As an international student in Sweden, I had the opportunity to experience many unique Swedish traditions. One of my favorite experiences has been the Swedish tradition of Fika.
Fika is a social concept that involves taking a break from work or basically any other activity and having coffee, tea, or a light meal alone or with your friends. Usually you get a hot drink and eat some pastries, like the swedish favorites “Kanelbullar”, a cinnamon bun.
But Fika is about more than just having coffee or taking a break from work, it is a significant part of Swedish culture, and it is a Swedish way of life. It is a time for people to connect and build relationships. Swedish people take their Fika seriously, and they can even have it twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. As an international student, I’ve tried to really embrace this part of Swedish culture. It has tought me that slowing down and taking breaks is okay, even on a busy day and this is also something that Swedes take very seriously, as they put a strong emphasis on the work-life balance and I can identify myself with this approach too.
For me Fika is also an excuse to enjoy the delicious Swedish pastries such as cinnamon buns, cardamom buns, and many others. The food is an essential part of the Fika experience, and it can be homemade or freshly brought from a bakery. The Swedes like to take pride in their baking skills and the pastries are often delicious and fresh.
Whether you are in Sweden or somewhere else in the world, I encourage you to take a break, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and savor a sweet treat, maybe even with some good company. You might find that Fika becomes your new favorite ritual too.
If you want to see more about Fika you can check out the Instagram Reel I shared on the university account: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Co0NisNJzLC/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
I hope you get to enjoy some Fika soon!
Hej då, Niko
Why not continue the conversation with us?
Start with checking out:
Our programmes, the application process, webinars, and our Instagram and Facebook account.
Still left wanting more?
Book an appointment with our recruitment coordinator at infocenter@liu.se.
