Have any of you been to Scandinavian countries?
What is the first image that comes to mind when you hear the word Scandinavia? Snow, fjords, Vikings, saunas or maybe Santa Claus? But the following pictures show that we might not be as familiar with the Nordic countries as we thought. They’re a bit crazy, but of course in the best possible way. We’ve put together a compilation that will make it clear to you that life is different there.
1. It’s customary in Denmark to sprinkle cinnamon on singles on their 25th birthday
It’s common knowledge around the world that friends care about each other. But in Denmark, there’s a cute custom that expresses it even better. In fact, when someone is single on their 25th birthday, they sprinkle cinnamon on them. The spice has such a strong scent that it lasts for a long time. It can therefore be a signal to other singles that there are others out there looking for a mate.
This tradition spread into the Middle Ages, as the spice merchants were so busy with their work that they were married very late.
2. You can kiss at Danish airports, but not for more than 3 minutes
People who are in love often spend a long time saying goodbye at airports, which can cause problems for those who want to park. In Aalbolg, for example, special signs warn how long couples can say goodbye. How does it work? We don’t know.
3. Sweden already has the sign we deserve
Scandinavian countries like to use different signs. In Stockholm, for example, there’s one to warn pedestrians who are fiddling with their phones. The idea comes from an artist called Jacob Sempler, who is trying to make people aware that phone addiction is a real problem. And people are loving it, taking photos and sharing the sign.
4. In Malmö, it’s really better to watch your step.
Thanks to some creative people, life can be even more exciting. One such Swedish group has created miniature worlds for mice living on the streets. They have built various small shops and bakeries at the base of buildings.
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5. There are traffic lights in Iceland that are out of the ordinary
Everybody knows Iceland is a beautiful place, which is probably one of the reasons why its people are friendly and positive. And the traffic lights have hearts and smileys on them.
6. Iceland is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet
Ever had a moment when you wanted to throw away your phone and run as far away as you could, preferably to a deserted island? Then Ellodaey Island in the Atlantic would be perfect for you.
7. Iceland’s government also discusses pizza
Iceland’s Prime Minister Guðni Jóhannesson has said he would ban Hawaiian pizza for good if he could. A series of debates then began about how good an idea it really is to put pineapple on pizza.
8. 3D pedestrian crossings in Ísafjörur, Iceland
Too bad there are no such pedestrian crossings around the world. As well as looking good, they’re sure to catch everyone’s eye, which is why motorists slow down.
9. Every year, Finland organises the Wife Carrying Competition.
Every July, something really interesting happens in Sonkajärvi, as people from all over the world come to see who wins the wife-shoeing competition. This interesting sport has rules: the woman must be over 17 years old and weigh at least 49 kilograms. What motivates people to take part in such a strange competition? The fact that the winner gets as much beer as his wife weighs.
10. In Finland, if you get your doctorate, you also get a sword
When someone earns their doctorate, they go through a series of rituals: they put a hat on their head and receive a real sword. This symbolises their ability to defend truth, knowledge and good. Of course, these are not free, students have to buy both and then take them with them to the ceremony.
11. Huge human sculptures
Even the most boring things look great in Scandinavian countries. In Iceland in 2008, power line poles were replaced by giant human statues. Engineers say they resemble the caryatids (female figures replacing poles) used by the Greeks.
12. Sea elephant
Heimaey Island in the south of Iceland attracts many visitors every year. The island is of volcanic origin and has been shaped by the years into the form of an elephant.
Bonus: It happens in Norway too.
