Scan Magazine | Issue 75 | April 2015

LASSE HALLSTRÖM – A MOVIEMAKING LEGEND NORDIC DESIGN: BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN’S UNIVERSE: CELEBRATING THE LITTLE ONES SANNE SALOMONSEN – THE DANISH ‘ROCK MAMA’

PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

ISSUE 75 APRIL 2015

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Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE 6

6 46

Lasse Hallström – a moviemaking legend From Chocolat to Dear John to his most recent The Hundred-Foot Journey, Lasse Hallström’s films are stories people love and recognise around the world. To Scan Magazine he tells of his moviemaking beginnings shooting music videos for ABBA, why it took him so long to feel at home in the United States, and why he still very much a Swedish filmmaker abroad.

their parents, this theme explores the world from the perspective of our little ones. Presenting clever and exquisitely designed solutions for how to make life easier and more joyous for your children, as well as the most interesting places to go for a fun day out with the whole family, this theme is a must-read. And, to top it all off, we dive deep into the life and history of Astrid Lindgren and Pippi Longstocking – the strongest and most timeless 70-year-old girl we could ever think of.

DESIGN 15

Sparkling jewels and a colourful interiors Dive into our large design section for instant springtime inspiration! This month we present to you some of the Nordic countries’ best and brightest jewellery designers – employing everything from innovative technologies to traditional designs to make you feel precious and beautiful.

The same goes for our interior designer of the month, Ramsøskar AS, who uses enough colour in their interiors to make everyone feel happy.

Also – don’t forget to check out our shiny fashion pages, this time including a street style feature.

FEATURES 31

36

70

Rock mama, culinary delights and splashing fun Sanne Salomonsen, the Danish ‘rock mama’, is more on top of her game than ever before. Don’t miss our revealing interview with her on page 31.

Continuing our features section are some culinary delights, a Jazz festival and a splashing fun activity high up in the Norwegian inlands. At Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR the focus is as much on adventure as it is on cultural experiences and a love for nature – one of the many reasons why it is our culture pick of the month for Norway.

SPECIAL THEMES 45

Children’s universe: celebrating the little ones Presented by BRIS, Familjeliv and Barnsemester, three of Sweden’s top organisations and online resources for the welfare of children and

61

Nordic Gaming From Norwegian Stikkmenn to Finnish Meizi Games, this theme explores the innovative industry that is Nordic Gaming. As one of the most prominent communities on the global game development scene, these Nordic gamers will bring us many a clever concept in the years to come.

Browse through our top picks from page 61.

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Top destinations to visit in Norway 2015 From Sandefjord in the south to Svalbard in the north: Norway boasts a destination for every purpose – and stunning ones at that. Whether you want to go on a serene fishing trip, go shopping, sit down for a coffee in a quiet part of a charming old street or go dog sledding, Norway has the experience you are looking for. As Visit Norway, the presenter of the theme, so correctly states: “Norway has to be experienced.” Consider this theme your travel guide!

BUSINESS 103 Quaint conference locations and oil forecasts From the warm and cosy environments of Hejse Kro to the quaint, traditional farm houses that constitute Austkil guesthouse and conference centre, we have located some of the most charming conference locations for your business. Furthermore, we sat down with Nordea’s oil analyst Thina Saltvedt to get our heads around the undulating state of the oil market.

Adding to this is Paul Blackhurst’s keynote, reminding us all of the necessity to take a step back in order to take a good few forward.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 10 96

Fashion Diary | 14 We Love This | 86 Attractions of the Month | 92 Hotels of the Month Restaurants of the Month | 106 Conferences of the Month | 112 Humour | 115 Culture Calendar

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Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, When I was a young girl, there was one film my dad used to show me over and over again. It was a story about a little boy sent away to live with his relatives in a small community in Småland, Sweden, while his mother fights a terminal illness.

One of the most famous lines from this film, entitled My Life as a Dog, goes: “You always have to compare.” Twelve-year-old Ingemar, whose life is in many ways falling apart before him, finds comfort in comparing his own life and fate to those of others – may it be Laika the space dog, or a fallen trapeze artist. Things aren’t really so bad as long as you can throw humour, curiosity and comparison at them. It has taken me many years to understand the greatness of this line and film, but today, I see them both with a rare sense of clarity. I am absolutely thrilled that I have this in common with the film’s director, Lasse Hallström, and even more delighted that he is gracing this month’s cover.

Carrying on the child’s perspective is our Children’s universe theme, where we have gathered the most innovative companies making life easier, more fun and more spectacular for the little ones. We also dive into the life and legacy of Astrid Lindgren, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the fiery and fabulous Pippi Longstocking. Furthermore, we present the boldest, most exciting Nordic design enterprises, and a not-to-be-missed guide to places to visit in Norway this year. While in Norway, we

explore some of the country’s most inventive game developers, and shine our light on their Finnish counterparts. You can also read a rare interview with the Europe-touring Sanne Salomonsen, who (after suffering a stroke last year) had to re-consider her priorities and, perhaps, needed the force of comparison more than ever. On page 31 she opens up about music, love, relationships and the desire to do something for those less fortunate than herself.

As this is the last issue of Scan Magazine under my editorship, I want to thank my brilliant colleagues for helping me make it one of our best ones yet – no comparisons needed.

Starting with the May issue, this page will be graced by the face of a brand new, enormously talented and exceptionally warmhearted editor. It’s not difficult handing over the wheel when you know the outcome will be nothing short of excellent.

You always have to compare.

Julie Lindén Editor

Scan Magazine

Graphic Designers

Marjorie Mendieta

Issue 75 | April 2015

Joseph J. Ewin

Maya Acharya

Jack W. Gooch

Nicolai Lisberg

Published 10.04.2015 ISSN 1757-9589

Nina Lindqvist Contributors Camilla Brugrand

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd

Caroline Edwards Ellinor Thunberg

Print

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Liquid Graphic Ltd

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Executive Editor

Karin Zilliacus

Thomas Winther

Karl Batterbee

Creative Director Mads E. Petersen

Sara Schedin Karoliina Karantola Lars Lindved

Editor

Roberth Josefsson

Julie Lindén

Steve Flinders

Assistant Editors Astrid Eriksson Myriam Gwynned Dijck Copy Editor Mark Rogers

4 | Issue 75 | April 2015

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Press photo courtesy of Lasse Hallstrรถm

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6 | Issue 75 | April 2015

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Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Lasse Hallström

Lasse Hallström:

An outsider looking in It’s been 30 years since a small budget Swedish film with the curious title Mitt Liv som Hund (My Life as a Dog) became an international hit. Since then its director, Lasse Hallström, has been busy adding films to his resumé such as Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, Chocolat, The Cider House Rules and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? Last month, he was able to add the bitter-sweet comedy The Hundred-Foot Journey.

By Paula Hammond | Press photos

Despite critically acclaimed films and commercial success, Hallström is clearly a man who has no intention of resting on his hard-won laurels. “My favourite film is still My Life as a Dog. Although it was based on a book, it was a very personal film for me. In terms of my American movies, it’s probably What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? But these films were made almost 15-20 years ago, so I really need to pick up the pace and quality!”

cut his film-making teeth. “Some of them are kind of camp in a way I never expected,” he laughs, “but I must say in my defence that we often shot two videos in one day – that’s how rushed it was.” Does he have a favourite? “Nooo…Well, maybe the first one, which was Mamma Mia, because it had those close ups of the lips that almost worked as a percussion addition. So that maybe, for all its simplicity, is my favourite.”

Swedish Simplicity

Then, in 1985, My Life as a Dog became the runaway hit of the year, earning the relatively unknown director an Oscar nomination and a place at Hollywood’s high table. “I thought,” he admits, “that it was a very Swedish movie when I made it, but seeing it play to an audience abroad was fantastic because they reacted to exactly the same moments as the Swedish audience. I think that people still respond to the underlying emotions despite the fact that it was very Swedish in terms of location and story.”

Hallström is quietly spoken – passionate about his art – but with a self-effacing humour that is instantly endearing. Although he studied at the Adolf Fredrik's Music School in Stockholm, his joy has always been filmmaking. “I sang. I learnt how to write music and studied music history but I never really considered becoming a musician,” he says. “From the age of about nine or ten, I always wanted to become a filmmaker.”

As early inspirations, he cites his father’s amateur documentaries along with the films of Charlie Chaplain, “down-printed to eight millimetre film and screened again and again at home”, but it was when working on music videos for Abba that he

The theme of the tale – the protagonists struggle to find their place in the world – echoes through Hallström’s films. Is this something he identifies with? “Yes, I think I do. I’m no stranger to being on the ‘out-

side’. I’m an outsider still. I’m an outsider in America. I was a shy kid ... so I know how it feels and I can relate to it enough to be attracted to scripts that seem to share those feelings. It’s as though I can be assured that I’m not alone in having those feelings – by hearing laughter or hearing comments from an audience – then I’m suddenly on the inside. I’m not left out as much anymore then I felt I was when I was a kid.”

A home away from home Although the Stockholm-born director’s focus as a filmmaker is very much on human relationships, his visuals have an almost hypnotic, quiet beauty. There’s a sense of solitude in his long shadows and dreamy landscapes. Does he enjoy being alone? “I can’t recall needing to be alone but when I was alone I didn’t have a big problem with it. I was always busy with something and if that something wasn’t putting a puzzle together, it was cutting, editing film, or thinking about how to make films. Creating – whether that was painting or drawing or making a sculpture in clay – was always encouraged at home.

It was a very stimulating atmosphere.”

Hallström now lives in New York and although he keeps a house in Sweden it’s taken him many years to feel as if America is home. “In the first years in America I was pretty much homesick all the time.

But now America seems like another home. Coming back to Sweden, though, there’s still all that stimuli. I spent my first 50 years here so depending on where

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Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Lasse Hallström

LEFT: Lasse Hallström with his wife, swedish actress Lena Olin at the premiere of The Hundred-Foot Journey. TOP RIGHT AND BELOW: Stills from The Hundred-Foot Journey.

I am, there’s a recognition of culture, smells, tastes, colours, and memories of the past. But it’s not a nostalgic pull anymore. It’s familiarity, because I can sit here [in Sweden] and feel very comfortable with the idea of going back to New York.

That all started when I planted bushes, rhododendrons, in my yard in America. I remember that was the turning point. I literally put some roots down.”

We ask him whether the American experience has changed him as a filmmaker and if being a Swedish filmmaker is just a label or whether it also influences his vision. He replies: “I’m aware of it having changed a little bit, my attitude to scoring a film for example. With My Life as a Dog I almost didn’t dare have music. So yes, things have changed, but I still do see my-

8 | Issue 75 | April 2015

self as having European attitudes. I used to say that in Europe we have more interest in psychology whereas the American film director has more interest in plot...

When I tell a story I want it to be absolutely truthful. I improvise a lot and I do whatever it takes to help actors create something that rings true. Even in the confines of a fairy tale. Even with a story like The Hundred-Foot Journey, I felt it was fun to try and find moments that feel true. I love strong sentiment but hate sentimentality.

There is a clear line there.”

The Hundred-Foot Journey is a little piece of Hallström heaven in which personalities and their passions drive the story forward. It’s a comedy with lots of dark tones and a drama with lots of light moments.

And it’s a love story in which food and

family are just as important as whether the boy will win the gal. It’s also a timely film, in that it says a lot about the sort of cultural tensions that the world is currently struggling with. Does he think that stories help people understand each other better? “I think so. Why else would so many of us make films or write books? To confirm that we are not alone. Why else would we be so attracted to stories which we laugh at because we recognise that emotion or that odd, seemingly irrational feeling or behaviour? We have artists who spend a lifetime telling stories that bring us closer to each other. So yes maybe.

Maybe there is some hope in that.”

The Hundred-Foot Journey is available on Blu-ray and DVD now.

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Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary...

The sun has finally come out to make a lasting impression and we have a reason to celebrate the bright accents in our wardrobes. Yellow is our chosen colour of the season, as it brightens up even the most basic of outfits. Add a pair of yellow socks to your suit for an edgy touch, or bring in yellow tones in your striped garments for a subtle yet punchy look, perfect for brighter days.

By Julie Lindén & Caroline Edwards | Press photos

Tiger of Sweden, how we love you. This suit strikes a perfect balance between business and pleasure, offering a tailored silhouette that can be matched in a number of ways. Dress up or down? All up to you.

Striped jacket: £399 Striped trousers: £199 www.tigerofsweden.com

Hope’s raw and authentic style of fashion offers well-dressed and relaxed looks. Nothing proves this more than the black Fred bomber jacket. Inspired by the classic bomber jackets this light piece is your perfect spring-wear.

Fred bomber jacket: £160 www.hope-sthlm.com

Hip, practical and comfortable. That’s the best way to describe Vezzano’s canvas backpack. It doesn’t matter whether you are an urbanite or a countrylover, this bag will suit your every need – and you don’t need a fortune to get it.

Vezzano canvas backpack: £42 www.morris.no

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Scan Magazine | Xxx | Xxxx

Danish designer Martine Jarlgaard had us swept away at London Fashion Week with her distinctively edgy looks pinned on top-quality materials with lots of texture. This dress, made in a reflexive material, shows Jarlgaard’s cool in its entirety.

Price upon request www.martinejarlgaard.com

Carin Wester is a favourite with the editorial team, and when we saw this pin-striped set we completely fell in love. This is how we want to look attending those first outdoor get-togethers this spring!

Printed blouse: £160 Printed high-waist midi skirt: £160 www.carinwester.com

H&M has got your back with this phone case, offering a stylish way for your phone to survive every summer party.

May there be many!

Printed phone case: £6 www.hm.com

Spring is on its way and there is nothing better than spreading joy with a bit of colour. Perhaps these exotic mango socks from Filippa K will do the trick?

Mango socks: £8.50

IssueIssue 73 | 75 February | April20145 2015 | 11

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Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion

Nordic humans of London Text & photos: Sanna Halmekoski

Andreas Pettersson, 32, photographer from Sweden. “I got my blue jacket second-hand from Sweden; it has been used in Volvo factories. My shoes are dad’s old workman boots. Nordic style is clean, functional and lasting. I live by two simple rules: work had and be nice!”

brands Marimekko and Samuji. Nordic people value ethical fashion and recycling – we want to make the world a better place.”

Orvokki Lehtonen, 26, fashion trader from Finland. “Most of my clothes are second hand. I love retro patterns by Finnish

Pernilla Löfberg, 30, stylist from Sweden.

“I mix quality Nordic brands with high street brands. My jacket is from Acne and my ring is from Georg Jensen. Nordic designers understand the basic principle of fashion: that less is more.”

Andreas Pettersson

Orvokki Lehtonen

12 | Issue 75 | April 2015

Pernilla Löfberg

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Scan Magazine | Design | House of Dagmar

House of Dagmar turns ten!

The Swedish House of Dagmar celebrates its tenth birthday. During the past decade, House of Dagmar has become a bright star in the Scandinavian fashion scene and the praises from all over the globe are far from a few. With a birthday collection full of fashionable goodies, House of Dagmar is hotter than ever before.

By Astrid Eriksson | Press photos

Dagmar was founded in 1995 by Swedish sisters Karin Söderlund, Kristina Tjäder and Sofia Wallenstam, all three with notable backgrounds within the Swedish and international world of fashion. The brand and its style aesthetics are inspired by the sisters’ late grandmother – whose name was, of course, Dagmar. Described as “unconventional and sophisticated”, their style has over the years taken the classic and discreet (yet sensational) Scandi fashion we all love and adore, to fabulous new levels.

and contemporary fashion they do so well.

The Anniversary Collection “Ten Dresses” was launched this April. The re-launched favourites carry designs made of knitted lace, silk chiffon and jersey – all in new colour patterns and updated materials.

The ten dresses all represent the identity and core of the brand, showing an intellectual, sexy and contemporary style. The Anniversary Collection is made in a limited and numbered edition and will be available at Dagmar’s resellers and on House of Dagmar’s webshop.

The celebration of the recently become ten-year-old is nothing short of amazing; with a lush new collection to commemorate the milestone, the three sisters have yet again given us the sensual, intellectual

Happy birthday Dagmar!

For more information, please visit: www.houseofdagmar.se

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Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this...

We’ve been on the prowl for some colours and prints to get you right back into celebrating spring after Easter.

Finding Swedish brand Pappelina was, as we’re sure you’ll agree, a dream come true.

By Astrid Eriksson | Press photos

We simply love these rugs.

The colours, the feeling, the Scandi cosy vibe, all of it!

Pappelina make their rugs from a high quality Swedish plastic and hand-weave them on traditional weaving looms in Sweden. Amazingly durable and fit for both inside and outside use, soft to walk on with your bare feet and phenomenally easy to care for. We have already sent in our orders. You should too.

From £69. www.scandinavianshop.co.uk

Looking retro but new for 2015, the Asta Rugs sport a look of panels of subtle pastel tones alternating with strips of grey. Timeless and a good fit for any home in need of a little classic, yet contemporary touch-up. from £59. www.scandinavianshop.co.uk

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Toning it down a bit, the Noa collection is a divine mixture of calm colours and patterns. The charming spots are both subtle and outstanding and the brighter coloured edging provides an elegant contrast and gives the rug a thoroughly modern touch.

We’ll take three, please! from £59. www.husandhem.co.uk

Admittedly this is something of an editorial favourite. Can you blame us? The warm colours, the combination, the lines, the simplicity, the brilliance, we could go on for days. Swedish to the core and in various colour combinations ensuring that you can have more than one of them without feeling repetitive. £69. www.scandinavianshop.co.uk

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Scan Magazine | Design | Ross Architecture & Design

Ross Architecture & Design:

Providing happiness per square metre Happiness per square metre? It sounds unbelievable, but that is exactly what the architects at Ross Architecture & Design deliver. By zooming in on people and designing a home instead of selling an already made concept, Pål Ross and his talented architects have created some of loveliest homes known to man.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Mikael Damkier

“It’s like a marriage,” says Pål Ross, founder of Ross Architecture & Design.

“You don’t get married in the hopes of it working out. You want to be sure. That’s how we look at houses. If you are going to invest a lot of money into a home, why not make it a home that will make you happy for the rest of your life?”

This is a fitting analogy that illustrates how Ross Architecture & Design goes about their business. It is not simply about designing your house. It’s about designing

your life. “Clients hire us to get the house.

It is therefore crucial for us to get to know our clients and adapt our way of thinking and designs accordingly.”

Exclusive design at its finest The architects at Ross Architecture & Design offer their captivating homes in three project series: Exclusive Design, Limited Edition and Royal Edition.

Ross’s projects from the Exclusive Design edition incorporate the complete Ross-phi-

losophy. Through comprehensive interviews and conferences, Ross and his talented team dig deep into the desires of their clients and mould a plan after the gleaned information. “We are keen to get to know our clients, what makes them tick, their hopes, dreams and aspirations,” Ross explains. “In the end we want them to walk around in their new home and say ‘I got exactly everything I wanted – and then some!’”

Ross’ Limited and Royal Editions works in a slightly different way. The Limited Edition is created in mini-series of 12 charters, where neighbourhood exclusivity is guaranteed. This means that no Limited Edition of the same model may be built within a 10-kilometre distance of another.

Royal Edition goes even further and guarantees exclusivity per country. These

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Scan Magazine | Design | Ross Architecture & Design

grand villas are of luxurious design and size. “Some might find it provoking,“ Ross says, “but with the amount of time and resources being invested in building a home, investing in us is a good idea. We make sure that you get all you want from your home. We take our responsibility very seriously, and rather than seeing you spend a great deal on something you might like for a while, our aim is to create a home

16 | Issue 75 | April 2015

that you will be happy with for the rest of your life.” With a client list so exclusive names cannot be dropped due to privacy agreements, one can certainly expect extraordinary houses located in the most exclusive locations.

