Today, I played local guide–with plenty of disclaimers for still being new and learning my Swedish context. Kathleen and Bob from my home church in Bellevue were in the area, so they came to spend a day in Uppsala. I met them at the train station and showed them around.
I met them at the train and talked over ideas to plan the day. Here’s the results:
- Walk through the central square to the castle, with a view of the cathedral.
The view of the cathedral from the castle mound - Took in the vista over the botanical garden
- Visited the Holy Trinity church, which is older than the cathedral
Warmer and almost cozy compared to the cathedral - Walked past the university library, but I knew that the museum is closed for renovation (too bad, because the Silver Bible is a highlight)
- Went to the Gustavianum museum with the display of the Vandal period, the anatomical theater, the university’s historical artifacts (including a spike and wood samples from Jesus’ cross).
- Walked over to have lunch by the river at the Lingon restaurant
- Visited the Linneaus botanical garden and museum across the street
The view from his library overlooking his gardens - Headed over to the Cathedral to take in the (free) tour in English
- Visited the rune stone garden
- Walked over to my favorite fika place for a nice fika outside on the sidewalk tables parallel to the river on a beautiful day (this is a favorite aspect of Swedish culture)
- Walked to our apartment, so that Bob could make a Skype call with his credit card activated (which was deactivated in spite of notifying the company of international travel). I couldn’t figure out anywhere to find a normal phone!
- Then hopped on the bus to visit the ground of the old church and climb up one of the grave mounds in Old Uppsala.
- Then we bussed back to the train station where I bid them goodbye at about 6:20 pm. (And I’m learning more about taking the bus! However, I like the Norwegian bus app better than the Swedish bus app!)
Overall, it was quite a nice day with a good pace, good weather, and fine company.
I am tired, but not from all the walking. The jet lag woke me up at 3:30 am. Let’s hope the walking in the sun helped adjust the circadian clock for a better night’s sleep.
With blessings,
Beth
Beth–
What a lovely walking tour of Uppsala! Perhaps sometime Pam and I will be able to find a way to visit you in your new Swedish home city.
In friendship,
–Charlie
I look forward to the day I can explore together with you and Pam! The Silver Bible exhibit opens again sometime–probably spring–in 2019.
Sounds like you are developing a wonderful ‘tourist’ catalog for visitors. My brother has a 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, etc. tour of Seattle area developed from his hosting over the years (maxed at 5 days, in case you are wondering). Just have to tell him how much time you have to spend, and money!! I got tired just reading your 1-day, but perhaps it can be adjusted for us elders!!! One of these days, we want to try it out. . .
Sounds like a good plan. I do want to adapt for what people want to do. Some are museum folk, others are less so. I’m looking forward to having you here someday!