Stockholm

When I was listening to the radio the other day a young woman asked an economist about the advantages of moving to Stockholm.  I was somewhat surprised to hear him answer that Sweden and Denmark aren't big enough to hold all the young Americans who're thinking about moving there.

Since we've just been to those places, I wasn't all together surprised. We loved Stockholm.  Built on 14 islands and bordering the Baltic Sea, every place we looked we found beautiful parks, crystal clear waters and breathtaking architecture.

Stockholm is called "The Venice of the North" - and we could see why.

But this isn't the only reason the young American woman was thinking of moving there.  "Save the Children" has consistently named Sweden the # 1 place for women and children.  Why?  Education is relatively free, both parents receive very liberal childcare leave, health care for those under 18 is free.

How do they do this?  They have the highest tax rates in the world.  Taxes can be as low as 29% but most folks pay 49 to 60%.  However, unlike here and other places, they, for the most part, don't mind paying their taxes. Most feel the money is well spent.

Does this make them lazy?  No, the unemployment level is low compared to the rest of Europe and the U.S. And most of the people we saw looked healthy, slim, young and in a hurry.


How do old folks live in Sweden?  For the most part, they have excellent pensions, beginnings at age 61.


We traveled through a part of Stockholm noted for housing wealthy older folks.  It was exquisite with parks and luxury condos.  I didn't, however, particularly care for its nickname, "Crutch Island."

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