Harmonious architecture aesthetics Visually, the projects by Ross Architecture & Design are stunning. With lines

that flow like water rather that straight lines and corners, the houses they produce are made to provide harmony and natural comfort. “The lines and forms that we create come from the vibe and feeling we want to create in every single one of our houses.” Ross explains. “As human beings, our natural movements are not really compatible with square rooms and sharp lines. We adapt to it, of course, but it doesn’t really fit in our instinctive patterns of socialising and living.” Always striving towards happiness and harmony within a piece of architecture, Ross and his architects and designers work with a flowing design aesthetic. “We want the house and architecture to adjust according to the people in it, rather than the other way around.” The result is a dreamlike house or villa that with every intrinsic detail both enchants and delights.

Never too late to get your dream home ‘Location, location, location!’ is often cited as the most important thing when it comes to buying a property, but what if you already have your dream location and your house lacks that certain something? “We love to ‘Rossify’ people’s houses,” Ross says with a laugh. “People might love their

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Scan Magazine | Design | Ross Architecture & Design

Awards and achievements: 1996 – Ross Architecture & Design is founded 2009 – Ross project Aqua Serena is awarded Most Beautiful Villa in Sweden 2010 – Receives honours for contributions to a good architectural culture 2013 – Receives award for Building of the Year in Haninge County, Stockholm 2013/2014 – Receives European Property Award, Best Architecture Single Residence, Sweden Pål Ross is a full member of the Artist’s Club in Stockholm Ross Architecture & Design holds the highest level of Credit Worthiness by the UC

homes, but feel that they could do with a bit of an upgrade. That’s where we come in.” By analysing the client’s needs and the property’s location Ross Architecture & Design turns the already existing house into a home they will never want to leave.

Consciously driven architecture

and we try to do our part to support such programmes as often as we can.”

By openly supporting organisations like Plan Sweden, Doctors Without Borders, the Swedish Crown Princess Victoria Fund, to name a few, Ross hopes to spread awareness and encourage other

employers to do the same. “It doesn’t take a lot to make someone’s life tremendously easier, and to be completely honest: it’s the least we can do.”

For more information, please visit: www.ross.se

“We are entitled and very fortunate to be able to do what we do, but we never forget that the world is, generally a much less privileged place,” Ross says. “We take our social responsibility very seriously and try the best we can to make life a little bit better for others.”

Indeed, for every employee Ross takes on, a child in a developing country gets a sponsor, enabling them to go to school without having the pressure of supporting their families from a young age. “Education is a the greatest privilege there is. It provides the foundation for a better life,

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Lobby of Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz, Oslo: Brass, gold and black interior complements give the hotel an exclusive touch.

Norway’s most colourful interiors Colour has always been the essence of Trond Ramsøskar’s work. Daring to be different, to stand out and to make spaces that express personality has taken his interior design firm – Trond Ramsøskar AS – a long way.

By Maya Acharya | Photos: Ramsøskar AS

“I wouldn’t say I used to be a grey mouse, but I definitely haven’t always been as colourful as I am now,” says Trond Ramsøskar. Since starting a long-lasting collaboration with Thon Hotels, one of Scandinavia’s largest hotel chains, Ramsøskar

Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz: colours and patterns bring life to the rooms. The pattern with Mongolian horsemen adorning the bed spreads is a detailed cue of travel being undertaken.

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has fine-tuned his characteristic style: bold colours and playful combinations for functional and fresh rooms.

“oasis” for professionals. Brass and gold connote luxury, while vibrant patterns and textiles give visitors a burst of energy. “It was fantastic to hear that the hotel had been voted the best in Oslo,” says Ramsøskar. “Of course, this is down to a combination of factors such as service, food and location, not just interiors. Just as I can’t take sole credit for its success, I can’t be blamed if it goes badly,” he laughs.

The capital’s best Although Ramsøskar AS creates designs for private houses and offices, hotels have been a major part of the firm’s work over the past years. The company’s current form took shape in 2010 and since then the projects have been piling up. One of Ramsøskar’s latest projects, Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz, was completed just a few months ago and has already become Oslo’s best hotel on Tripadvisor.

Rosenkrantz is not your typical business hotel, but what Ramsøskar refers to as an

As far as Ramsøskar’s track record goes, however, you could say ‘so far, so good’.

Clients have doused the company with positive feedback and Ramsøskar has even taken on some projects abroad. Although the firm is known for its daring colours and unconventional combinations, Ramsøskar is not one to follow trends, and stresses the importance of finding an expression that will stand the test of time. “Recently, I stayed at Thon Hotel EU in Brussels, one of the first ho-

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Scan Magazine | Design | Nordic Interior Architects: Ramsøskar AS

tel interiors we designed. It was fun staying there and great to still be happy with the outcome of my work,” he says.

Escaping the everyday “I think the most important difference between designing private homes and hotels is that hotels are really all about being somewhere completely different than your everyday surroundings. It’s somewhere you go to escape completely,” Ramsøskar professes. “Growing up we couldn’t really afford to travel very often, but I remember vividly the magical feeling of staying at a hotel. It was about that dream of being far away from home.” It is one of life’s funny coincidences that Ramsøskar will soon be undertaking the renovation of one of the hotels that he was in awe of as a child – namely Trondheim’s distinguished Britannia Hotel.

Although designing hotels allows a lot more freedom when it comes to adventurous interiors, it requires the same level

of functional planning as a home. “Ultimately, things have to work well with the needs of those using the space. A lot of the same factors are important to consider in both homes and hotels. For example, thinking about the number of people in a room and their habits, the best lighting if someone needs to stay up late or use the bathroom during the night, whether there is space to leave your jacket and keys as you come through the door.

These are all things that we spend time analysing beforehand.”

‘People want to be provoked’ “One of the important things I learnt when working with Thon Hotel EU, was that people want to be provoked. I learnt to do the opposite of what people expected; many people wanted it to be a typical black-and-white business hotel because they thought that was what business people wanted. Instead, I find that people want to get away from the mundane and the usual, they want to be surprised.”

Thon Hotel Fosnavåg: a closeness to sea and tradition inspired the interior designs of this hotel.

With patterned carpets, an eye-catching décor and yellow, pink and lime corridors, Thon Hotel EU is certainly no humdrum hotel for diplomats. Luckily for Ramsøskar, making his visions a reality is usually a smooth task. “Working with Olav Thon Group’s design manager – Sissel Berdal Haga – has been fantastic.

The great thing about Sissel is that she always says ‘yes’ straight away. She doesn’t care about what people will think.

In fact, when we feel like we have a few too many colours and patterns, we take a

Thon Hotel Fosnavåg: the maritime choice of colours, combined with transparent elements, bring the coastal environments into the heart of the hotel. The clear blue carpets have been specially designed for the hotel lobby.

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Scan Magazine | Design | Nordic Interior Architects: Ramsøskar AS

Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz: the top floor offers guests an oasis of calm and relaxation. Only guests of the hotel have access to the lounge, which caters to your every need.

break… and then we add some more!”

Ramsøskar chuckles.

A new era of colour Although Scandinavian design is typically associated with clean, demure themes, Ramsøskar believes that people are becoming more open to bold and colourful statements. “In the age of Instagram filters and more focus on individual expression, I think people are starting to be more fearless when it comes to colour,” he asserts. “Although many people think that Scandinavia is all about white spaces and minimalist design, that’s not really true. Even look-

ing back at Functionalism in architecture – an era many people think of as white and simple – you find Norwegian pioneers like Arne Korsmo using bright colours such as gold and red. There are many other examples of daring use of colour throughout the history of design.”

“I think we are really at a crucial point at the moment where things are moving quickly towards more colour and expression. I think and hope that in a few years we will look back and barely remember the ‘white age’,” Ramsøskar says.

The next stage that Ramsøskar hopes for is that the kinds of design he has been

able to create for homes and hotels will have a contagious effect on work spaces such as offices and conference centres, places he believes are most in need of a dose of colourful energy. “Colour is a huge part of my life now, from the clothes I wear to the way I choose to decorate and furnish my house. Coming out of the ‘colour-closet’ has been great – it’s given me a lot of joy.”

For more information, please visit: ramsoskar.no

LEFT AND MIDDLE: the top-floor lounge of Thon Hotel Rozenkrantz has been designed with attention to detail and the aim of making the space an ultimate location to wind down, socialise and enjoy delightful meals. RIGHT: Brasserie Paleo carries on the theme of serenity and relaxation, perfectly honing the restaurant’s concept of pure, honest cooking.

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Scan Magazine | Design | Pi Bjørg

Exquisite Danish porcelain From her early teens, creative mind Pi Bjørg had a vision of becoming a household name within the realm of her passion: ceramic arts. In the midst of the economic recession in 2008, Pi Bjørg, now a freshly minted graduate from the Bornholm School of Design at Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, set about following her dream by launching her own brand.

By Marjorie Mendieta | Photos: Pi Bjørg Ceramics

Pi Bjørg initially started by working part time in various ceramics workshops and maternity covering as a compulsory school pottery teacher. The latter occupation brought a new playful integral dimension to her creativity. When in 2012 she eventually established her own workshop in Copenhagen, she opted to continue hosting pottery workshops and courses for children. This has been made possible, in part, by a few endowments.

Although firmly rooted in the Scandinavian ceramic art tradition, Pi Bjørg draws particular inspiration for her decorative

collections from the world of comics and cartoons – especially Japanese kawaiistyle animes – as well as from Danish folklore. With particular attention to lavish detail, each of her overtly cute figurines is handcrafted and has its own particular story; a more and more popular phenomenon with consumers.

Today, Pi Bjørg Ceramics is a name rapidly establishing its foothold with Danish retailers in many fields, as her collections span a variety of items such as kitchen utensils, tableware, candlesticks and dec-

Although firmly rooted in Scandinavian ceramics traditions, Pi Bjørg draws inspiration from the world of comics and cartoons. All of Pi Bjørg’s figurines are handcrafted and have their own particular stories.

orations. Her biannual collections are garnering ever-growing attention, also from enthusiasts abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.pibjoerg.dk

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Sebra

The Sebra that loves kids – and is loved by them If you have a child, or know someone who does, you are very likely to have come across the distinctive handmade and GOTS-certified designs from Sebra Interior For Kids. The Danish company, which transforms child-friendly imagery such as forest animals and village sceneries into stylish furniture, bedding and accessories, is popular all over the world.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Sebra Interior

It was the upcoming birth of her first son, Gustav, 11 years ago, that led Mia Dela to create Sebra Interior. “When I had my first child, I could not find any baby accessories that I felt like bringing into my home; it was all blue bunnies and teddy bear patterns. I just did not feel that it would be suitable for any other rooms than the nursery, and when you have small kids, you know that their things are going to be in the living room and everywhere where you are because that is where they are,” creative director Dela explains.

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Before becoming a mother, Dela, who has a design degree from Kolding Design School, had worked in the fashion industry for years. In 2004, she designed her first small collection of children’s bedding, blankets and furniture. Today, Dela and managing director Anne Mette Fischer head a committed group of 23 employees with 37 children between them.

Stylish parents and happy kids Modern design and innovative colours combined with old kinds of handicraft

such as crocheting and knitting are some of the characteristic trademarks of Sebra. A major part of the collection is handmade in natural materials such as wood, wool and cotton and all products are GOTS-certified, which ensures the organic status of the textiles, from harvesting to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing through to credible labeling.

Another distinctive characteristic of the Sebra collection is its unified universe, which stems from the fact that all items are sketched and created from the beginning by Sebra’s own designers. This makes it straightforward for parents to create a stylish nursery. At the same time the collection is continuously renewed to follow the colour trends of the time, meaning that parents will not risk ending up with exact copies of the nurs-

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Sebra

ery their friends had the year before. The two major collections at the moment feature a bunch of charming forest animals and idyllic village scenes. “With very young kids and babies it is obviously not the kids but the parents who choose the products, and a lot of them are bought as presents from family and friends. That is why we create a packaging and design that is stylish and appealing to grown-ups rather than kids.

Of course, at the same time, it is important that the products are decorated with cheerful colours and motifs which appeal to kids’ imaginations,” stresses Dela. “Our designs just mean that you don’t have to be embarrassed to have your kid’s duvet in the living room when you have guests.”

Scandinavian appeal Sebra’s extensive collection, which includes more than 300 designs of furniture, toys, storage and bedding, is, today, sold in 35 countries. The founder attributes the broad success not just to the design’s versatility but also its Scandinavian design roots. “In a lot of countries people are attracted to Scandinavian designs and I think that it is obvious, when looking at our designs, that we are firmly rooted in Scandinavian design traditions. But of course, what we do is very much done with children in mind and when it comes to children, they are not that different from country to country.”

With Sebra’s stylish collection of furniture, bedding, accessories, clothes, and toys parents can create a complete universe appealing to both children and design-savvy adults.

Gustav, Dela’s son, who inspired the first collection, is now 11 years old. However, the designer, who still designs the majority of the large collection herself, has no plans of moving away from the world of nursery design. “I always hoped that this was something that I would be able to continue to do for a long time, but that I would sit here, ten years later with 20 people working on my brand, I had not imagined,” enthuses the designer and concludes: “It was more the passion about my products that drove me to create my designs. It is just fantastic that so many people appreciate the things we create and that we are now even more people working on the project so that we can create even more wonderful products.”

All Sebra products are designed in Denmark Sebra products are health and safety tested in external European laboratories.

Sebra is available in: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, China, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Holland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, South Korea and the United Kingdom.

For dealers and more information, please visit: www.sebra.dk

Issue 75 | April 2015 | 23

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Akva Waterbeds

ABOVE: Akva Waterbeds’ mattresses shape around your body in a way no other material can. The water gently fits around your contours without putting pressure on sore points such as your hips, back or shoulders. RIGHT: Lars Brunsø, founder and director

Sleeping like a baby “Though you may not realise it, you’ve had a waterbed too,” Lars Brunsø points out, “we all have – our mothers’ wombs. There’s no better or more natural way of sleeping.” People across the world agree. Lars Brunsø began working with waterbeds at his student dorm back in 1981; today, he is the founder and director of Akva Waterbeds, which annually distributes 10,000 specialised waterbeds to over thirty countries from their own expert factory in Ry, near Århus in Denmark.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Akva Waterbeds

A water mattress shapes itself around your body in a way no other material can.

The water gently fits around your contours without putting pressure on sore points such as your hips, back or shoulders, and whenever you move, the water immediately works around you to suit the new position perfectly. A study of mattress types by the University of Southern Denmark has concluded that water-based mattresses are the very best for relieving chronic backpain.

Brunsø was not surprised: customer feedback is ripe with accounts of people who have been able to reduce and even halve the amount of medication they take after acquiring a waterbed.

“Water can work wonders in helping to relieve or rehabilitate various painful

24 | Issue 75 | April 2015

conditions,” Brunsø explains, “it’s an area with great potential.” One of the company’s main branches, Care & Rehab, works specifically to create products which can help those in pain negate or reduce their symptoms. These symptoms range from back pains to longterm bedsores to those suffering joint or bone discomfort due to eating disorders. One of their newest products is a water-based cushion with an independently adjustable left and right side for wheelchair users. Therapeutical sound systems, advanced massage structures and adjustable bed frames can all be incorporated into the waterbeds.

Their quality, ingenuity and individual customer-focus have made Akva Waterbeds a sought-after brand from Aus-

tralia to Russia. They work only with independent distributors, choosing quality and sustainability over commercialism, and their products are available at over 300 shops across Europe. “We keep the entire business within Denmark to ensure that working conditions and production standards adhere to our high standards,” Brunsø explains. The company has won the prestigious King Frederik IX’s Export Award and has been named the best workplace in Jutland.

They are keen to ensure environmental excellence too, and all their raw materials are free from harmful substances.

“We’re like the Mercedes of waterbeds!”

Brunsø exclaims before inviting anyone interested to visit their showrooms at Ry, or their websites, which are available in four languages.

For more information, please visit: www.akva.com www.akva-care.com

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Scan Magazine | Design profile | Cahana

Cahana designs are clean and organic: bringing peace and focus to the life of the carrier through their unique concept.

Photo: Hermine Björkman

Jewellery to keep your focus Cahana designs jewellery that is beautiful to wear while the affirmations inside help to concentrate on what matters in life.

By Tina Nielsen | Photos: Cahana

Cahana means 'to make a wish'. What makes it stand out from other jewellery is that inside each piece you carry a small paper roll with your personal goal or affirmation written upon it. One part is the design aspect; the jewellery must be beautiful and nice to wear, but a Cahana piece is also a tool for your yourself. "The whole idea is to create a beautiful setting for what matters in your life,” says founder Rikke Brogaard.

to remind myself of where my focus should be and I thought it would be great if I could carry these around with me,” she explains. The significance of the small handmade rolls of paper is that our focus in life changes. “What is important right now might not be so important in six months or a year, so you can change the message you carry with you,” says Rikke Brogaard.

The idea behind the affirmations is to bring a kind of peace and focus to the life of the carrier. It is easy to be overwhelmed by the distractions in life and a Cahana piece serves as a constant reminder. “It is important to look inside ourselves and not always to what’s happening on the outside. The answers are found inside you and a Cahana piece serves as a reminder about what is right for you,” she explains.

Challenging circumstances in her own life led Rikke Brogaard to create Cahana in 2012. “I have always been the kind of person who leaves Post-it notes on walls

Currently Cahana pieces can be bought in stores in Denmark and the website features the full range of jewellery and ships worldwide for free.

She describes her designs as clean and organic. “Of course they need to be visually beautiful, but they should also be nice to touch with clean lines and no sharp edges. You don’t just wear the jewellery – you touch it too,” says Rikke Brogaard.

Rikke Brogaard created Cahana in 2012, following challenging circumstances in her life.

Photo: Ditlev Rosing

For more information, please visit: www.cahana.dk

Issue 75 | April 2015 | 25

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Scan Magazine | Design profile | Project.AJ117

A ‘state of mind’ brand It started out as a project back in 2011, but in the last couple of years Project.AJ117 has become one of the best selling brands in Denmark. The key to its success has been to create cool everyday styles that all women would love to have in their wardrobes and first of all styles that are ‘made in Europe’.

By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Project.AJ117

It was in 2011 that a bunch of creative people gathered together in the Copenhagen Freeport area. They shared an ambition for creating what they called a ‘state of mind’ brand of timeless and everyday essentials with a casual look. It was only meant to be a project, so they only created ten styles for the first collection.

“We actually put the styles back in the corner of our showroom. We did not know exactly what to expect when we first launched the collection, but it soon became clear that all our customers spent most of their time in the corner of the showroom trying the different styles. That is when we realised the potential the brand had. Still I do not believe that any of us would have guessed that just four years later we would become one of the best-

26 | Issue 75 | April 2015

selling brands in Denmark,” says designer Charlotte Vadum, who founded the brand together with luxury distributor, CPH Fashion Pool.

The name of the brand Project.AJ117 refers to the fact that the creative process took place in house number 117, and the letters A and J came from the two companies involved.

Made in Europe Today, Project.AJ117 is sold all over Europe, in the United States and Asia. One of the things that has led to the success is that the designers and sales team work closely together and are very aware of their customers’ needs. Another reason is the fact that almost all the collections are produced in Europe and especially Italy.

