Bar Scene

Hej,

I got a chance to check out the bar scene a little bit tonight. A lot of fun, but the bars here follow the pattern of virtually every other building in Stockholm - they crank up the heat as if to compensate for how cold it is (and it does get REALLY cold here, especially at night). Also, the bars ban coats, so you have to check them (for 20 SEK or about $3.00) every where you go. But, because things are so expensive here - especially booze, which is taxed heavily - tipping is rare, so leaving more than a few SEK (Swedeish Kroner) for a tip is going to make a bartender's or waitress' night. I am not sure what the drinking age is, but bars have three levels, depending on what their target market is - 18, 20, and 23. And the Swedes love their lines. No matter how busy or empty it is inside, they'll make you wait! We even saw velvet ropes and multiple bouncers for a club ("The Club") located in a subway station. I'll have to check that one out and report back later... :-)

I also learned today that the Swedes have no word for please. Instead, you say thank you when making a request, as well as when you receive whatever it is that you requested. Technically, there is a word for please, but it's only used when begging for something, so you would never use it at a restaurant or bar.

Anyhow, off to bed - full day of museums and midterms tomorrow!

Jared