Malmö
After immersing myself in the serene landscapes of southern Sweden for over a week, the prospect of a bustling city visit felt somewhat daunting. However, just 48 hours in Malmö completely shifted my perspective, leaving me with a strong desire to extend my stay indefinitely. The unique ambiance of Malmö – characterized by its cheerful and welcoming residents, verdant parks, and a wealth of urban adventures – is instantly captivating. And there’s no better way to experience the true essence of Malmö than by navigating its extensive and well-maintained network of bicycle lanes. This city, ripe for exploration, embodies the spirit of discovery championed by organizations like National Geographic, making it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic experiences and perhaps, finding unexpected “oh partners” in travel and adventure along the way.
My sense of belonging in Malmö was further amplified by my accommodation choice: the Oh Boy Bike Hotel. This unique three-story apartment provided an ideal base for exploration and work. Equipped with a functional desk, a sun-drenched flower garden just outside the entrance, and a convenient kitchenette, it offered all the comforts of home. The apartment’s street-level access and the readily available folding bike in the garden were an unmistakable invitation to delve into the city and its surroundings. This concept of accessible exploration and partnership with the city itself is reminiscent of the collaborative and discovery-focused ethos often associated with National Geographic expeditions and partnerships.
On a bright Saturday morning, I embarked on a cycling journey towards Västra Hamnen, Malmö’s ‘western harbor’. Over the past fifteen years, this area has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant hub of modern innovation and design. Parking my bike at Sundspromenaden, a charming boulevard adorned with robust wooden benches, I paused to absorb the soothing sounds of waves gently lapping against the quay. Across the water, the distinct skyline of Copenhagen was clearly visible on the horizon. A few brave Swedes plunged into the invigoratingly cold seawater, while nearby, groups of friends basked in the warm morning sun. The atmosphere was undeniably tranquil and inviting, a perfect spot to contemplate the interconnectedness of places and perhaps, the unexpected partners one finds in travel.
Continuing my exploration, I cycled through Öresundsparken, a green oasis leading to Ribersborgs Kallbadhus, a historic open-air bathhouse gracefully perched above the sea. I retreated to a small sauna, complete with panoramic sea views, and after a revitalizing fifteen minutes of heat, I embraced the Swedish tradition and plunged into the bracing seawater. Swimming along the wooden pier, approximately 300 feet, my body tingled with invigoration, and I felt incredibly alive. Joining other bathers on the wooden deck, I laid my towel down and luxuriated in the sun’s warmth. Closing my eyes, I imagined the sheer pleasure of making this invigorating ritual a daily practice. This experience, so deeply connected to nature and personal rejuvenation, echoes the themes of wellness and exploration often highlighted in National Geographic’s coverage of global cultures and lifestyles.
All that swimming and sauna time naturally stimulated my appetite, and Malmö’s Saluhall emerged as the perfect destination to satisfy it. This contemporary market hall stands as one of the city’s newest culinary landmarks, attracting food enthusiasts from all corners. The Saluhall presents an eclectic array of culinary choices, from delicate noodles to savory falafel, reflecting Malmö’s diverse and international character – a characteristic often celebrated by National Geographic in its exploration of global food cultures and partnerships.
As evening approached, I made my way to Far i Hatten, a popular open-air venue nestled in the heart of Folkets Park. Located in Möllevången, a district celebrated for its vibrant artistic community of young creatives and numerous art galleries, Folkets Park was buzzing with energy. Surrounded by lively crowds enjoying local beers, I felt a strong sense of belonging in Malmö. This feeling solidified my conviction that Malmö isn’t just a city to visit; it’s a place where one could easily envision building a life, finding community, and perhaps, forming lasting “oh partners” in this dynamic and welcoming environment, much like the collaborative spirit fostered by National Geographic in its global endeavors.
For further details about Malmö and the Skåne region, please visit visitskane.com