“For many years almost all clothes were produced in Asia, but with this brand we wanted to get back to Europe and to the quality we are known for here. Therefore, we took the Scandinavian design and combined it with the Italian finish and making. The Italians are brilliant at colour dyeing clothes and this gives them a rather unique expression, which has now become sort of our DNA. We definitely could produce the things cheaper by moving the production outside of Europe, but on the other hand it gives us flexibility and a shorter delivery time,” says Charlotte Vadum.

The inspiration for the collections comes from a mix between travelling, the materials themselves and following the trends in the industry. However, that does not mean that you have to change your wardrobe every time a new collection sees the light of day.

“We take elements from the trends we see, but we also have a basic idea about what we want our designs to look like.

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Scan Magazine | Design profile | Project.AJ117

Right now we are inspired by the look from the ’70s with bright and warm colours, but you will see that these new styles match the previous ones. We aim to create a continuous feeling that not everything happens so fast in an otherwise always changing society,” says Charlotte Vadum.

Functionality for the everyday life No matter in which direction trends may go, one of the most important things for Project.AJ117 is to be recognised as a brand that is comfortable to wear. Functionality has therefore become a keyword in the production process, which has given the brand a wide client base. From 15year-old girls to 85-year-old women, all are wearing the clothes by Project.AJ117.

“I think our design attracts so many different people because we do not create

the style with a clear target group in mind.

It is more a lifestyle. You have to be comfortable with what you are wearing and it has to be functional. Something simple you can use for your everyday life, but with a twist of fashion. I would say that we focus on designing ‘need to have’ items for your wardrobe. Therefore, design and sales are working closely together to match that special customer’s request.

Probably around 70 per cent of our collection is being created with this intention and then the rest is a little bit more extravagant. So there is something for those who really care about fashion as well,” says Charlotte Vadum.

For more information, please visit: www.project-aj117.com

Issue 75 | April 2015 | 27

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Plateaux Jewellery / Queen Art

Jewellery design the Danish way The founder of Plateaux Jewellery swapped a career in graphic design to create a modern collection of jewellery.

By Tina Nielsen | Photos: Plateaux Jewellery Jeanette Asmussen started out as a multimedia designer, focused on design and business.

However, 18 months ago, she decided to change things in her life and launched her own business. “I started out making jewellery of wood and acrylic materials and I really got into developing them and building them into multiple levels. That’s also how I came up with the name for the business,” she explains.

Even when she was focusing on these original materials her ambition was to develop her own silver collection and trade through a couple of shops. She did much better than that and today Plateaux can be found in 15 shops, primarily in the Copenhagen area. Since last year all her attention is focused on the silver collection.

Characterised by simple and minimalist styles, Plateaux jewellery pieces, all made of

925 sterling silver, are easy to combine. “The pieces are a result of my fascination with architecture and design,” explains Asmussen.

“My aim is to create modern jewellery that can be worn every day but that is also timeless.”

The inspiration for Plateaux Jewellery pieces is found in Scandinavian design, which is characterised by minimalism and simplicity. Given her background in graphic design she is also influenced by different shapes. “But I am attracted to simplicity in a design,” she says. “Mundane things or elements I come across in my daily life can spark new ideas.”

RIGHT: The minimalism and simplicity which characterise Scandinavian design inspire Jeanette Asmussen.

For more information, please visit: www.plateauxjewellery.com Instagram: @PlateauxJewellery Facebook.com/PlateauxJewellery

More than meets the eye Faint silhouettes, intricate details and a never-ending array of artistic interpretations.

Kirsi-Maria Perkkiö’s soulful, modern art has a voice of its own and a multitude of stories to tell.

By Nina Lindqvist | Photos: Suvi Ojala & Henna-Maria Ra ̈isa ̈nen “My art depicts experiences, stories and connections to the past as well as links to the present and future. It’s my own version of soundless music, where colours, rhythm and shapes create the composition of a resounding orchestra,” Perkkiö describes.

Perkkiö is a self-taught artist with a background in drawing, sculpture and ceramics.

Her true passion however, is the signature, multidimensional, surrealistic oil paintings she has been creating since 2007. Her artwork is available online and at her art studio Queen Art,

28 | Issue 75 | April 2015

located in Oulu, Northern Finland. Perkkiö’s paintings are currently on display in Galleria Kajaste in the heart of Helsinki. The exhibition, titled Willisilkkiä (Wild silk), will continue until 12 April. “I am thrilled that Galleria Kajaste is hosting my exhibition. It’s a gallery that attracts many different sorts of people, a place where everyday life meets art,” Perkkiö explains.

The greats of Renaissance art and music as well as the historic architecture of Central European cities such as Rome and Paris serve as inspiration for Perkkiö. Seeking inspiration from the sphere of classical music has also manifested itself in the collaborations undertaken by Perkkiö, who recently worked with renowned international concert organist Kalevi Kiviniemi. Combining music and art is mutually beneficial for both art forms, Perkkiö empha-

An innate passion and need for artistic expression led KirsiMaria Perkkiö to start her own art studio, Queen Art, in 2010.

sises. “The paintings enhance the musical compositions further and present them in a new light, and vice versa; when musical compositions are combined with paintings, they reveal and stimulate the artwork in new and exciting ways.”

Bringing joy to the realities of everyday life through her art is the ultimate reward according to Perkkiö. “Everyone interprets my art in different ways, depending on their individual perception of life. Making people feel that they’ve gained something unique and relatable through my art is extremely gratifying.”

For more information, please visit: www.queenart.fi www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gwszfoxm0vM

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Eye Jewelry / FRENN

Up close and personal In this day and age almost anything is attainable by the click of a button, and possessing something truly original is almost impossible.

By Karin Zilliacus | Photos: Eye Jewelry

Goldsmith Kristian Saarikorpi’s latest development, Eye Jewelry – which allows the customer to create their own unique jewellery from the comfort of their own home – is therefore all the more intriguing. “With our new app, our customers get to use their own vision and creativity to make something truly unique and meaningful,” Saarikorpi says enthusiastically.

It’s all so simple. You download the app, take a picture of anything you want and choose the preferred material for the piece. This is then transformed into an image of the final item, which you can buy and have delivered to your own doorstep. “This app is the first of its kind, and judging from the number of customers there is clearly a demand for this kind of originality,” Saarikorpi says proudly.

“We’ve had customers take pictures of their spouses or of the feet of their new-borns, things that are the most valuable to them,” Saarikorpi continues. In other words, customers are given the opportunity to use their own memories, creativity and vision while Saarikorpi guarantees high quality production of that vision in an exquisite piece of jewellery.

We all have memories that mean the world to us and that we hope never to forget. With the Eye Jewelry app you can guarantee that you never will.

For more information, please visit: blog.eyejewelrydesign.com

There’s a new guy in town For too long men have been expected to wear almost identical suits in order to come off as professional, but a Finnish line of menswear called FRENN is hoping to change that.

By Karin Zilliacus | Photos: FRENN

In 2013 two Finnish men, designer Antti Laitinen and head of marketing Jarkko Kallio, conveyed their shared vision that men should be able to look and feel good even during office hours. This vision has now become reality with their internationally acclaimed line of menswear called FRENN. “We believe that the time has come for men's professional wardrobes to evolve towards a

more relaxed and personal look, while still maintaining a professional vibe,” Kallio says.

While the line of exquisitely tailored pieces clearly appeal to the modern man because of their contemporary style, FRENN is somewhat of an old soul, made with the same love and care that clothes once used to be made with.

“Our aim is to make environmentally responsible clothing that lasts. Essentially, FRENN is all about relaxed tailoring that should look as good on the inside as it does on the outside,” Kallio explains.

FRENN is quickly making its ascent onto the Finnish fashion scene. “From early April until the end of May FRENN will be hosting its own pop-up store at Stockmans, the largest and most prestigious department store in Finland,” Kallio says enthusiastically.

All images from the SS15 collection.

For more information, please visit: www.frenncompany.com

Issue 75 | April 2015 | 29

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Priesme Jewellery show in joint collaboration with renowned Danish fashion designer Stasia. The show won widespread acclaim in Scandinavian fashion circles and also echoed abroad.

You are beautiful Since 2007, Priesme Jewellery has slowly but surely thrust its exquisite and fashionable designs into the Danish subconsciousness, regularly being worn by participants and judges alike on the prime time television show Dancing with the Stars.

By Marjorie Mendieta | Photo: Priesme Jewellery

Danish actress Christiane Schaumburg-Mßller has been especially instrumental in showcasing Priesme’s creations week after week. The jewellery’s ability to blend seamlessly with gala dresses has underlined the apparent success of the company mission: to produce quality finery and fashion jewellery that will spoil you without ruining your budget.

the gemstones, in Denmark. “Under the motto ‘You are beautiful – we only strive to assist’, the aim of the design series is to deliver jewellery with distinct themes but with a twist,� explains Priesme’s CEO Claus Pries Hoffenblad. His vision is to ensure that the colours and styles of bracelets, necklaces and earrings match the clothing fashion of the season.

The unconventional family business has its own workshop and produces nearly all of its products, with the exception of the manufacturing of

This was highlighted when the company in earnest made its way into the limelight during the Copenhagen Fashion Week with a catwalk

Recently, Priesme launched its “Fine Jewellery� series for the choosy in terms of quality and design, but the line is still affordable.

This is likely to create even more interest in the company products outside Scandinavia.

Priesme Jewellery will spoil you without breaking your budget – offering refined, quality pieces you can afford.

For more information, please visit: www.priesme.dk

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No matter where life takes you, Nordea’s in-house wealth-planners and their external network of experts can ensure that you are well prepared to meet the challenges that moving abroad brings.

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Sanne Salomonsen – Danish singing sensation and life inspiration Sanne Salomonsen, the Danish ‘rock mama’, has three decades of musical success and eighteen solo albums to her name. Having risen to fame in the ‘80s with the chart-topping Sneakers group, her repertoire has expanded across multiple genres and included a myriad of collaborations. Not only a member of the Anne Linnet Band, Salomonsen wowed audiences with her starring role in the 2001 Danish production of Evita. In the midst of an extensive European tour, Salomonsen pauses to talk to us about her musical legacy, her inspiration and the passion for performing that keeps her going.

By Helen Cullen | Press photos

Salomonsen released Hjem 2014 in October of last year, an album that proved a tremendous success bursting onto the Danish album charts at number three and remaining there for 16 weeks. It was a very satisfying result for the artist who only released it after succumbing to relentless campaigning by her fan base. The collection was inspired by an intimate tour that saw Salomonsen perform a set consisting, unusually, of just her ballads.

album in that vein but the fans were persistent. I was hesitant but I spoke to my record company and we decided to make a live album in the studio and it has been an enormous hit.” Salomonsen doesn’t take her success for granted, however. “I’m very happy and humble about my accomplishments and all the chances and possibilities that came to me,” she continues. “It’s like the universe is being really good to me.”

The humble hippie beginnings

“It was an idea I had because I wanted audiences to leave my concert feeling that they knew me a little bit better,” she explains. “I didn’t have any plans to make an

Salomonsen’s parents were very traditional and worried initially about her desire to perform. “I was a teenager at the end of the ‘60s, a hippie with peace, love

and understanding as my philosophies,” she laughs. “My parents were very conventional so we did have some conflict but my mother was a talented singer and my father played the piano so they did understand my passion.”

After leaving school at fifteen to join the cast of the musical Hair, they realised that she was serious about her ambitions and supported her fully from then on. Salomonsen has worked professionally ever since.

A road to recovery However, it has not always been easy for Salomonsen. In 2006, she suffered from an apoplectic stroke that caused temporary paralysis on her left side. Despite the severity of her condition, she was determined to make a full recovery. “It was a difficult time but I wasn’t sad or mad that it happened to me,” she recalls. “I accepted it immediately so I could start working on getting my life back.”

Salomonsen trained hard to restore her mobility and vocal prowess and bounced

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Scan Magazine | Interview | Sanne Salomonsen

Salomonsen now travels nationwide sharing her story as a survivor. “It really helps people to see that I can walk. It inspires them that they can do it too,” she explains.

“Sometimes people lose trust in the fact that they can get better. It does takes a lot of work but you can do it.”

A romance with herself Committing fully to the demands of a career in the spotlight has forced Salomonsen to sacrifice other areas of her life. After two failed marriages and attempts at long-term relationships, she finally decided that the single life was best for her.

“I think it’s a challenge for the men in my life to live with me, not because I’m being difficult, but because I love to work and I’m often away from home for a long time,” she reflects. “I decided that it would be easier to be on my own and not have to argue or justify what I’m doing to deal with jealous husbands. It was the perfect choice for me.”

back stronger than ever. “Before the illness, I was working a lot, a little too much, and I was tired,” she recalls. “I remember standing in my kitchen and saying to myself out loud that somebody has to stop me because I can’t stop myself and that’s what happened; so we always have to be very careful what we wish for.”

Salomonsen’s acceptance of her illness, rather than questioning it, helped her focus on the road to recovery. “I was very sick and had to fight very hard. It was tough but I got my life back and I’m so happy for that,” she shares. Salomonsen was very fit and led a healthy lifestyle in advance of her stroke. “There was no reason physically for this to happen,” she explains. “So I decided to find my own meaning in this.”

The time of reflection inspired her to become an ambassador for the Heart Union in Denmark, an organisation devoted to furthering research that helps save lives and aids those in need of rehabilitation.

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play music, no one will stop you,” she explains. “I try to only give good advice and not be too dominating and let him do what he feels is right.”

The philosophy of Sanne Salomonsen has a very clear vision for how her life should be. “I want to be a very conscious person so that I can live out what I believe; you have to show respect and give a lot of love. A privileged person like me has so much love to offer and I’m not afraid to share it,” she explains. “I think it’s important that people don’t walk around feeling scared or angry, surrounded by negative energy. If I wake up one day feeling irritable I decide to change it immediately, but you can only do that if you’re conscious of it. I’m proud that I have the power to do so.”

Salomonsen’s new album will be released in the summer of 2015. For further information on the album and upcoming tour dates, visit www.sannesalomonsen.dk

Salomonsen is not lonely, however, and feels more content as a single woman. “I always say that I have a lifelong romance with myself because I love to be in charge of my own life, without worrying about hurting anybody,” she says. The positive energy she receives from the audience also helps to fill any void that remains.

“When you don’t have a daily love in your life it’s wonderful to meet your audience and get that loving energy from them,” she explains. “I’m a very, very happy woman when I’m on stage. Every time.”

History repeating Salomonsen’s son has most definitely inherited her music genes. Victor-Ray Salomonsen Ronander, a guitarist with Danish band Mnemic, enjoys a very successful musical career of his own. “He’s travelled and performed in more countries than I have so I’m extremely proud of him and our family,” she says. “I’m on tour at the moment with his father Mats Ronander and we all have a great relationship.”

Salomonsen had no concerns about her son following in her footsteps and pursuing a career in music. “I know from experience that if you have a natural instinct to

Upcoming tour dates: 14 April: Östraboteatern, Uddevalla, Sweden 28 April: Estrad, Södertälje, Sweden 7 May: Södra Teaterns Stora Scen, Stockholm, Sweden

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Your Shortcut to Scandinavia Bergen

NORWAY

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GERMANY Brussels

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Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Gyldene Freden

Gyldene Freden – Swedish cooking tradition since 1722 For people looking to dive into Swedish cuisine at its finest, it doesn’t get any better than Gyldene Freden. Situated in the middle of Gamla Stan in Stockholm, this historyrich culinary institution will not let you down with their skilled staff and eye for delicious detail. Mouth-watering Swedish tradition like nowhere else. Go on, have a try.

We promise you won’t be sorry.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Gyldene Freden

In a rustic cellar, right in the heart of Stockholm’s oldest districts, lies Gyldene Freden – a restaurant of ancient lineage dating all the way back to 1722. Since it’s opening almost 300 years ago it has been a popular hotspot for Sweden’s cultural elite with regulars such as Carl Michael Bellman, Evert Taube and Cornelis Vreeswijk, just to mention a few. “The history of Gyldene Freden is lodged in the walls of the restaurant,” says Linus Moström, restaurant manager. “This cellar has never been anything but what it is today,

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and that tradition brings a certain atmosphere to the place.”

A restaurant out of the ordinary However the 300 years have not been without complications. In the early 1900s the beloved restaurant faced the threat of withdrawn licenses as well as demolition plans for the building. The owner at the time was about to sell ‘Freden’, as the restaurant is called among the locals, and regulars started to say their heartfelt goodbyes to their favourite venue. However, the famous painter Andres Zorn, who was one among

the restaurant’s many high profile patrons decided to buy and take over the entire property. Over three years, Gyldene Freden underwent massive renovations and was re-opened in 1922. Sadly, Zorn died before the re-opening, but according to his wishes and visions the renovations kept faithful to the 1700s tradition.

“Freden is a restaurant a bit out of the ordinary,” Moström says. “We offer a fine dining experience without being pretentious and bombastic. The food we serve is based on the Nordic culinary tradition, made from Swedish ingredients. We never rush our food. In order to do the produce justice we let the food take its time on the stove, oven or however it’s cooked.”

Scandinavian home cooking tradition Gyldene Freden sports a menu based on the Swedish home cooking tradition, something they have stayed true to from the very

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beginning. With its roots in the Swedish countryside, Freden’s food is as filling as it is rich in taste and innovation. The traditional Swedish meatballs dish is of course one of the shining stars in the dining room (in fact, when Zorn saved the restaurant, he made sure to fix the dish permanently on Freden’s menu). Other classics will not let even the pickiest connoisseur down. Curing, smoking, pickling, marinating, drying, or however they see fit, the professional and experienced cooks of Gyldene Freden draw inspiration from all over the world while still focusing on lifting the pure tastes of the Nordic region. Salmon, herring, deer, beef and countless other delicious feasts will have you coming back for more.

“Since we work with what Nordic nature and land provides us with, we make sure to keep it seasonal,” Moström explains. “We respect and consider what implications our choices have on nature before we make them. This means for example that we make sure as little as possible goes to waste. Therefore it is not unusual for guests to find dishes such as beef brisket and lamb shank on our menu. To cook these particular parts of the animals demands both knowledgeable and skilled kitchen staff which is why we only hire the best people we can find. Because of this, working at Freden is, according to many, one of the highest recognitions you can get as a restaurant professional in Stockholm. We want to give the best there is to our guests, that’s why we need the best there is preparing and serving the food.”

A recipe for success it seems, as the customer base of Freden is as loyal as it is well-fed. The location of the restaurant makes it easy for newcomers to find it and experience the culinary delight for themselves. For people looking to experience true Swedish cuisine, there really is no better place than Gyldene Freden. “We have been here, feeding and making people feel good, for nearly 300 years, and we aim to continue doing just that for at least 300 years to come,” Moström says proudly.

For more information, please visit: www.gyldenefreden.se

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Henrik and Poul collaborated with local designer Alikka Garder Petersen to create unique ceramic and porcelain decorations for Restaurant SuRi.

Breaking the waves When the old fish market buildings on the harbour of the idyllic Danish town of Holbæk became available in 2004, Henrik Nielsen and Poul Bøje Nielsen knew they had to make a move.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Ricky Molloy

The friends had grown up together in the region, and both were professional chefs.

“We’d worked together for ages already,” Henrik explains, “we shared a long-term dream of setting up a restaurant; one which would be heavily immersed in the local community.” Years before the trend of emphasising on regional produce took off, the pair succeeded in creating a dining experience which allowed visitors to experience the very best local ingredients through cooperation with farmers and producers in the region. Today, with Restaurant SuRi they have over ten years of experience in dishing up delicious local produce – and their hard work has been rewarded with several awards along the way.

