Text and pictures: Vijay Koul
I was born in Kashmir, India, where I spent my childhood surrounded by the poetic beauty of mountains, lakes, and valleys. Landscapes that shaped my deep connection with nature. After migrating to Australia three decades ago, I’ve been fortunate to visit many beautiful cities around the world. Stockholm had always been on my bucket list, but due to work and family commitments, I wasn’t able to make the trip until recently.
A couple of months ago, my wife and I finally decided to visit this city during the summer. Once I landed in Stockholm, I realized it was hard to explain in just one sentence why I fell in love with it. Perhaps it was the calmness in the air, the shimmering water everywhere, or the gentle kindness of the people. Whatever the reason, my connection with Stockholm felt deep and personal like meeting an old friend you didn’t know you had. The lakes and landscape also brought on a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of my hometown Kashmir India where I was born.
I was struck by how seamlessly water and land dance together here. Wherever you walk, water is never far sometimes a calm bay, sometimes a rushing stream.
The Light of Northern Summer
The light in Stockholm is also something special. In summer, the sun stays out late sometimes almost until midnight. This golden light casts long shadows and turns the city into a painting. I would stroll by the waterfront in the evening, watching boats gently rocking, families enjoying picnics, and children laughing. The sunsets with their orange and pink skies made me pause, take deep breaths, and capture photographs. It’s hard not to feel grateful in such a place.
Simplicity and Beauty in Architecture
Stockholm’s architecture has a timeless elegance. Gamla Stan, the historic locality, feels like returning to the past. Narrow cobblestone streets, mustard-yellow buildings, and small shops selling handmade crafts—everything is simple, yet full of character. I loved walking there early in the morning, before the crowds arrived. The quietness was uplifting.
Stockholm has not stagnated in the past. The city’s balance of tradition and innovation can be seen in modern district Södermalm. The buildings are clean and functional, full of light and glass. Even the subway stations are artistic masterpieces painted walls, sculptures, and colorful tiles turn a simple ride into a cultural experience.
A Kindness in People
What touched me most about Stockholm was its people. They are not loud or overly expressive, but they are kind, respectful, and deeply thoughtful. On a lighter note, when my wife and I used to talk, we had to lower our tone. While buying souvenirs for friends back in Australia, I remember standing confused at a bus stop when a local woman approached me to help, even though she didn’t speak much English. She smiled warmly and showed us the way, expecting nothing in return. Even when it came to the railway station, the locals were helpful in suggesting the right train connection for the outskirts of Stockholm. That small act stayed with me.
I noticed how people in Stockholm give each other space, yet remain quietly connected. There’s a dignity in how they live whether riding the tram, sitting in cafés, or walking through parks, there’s a calm, mutual respect. It reminded me of the value of simplicity and slowing down.
A City in Harmony with Nature
Another reason I admire Stockholm is how closely it lives with nature. Green parks, forests, and gardens can be found everywhere even in the heart of the city. Djurgården, one of the central islands, felt like a gift to the senses—fresh air, birdsong, blooming flowers, and tall trees. I spent hours there, just walking and enjoying nature. It reminded me that cities don’t have to be crowded or stressful; they can be soft, green, and healing.
I was told that in autumn, Stockholm wears shades of gold, red, and brown. The crunch of the leaves underfoot is unforgettable experience. It reminded me of Canberra (where I presently live) in autumn, with its peaceful mood and beautiful trees. I think I fall in love with places that carry the spirit of the seasons within them. I am especially eager to return and capture this side of Stockholm with my camera.
A Thoughtful Way of Life
Stockholm taught me that a city can be both modern and humble. People cycle to work, use public transport, and live in a clean and organized way. There’s a deep respect for the environment. Recycling is part of daily life, and the streets are spotless. Even the way people speak and move is gentle like a city that doesn’t want to disturb anyone.
I appreciated the cafés, where people sit quietly reading books or engaging in soft conversation. The culture of fika—taking time for coffee and a small treat—felt profoundly human. Taking a break is more important than rushing. I think we all need more of that in life.
A Place That Feels Like a Poem
Stockholm is not a city you visit once and forget. It stays with you like a favorite poem or a photograph you look to often. Its beauty isn’t loud. It whispers. And maybe that’s why I fell in love with it.
About the author
Vijay Koul was born in Kashmir, India, where he spent his childhood surrounded by the poetic beauty of mountains, lakes, and valleys—landscapes that shaped his lifelong connection to nature and place. A retired forestry scientist now living in Canberra, Australia, Vijay worked with the Tata Energy Research Institute (TERI) in India and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Australia. After retirement, he turned his attention to photography and writing, enjoying the pleasure of capturing quiet moments, cultural nuances, and the emotional textures of travel.. His reflections often explore how certain places—like Stockholm—can gently stir the soul and leave lasting impressions.
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