Moving to a new country always feels like a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Before coming to Sweden, I had read countless blogs and watched endless YouTube videos about life here. But nothing compares to actually living it—walking the streets, buying groceries, figuring out public transport, and trying to blend in with a new culture.
So here’s my honest take on what my first month in Gothenburg has really been like: the surprises, the challenges, and the small moments that made me fall in love with the city.
First Impressions of Gothenburg
The very first thing I noticed was how calm the city feels. Coming from busier places, Gothenburg’s rhythm is slower and more balanced. People don’t seem to rush everywhere; they take their time, and somehow that energy transfers to you.
The city itself is beautiful in a subtle way: clean streets, a mix of modern and historical buildings, and lots of greenery. And of course, the trams! They quickly became my favorite part of the city—efficient, reliable, and almost a cultural symbol of Gothenburg.
The Swedish Way of Life
One of the earliest cultural lessons I learned is the concept of “lagom.” It means “just the right amount” not too much, not too little. And you feel it everywhere, from the way people dress to the way they interact.
Another thing I can’t forget to mention is fika. At first, I thought it was just a coffee break, but it’s so much more. It’s about slowing down, connecting with people, and enjoying the moment. Even in my first month, I realized how important it is to Swedish culture—and how much I enjoy it myself.
Challenges I Faced
Of course, not everything is perfect. My first month also came with a few struggles:
• The language barrier: While almost everyone speaks English, I sometimes felt left out when conversations quickly switched to Swedish.
• Weather surprises: I had heard about Swedish rain, but experiencing it is a whole other story. Carrying an umbrella (or at least a good jacket) quickly became part of my routine.
• Getting settled: From figuring out the recycling system to learning where to buy the cheapest groceries, small everyday tasks felt like puzzles at first.
But these challenges are part of the adventure—they push you to adapt, grow, and laugh at yourself a little.
The Best Part: Feeling at Home
What really surprised me was how quickly Gothenburg started to feel like home. The kindness of strangers (yes, Swedes are reserved but very helpful), the ease of public transport, and the beauty of simply walking by the canals all made the transition smoother than I expected.
Every day, I discover something new—a cozy café, a quiet park, or a Swedish word I can finally pronounce correctly. And slowly, all these small wins start to build confidence.
Conclusion
My first month in Gothenburg has been a mix of discovery, adjustment, and small joys. It’s not always easy, but it’s always rewarding. If you’re planning to move here or start your studies soon, know this: the city has a way of welcoming you, even when you feel like a stranger.
I’m sure the next months will bring even more lessons, but for now, I can say this—Gothenburg already feels like a place I can truly belong.