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Henrik and Poul first started a restaurant together in Holbæk in 2000, but soon needed more space in order to keep up with rising visitor numbers. The fishing halls proved the perfect location and the pair set up SuRi – named from an amalgamation of their mothers’ names – right by the water and just a stone’s throw from Holbæk town centre. Easily reachable by train or car from the capital, the island of Funen or nearby Roskilde Airport, ancient Holbæk features cobbles, colourful thatched cottages and classic Danish architecture.

Founded in the 13th century, the town has grown to become the largest in north-

western Zealand. Holbæk lies on the shore of the Ise Fjord, once a popular haunt for the Vikings and a historically significant source of fish for Zealanders.

While commercial fishing has become less important for Holbæk in recent years, the harbour retains its strong links to the sea, and now, Restaurant SuRi benefits from fresh fish hauls every day.

Quite the catch To take advantage of their maritime location, Henrik and Poul set up a fishmonger’s and delicatessen as part of SuRi, enabling locals and visitors on the go to pick up traditional Danish delicacies prepared daily by the restaurant’s chefs. The delicacies offered vary depending on what has been caught in the fjord, but SuRi’s own smoke oven ensures that classics such as smoked herring or mackerel are often available even outside of the dine-in menu. In March

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Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | SuRi

their dishes on classic cooking to ensure that quality remains top-notch.

this year, SuRi was elected one of the finalists in the ‘Fish and Seafood’ category by the Danish Guide to Eating Out (Den Danske Spiseguide). Henrik was also pleased to discover that SuRi has been included in White Guide’s 2015 survey of the best restaurants in Denmark.

Pride of place, however, goes to the ‘Local Cooking’ competition they won in 2013.

The competition, which covers the whole of Zealand, requires at least 75 per cent of ingredients in the restaurants’ menus to be locally produced and puts emphasis on creativity and quality. Henrik sounds slightly disappointed when we speak to him two days after the ‘Local Cooking’ 2015 final: “We were placed second this year,” Henrik explains, “after our other restaurant, Elmely Kro, which Poul now runs.” He laughs: “It’s healthy to have a bit of internal rivalry, though – it keeps you on your toes!”

SuRi’s experienced staff do not rest on their laurels, and the seasonal nature of

Community and co-operation

The SuRi team, with Henrik on the top left side, taking a break during a flour delivery from the local mill.

their ingredients allow the team of six chefs and apprentices to try out new exciting combinations and techniques on a regular basis, although they always base

For those less keen on seafood, a wide range of traditional and inventive meatand vegetable-based dishes are available in both the delicatessen and in the restaurant. Diners choose several smaller dishes, allowing them to experience exciting combinations in one sitting. As with the fish, almost all of SuRi’s meat and organic produce is sourced locally. Over the years, Henrik and Poul have developed partnerships with over 30 local farms and suppliers, such as Ørnberg Vin, a local vineyard. These collaborations have proven mutually beneficial. In 2013, SuRi published a book detailing the work and lives of their suppliers in northern Zealand, and the restaurant’s reputation for local commitment and culinary excellence has seen it featured regularly on Denmark’s TV2 channels. Shortly after SuRi opened its doors, Holbæk’s business board

SuRi’s supply partner Søren Wiuff is famous for his exceptional vegetables and his prominent role in shaping modern Nordic cooking.

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Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | SuRi

awarded the restaurant with their 2005 Innovation Prize, recognising the effort put into creating a restaurant which contributes positively and constructively to the local community.

Over the sea Henrik and Poul have worked closely with local artist Mogens Grønbech to create a space which reflects the bountiful agriculture of the island of Zealand and the maritime location of the restaurant.

Grønbech, who has also headed projects for Queen Margrethe and Carlsberg, used materials and natural decorations from the nearby ocean and countryside to create a sleek modern space evocative of the region’s nature, quietly underlining the restaurant’s focus. The resulting rooms have become light, airy and cosy, and large windows enable guests to

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glance out across the fjord to one side and the ancient town to the other.

In the summer, the restaurant opens up unto a large terrace positioned directly on the mole, making the diners part of the life of the harbour. It is possible to get even closer to the sea, as SuRi also encompasses Black Louis, a beautifully restored 1950s ferry, which is available for conferences, meetings and social events. It can also travel to other harbours to accommodate those who cannot make it to Holbæk.

The team The restaurant can also be booked for special occasions. Even the Queen has enjoyed lunch at SuRi, when the rooms and terrace accommodated 90 visitors. “It was great fun,” Henrik recalls, “a lot of work, of course, but it really gave us all confidence

in our little restaurant.” SuRi also caters out of the house, preparing food for anything from intimate dinner parties to large-scale conferences or jubilee celebrations. “We have menu suggestions, of course, but we love to work with clients to give them exactly what they’re looking for.” The kitchen team can create anything from breakfast sets to canapés to three-course menus, and the waiting personnel can be hired to provide professional service at events. “I know it’s a bit of a cliché, but the people really are the best bit of SuRi,” Henrik concludes. “We’ve got lovely staff who’ve been with us for years, friendly customers from far and wide, and great relationships with our community and suppliers.”

For more information, please visit: www.suri.dk

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Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Haukilahden Paviljonki

The taste and view of the archipelago Year round, Haukilahden Paviljonki restaurant gives a pleasant feeling of the sea life and serves the delicious Finnish Lohikeitto.

By Karoliina Kantola | Photos: Haukilahden Paviljonki

Look at the sea, listen to the waves breaking against the shore, watch the boats approach the pier, smile at the pedestrians walking by or riding a bike.

Welcome to Haukilahden Paviljonki, a pavilion just 30 minutes way from the Helsinki city centre.

Besides the beautiful scenery of southern Finland, in Haukilahden Paviljonki you can enjoy the delicious fresh Finnish food and drinks. In the wintertime, the restaurant welcomes the customers for a lunch or an afternoon coffee, and offers a great place to arrange private parties and events. As the weather gets warmer and the days become brighter, the days of Haukilahden Paviljonki become longer, too. “After Vappu – the Labour Day celebration and the official start of Finnish spring – we open our doors early in the morning and close them late at night,” says the owner Juha Blomqvist.

From early spring until late autumn, Haukilahden Paviljonki is crowded with people living in the local neighbourhood, the boaters stopping by, and tourists coming from both near and far. The favourite dish among the customers all year around is Haukilahden Lohikeitto, a creamy salmon soup made out of Finnish ingredients. Its fresh goat’s cheese salad and hamburgers are really popular as well. From time to time, the restaurant varies its à la carte menu, but some things will never change. “The regular customers tend to know what they want already when coming here, so the most popular dishes are here to stay,” Blomqvist says with a smile.

In the summer season, people can be part of the real Finnish barbeque feast.

At this time, the chef grills meat, chicken and fish on the terrace. Thus, at Hauki-

lahden Paviljonki, you can really come to eat out. Of course the restaurant interior itself is beautiful and cosy – but when it is warm and bright outside, who would not like to sit on the terrace and feel the sea, the archipelago life as well as the sunny atmosphere?

For more information, please visit: www.haukilahdenpaviljonki.fi

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Scan Magazine | Culture Profile | Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR

With Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR you can experience an adventure you will never forget, splashing down one of the area’s rivers and watercourses.

An experience unlike any other World-class rafting through crystal blue-green waters, wild rivers running through areas of more than 1,000 years of European history, and a nature more varied and beautiful than you could ever imagine. It is difficult to believe all this can be found in Norway, but hidden between the valleys, waters and mountains of Oppland lies a treasure to be discovered. Welcome to Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR – your enabler of an experience unlike any other.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR

It was in 1983 that two Norwegian outdoors enthusiasts who were to found the beginnings of Norway’s first rafting com-

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pany, discovered the wonders of the rafting sport. Having never tried the adventurous activity before, they were quickly sold on the idea of bringing it back to Norway – and Sjoa, Oppland provided the perfect location. Here, where river Sjoa meets that of Gudbrandsdalslågen, there are plenty of varied topography, rivers, creeks and drops, to create a Norwegian hub for the sport. The company, then named Norwegian Wildlife & Rafting AS (NWR for short), teamed up with Sjoa Raftingsenter in 2005, to form the company which – by

today – has brought thousands of adventurous rafting aficionados safely down Norwegian rivers.

People and nature interacting “It’s the varied, wonderfully stunning nature we have here – especially these immensely clear river waters,” begins Kristin Fjeld, part of the husband-wife duo who enthusiastically guide guests from around the world to and through the joys of rafting in Norway, about the area’s uniqueness. “I just can’t describe it – people have to come see it to believe it. It’s extraordinary when people do – there is something special about seeing people interacting with nature in this way,” she muses. Her husband, Ola Enkerud, is the owner and manager of the company, and comes from a family that has a long history working in tourism. “It’s interesting to see how the sport has evolved over the

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TOP: Varphaugen Farm is the beautifully located hub of the rafting company, which is Norway’s oldest and most experienced rafting centre. BOTTOM: Pilgrims arrive at Varphaugen Farm from the nearby pilgrim’s path.

years – from being brought here by the founders of NWR in the beginning of the 1980s, maintaining such a strong popularity and foothold in Norway, and still bringing people here to come see what it’s about. It’s remarkable,” he says.

Today Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR, based at Varphaugen Farm, is the most experienced rafting company in Norway, carrying a proud history of safe, gloriously fun water sports that spans more than 30 years.

Those with a keen interest in cultural history will also identify this particular area of Norway as a significant point of reference along Norway’s main pilgrim’s path – Gudbrandsdalsleden – a path pilgrims and hikers have followed for near a millennium. “Our location is the ultimate crossing of pathways and waterways,” explains Fjeld. “There is something more to be found here than the rivers alone, or the nature alone. The area has a strong cultural and historical foothold, a very rich past, which we’re very proud of.”

The rafting experience: from age six to age 80 As for the waterways of the area, the three rivers of Sjoa, Otta and Gudbrandsdalslågen provide the splashing backdrop of the main attraction: rafting. Although Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR offers activities such as canyoning and riverboarding, the company’s various rafting experiences continue to attract countless visitors every year. Rafting through the splashing waters

of Sjoa (whose name traditionally and aptly means ‘white waters’) is a popular choice for those looking for a fast-paced experience, while Otta offers a somewhat calmer rafting option for the whole family – not excluding any of the fun along the way, as cliff-jumping and river swimming both make part of the trip. “The waters of Otta are characteristically green – we call it the ‘green river’,” explains Fjeld, continuing: “It’s a wonderful option for anyone – we have had six-year-olds and 80-yearolds take part together!”

Wilderness camping and new energy Back at Varphaugen, guests at Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR can enjoy full meals from the catering kitchen, before going to sleep in one of the cabins or lavvus in the wilderness camp. For those who wish to cook for themselves, a smaller, communal kitchen is available, as well as a barbecue. Perhaps you would also like grilling your food over an open fire? “Children feel very free up here, running around in the wild and taking in the fresh air. They get an outlet for their curiosity and energy,” says Fjeld.

FACTS: - Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR offers shorter and longer rafting day trips.

- The company is based at Varphaugen farm.

- Varphaugen has 12 cabins and space for 24 caravans.

- There is a large wilderness camp and space for you to put up your own tent. You can also rent a lavvu on the riverside.

- There is a beach where you can swim, and places where you may fish.

- Hot tub available for up to 25 people.

- Grand catering kitchen available.

- Conference facilities available.

Home page and online booking: www.sjoaraftingsenter.no Booking telephone: +47 47 66 06 80 Email: rafting@sjoaraftingsenter.no Address: Gudbrandsdalsvegen 430, N-2670 Otta How to get here: We are situated along the E6, three km north of Sjoa, and seven km south of Otta. Along the E6: A 1.5 hr drive from Lillehammer, four hr drive from Oslo, 3,5 hr drive from Trondheim.

Map available at: www.sjoaraftingsenter.no Sjoa Raftingsenter NWR is easily accessed by train or bus (to Otta).

On request we can pick you up at the station upon arrival.

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Scan Magazine | Education Profile | Stenhus Kostskole

A quest for global, academic excellence Stenhus Kostskole has inspired young people to reach their full potential ever since the school opened its doors in 1906. Today, the independent boarding school offers something unique. Its international outlook goes hand-in-hand with its Danish legacy in an environment where traditional values such as hard work, responsibility and respect have not been neglected. Neither has the modern world.

By Caroline Edwards | Photos: Stenhus Kostskole “We are first and foremost a traditional school, but that does not mean that we are not keeping in touch with the times. We take the best from the modern world and use it in the classroom.

However, technology can never replace the enthusiasm a teacher can bring,” says headmaster Knud Erik Schack Madsen.

Stenhus Kostskole aims for academic excellence in every sense of the word. By bringing the world into the classroom, they prepare their students for the global environment, but without forgetting the importance of discipline and mutual respect in the process. “We teach students Chinese and organise regular exchanges with students from China,” says Stenhus’ headmaster, who is proud of their international focus.

Stenhus Kostskole is a boarding school that attracts students from all walks of life, but first and foremost it appeals to expat families who wish their children to have a Danish education.

The boarding section is a close-knit community in which personal and academic development is key.

Stenhus Kostskole is an independent institution offering sports as well as academic learning with 520 students from grades six to ten, of whom 45 are boarders. Located next to Stenhus Gymnasium, the students have the option to continue on to A-levels after graduating from the dayschool. This is an institution that has excelled at bringing the past and the present together in the perfect blend.

At Stenhus Kostskole students are introduced to an international focus and values such as mutual respect and the importance of discipline.

For more information, please visit: www.stenhus.dk

John Scofield

In the magnificent surroundings of Hamar, located on the shores of Norway’s largest lake, Mjøsa, you will find one of Norway’s most excellent jazz gatherings – AnJazz.

Having established itself as a festival for those keen to enjoy a cosy atmosphere while taking in the finest of high-quality music, AnJazz is yet again gearing up for an unforgettable event.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: AnJazz

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– John Scofield (USA) and Pablo Held Trio (Germany) – Solveig Slettahjell / Tord Gustavsen – Caterina Palazzi Quartet (Italy) – Come Shine with guests: Jan Erik Vold and Knut Reiersrud – Jacob Young Quartet – Eberson Funk Ensemble – Harr & Hartberg – Reidun ...and more.

AnJazz takes place on 6-9 May.

Solveig Slettahjell

As last year’s sold-out AnJazz performances can testify, the festival is not just popular – it’s a must for any self-respecting jazz aficionado.

Hamar Kulturhus, serving as a high-tech hub for the festival’s main concert with John Scofield, makes up the modern part of the gathering, while Hamar old theatre is the tra-

This year’s artists include:

ditional festival centre. The proximity of the two, says Tomter, is one of the great advantages of AnJazz. “Visitors often compliment the fact that the festival is very accessible. The venues are situated only minutes apart, and two minutes from the train station. Trains go directly and frequently from Oslo airport, which means you can arrive in the capital and be in the middle of the music in about an hour,” says Tomter.

Come shine

“Willie Nelson, Bo Kaspers Orkester and Al di Meola – so many world famous artists have performed at AnJazz by now,” says festival director Anja Katrine Tomter about the now 11year-old festival that serves as a definite highlight of the Norwegian jazz season. “The focus is always on high-quality music; experiences that visitors will keep treasuring for years on end. We’ve still managed to keep that low-key, laidback feeling that makes the festival so cosy,” she adds.

For more information, please visit: anjazz.no

Reidun Sæther

High-quality music – and all that jazz

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Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Top Culture Hotspots in Finland

TOP LEFT: Saami siblings Kaisu ja Heikki run Tradition Hotel Kultahovi. BOTTOM LEFT: Besides museum exhibitions, events that focus on culture and nature, as well as seminars, are arranged at Siida. TOP RIGHT: Sajos offers facilities of an international standard for meetings, training events, and conferences. The building is modern and visually impressive. BOTTOM RIGHT: The ancient Sami cultural site Ukko Island is one of the stops on Visit Inari’s cruises on Lake Inari, Lapland's largest wilderness lake.

Tiervâpuáttim Anarân: Welcome to Inari!

From adventurous husky safaris and stunning Northern Lights to special culinary treats and traditional experiences highlighting the indigenous Sami people, the lakeside village of Inari in the heart of Finnish Lapland has it all.

By Nina Lindqvist | Photos: Kultahovi

Hotel Kultahovi, inspired by Sami culture and spectacular northern landscape, provides a modern take on Lapland.

“Our kitchen utilises the finest, local ingredients providing customers with exciting culinary experiences, whereas the traditional hotel incorporates materials and colours representing Sami heritage as well as Finnish design classics dating back to the 1940s,” second-generation hotel owner Kaisu Nikula explains. Kultahovi makes innovative use of its magnificent location. The underwater camera in nearby River Juutuanjoki streams a live video feed to every room and the rooftop camera reveals when the impressive Northern Lights show starts.

Sami museum and nature centre Siida Siida offers insight into Sami history and information on the surrounding nature.

Both the National Museum of the Finnish Sami and the Nature Centre of Metsähallitus are based here. “Our versatile venue

hosts both permanent and changing exhibitions and activities throughout the year.

The main purpose of the museum is to sustain the identity and cultural self-esteem of the Sami,” says Ida Ikonen, senior marketing and communications advisor.

In addition, the open-air museum offers summer visitors the possibility to get acquainted with unique Sami buildings and traditional hunting and fishing methods.

Sami cultural centre Sajos Sajos is the centre of Sami culture and administration, founded in order for the Sami to maintain and develop their own language, culture and livelihood and cultural self-government. Besides housing the Sami Parliament, Sajos also accommodates a Sami handicraft shop with genuine, individual Sami handicrafts, literature and music. “We also organise different activities, including a Sami handicraft workshop in the summer, where participants familiarise themselves with Sami culture in a

practical manner,” marketing manager Johanna Alatorvinen, emphasises. Conferences, concerts and festivals are also arranged in the spacious, versatile venues at Sajos, all equipped with state of the art conference technology.

Activity centre Visit Inari Visit Inari offers a wide selection of guided treks and activities all year round for avid nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Winter time activities include snowshoe hiking, cross country ski school and snowmobile Northern Lights safaris. During summertime, visitors can embark on a cruise tour of Lake Inari and Ukko Island, once used as a sacrificial site by the Sami, or go fjord horse riding. “Visit Inari also offers two quality accommodation possibilities; the modern Inari Aurora Resort in the heart of the village, and the cosy Holiday Village Inari cabins, located on the shores of Lake Inari,” CEO Tapani Lappalainen adds.

For more information, please visit: www.hotelkultahovi.fi www.siida.fi www.sajos.fi www.visitinari.fi

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Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Top Culture Hotspots in Finland

Combining art and heritage with the tranquillity of Finnish nature Embedded in the untouched, serene Lappish nature, Särestöniemi museum provides art enthusiasts with the perfect getaway, combining the idyllic landscape of Northern Finland with the fascinating life story of renowned Lappish artist Reidar Särestöniemi.

By Nina Lindqvist | Photo: Heli Tuhkanen

world,”says museum director Anne Koskamo.

The museum hosts a collection of nearly 500 works of art, showcasing work from Reidar Särestöniemi’s whole life, from childhood to his last years. Works represent a wide range of techniques, including woodcuts, etchings, drawings, and of course the signature, large, colourful oil paintings, often depicting the Lappish countryside. Reidar Särestöniemi was not only the most remarkable Lappish artist of his

Photo: Heikki Rissanen

The Särestöniemi museum, which displays the art and working environment of prominent Finnish artist Reidar Särestöniemi, is located by the Ounasjoki River in Kaukonen, Lapland. Although the majority of visitors hail from Finland, the museum welcomes visitors from all around Europe. The feedback is unanimous; the long journey is well worth it. “Visitors tend to lose track of time when they visit the museum. It’s almost like entering another

time, but also well-known as a unique, vibrant character in the Finnish cultural scene and his life story never ceases to intrigue visitors. What also makes the museum stand out is that Särestöniemi spent almost his entire life at the estate. “Särestöniemi is not only Reidar’s birthplace, but also where he, apart from his student years, spent all of his time and created his artworks. His childhood home is in its original state, as well as the impressive studio and gallery that he had built in the ’70s.”

