February 18, 2024
7 Free experiences you should try once you get here
Hej everyone!
Today, I’m excited to share with you seven free or incredibly affordable activities that I believe you shouldn’t miss out on once you arrive in Sweden! While Sweden may not always be synonymous with budget-friendly living, being a student definitely comes with its perks. So, let’s dive in and explore what Sweden has in store for you!
Welcome fairs
Each semester, LiU hosts vibrant Welcome Fairs, offering an array of events for new students. These are a great opportunity for you to get to know what your university has to offer, such as student organizations and university support. Plus, you also get some souvenirs, discounts, and even food! Keep an eye out for perks like free trial weeks at Campushallen, a gym, which is an excellent way to test the waters before committing.
Sauna sessions
Many student accommodations offer complimentary access to saunas. This is a great way to spend time with your friends/alone after a long week or just to chill out if you are feeling stressed.
Parties
Linköping boasts a vibrant student life, complete with a myriad of themed parties. While some may require a fee, keep an eye out for free or low-cost options by following student organization accounts and keeping tabs on university bulletin boards. You never know what exciting events you might stumble upon!
Norrköping
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore Norrköping once you’ve received your LiU card. With free transportation and only your meal expenses to consider, a visit to Norrköping promises a day of exploration and adventure. (Check out my experience [here] for inspiration!)
Enjoy the snow
This is a big must! Everyone gets really excited once it starts snowing, but it is really common to get amazed but at the same time just going Home – University, University – Home, without enjoying the snow. Make sure this is not you! Just make up a time during your week/weekend and plan with your friends going to a park to enjoy the snow! Whether it’s making snow angels, engaging in a friendly snowball fight, or simply revelling in the wintry wonderland, make the most of this magical season.
Walk
Put on your comfiest shoes and embark on a leisurely stroll through Linköping. There are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered (such as my colleagues have already mentioned before, for example [here]), and walking is the perfect way to soak in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of your new surroundings.
Ice skating
While not entirely free, ice skating at Isoval during winter is an affordable and enjoyable activity. Admission is free, and you can rent ice skates from Campushallen at a budget-friendly price. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get some exercise, bond with friends, and perhaps share a few laughs if you’re still mastering the art of skating.
And there you have it – seven must-try experiences to kickstart your Swedish adventure!
Thanks for reading, see you soon!
/Leonor, Applied Ethology and Animal Biology
