meeting with a Swede he might ask “Is week
36 OK for you?”
150101
In Sweden you write the date backwards. Year first, then month and
finally the day.
Text: Sigurborg Ragnarsdottir and Marie Fernbrant. Proofreading: Hannah
Mellors. Layout: Maria Blad. Photography: Cover photo: Mikael Risedal. Other
photos: Charlotte Carlberg Bärg, Gunnar Menander, Johan Persson, Mikael
Risedal and Kennet Ruona.
Lunds university
PO Box 117
SE-221 00 Lund
Sweden
+46 46 222 00 00
www.lu.se