Congratulations are also in order, as the museum celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, having opened to the public in the summer of 1985. In addition, the museum celebrates the 90th anniversary of Reidar Särestöniemi’s birth this year, with a jubilee exhibition and special monologue dedicated to the artist marking the occasion.

For more information, please visit: www.sarestoniemenmuseo.fi

Culture reinvented While art and science may seem like polar opposites, they are in fact very much alike: both dedicated to asking the question of how to move the society forward.

By Karin Zilliacus | Photos: Kulttuurivoimala and Henriikka Pihlajaniemi

At the Culture Power Station, a Finnish community art centre, the relationship between art and science has been a focal point in their largest project to date, called Culture Silo.

The goal of the project is to renovate an old silo, in collaboration with local inhabitants, international organisations and companies in order to create a cultural hub where art and science meet. “One central aspect of the project focuses on merging art and renewable energy sources, aiming to move the Finnish renewable energy sector forward while also creating cross-professional employment opportunities,” CEO Kari Lunnas tells us.

Culture Silo is based on the idea that art is an essential part of a healthy soci-

44 | Issue 75 | April 2015

ety, and also an ideal platform for further societal development and collaboration.

“This project could be the perfect testing ground for research centres working with renewable energy testing,” Lunnas explains. Transcending disciplinary boundaries is becoming increasingly more popular. “Why not create a wind power device or a bioelectric design, which is also a piece of art,” Lunnas contemplates.

The need to gradually replace fossil fuels with renewable energy is considered a significant problem facing humanity. The type of collaboration between art and science that the Culture Power Station is hoping to achieve through their Culture Silo project, is an essential part of that monumental task.

For more information, please visit: www.kulttuurivoimala.fi

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CH ILD

RE N’ SPE S C TH UNI IAL V T E LIT ERS HEM TL E – E: E ON CEL ES EB RA TIN

G

Photo: Peter Knutson

Kattis Ahlström, secretary general at BRIS. Photo: Thron Ullberg.

BRIS: making the world a better place for the youngest Since 1971, BRIS has been the largest NGO in Sweden working to promote and enforce children’s rights. The organisation, whose name is an abbreviation of the words ‘Barnens Rätt i Samhället’ (Children’s Rights In Society), is a voluntary establishment without political or religious affiliations, enabling it to focus entirely and unyieldingly on its ultimate goal: offering life-changing support for children and young people.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: BRIS

It is through its team of educated counsellors who speak, email and chat online with children of all ages that the biggest difference is made, according to BRIS secretary general, Kattis Ahlström. “We have 17 counsellors on call who make an enormous effort to ensure that each child who contacts us gets the help they need.

Sometimes one call is enough, but if more help is needed, we connect the child with the person, institution or authority best able to assist them in their situation.

The most important thing is that first contact, plucking up the courage to speak with us.”

BRIS’ core services consist of the support channels BRIS 116 111, the BRIS

email and the BRIS chat, to which children and young people up to the age of 18 can turn anonymously and free of charge.

Thousands of children turn to BRIS for help every year, with more and more using the BRIS chatting tool to ask questions about everything from love to abuse. “We see that there is a lower threshold for written communication today, and that’s great in many ways,” says Ahlström. “Still, when needed, we try to establish phone contact with the child to let them verbally explain their troubles.” In addition to the children’s support services, there is the BRIS Adult Helpline – About Children, where BRIS guides adults on matters concerning children. “We have a lot of parents who call to discuss matters such as di-

vorce and separation, or teachers who call because they are worried about a child in their class,” explains Ahlström.

A large part of BRIS’ work is centred on advocacy, something which emerges through chosen topics the organisation focuses on each year. In 2015 BRIS will be shining a light on violence against children. “We aim to increase awareness in general, and individual knowledge in particular. Sadly, knowledge about violence against children is not as prominent as it should be, and we want to help people grasp it and do something about it,” says Ahlström, concluding: “The most rewarding aspect of our work is seeing the difference it makes.”

All work carried out by BRIS is founded on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

For more information, please visit:

www.bris.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Parents: you are not alone “Without my kids, the house would be clean and my wallet full, but my heart would be empty.” When we have children, our lives change: we step right into the children’s world and they step into ours. Nothing will ever be the same again – and how lucky!

By Susanne Ståhl, editor of Familjeliv.se | Photos: Familjeliv.se

Anyone with children in their life knows that they sweep in like a whirlwind of love and chaos. Days get a different rhythm, priorities change, and new discoveries are made. And as the children grow, from that very first smile, the very first step, the first trip on the bike and the first night away from mum and dad, we adults grow.

But it is not without growing pains. Suddenly you stand there, bewildered and uncertain, wondering what to do. How do other parents get their children to sleep at night? Are all families this stressed in the mornings? And what is that rash that has suddenly appeared? Today, luckily, you no longer need to stand alone with your concerns.

For many parents, social media and the internet are like an extended arm and muchneeded support. The web is where we go for quick answers and to find out what

46 | Issue 75 | April 2015

others have done. And we share – both the good moments and the not-so-good.

This interaction means an awful lot to many people, as we at Familjeliv.se have become aware. For the last ten years, Familjeliv.se is Sweden’s largest meeting place for parents and those expecting, and no issue is too large or too small to be aired here. The heart of the site is the forum, where visitors can find others in the same situation as themselves or ask one of the site’s experts a question. Nothing is deemed insignificant, silly or embarrassing – there is always someone who has experienced the same thing.

town. They stay in touch all the way to the big day, exchanging thoughts and experiences on our forum, and as their eagerlyawaited baby arrives, it continues. Some become friends for life and stay in touch for many years, as one mother wrote to another: “Enjoy the time the baby wants to be in your arms all the time and sleep on top of you, because it doesn’t last long.

Since I had my son, I feel like the happiest person in the world – no one can make me laugh the way he does!”

A part of Modern Women Media. Modern Women Media is the owner of some of Sweden’s leading websites for women between 16-40 years old. We build bridges between brands and women through our various digital platforms, which combined reach out to approximately two million

Thousands of posts are shared on the Familjeliv forum every day. Many visitors find the site when they have just had a positive pregnancy test and find other expectant couples who are due around the same time, sometimes even in the same

unique visitors each week.

For more information, please visit: www.familjeliv.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

How to plan your family vacation Spontaneous holidays and daytrips don’t have to become a distant memory when you have children. They are extremely doable, but sometimes a little bit of guidance helps.

The internet is a great resource for ideas and tips.

By Jenny Forsberg, founder of Barnsemester | Photos: Astrid Lindgrens Värld / High Chaparral

Most families plan their vacation around their children. Happy kids mean happy parents, and there is so much out there to see and do. Kids grow up fast and their interests change a lot. When they are young a trip to the nearest pond to feed the ducks is just as interesting as the new tiger cubs at the zoo, but when the kids are a little older a whole new world opens up. There are theme parks, zoos, science centres, indoor play centres, museums, water parks and many other options for fun things to do and places to visit. It can be difficult to get a grasp of all the differ-

48 | Issue 75 | April 2015

ent options. And the million dollar question is: what trip suits you and your family best?

Barnsemester.se is the answer. We are the largest tourist guide for families in Sweden and our goal is to make the planning of family vacations and excursions easier and simpler. We have gathered all the options for family activities and attractions and present them in interactive maps and lists categorised by themes and areas. Select a country, region or city and you’ll be able to see all of the activities in

that area. Every attraction listed has its own page where you can read more about it, grade it and comment on it, before reading what other families have to say.

Barnsemster.se also has lots of useful advice for parents traveling with children for the first time, as well as packing tips, flight travel time comparisons, weather guides to different destinations and inspirational articles. So whether you are planning a staycation with playground-hopping, a visit to a cool amusement park, a road trip, a charter to Mallorca or even a safari to South Africa – Barnsemester.se has all the information you need!

For more information, please visit: barnsemester.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Baby Carrier One – enabling baby and parents to be closer than ever before. BabyBjörn has been recognised for its quality and safety since the 1960s.

The stylish and safe solution for parenting With a vision of making everyday life easier and more precious for families through developing safe, innovative and stylish products of the highest quality for children between the ages of zero to three, BabyBjörn is one of the market’s true giants.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: BabyBjörn

Founder of BabyBjörn, Björn Jakobson, was introduced to baby products at an early age when he started babysitting his nieces and nephews. On a trip to America he spotted something he’d never seen before and brought the idea back home to Sweden. Together with his sister-in-law and a company specialising in shaping iron bars, he launched the first proper “Babysitter” – a bouncy and flexible seat for the baby to sit in while the parents were allowed to move around more freely.

The product became an instant hit, and in the ‘70s another success followed in the now world-famous Baby Carrier.

“Babies are our passion,” says Andreas Zandrén, executive vice president at BabyBjörn, “and understanding the needs of parents and families with small children is something we take great pleasure

in. We’re always striving to produce stylish and safe products matching both parents’ lifestyles and have been recognised for our quality and safety since the ‘60s.”

A keyword for any BabyBjörn product is safety. “We take what we do very seriously,” Zandrén explains. “Parents trust that products for children are completely safe and in order to guarantee that, our products go through immense procedures of testing and risk calculations before they hit the stores. A bed cannot collapse due to a misinterpretation of the instruction manual; no parts should be able to fall off and become choking hazards, and no siblings should be able to open a Baby Carrier by the press of a button. Sending out a product before we know that it’s completely safe is unthinkable.”

BabyBjörn makes the first period of parenthood extra precious. The Baby Carrier enables physical closeness between baby and parent more than any other product without robbing the parents of their movability and flexibility. It’s all about making parenthood a little easier and more comfortable.

“BabyBjörn loves our customers, and thanks to the digital conversion we’ve been able to keep a close conversation with the parents using our products. This month (April) we’re launching our own web shop in Sweden and Denmark, which is an enormous step for us,” Zandrén notes. ”Our parents are very connected digitally and it is fantastic to be able to communicate with them so easily through social media, and now even more so through our web shop”.

For more information, please visit: www.babybjorn.se/en-GB

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Family fun at its very finest When it comes to family destinations and day trips, it doesn’t get any better than this.

The Åberg Museum, just 40 minutes from Stockholm, is an inspiring and exciting art museum sure to entertain family members of all ages.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photo: Max Åberg

The playfulness of Sweden’s most beloved artist, director and musician Lasse Åberg is fully put on display at the Åberg Museum. Here, visitors are treated to a marvellous world where endless imagination meets skilful artistry.

Known as Sweden’s most amusing museum and ensuring a good time for all visitors regardless of age, the Åberg Museum offer various opportunities for a magical experience.

Wonderful collections of cartoons and art are combined with an exciting and entertaining environment with lots of fun for visiting fami-

lies. The famous kids’ characters Trazan and Banarne invite you to a jungle-like excursion in their three-story tree hut, where climbing, playing hide and seek, and storytelling are just a few of the many things to do. Another highly appreciated feature is the museum’s mascot Daisy Pikosso, who occasionally shows up ready for playing around, dancing and hugging.

This fun-time hostess is a favourite among the younger children, and the laughter and joy she brings is something that will linger in all visitors’ memories.

The Åberg Museum is perfect for a delightful family day. Children are thoroughly entertained and for the art connoisseurs and culture vultures the exhibitions provide world-class art sure to allure and draw you in. The restaurant serves up wonderful food and their traditional Swedish fika will take good care of any sweet tooth choosing to stop by. All this and much more makes the Åberg Museum the perfect destination for families to spend a lovely and joyous day together.

The playfulness and splendid collections of Swedish artist, director and musician Lasse Åberg are put on display at Åberg Museum.

For more information, please visit: www.abergsmuseum.se

Cotton & Button: As easy on the eyes as on your baby’s skin Charlotta Persson was introduced to the world of textile and fabric at a young age by her seamstress grandmother. Education within the textile and design field followed and in 2010 Persson founded Cotton & Button.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photo: Cotton & Button

Cotton & Button creates sleepwear and cosy wear for children between zero and eight years old. “When I had my daughter I couldn’t find soft and comfortable sheets,” Persson explains. “Instead I had to buy washed linen from which I sewed my own. That was when I seriously started to think about setting up my own company.”

Persson started by creating baby sheet samples of 100 per cent linen in a factory in Lithuania, but the costs were too high to maintain, so Persson adjusted her idea into one where sleepwear for young children was the aim. Persson got together with graphic designer Anna Allén and together the concept of Cotton & Button grew from being a great idea to an actual company.

Cotton & Button creates soft, stylish clothing with charming details – easy on the

50 | Issue 75 | April 2015

eyes as well as on the skin. “We offer a break from the colourful, ‘crazy’ prints and designs.

We are soothing and keep to soft pastel tones, which we feel goes well for the occasions the items are designed for,” Persson says. “Using organic material was an obvious choice, since we would never want to use anything toxic or unnatural against a child’s sensitive skin.”

With a high success rate and with parents getting in touch telling Persson and Allén how much their kids love wearing the clothes, the world is certainly Cotton & Button’s oyster. “We would love to take a proper step towards making more ‘cosy wear’ in the future,” Persson says longingly. “The dream is a lush flagship store in Notting Hill, London.”

For more information, please visit: www.cottonandbutton.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

ABOVE: In Kurtis, customers have found a stylish way to keep sun and disturbances away from the pram. TOP MIDDLE: Stellan Larsson and Anna Johanna Blom

The Swedish innovation: ‘Pram Curtain’ Kurtis ''Baby Peace'' pram curtain is the perfect tool for parents to help their baby settle and fall asleep anywhere. In a busy street, on the bus, when shopping, on countryside walks – simply in any situation you can imagine.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Kurtis

with an edge and not to see our customers as simply ‘parents’ but also individuals. We use the surface of the curtain for great graphic design and prints made by talented artists.”

Anna Johanna Blom and Stellan Larsson had their first child in 2007 which became the start of not only a new life as parents but also the idea of making a practical and fashionable alternative to the “putting-a-blanket-over-the-pram-hood” solution most parents use to block out sun or disturbances. Together they founded the company Kurtis, named after their son Kurt. After launching their first pram curtains in Sweden in 2008 they now sell them in over 20 countries worldwide. ''We are proof that if you have a good idea and you’re willing to work hard, it's possible to reach out and make a living out of it,” Larsson says.

Kurtis launch new collections every spring and are always working towards improving the functionality of their products.

Their latest development is that the curtain now can be used as a sun canopy.

“Our customers in south Europe in particular have been asking about this as it efficiently improves ventilation on hot days when the product is used as a sunshade,” Larsson says.

''Customers love our combination of practicality and fashion. It’s important for us to give our products a contemporary design

“Our curtains hang loose and provide a gap which allows good air circulation for the baby. The ring attachment enables

parents to slide the curtain sideways to easily adjust its position to get the coverage they need for their child. The curtain provides peace for the baby, who can, without disturbance, fall asleep in any given situation and environment.”

Being a family business and maintaining the focus on quality and the love of the product has made Kurtis “Baby Peace” a must-have for modern parents, and their international presence is rapidly growing.

“The quality is what gives us happy and loyal customers,” Larsson adds. Their European production uses 100 per cent GOTS certified organic cotton and both Anna Johanna and Stellan are proud to be independent actors in the market, providing a, to say the least, high-end product.

For more information, please visit: www.kurtisbaby.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Ekokul: the best ecological toys and baby products in Scandinavia Few things get Scandinavians as excited as ecological produce and products. As a fairly new company, Ekokul (EcoFun) is well on its way to become somewhat of a giant in the ecological toy and baby product industry. Making it fun while creating a better present and future for generations to come, Ekokul is definitely a force to be reckoned with.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Ekokul

“My wife gave me a book on ecological food while we were vacationing on Madeira,” says Niclas Lundgren, cofounder of Ekokul. “I got completely absorbed by what the book told me about consumer habits and the effect they have on the earth. I started reflecting on my own behaviour as a result and realised I wanted to be a part of the solution.” The then new parents Niclas and Anna founded Ekokul in 2008 and their business and presence has doubled each year since.

typical stuff,” explains Lundgren. “They are enforcing the notion that eco toys and children’s products are colourless wooden cubes and that’s about as fun as it gets.

What sets us apart is not only our 100 per cent commitment to ecological products, but that we also make it fun, as our name suggests. We invest a lot of time and energy to find products to suit any kind of child play and need, and the more we grow, the more we’re able to track down new and even more exciting toys.”

Although society is becoming increasingly aware of the implications of consumerism, the toy industry overall remains underrepresented by eco-friendly products. “A lot of larger companies have a shelf or smaller section devoted to ecological products, which tend to be pretty stereo-

And growing they are. Already successfully making Swedish and Finnish consumerism better, Ekokul is now aiming to branch out into Denmark and Norway as well as other parts of Europe. “We expand our business a lot, but it is important to us that we keep the essence of a small com-

52 | Issue 75 | April 2015

pany – the familiarity of the products and the hands-on customer service we’ve been providing since day one,” says Lundgren. “The positive response from our customers is what keeps us going. People call us to ask questions about toxins, breastfeeding, allergies and much more.

Being able to provide answers and guidance towards more conscious consumer behaviour is both extremely satisfying and gratifying. Our hearts are in this, and that is a great feeling.”

Far from stereotypical: Ekokul makes eco-friendly products that are fun, colourful and exciting. Already successfully making Swedish and Finnish consumerism better, Ekokul is now aiming to branch out into Denmark and Norway as well as other parts of Europe.

For more information, please visit: www.ekokul.se www.ekokiva.fi

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

One of the most popular features of this science centre is the technically advanced dome theatre.

Visualising the invisible – a science centre like no other With the quest of making science fun and approachable for people of all ages, Visualization Centre C in Sweden is a popular and educational hotspot for both schools and individuals stopping by on their family holidays. Through interactive programmes and highly technological features, this science centre presents research and science in ways most people never experienced before.

tivities will be something you do not want to miss. Promised highlights include production viewings in the dome theatre, exhibitions free of charge, interactive experiences and much, much more.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Visualization Centre C

At Visualizing Centre C, leading visual research is put on display in extraordinary ways, making the venue a popular place for public visits and events such as interactive exhibitions and viewing in the impressive 3D dome theatre. The centre was created in close collaboration between the municipality of Norrköping and the eminent University of Linköping, renowned for its research departments in the fields of science and technology. The result was a digital science centre where educational purposes are put forward in most entertaining ways.

One of the most popular features of this science centre is the technically advanced dome theatre. Here, Visualization Centre C’s own productions are shown along with a wide range of acclaimed science pic-

tures with thrilling effects and technologies. This summer will, for example, take the audience back in time in the exciting film Dinosaurs at Dusk, which is sure to amaze and entertain people no matter their age or background.

Another big production guaranteed to stun its audience is Kosmos 3D. Through a high-tech, interactive software known as Uniview, visitors are able to travel to a destination of their choice in outer space, led by a guide adapting to the audience’s wishes and requests. Most people have never seen anything like it and the experience is sure to make a longlasting impression.

This year, Visualization Centre C celebrates its fifth anniversary and the fes-

For the youngest science enthusiasts the Laboratory of Professor Pupill is an exciting excursion through the most approachable levels of research and experiment. Slightly older children have a field day in the interactive exhibitions where brainwaves and other invisible things are made visible through the facility’s access to high-tech gadgets and tools.

