2_9_ScanMag_72_Jan_2015_Text_Q10_Scan Magazine 1 09/01/2015 22:46 Page 65
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Sweden 2015: Our Top Destinations
imately 750 animals and a knowledgeable staff always eager to tell you all there is to know about your favourite creatures. Safari, Marine World, dolphins and tigers – all gathered in this spectacular wildlife park, leaving no one unaffected by the loving and joyous atmosphere.
what we could do in regard to storytelling if the technology is merged with the tours. The possibilities are endless and since we have such a big and forward-thinking university in the region, it is actually possible. It’s the beginning of the digital destination!” she says enthusiastically.
The Swedish Air Force Museum: a high-flying treasure
New for 2015 is the World of Bamse. The beloved children’s story about the bear Bamse and his forest friends will become a reality for Kolmården’s visitors in May 2015, when the zoo opens their new attraction sure to put a smile on everyone’s faces. Innovation and nature: endless possibilities Östergötland is a region where innovation is at the centre just as much as the beautiful nature. In collaboration with the University of Linköping new technologies are in the making, incorporating visual techniques into the tourism industry. “Vadstena Castle is a beautiful renaissance castle from the 16th century. Guided tours are immensely popular and tell historic tales of how the people who used to inhabit the castle lived their lives. But the castle has obviously gone through several transformations over the centuries,” Susanne Fredriksson, Tourism Manager at Visit Östergötland explains. “Just imagine
quiet time out on a field, all you need is some traditional ‘fika’ (the Swedish term for coffee or tea with a biscuit and a bun) and you are ready to ‘utflykta’! It’s a fantastic way to get away from the hectic lives we tend to live, get out and breathe the fresh air of our lovely nature.”
There is no shortage of beautiful waters in the region of Östergötland. Lakes appear around every corner and the coastline is nothing short of divine. Göta Kanal is a 190.5 km long canal that runs through the region, connecting the Baltic Sea with Kattegat. This is an excellent chance to enjoy nature at its finest as well as revel in the people of Östergötland’s favourite pastime: ‘utflykter’ [excursions]. “It is something we do all year around,” Fredriksson explains. “It doesn’t really matter if you want to go to the archipelago, the forest or just have some
Another addition to this mix of attractions is the Swedish Air Force Museum – the only one of its kind in Sweden. The Museum reflects the development of Swedish military aviation from the early pioneers to the present day. This is an experience you do not need to be a diehard Air Force fan to appreciate. The technologies are fascinating for all, and how often do you really get the chance to enter an attack plane and even have a sit-down in the pilot’s seat? Östergötland really has something for everyone to enjoy and delight in. It is well worth a visit – this much fun deserves to be experienced.
For more information, please visit: www.visitostergotland.se
When it comes to offering visitors something unique, Östergötland is a smorgasbord of various experiences waiting to be explored.
Issue 72 | January 2015 | 65