Some good news...

Photo by Jeppe Wikström, Stockholm Visitors Board

I like spreading about a little good news in the middle of the week! And we have had some great news in Stockholm this week.

1. First of all, a big congratulations to the Swedish team for winning the gold medal in the Culinary Olympics! Not only that, but this team is now the "winningest" team ever... they have won three gold medals (2000, 2004, 2012) and one bronze (2008) since the new millennium started. Swedish culinary skills have come a long way since the Swedish Chef entertained people on the Muppets. Michelin stars, gold medals and even preparing the Obama's first state dinner (Marcus Samuelsson).  Interest in Swedish chefs and restaurants is great. In fact, the top three posts viewed (all time) in this blog are Michelin Guide, White Guide and my own restaurant recommendations. 
2. The cruise season is officially over in Stockholm for 2012... and this past season has broken records again! 273 ports of call between May and October brought approximately 470,000 passengers to Stockholm. The Rival Hotel was popular with cruisers starting or ending their cruise in Stockholm... and we look forward to welcoming the next batch in 2013!
3. Finally... some good news from our modern art museum (Moderna). I recently blogged about their new exhibitions and now they are extending their opening hours on Fridays, starting October 12th until January 18th. The Tillmans exhibition will be open until 8pm and... free entrance between 6pm and 8pm! The fun continues on certain Fridays in the new Moderna Bar (next to the museum restaurant) where they will have film showings, DJ's and other events. Art in the evening... so civilized!