During the year, Visualization Centre C sports more than generous opening hours. Not visiting is not an option. Book your tickets today!

For more information, please visit: www.visualiseringscenter.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

The childhood dream that came true Few people know the importance of dreaming big as well as Magnus Lindqvist who opened his first indoor zoo at the tender age of 21. Now, 20 years later, Tropikariet is one of the most exciting attractions in Helsingborg, in southern Sweden, sporting animals from all over the world to more than 100,000 visitors a year.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Tropikariet

“It all started with a couple of roosters and hens,” Magnus Lindqvist, founder and CEO of Tropikariet says with a laugh.

“My father got them for me when I was six or seven years old.” This was the beginning of a childhood dream of one day working with animals.

porting 24 employees on an area spanning 2,000 square metres. “I love the fact that Tropikariet is still working on a relatively small scale,” says Lindqvist. “We provide a closer interaction between an exotic animal and human than I think most people have ever experienced before.”

In school, Lindqvist was restless and left the educational institutions to their own devices as soon as he could in order to get out and get some real-world experience.

“I worked in various fields for a few years, but the dream was always at the back of my mind,” Lindqvist explains. “One day I decided to stop dreaming and do something to achieve my goal.”

Tropikariet is professionally run, and Lindqvist and his staff make sure that the animals are well looked after. “Sweden has some of the strictest and most advanced legislation on animal welfare in the world, and we are proud to take care of our animals according to the set rules,” Lindqvist explains. “If the animals aren’t happy I wouldn’t want to do this. They come first – always.”

Starting up with mainly reptiles in the lineup, Tropikariet steadily grew. Today Lindqvist’s dream-turned-reality is sup-

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Lindqvist’s story proves that entrepreneurial spirit combined with a dream can

make for great things. “I am so glad that I had the guts to go after what I wanted as a young boy,” he says. “Every day my job reminds me of my young self and how I used to dream about working with animals when I played around with the roosters and hens of my childhood. I am so happy to have Tropikariet to show to all the kids who visit me every year and encourage them to do the same. Chase the dream! It might just come true.”

For more information, please visit: www.tropikariet.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Young learning and development in a familiar setting Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus (Alfie Atkin’s Cultural Centre) in Gothenburg, Sweden, is all about creative learning and education for children between the ages of zero to eight.

With a busy annual programme presenting different activities for young adventurers and kids eager to learn, this is a brilliant place to spend a day or two.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus

Alfie Atkins is known all over the world.

Through her wonderous illustrations, his creator, Gunilla Bergström has been able to create fiction most people can identify with. “It’s the kind of everyday things the books deal with that has made them both timeless and popular,” says Lisa Ödman, marketing officer at Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus. “Alfie has a way of staying current through time, and the kids absolutely love the books.”

With over 1,400 different activities and events annually, the Cultural Centre has something for every visitor. The programmed activities cast a wide net with highlights such as theatre performances, storytelling sessions, science experiences, dancing and much more. “There

are many great opportunities for people to bring their kids along and spend a wonderful time together,” Ödman explains.

“We offer a unique environment where kids are able to play around in the scenery from the actual books allowing them to step into the fictional world Gunilla Bergström has created.”

Focusing on educating and developing the minds of the young ones, Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus is an exceptional place to take your kids. Activities such as Alfie’s minichefs, where kids will be taught cookery by a former star chef, and Alfie Atkin’s Experiments, where cooperation between the Centre, Chalmers School of Science, SKF and Volvo invites young school children to participate in a week full of exciting science

experiments, are just a few of the many exciting items on the 2015 schedule.

Alfons Åbergs Kultuhus is managed by a non-profit foundation that has made sure to adapt the Centre to fit most children’s needs by being wheelchair accessible, offering sign language interpreted activities, hearing loops and aids as well as image maps to help those in need of extra structure plan their visit.

“If you’ve ever read Alfie to your kids, or if in any way they have come across Bergström’s characters, this is a lovely place to take your family,” Ödman concludes. “With so much to do and so much warmth and welcoming the Centre offers, you will instantly feel right at home, no matter where you’re from.”

The Alfons Åbergs Kultuhus is open every day, 10am – 4pm For more information, please visit: www.alfonskulturhus.com

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Littlephant – joyous, conscious and absolutely delightful Swedish designer Camilla Lundsten has put smiles on families’ faces ever since she founded her company Littlephant in 2009. Along with her business partner Marie Ericsson, their company is one of joy, quirkiness and warmth with highly functional designs guaranteed to provide people with laughter and love.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Littlephant

When it comes to playful and functional design, Littlephant is hands-down one of Sweden’s true innovators. Camilla and Marie provide families and homes with interior gems, fashion jewels and uplifting decor. Without compromising on Camilla’s visions and design they are able to reach out to a large international customer base. Recently they were awared a prize for Best Fabric at Elle Decoration Swedish Design Award 2015, and the duo looks to be expanding its success further.

Camilla graduated from Beckman’s School of Design in Stockholm in 1997 and has since been working as a designer and creative director within brand identity firms, interior design and product design.

Since 2001 she has been running her own design agency, Camilla Lundsten Studio where her client list sports names such as Brio and IKEA. To say that Littlephant was built by competent hands is clearly an understatement.

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“Working with high quality products is both satisfying and demanding,” Camilla says. “We never compromise on function, material or execution, or the fact that everybody working in the production must do so under fair and good conditions.” Indeed Littlephant is a good choice for the conscientious consumer. A set part of the profit always go straight to charity, and Camilla and Marie take a special interest in making sure that the production of any item is made with care and respect for nature and the air we breathe.

With products for children, adults, interiors and decorating, Littlephant is as broad as they are fun. Playful without being childish, timeless without being plain, and stylish without being boring, they are conquering the world little by little. “It takes some time to make every single piece of product in order to fulfill the standards and requirements that we’ve set out to follow,” Camilla explains. “However, our cus-

tomers do not mind waiting if we run out or take our time developing something new. Still keeping the company smallscale it’s a risk you have to take, but people are happy to sign up to our waiting lists. They know that, in the end, they will receive a great product, and we are more than happy to make their wait worthwhile.”

For more information, please visit: www.littlephant.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

LipFish: Happy clothing for happy childhoods Since 2004, owner and founder of LipFish, Jenny Boije has been providing young children with colourful and joyous clothing and toys. With an impeccable eye for detail and a sense of market demands, she has managed to turn a small start-up into a blossoming international success.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: LipFish

“I have been very creative all my life and have always enjoyed making things, so when I got the idea for my company, I was ready to go for it,” Jenny Boije says. Determination and a good idea go a long way, as proved by her label LipFish, which became an instant hit as soon as the market got a whiff of it. The LipFish clothing line is a delightful mix of colours and happiness conveyed through cheerful animals stitched onto comfortable wearables. “The frog and the monkey that I use on some of my most popular items have been with me from the start and have become something that you instantly connect with LipFish,” Boije says. “Customers write to me and say that they are hardly allowed to wash the ‘frog-shirt’, because their children want to wear them all the time, which is of course phenomenal to hear.”

With full autonomy in design and product development, Boije has been able to build a recognised and popular brand in a short period of time. “For me, it’s crucial that we keep launching clothes that kids love and that they want to wear. I don’t want to create children’s clothes that match their parents’ outfits – that’s not me. I want to express the playfulness of kids through my clothes, and the children seem to agree with what I do,” Boije says with a laugh.

With her business constantly reaching new heights there is no telling where LipFish and Jenny Boije will end up. “I’ve been thinking a bit about designing some clothes for adults within childcare,” Boije explains. “I received an email some time ago that through my clothes, a childcare

professional was able to get through to a troubled boy who hadn’t been the most social or responsive before. They were able to connect somehow in his fascination for my animals, which is amazing!

Imagine if, for example, nurses’ clothes could distract children from the discomfort when taking a vaccine shot? It would be a dream to have my products be a part of something like that.”

For more information, please visit: www.lipfish.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Celebrating 70 years of the strongest girl in the world – and her creator The year is 1945. Astrid Lindgren, a 38-year-old office secretary and mother of two, has for about a year been trying to get her story of a red-haired, strong-willed and commanding little girl published to the larger masses. One of Sweden’s leading publishers has just turned it down for its controversial content when another publishing house, Rabén & Sjögren, announces a writing competition. The story of Pippi Longstocking wins the first prize, Lindgren lands a publishing contract, and goes on to take the world by storm. Ahead of Rabén & Sjögren’s 70th anniversary of the release of the book, Scan Magazine dived deep into the history of the Strongest Girl in the World – and the remarkable woman who made her come to life.

her mother. Lindgren, who has spent the larger part of March that year in bed with a sprained ankle and less than normal to do, has typed down her stories of Pippi in a manuscript. Little does Karin know that her mother’s loving gift is about to become a worldwide children’s book sensation, and more importantly: that it will stay this way for the next seven decades.

By Julie Lindén | Press photos

Lindgren – the pacifist, feminist and protector of children’s rights

Rewind to 1941, and Lindgren’s youngest child, her seven-year-old daughter Karin, is ill with pneumonia. Bored and weak from staying in bed for days, she tugs at her mother as she sits down at her bedside. “’Tell me a story!’ she said. I was exhausted that night, so I replied with ‘what should the story be about?’ Her instant answer was ‘Pippi Longstocking!’ I didn’t ask her who that was, I just started telling

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a story. And because the name was so peculiar, it became a story about a peculiar girl,” notes Lindgren in an interview.

The stories about a girl who lives on her own in a large, yellow house, sleeps with her feet on her pillow and is strong enough to lift her horse with only one hand, are an enormous hit with Karin and her friends. When Karin turns ten in 1944, she is handed a very special present from

“Pippi will keep a strong, established presence in children’s lives as long as parents and children read books,” notes Jens Andersen, author of Denne dag, et liv, the first Nordic biography of Lindgren’s life to be published in 40 years. “Her language is timeless, and so are her themes and many of her motives. She did not only write for children, but also for the child inside herself, and thus all human beings.”

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Indeed, Lindgren’s ability to embrace the childishness within and see the world from a child’s perspective defined much of her character – as a writer and a private person. Her son Lasse, whom she had at only 19 years of age, once said: “She was never the kind of mother to sit on a park bench and watch me play. She took part, having just as much fun as me as we played together.” It is undoubtedly this playful trait, which she famously kept until her very last days, which allowed Pippi to come alive.

Andersen, having spent extensive periods of time together with Lindgren’s daughter Karin and other members of the Lindgren family while working on Denne dag, et liv, believes Pippi is to a great extent a reflection of Lindgren herself. “She was created as a result of all that Astrid was: her lighter side and her darker side… Pippi is in many ways a cartoon version of Astrid. A pacifist, anarchist, feminist – full of joy and sorrow. It is this idealistic way of being that makes Astrid so intriguing, not only in her art but also in her passionate engagement with society. After writing almost 40 children’s books, at the age of 70, she started a brand new career as political activist, fighting tax laws, speaking up for envi-

ronmental issues, animal protection, immigration and many other things.”

Pippi, the 2015 role model Today, 70 years, 70 language translations, 60 million copies and several film and television adaptations later, Pippi Longstocking (full name: Pippilotta Delicatessa Windowshade Mackrelmint Ephraim's Daughter Longstocking) is more popular than ever. She is often mentioned as a role model in feminist contexts, showing girls and boys of all ages that power and free will have little to do with gender. By and large, her striking characteristics have a strong relevance to the modern day. “What constitutes Pippi’s timelessness is her revolutionary way of being and behaving. She is anarchist and anti-authority, with a deeply rooted goodness. She is powerful, but would never abuse this power – something political leaders all over the world could learn something from. And don’t forget that feminism is not some oldfashioned question: we still need Pippi power in a man-dominated world. Just ask young girls, their sisters, mothers and grandmothers!” muses Andersen.

There are few signs the power of Pippi and the legacy of Astrid Lindgren will

ever peter out. Or, as BuzzFeed concisely noted in their article 19 Reasons Pippi Longstocking is the Ultimate Powerful Woman: “She can lift a horse.

Game over”.

Denne dag, et liv is out now in Denmark and Sweden. It will be released in Norway, Finland and Germany this autumn.

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Children’s Universe

Blekinge: The undiscovered coastal jewel of Sweden Sweden is known for its closeness to nature, its fabulous coastline and lush landscape. Nowhere can you find a better example of incorporating this than here, in the province of Blekinge south-eastern Sweden. It offers a great mix of activities and opportunities for exploration, as well as just coming together in a calm environment: Blekinge has it all.

By Astrid Eriksson | Photos: Visit Blekinge

“This really is a place for people who like the outdoors,” says Jens Harrysson, CEO of Visit Blekinge. “The calm and the scenery are usually what attract people but Blekinge is a great destination for those with a keen interest in nature.”

With one of Sweden’s most attractive coastlines, people travel from near and far to take part in various undertakings in nature. Fishing and hunting is high up on the list, and the shores of Blekinge also offer excellent opportunities for water games, paddling and island hopping. The fishing ports are beautiful settings if you fancy walking around, taking in the views.

In the summertime, festivals and other events are frequent happenings here. Or hop on a boat and sail away; whatever port you end up in, Blekinge will not disappoint.

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“I always tell people they have to come and experience Blekinge for themselves,” Harrysson says passionately. “We, as Blekinge locals, are immensely proud of our province. We love visitors and we love showing them everything there is to experience in these parts of the country. The meeting between people is something highly valued around here and surrounded by the majestic sea, who could ask for a more beautiful location?”

For history- and culture-lovers, Blekinge sports a UNESCO World Heritages site, in the city Karlskrona. It is an extremely well-kept example of a European naval city from the 1600s. For the younger ones, a visit on-board MS Neptun at the Marine Museum is a definite must. This submarine is a state-of-the-art example of Cold

War engineering, so well preserved that technically it could still be used today.

“Blekinge is an amazing place for families to come together and spend time with each other,” Harrysson concludes. “With merely 30 kilometres between each city, getting around is no trouble at all. Even if there are lots of activities to get involved in, coming here with your family just for the sake of being together is great. We let people come as they are, and just enjoy each other’s company in one of Scandinavia’s most beautiful provinces. Sometimes, that’s all you need.”

For more information, please visit: www.visitblekinge.se/en

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E: G EM IN TH M

Nordic game conference and exhibition: naming the game With a purpose to unite and connect key players in the gaming industry, the Nordic Game Conference has provided a platform for countless gaming success stories.

Boosting start-ups and focusing on unique up-and-coming talent, this gathering makes for an atmosphere unlike any other: one where opportunities are created, goals are set and fruitful collaborations are forged.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Nordic Game Conference

“We’re very excited about 2015; in only ten years our participation numbers have climbed from 150 to 2,000, which says a lot about the industry’s development. The event emanates an incredibly good vibe and people come up with some great ideas and collaborations, so it’s an ideal climate for building the foundation of some real success stories,” says Jacob Riis, communications and programme director for the event.

The Nordic Game Conference is held every year in Malmö, Sweden. The 2015 edition will take place on 20-22 May at Slagthuset, a beautiful venue near Malmö city centre, and only minutes away from Copenhagen Airport. As the most relevant games industry conference

in Europe, the event will give direct access to local Nordic gaming heroes, as well as an impressive line-up of more than 80 international industry speakers.

Furthermore, the gathering will be heightened by exciting matchmaking events. “The event features live matchmaking services that happen in closed areas in the venue, all to ensure that we make the best matches we can possibly make between different industry players and developers. It can be about identifying exciting start-ups or catching the interest of a possible investor,” says Riis.

Identifying great start-up ideas is a key matter for the Nordic Game Community, which has previously seen small enterprises grow into industry giants

before their eyes. “The people behind Angry Birds make a great story, and it’s one that I love. They first attended the conference as a small developer, and today, several years and a highly successful games series later, they still come along and it’s always with the same, friendly approach,” muses Riis.

He adds: “The gaming community is in no way secluded: there are strong ties between companies, incubators, educational institutions and students, and people are keen to help each other out. I think that’s what creates the unique atmosphere you find at Nordic Game’s gatherings. We’re all about a relaxed environment and fun – and we boost each other’s success.”

The Nordic Game Conference takes place on 20-22 May For more information, please visit: nordicgame.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Gaming - Norway

LEFT: Berit Nordstrand’s children’s book Sukkerkok i Hodet, developed together with ablemagic. TOP MIDDLE: Child reading ablemagic’s first digital book. BOTTOM MIDDLE: Sneak peek from a new, fun, rhythmical game ablemagic will release in April this year. RIGHT: CEO and creative director Nina Fjelnset.

ablemagic – bold, quirky and magical It was during a boring conference meeting in 2007 that Nina Fjelnset came up with an idea that would become her new job. Quickly scribbling down the story universe that came to mind, she had put together what would become the foundation for developer ablemagic’s first game. Today, the company has grown to comprise seven ablemagicians and a world of unique story experiences stretching across numerous platforms.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: ablemagic

“Digital storytelling – and good storytelling at that,” says CEO and creative director Fjelnset when asked about the company’s core vision. “Across everything we do we emphasise the importance of stories, whether we are developing a new game for our own company, or working as consultants for other firms. Although we have vastly expanded the initial vision I came up with during that boring seminar, the groundwork is still the same: good, quality creation that involves all parties and gives great, unique results.”

What started out as a small-scale game development company soon opened its doors to new and bigger creators and

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visions. Today seven team members, aptly called ablemagicians, work together at ablemagic’s Trondheim office to create stories and universes that challenge perceptions and catch the eyes of everyone that sees them – whether a game or digital book is on the drawing table. “Boldness and quirkiness are two of our core values at ablemagic, much due to our internal mix of people, backgrounds and ideas. All employees are different, and thus come up with completely different ideas. Layering these to come up with a concept is a way of making something new and perhaps also things that never have been made before,” says the inspiring CEO.

Beyond an unobstructed prioritisation of creativity, ablemagic is a company pinned on target-driven creation and closeness to audience. Working across platforms such as iOS, Android and various forms of digital publishing, the company boasts undisputed experience in reaching numerous audiences by just as many means. “For us it’s important to be accessible and on-target. This means knowing the audience we are talking to, as well as working very closely with our clients and exploring options with them,” says Fjelnset.

Revealing that a new, somewhat quirky, game signed ablemagic will be out in April, Fjelnset explains that future developments in ablemagic will also explore the world of the youngest. “We’re looking into interactive game development aimed at children – it’s something we really enjoy doing and are getting good at.”

For more information, please visit: ablemagic.no

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Gaming - Norway

Learning by doing – and gaming It was in front of the blackboard that Jean-Baptiste Huynh began the development of what would essentially become his professional pursuit: bringing gaming into the world of education. With a background in stock broking, numbers had always come easy for the maths teacher who quickly learnt that his students needed more than books to solve algebra problems. Enter WeWantToKnow – the forward-thinking software company for educational games.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: WeWantToKnow

“Learning maths is not about reading – it’s practical, a learning process that adheres to the ‘learning by doing’ concept more than any other subject,” says the enthusiastic CEO. “My idea combines learning and gaming to create a new approach where children are able to learn maths naturally and while having fun. Essentially, it’s about de-constructing the maths and re-building it on a new platform, taking away elements that may disturb the learning process.”

The first game, DragonBox Algebra 5+, came out shortly after the company saw the light of day, to great praise from researchers, media and educators worldwide. “You can say that it’s a game that ‘secretly teaches’ algebra, as it does not include any words – it wholly and fully

works as a game, requiring the player’s full engagement and attention,” says Huynh. “It motivates children by seeing maths from their perspective.” The game has been downloaded an astounding 350,000 times – beating games like Angry Birds on the Norwegian App Store rankings. Follow-ups DragonBox Algebra 12+ and DragonBox Elements have further established the company’s status in the gaming and educational sphere. WeWantToKnow is currently developing DragonBox Numbers – a game designed to interactively teach basic maths taught in the first and second grades of primary school.

Asked about his response to the global acclaim the games have received, Huynh remains characteristically enthusiastic

but humble: “For me, the most important thing is to keep developing games to help children learn in a better, more fun and efficient way. If we’ve achieved that, nothing could make me happier.”

There is little reason to question Huynh and the team behind WeWantToKnow in their pursuit. The long-term results of their pedagogic and engaging games are remarkable, especially when seen in the light of their online presence. Having rounded up more than 40,000 children around the world for one of their many egaming events, it is clear that there is a great demand for WeWantToKnow’s games – amongst students and educators. “It’s a whole new industry opening up before our eyes,” says Huyhn. “Teachers are open and eager to incorporate games into the classrooms – nothing could be better.”

For more information, please visit: wewanttoknow.com

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Bringing Stikkmenn to life Stikkmenn, a new game based on one of the oldest and most familiar characters in the world aims to take Norway’s gaming industry to the next level. Behind the game is a Canadian-Norwegian gaming developer from Oppdal – and his five-year-old son.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Stikkmenn

Like many others Eric Holten Haugen used to love drawing stick-figures as a kid. But now, some 30 years later, he is not simply drawing anymore; he is bringing them to life. With the support of Innovation Norway, his wife and not least his five-year-old son, the Oppdal-based game developer has created Stikkmenn, a game which he hopes will unite gamers all over the world and bring the Norwegian gaming industry to the next level.

“Our character, the stickman, is a universal language. It is very likely to be one of

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the first things we draw as children, and it was what the first thing humankind drew on cave walls. Everyone on the planet understands the character, and he is used on signs all over the world to communicate to all nationalities without the need for language,” says Haugen and adds: “Because of this, Stikkmenn is inherently the gaming everyman, relatable to nationalities all over the world.”

The essence of Haugen’s Stikkmenn is a head with an easily recognisable single eye. In the game, players gather ‘stikks’,

which are the characters’ other body parts, which will allow them to build new Stikkmenn and expand their collection of characters by getting new clothes, new equipment and new identities. In the future, it will also be possible to build new levels and backgrounds, but initially the game is based in Oppdal’s nature with a Viking ancestry and roots steeped in Norse mythology. The underlying humour and unique Norwegian twist mean that, though Stikkmenn’s main target group is four to ten-year-olds, it is likely to appeal to various age groups.

Norwegian roots Though Haugen harboured the idea for Stikkmenn for many years while working in the gaming industry in Vancouver, it was not until he moved to Oppdal that he

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Gaming - Norway

discovered a way to turn his idea into reality. “Stikkmenn is my passion; I’ve been drawing stickmen since I was a kid, and it has become a way for me to express artistic ability – I can be very creative using stickmen,” explains Haugen and adds: “At one point, I did discuss Stikkmenn with some high-up executives at my previous job. The feedback was that it was a cool idea, but the industry was looking for hyperrealism and my idea was seen as too simple, so I put it in my pocket and moved on to other things for a while.”

Being the grandchild of Norwegian migrants, Haugen paid numerous visits to his grandparents’ home country, and eventually he moved to Oppdal to fix up an old farmhouse of a family friend. It was when Haugen and his wife decided to settle in Oppdal that Stikkmenn jumped back into life. “When smartphones and tablets became prevalent, I took Stikkmenn out of the pocket again. I think the way people want to play today means that there is much more need for games like Stikkmenn, people just want to relax and play something funny on the bus,” Haugen says and adds: “The support of kids, families, and the local government in Oppdal was what it took to help me push this snowball down the hill.”

will help lift up the Norwegian gaming industry and encourage more talent to take part. “My main mission is to make Stikkmenn and bring it to the world. My side mission is to do my part to help raise the profile of Norway’s gaming industry,” he finishes.

For more information, please visit: www.facebook/stikkmenn

With the financial support of Innovation Norway and the creative support of local students and gaming enthusiasts, Haugen and his indie team, Eight Legged Steed Studios AS, are now ready to launch the spearhead version of the game by early summer.

For everyone – everywhere Essential to the development of Stikkmenn has been the help of Haugen’s five-year-old son Jonas and other kids like him. “Some of the best ideas we have so far came from small kids. My son, for instance, is my partner in the project and the boss of the kids’ stuff, and there are no lies with him. If he likes something, he tells us and if he does not think something is funny, he tells us. It is the most honest test to our game, and we are using the feedback from kids all along the way,” says Haugen.

Eric Holten Haugen and his five-year-old son Jonas working together; Jonas is the boss of the kids’ stuff.

Stikkmenn is set in Norway’s nature and combines Viking ancestry and Norse mythology.

Though Haugen’s wife is not a gaming enthusiast herself, he stresses that she too has been important to his work. “My wife is not a gamer, but she knows that I am following my dream, and she is very supportive. She knows that my son and I are doing it together, and she is really the best cheerleader I’ve got.”

With all the support and help of his family and the local community, Haugen is positive that Stikkmenn will have a bright future. But he also hopes that the game

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Gaming - Norway

Kybernesis: reinventing an apocalypse For Norwegian game developer Kybernesis, there is no such thing as resting on your laurels. Not long after developing the android game hit Wasteland Bar Fight, plans were made for a new direction and concept, one which has manifested itself in Corp Wars: a world of connected, cross-genre games.

By Julie Lindén | Photo: Kybernesis

Recently returned from Game Connection San Francisco, Ronny Anderssen, co-founder of Kybernesis, explains: “Corp Wars is a franchise we have developed that allows for several smaller game iterations to be directly connected under one main umbrella concept. Actions in one game affect those in another, meaning that a city built in one of the games can be visited in a different game, and players can exchange goods and resources between them.”

CWTerritories

The Corp Wars concept is a response to a strong current in modern game development: namely that of more social, more connected games. The first iteration of the concept will be entitled Corp Wars: Karavan, and will feature plenty of challenges in the game’s rough, postapocalyptic world. “The idea came to me while on a bus trip to Oslo,” says Anderssen. “The main idea is to keep developing the concept and introducing new iterations as we go, and thereby building several smaller games within

The Kybernesis team

CWTheSiege

one leading concept. It’s unique thinking this way about games, still.” While technology for sharing data between games and social media already exists, it’s never been taken to the level Kybernesis is operating at. “We want to go beyond what’s already been done,” says Anderssen, flanked by co-founder Ståle Tevik.

Kybernesis are always looking for investors and possible partnerships. “Together we can make more games, make them more interesting, and make them faster,” says Tevik. It’s never been clearer that there’s no apocalypse in sight for Kybernesis’ success.

For more information, please visit: kybernesis.com

CWKaravan

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Developing a hotspot of the game industry Nordic countries have now been the hotspot of the game industry for a few years.

Companies such as Supercell, Mohjang, Rovio, Plain Vanilla and Playdead, have gained in reputation and their games have dominated download charts and topped grossing lists. In the year 2014 the combined Nordic turnover was over two billion euros, the number of employees was nearly 8,000 and number of studios over 700. At the moment Finland is the biggest game developing country in Scandinavia when it comes to number of studios and turnover, and on an equal footing with Sweden when it comes to the number of employees.

Text & Photos: Neogames

There are many reasons behind this success: digital distribution, early adoption of new business models, a high level of education. But one reason many do not know is that instead of only competing, Nordic countries cooperate in many ways. This cooperation started as early as 2005 and it was taken to a whole new level when the Pan Nordic cooperation organisation Nordic Game Institute (NGI) was established in 2012 in Reykjavik, Iceland. NGI is an amal-

gamation of Scandinavian game clusters.

One of these clusters is the Finnish Neogames.

Neogames was established in 2003. It started as a local cluster in the Pirkanmaa area, but quite soon it was obvious that there was a need for a national cluster and the operations were scaled up. In 2012 Neogames was reorganised as an association. The Neogames association is a member-based

non-profit game industry organisation with the mission to accelerate, coordinate, and support the development of the Finnish game cluster.

Neogames offers a wide range of services to all key actors in the Finnish game industry, helping developers, industry bodies, game educators and researchers to meet common goals. Acting as a hub also includes forming partnerships and co-operating with all the relevant actors. Helping investors, international game companies and publishers partner up with Finnish game companies is one of Neogames’ missions.

Neogames has just released a study of Finnish game industry. It can be found at Neogames’ website: www.neogames.fi

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Gaming - Finland

Tribeflame’s most popular game, Benji Bananas, has been downloaded a staggering 50 million times. The game, which focuses on successfully swinging the monkey from vine to vine, blends physics with gameplay.

Let the games begin The game industry in Finland has been one of the most rapidly growing industries during the last ten years and there is no sign of it slowing down.

By Karin Zilliacus | Photos: Tribeflame

One of the most successful gaming companies, Tribeflame, has been entertaining people all over the world since 2009 with their highly exciting and engaging games in an industry where you really need to, well, stay ahead of the game.

In fact, the team behind Tribeflame made their first tablet game before the first iPad was even launched. “Once the iPhone was launched we quickly realised it was only a matter of time before there would be a larger touch screen device developed, and that it would be the perfect device for games,” Torulf Jernström, the CEO of Tribeflame, tells us. As a result, Tribeflame became one of the first tablet game companies in the world. It was founded in 2009 and has since launched over a dozen games. “We are a ten-person team at Tribeflame now. All equally

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motivated to create something fun for our audience,” Jernström says.

It now appears that a certain monkey created by Tribeflame has stolen the hearts of millions all over the world. “Our most popular game so far is definitely Benji Bananas, which has been downloaded over 50 million times. Not many companies have achieved these kind of numbers,” Jernström says proudly. Benji Bananas is a game which blends physics with gameplay. It’s all about catching the momentum and battling gravity in this fast-paced game, which essentially focuses on successfully swinging the monkey from vine to vine. “A sequel to the original Benji Bananas was also created because of the sheer love people have for this game. We felt positively compelled to give people more,” Jernström says.

There is no doubt that Benji Bananas will keep on entertaining people, but Tribeflame is also working on something new. “We’re very excited about our new game, which will be launched at the end of this year. It’s going to be something really special,” Jernström enthuses. While the new game will also be a physics game there will be a few good surprises in store for the players. “This game is a new spin on the physics games that began appearing four years ago, but with a twist.”

Judging by the success of their previous games we don’t doubt that this new development will be any less successful either. We’re game if you are.

For more information, please visit: www.tribeflame.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Gaming - Finland

The games industry’s next big hit?

Meizi Games was founded in Oulu in the summer of 2014 after the founders took part in the Oulu Game Lab, a unique training programme run by the Oulu University of Applied Sciences.

By Jenni Syrjala | Photos: Meizi Games

Oulu is a good place for start-ups, as local organisation BusinessOulu helps companies to increase their chances of success by supporting entrepreneurship and boosting creativity. They help local businesses expand to the international market and are in charge of the city’s international business marketing. Their aim is to make Oulu “the best region for innovative business” in Finland by 2017.

Meizi Games employ its four founding members and six interns, and are currently working on three different game projects. Under their Hamsterscape brand, they have published products in the Apple iOS, Android and Windows Phone app stores, including sports and problem-solving games. Meizi Games are

now developing the Hamsterscape Olympics, which will be a combination of various sports games that can be played alone or with friends.

The company is also currently working on a car game called Freak Circus. This is a fun and colourful game suitable for all ages, which aims to remind us of the console games of our childhood, but with a modern twist. The game will be published during the spring on iOS and Android markets. Their third current project is another car game called Race Central, to be published in the autumn. In the game, the players get to build their own race course, which other players can then drive on – a nod to the business’s founding idea of ‘I made this game myself’.

Meizi Games believes in giving students and career switchers a chance to succeed in the games industry. “The name of the business comes from the Finnish slang term ‘meitsi’, meaning me, myself,” Sami Koski, CEO and co-founder of Meizi Games explains. “So the idea is that ‘I made this game myself’ refers to the fact that interns really get to take part in the entire creation process, from the idea stage to production. This also gives us fresh ideas.”

Meizi Games are currently looking for an investor. “The investment would secure the company’s financial situation and let us focus completely on creating the next big hit,” Sami Koski says. “We certainly have the right skills to become the next big name in the Finnish and international game market.”

For more information, please visit: www.meizi.fi

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15

0 Y2 A : ME ORW E TH IN N L IT A CI VIS E SP S TO N TIO A N

I ST E D

Welcome to Norway!

Beautiful scenery, fresh air, fun activities and the Midnight Sun. Or put in other words; the key ingredients to a great Norwegian summer holiday.

By Marianne Mork, Visit Norway | Press photos

Our best tip is to make your next holiday to Norway an active one. Many of our visitors over the years have discovered Norway as an active tourist destination, and we are proud to offer our visitors high quality activities and guided trips, for beginners as well as the more experienced, in all parts of the country.

For hikers, there are trails suitable for everyone, from the novices and not so fit, to the avid hikers; balancing on top of amazing peaks, where you feel as if you are manoeuvring on the top of the world – or at least the roof of Norway.

No matter what kind of trails you choose, we guarantee you a higher pulse, caused, we hope, by the spectacular view and surrounding scenery.

And, if you’d rather explore Norway by bike, prepare yourself for lots of stops along the way, to capture the endless ‘Kodak moments’.

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So why don’t you bring your hiking boots, bike helmet or life jacket, the next time you come to visit us? We will of course be more than happy to lend you one while you are here, and eagerly guide you along the way, either digitally through Visitnorway.com or by the advice of the thousands of tourism colleagues we have throughout Norway.

If hiking sounds unexciting to you, we promise that we have lots of great opportunities for the adrenaline-seekers, too.

Or a slow-paced holiday, if that is your choice. A holiday in Norway will give you memories for life, even without hiking boots. Maybe you’d rather bring lighter shoes or high heels, and explore our cities? Or why don’t you do both?

Please stop by us and we promise to inspire you and warmly welcome you to Norway this summer!

For more information, please visit: www.visitnorway.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

Hemsedal – The Scandinavian Alps Hemsedal, mainly known as a great place to ski, has also a lot to offer in the summertime. The location in the mountains, midway between Oslo and Bergen, makes it the perfect place for adventures, summer and winter. Here, the mild east meets the wild and mountainous west. The famous fjords are located only an hour's drive away, perfect for a day trip.

Text & Photos by Hemsedal Tourism

Hemsedal is an alpine-like village with long traditions of tourism. It can be traced back to the late 1800s and the first registered visitor was the well-known explorer, Fridtjof Nansen, in 1890.

In addition to skiing, try the popular dog sledding trips, cross-country skiing, an ice climbing crash course, the airy Winter via ferrata or snow mobiling.

High spirits in the summery mountains

World class skiing Hemsedal Skisenter opened in 1961 and is the second largest ski resort in Norway. The resort has three peaks and offers nearly 50 different slopes, 3 parks and a large children’s area. There is skiing for all levels. For advanced skiers there are numerous opportunities for going off piste and randonées. The longest run is green, six kilometres long and has a height difference of 810 metres. A new slope opened last Christmas and finally connects the ski centre to the town centre. This means that skiers now can reach 18 restaurants.

There is a shuttle bus that can take you back to the ski centre.

Beautiful scenery and a relaxed atmosphere; exactly what you need to leave behind the everyday stress, and to fill up your energy levels. Together with family and friends you can spend some great days in these mountains. Hiking is the main activity with 40 marked and signed routes in the area. The top 20 hikes bring you to 20 different peaks, with amazing views, rated from easy green to black day trips.

Biking is also popular and a guided mountain bike trip is really recommended. A guide will show you the best tracks and give you valuable tips on biking technique.

Downhill biking is fun to try and even pos-

sible for beginners. Fishing is possible in the four rivers and 18 lakes. The river Hemsila goes through the valley and offers world-known fly fishing.

If you like some action or just want to try something new, river snorkelling and via ferrata are two fun activities, suitable for those over 12 years of age. You can also play golf on two golf courses, take a moose safari trip, go horseback riding and go climbing in the mountains.

At the picturesque museum Hemsedal Bygdatun and the summer farm Ulsåkstølen you can experience Norwegian history and culture. Hemsedal Bygdatun is a restored courtyard dating from around 1730 and set in a scenic location. At Ulsåkstølen summer farm you can learn how to bake flat bread and meet animals.

Also taste local food such as cheese, game sausages and traditional pastries.

In short, the Norwegian mountains offer a great place for adventures, all year round.

For more information, please visit: hemsedal.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

The Hamsun Centre Explore a matchless meeting point between nature, culture and architecture Although small on the map, the Northern Norwegian community of Hamarøy boasts sights and experiences that draw visitors from all over the world. Not only are these attractions manifested in distinctively beautiful and untouched nature – complete with hundreds of isles, white beaches and crystal blue waters, maelstroms, forests and steep mountains – but also in the cultural and architectural interpretation of one of Scandinavia’s most famous authors. Welcome to The Hamsun Centre and the hometown of Nobel Prize-winning author Knut Hamsun – a place to learn, reflect and be amazed.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: The Hamsun Centre

“Hamarøy and the surrounding areas are some of the most precious literary landscapes we have in Norway. They hold the history of one of our most noteworthy authors of all time, while also being naturally stunning in themselves – a place where you can take in the nature and recharge your batteries,” says Bodil Børset, director of The Hamsun Centre.

“It’s a place where you can easily have things to do for days, without feeling stressed. Many visitors combine a trip

here with one to nearby, idyllic island ofTranøy and its noted lighthouse, where you can take in stunning, panoramic views of the Lofoten Mountains. Time moves slower here – it’s an ideal place for reflection. Also, this area is strategically placed with regards to further travel; you may want to visit the renowned Lofoten, just across the West fjord, or several national parks just south. Towns such as Bodø, Narvik and Harstad are also within reach – and the entire area is internation-

ally recognised to be one of the best in the world to see Northern Lights. Opportunities during a visit are really endless.”

The Centre: ‘a Hamsun character in itself’ The Hamsun Centre was inaugurated in 2009, marking the 150th anniversary of Knut Hamsun’s birth. The intriguing construction lies in a landscape that remains as untouched as it was at Hamsun’s time – providing an interesting contrast to the centre’s famous architectural expression, which is the brainchild of American architect Steven Holl. Noticeably inspired by Hamsun’s modernist authorship – especially his complex characters – Holl sketched out a remarkable tower building, complete with sharply angled sections, that he later described as “a Hamsun character in itself”. Indeed, its progressive expression was, at the time of construction, as novel as Hamsun’s approach to writing in

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the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

“There is a strong link between the centre’s architecture and the author it has been built to portray,” says Børset, continuing: “Holl spent a lot of time getting to know Hamsun and his works before starting to sketch. He also spent time here in his hometown, to get a feel for where Hamsun came from and the conditions that influenced his books. His knowledge and understanding of Hamsun is palpable in each nook and corner of the centre – it shows contrast and tension, it engages people’s opinions and views, and never really blends in – just like Hamsun’s characters.”

A great author – the life, the works, the controversies It is this experience visitors to The Hamsun Centre can indulge in today. The centre displays a permanent exhibition of the life, works, breadth and ingenuity of the commended, and sometimes controversial, writer. The exhibition is divided into several themes that allow you to immerse yourself into whatever part of Hamsun’s legacy you find the most interesting: whether it is his childhood and adolescent life, political engagement or his widely celebrated works such as Hunger, Pan, Mysteries, and the Nobel Prize-winning novel Growth of the Soil. The more controversial aspects of the author’s life are also examined, providing a foundation for debate and discus-

sion on topics such as democracy, openness and freedom of speech. “We know that Hamsun was and is celebrated for his pioneering modernist works, but his controversial political views have also been openly condemned. These topics will always provide us with things to talk about, and we find it important to keep investing time in these discussions,” says Børset.

The authenticity of Hamsun’s self Your immersion into Hamsun’s existence need not end at The Hamsun Centre, however, as an important location nearby represents an unrivalled closeness to who this remarkable man and writer was.

Firstly, Knut Hamsun’s childhood home, is open to visitors during the summertime, offering yet another location for reflection on a great author’s life’s journey. “Such simple conditions defined his childhood and youth,” says Børset, musing: “You can only ask yourself: how did this little boy, who at a very young age decided to become an author, come to this idea? His parents were smallholders, and yet, his ultimate goal was to go out into the world and write of its characters. This is what he then did, relentless in his conviction. It’s impossible to come much closer to the authenticity of Hamsun’s self.”

other venture: an Artists in Residence venture located at Breidablikk, a nearby trading farm with panoramic views, where Hamsun used to buy his daily necessities.

Here, young creatives will be invited to draw inspiration from the same area as the great author, and thus bring forth his unwavering dedication to his craft to new generations. “We’re very excited about this project,” says Børset, “it will allow young, new artists of all kinds to ‘become Hamsun’ in their own chosen way.”

For more information, please visit: hamsunsenteret.no

The Hamsun Centre recently decided to bring on Hamsun’s legacy through yet an-

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

Travelling through the Realm of Hamsun In the lands made famous by one of Scandinavia’s most renowned authors lies treasure after treasure. Whether you choose sea or road, embark on a slow drive and indulge in marvellous sights, scents and flavours from town to village, farm to cafe, and make the most of your trip up north.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Reiseliv i Hamsuns Rike

Touching base with the Arctic Circle, the town of Bodø is an excellent starting point for your slow drive through Hamsun’s lands. From here, set your eye on Rago – Norway’s wildest national park (and named one of Europe’s top ten national parks by The Guardian), which allows intermediate and advanced hikers to truly take in the beauty of the distinctive northern Norwegian nature. You are also in a perfect spot to do some canoeing. Let the waterways bring you to Kobbelv Vertshus, an idyllic, secluded inn that offers traditional local food – not to mention stunning views of Leirfjord and Baggfossen waterfall.

Every road trip aficionado is fond of a detour, and Styrkesnes provides one of the

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best. Here you will encounter Norwegian flavours at their finest, as Bjørklund Farm offers the sweetest of treats in the shape of their own raspberries, to be enjoyed together with a cup of coffee. Taking your trip further north, you will soon enough encounter Hamarøy, the very home of Knut Hamsun. The mountainous island of Finnøya is a must-see, and while here, do make the most of your stay and draw your sail with Hamarøy Fjordtur, who will take you on a boating adventure you will never forget. When you need a breather, Øverås Farm is the perfect pit stop. Perhaps sample some homemade bread made in the traditional wood-fired oven or stop by the cosy farm café for an afternoon break?

With a plethora of impressions to digest, a good night’s sleep will be much needed.

Sentrumsgården Motel offers stylish rooms and apartments in the heart of Hamsun’s Realm. From here, you can easily travel to the Hamsun Centre, located by Glimma – where Rett Kjøl offers kayaking trips in idyllic waters. Discovering Svolvær in nearby Lofoten, via a scenic boat trip, will put you in a hotspot for whale safaris, and taking your slow drive to Tysfjord will make room for plenty more nature hikes – or perhaps eagle safaris?

Tysfjord Turistsenter is a terrific hub allowing you to fully experience the area, for instance by providing guided trips to Stetind – Norway’s national mountain.

When taking the E6 north to Narvik, you will have experienced a trip you will treasure forever. Welcome to the Realm of Hamsun.

For more information, please visit: www.hamsuns-rike.no

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

The Seven Sisters

Helgeland – an island hopper’s paradise in Norway You would be forgiven for thinking that holiday activities such as island hopping and kayaking are reserved for warmer destinations, but right below the Arctic Circle you can find a stunning coastline and flourishing archipelago perfect for these pursuits.

periences. During the summer you can even paddle during the night as it stays light around the clock. That’s something to be experienced.”

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Helgeland Reiseliv

The Helgeland region, situated in Nordland County, is the southernmost district in Northern Norway. Encompassing a variety of uniquely shaped mountains, islets and archipelagos as well as one of the country’s most striking and inviting coastal areas, this region is definitely one of adventures. “Those of us who work in tourism in the region are always told how beautiful Helgeland is,” says Gunn Johansen, regional manager for Mosjøen at Visit Helgeland. “Here you can make your way from the coast to the inland without having to travel far, which allows you to experience everything from hiking in the high mountains to fishing along the coast – and everything in between. Helgeland consists of about 13,000 islands, islets and skerries, and our mountain for-

mations are some of the world’s most spectacular. There are quite a few things to do while here!”

The mountains truly have it at Helgeland, displaying some of the country’s most peculiar and mighty shapes. Torghatten, a granite mountain pierced by a hole, is a grand and famous example, and so are The Seven Sisters – a chain of seven pointy mountains rising majestically above the horizon. One of the best ways to experience the varied nature Helgeland has to offer is from the kayak, as Johansen explains: “At Helgeland we have several qualified paddling experts who guide you to the archipelago – the narrow fjords, grand mountains and thousands of islets give such a wonderful variety of ex-

Yet, it is island hopping that the region is most famous for. Always close to nature, the hopping can be combined with bicycle and boat trips, as many islands are served by ferries and express boats. Several of the islands have an intriguing history, and some have even made it onto the UNESCO World Heritage List – including the Vega archipelago. Islands including Lovund, where 200,000 puffins nest, and Dønna, noted for its lush nature, offer a wildlife without comparison. Træna, Herøy and Sandnessjøen are also worth a visit – perfectly completing your visit to Norway’s hotspot for grand adventures.

Welcome to Helgeland!

For more information, please visit: www.visithelgeland.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

Stunning luxury in Geilo With some of the most family-friendly skiing conditions in Europe, guaranteeing superb snow and spacious slopes as well as offering a plethora of activities that attract young and old, Geilo is nothing short of a perfect skiing destination. As of 19 December last year, the central Norwegian mountain village boasts yet another world-class attraction, Vestlia Resort – an impeccably situated lodge hotel complete with luxurious suites, a waterpark, a bowling alley and a spa. Welcome to a resort you will not want to leave for the world.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Visit Geilo / Vestlia Resort

“It’s absolutely stunning,” begins Roger Espeli, director general of Vestlia Resort, “how it’s situated just at the foot of the downhill slopes, with excellent crosscountry tracks just on the opposite side of the building, with majestic mountains enthroned in the background. Everything is so close at Vestlia – from Geilo town, with its restaurants and shopping opportunities to the slopes and the spa facilities.

Here, you’ll want for absolutely nothing.”

there is nothing to be found here during warmer seasons. Some ski lifts stay open throughout the year, offering downhill cyclers a perfect location to seek that adrenaline rush, and nearby Ustedalsfjorden takes the Norwegian nature experience to a new level. Why not try some kayaking or fishing while you are here – or make good use of the modern shopping centre situated in the middle of Geilo town.

Quality time – indoor and outdoor

Indeed, every effort has been put into making Vestlia Resort the ultimate hub for skiing aficionados – but that is not to say

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It is, however, likely that your stay at Vestlia will result in as much indoor time as outdoor time. Having been decorated to

perfection by noted Norwegian interior designer Helene Hennie (gaining the title “Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year" in 2007), terms such as ‘cosy’ and ‘warm’ understate how you will feel in one of the hotel’s many rooms.

The lodge’s look, complete with thick wooden beams and country-style furniture, will make you feel right at home in the mountainous environment, and the trained eye will also be able to spot artworks by some of Norway’s most famous artists throughout history. Perhaps names such as Edvard Munch ring a bell? Don’t be surprised to find one of his original expressionist paintings adorning the walls.

For those wanting to spice up their stay a little more, there are also several suites to choose from. The 54-square-metre option includes a magnificent terrace of your own, where you can really take in the beauty of the surroundings, before you sit down in your own, private kitchen and have a delicious meal. It is a perfect place

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

to share with your family, close friends or your significant other. And, while the suites ooze luxury and world-class quality, little can compete with Vestlia’s Penthouse apartments. “We have guests from around the world who call us just because they want to come stay at one of the Penthouses,” laughs Espeli. “I have had guests fly in to Oslo Airport, which is approximately 240 kilometres away, and call from the airport asking how to get here – solely because they’re interested in that particular suite.”

And who wouldn’t be? The three suites designed by Hennie, of which the 200square-metre Hamsun suite is the largest, create a perfect frame for your stay – whether you are part of a conference group, or a group of friends looking for the right place to indulge in a holiday out of the ordinary.

Everything but ordinary Speaking of everything but ordinary: a stay at Vestlia would not be as well spent if you didn’t make use of the world-class in-house conveniences – from the waterpark to the spa. The former boasts a popular 82-metre waterslide that takes you from the fourth floor to the first in one swift move, as well as numerous Jacuzzis where you’re more than welcome to relax for a moment or two. Additional fun can be found at the hotel’s own bowling hall, where eight alleys are prepped and ready to receive numerous competitive groups. Perhaps a great place for the family’s youngest to spend some time at while the more mature family members try out the spa? With treatments ranging from classic, deeptissue massages to aroma and body wraps, the spa at Vestlia Resort will have your energy levels renewed in no time.

most helpful people you will meet.

Whether our guests arrive from Milan, Berlin or Oslo, they will feel welcome at Geilo – I promise,” concludes Espeli.

For more information, please visit: www.vestlia.no www.geilo.no

When asked about what makes Geilo Norway’s best skiing destination, Espeli is unwavering. “The location is unique; Geilo is close to both Bergen and Oslo, and can be easily reached by train. We are 800 metres above sea level, which means we are one of few places that can give a snow guarantee. At the same time, the locals are some of the friendliest and

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

TOP LEFT: Out for a walk with Anja Basma. Photo: VisitSandefjord. TOP MIDDLE: Bakgaarden Cafe. TOP RIGHT: Sandefjord Midtaasen Sculpture Pavilion. Photo: Nils Kavlie-Borge. BOTTOM LEFT: Mokollen. Photo: Anthon Soerheim. BOTTOM RIGHT: Town Centre. Photo: Ellen Larsen, VisitSandefjord.

Enjoy relaxing days in Sandefjord With 45,000 inhabitants, Sandefjord is beautifully situated between beaches and archipelagos just over an hour’s drive from the Oslo Fjord, going west from the capital. It is close to Torp International Airport, the E18 motorway and the Vestfold railway line, making the city accessible from all over Norway and Europe. From its port, ferries carry passengers to and from Sweden. “Sandefjord’s location, combining its proximity to transport infrastructure with its natural beauty is what makes the town unique,” says VisitSandefjord’s product manager Trude Schelbred.

By Stian Sangvig | Photos: VisitSandefjord

Historically, Sandefjord was known for whaling, and it has Europe’s only whaling history museum. Since then it has enjoyed a surge in international industry connections, thanks to its proximity to its port and the sea. Norwegian visitors have also enjoyed the camping sites and the rental cabins nearby. At the port, tourists can buy fresh fish and seafood from and Brødrene Berggren’s traditional fish shop – the oldest privately owned fishmonger’s in Norway – receiving fresh fish and seafood from local fishermen every day. Tourists can also go fishing by the fjord and local inland lakes.

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“Sandefjord is good for shopping and art too,” Schelbred adds, referring to a shopping centre and boutiques grouped around a square called Torvet. At Midtåsen Sculpture Pavilion Knut Steen exhibits 16 of his sculptures in harmony with a natural panorama, glass and concrete.

The flat local scenery, mainly consisting of forests and the beautiful coastline, makes the town and its surroundings ideal to explore by bike. After a busy day on foot or two wheels, Sandefjord has a thriving restaurant scene for local delicacies to be enjoyed. Seafood restaurant Brygga 11, for example, which is owned by Geir Skeie

and lies next to Brødrene Berggren, won the Bocuse d’Or Championship of Culinary Arts in 2009.

Activities for adrenaline-seekers of all ages can be found just outside Sandefjord in the form of the Høyt og Lavt Activities Park (Scandinavia’s largest climbing park). A bit more relaxing, but still fun, are Metro Bowling and Lekeland and Foldvik Familiepark (where children can greet animals while parents relax). Dakota Norway offers tourists the opportunity to see Sandefjord from the air in an American Douglas Dakota DC-3 veteran plane, which is based at Torp Airport.

Sandefjord offers accommodation in most categories and prices – from private rooms and camping sites to international hotels.

For more information, please visit: www.visitsandefjord.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

Trøndelag – bountiful, authentic and true Connecting Norway’s northern part to the south is Trøndelag, a historically and culturally rich area just waiting to be discovered. Offering some of the best locally produced foods to be found in Norway, world-class hotels and UNESCO-listed sites, this region is as diverse as it is enchanting. Looking to indulge in an urban weekend of city pulse and great nights out? Perhaps you are more into nature hikes, salmon-fishing and moose-spotting? Whatever you fancy, Trøndelag has it covered.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Trøndelag Reiseliv

“I’m originally German, but after visiting Trøndelag I fell in love,” says Petra Sestak, marketing manager at Trøndelag Reiseliv.

“There is so much to see and do here, it’s almost overwhelming. It’s really an undiscovered pearl of Norway.”

Sestak’s enthusiasm is palpable, and there really is no reason why it shouldn’t be. Easily accessed from many cities in Europe, as well as Norway’s biggest cities, Trøndelag boasts everything from fairy-tale nature sceneries to Trondheim, Norway’s third largest, and bustling, city. Welcoming students from around the world to its worldclass universities and institutions, Trondheim is a city of great contrasts. It offers

everything from splendid examples of modern architecture to lovely walks through the old Bakklandet – a more traditional neighbourhood with small, wooden houses. Here you may also sit down at Skydsstasjon, a quaint establishment named ‘Best Cafe’ by National Geographic, which serves no less than 111 types of Aquavit, a flavoured spirit.

Those looking for a more nature-aligned experience have an abundance of areas and activities to choose from, with muskox, bear and moose safaris topping the list.

The Trondheim fjord also provides a worldexclusive 40 salmonid watercourses, making fishing luck constant during your nature outing. The pilgrim’s paths can also be

explored by those longing for hikes of all lengths, or want to learn more about Norway’s history of Vikings and medieval times. Connecting nature with culture is Røros, a small mining town with 17th and 18th century houses that have served as a stunning backdrop in a number of films – amongst them Pippi Longstocking.

And, before you leave, a taste of the local food is a must. Boasting more local and small-scale food producers than any other region of Norway, Trøndelag will have you salivating for fresh scallops, crabs and deer meats long after your departure. With the option to wash them down with beers from more than 15 local breweries during your stay, memories from Trøndelag will be good – and authentic. “We have something for everyone,” assures Sestak. “All we’re waiting for is you.”

For more information, please visit: en.trondelag.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

The casual city Trondheim is known as Norway’s laid back city: a holiday destination where you don’t need an itinerary. Within a short stretch, you can stroll, shop, soak up history, sip a locally brewed beer and even go hiking.

By Maya Acharya | Photos: Visit Trondheim

Although it’s one of Norway’s major cities, Trondheim is one of those places that manage to feel both small and big at the same time. With its many historical attractions and its friendly, urban vibe, it has become a popular getaway for tourists and Norwegians alike.

Spontaneous sightseeing Known as both the gateway to the north and the gateway to the fjords, Trondheim is a great starting point for those visiting Norway for the first time. “A good reason to start in Trondheim is also the history,” says managing director at Trondheim Visitors & Convention Bureau, Line

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Vikrem-Rosmæl. “Trondheim is home to some fantastic historical attractions, including the famous Nidaros Cathedral and Stiftsgården, the Royal Family’s Residence and the largest wooden palace in Scandinavia. Another must–see is Munkholmen, a monastery built by Benedictine monks on an island just off Trondheim’s coast; today also a place to enjoy a sunny day on the beach.”

can see historic sites while still feeling part of the regular city life. From Nidaros Cathedral, you can walk to Bakklandet – Trondheim’s old town – with a mix of wooden houses, boutiques and cafes, in two minutes. You can enjoy a coffee and the bustling street life, then carry on towards Midtbyen – the centre of the city where you can experience city life, go shopping, pop into a museum or art gallery. The city allows you to be spontaneous, to not make plans but just ‘wing it’.” A good way to do this is by city bike, as there are plenty of bike rentals around and good biking trails across the city.

The good life

“The great thing about Trondheim is that the city is so compact,” explains VikremRosmæl. “Everything is very accessible and that creates a very relaxed atmosphere. Because everything is close by, you

But Trondheim is not all about history. It is also a city that increasingly caters to modern urbanities. A good example of this is the beer culture, which has bloomed in recent years. Good beer is se-

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

many reputable jazz musicians and hosts not only a jazz festival, but also a chamber music festival and a blues festival. Each year the city also celebrates Saint Olav’s Festival, a cultural festival that marks the death of Saint Olav at the Battle of Stiklestad. “The festival takes place in and around the Nidaros Cathedral. It is really unique to see rock concerts, talks and other events in such historical surroundings,” Vikrem-Rosmæl points out.

rious business in Trondheim, and the city is home to many local, artisan producers as well as award-winning microbreweries. Each year in August, Trondheim also hosts an annual brewing festival in conjunction with Trøndelag Food Festival, where brewers from across the country gather to serve different kinds of beers and ales to the public. “Trondheim has really had a burst of urban development the last few decades. There are lots of great new restaurants, trendy pubs and shops.

I think more and more people are interested in living the good life, relaxing, having fun as well as eating and drinking well,” Vikrem-Rosmæl remarks.

Trondheim seems to be a city of contrasts.

Old but modern, urban but natural, big but cosy. To top it off, it is also both a city of international and local impulses. With its well-known university, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, it attracts students and academics from across the country and the globe. At the same time, it maintains a friendly, local culture and a small-town feel.

“One of the things I like best about Trondheim are the Trøndere,” VikremRosmæl says. “They are known for being warm, talkative and informal. It is easy to strike up a conversation and get to know the locals.”

For more information, please visit: www.trondheim.no

Part of the good life means being close to nature, and as Vikrem-Rosmæl says, locals (known nationally as Trøndere), make good use of their surroundings. “Living in the city you are only ten minutes away from beautiful nature. The valleys around the city are perfect for hiking. Or, you can take Trondheim’s one and only tram line up to Lian, a park and recreational area where you can experience amazing natural surroundings,” she says.

You could also incorporate nature into your sightseeing schedule and experience the city from a guided kayak tour down the Nidelven River.

City of contrasts Trondheim is just the place for culture vultures, too. It is known as the home of

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

Dreams of the very north Situated just outside of Svalbard’s largest settlement of Longyearbyen, at nearly 79 degrees north, is Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg – the place where dreams of the very north come true in grand fashion. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see a polar bear in its natural habitat, or perhaps go boating from glacier to glacier?

Maybe you’ve dreamed of experiencing the midnight sun, or the enthralling Northern Lights as they dance across the sky during the winter? Offering a base for your stay closer to the North Pole than most people go, Mary-Ann Dahle is just the right host for all your northern adventures.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg

These are busy days for Dahle, as she is wrapping up yet another successful conference at the grand accommodation that is her Polarrigg. “I’m busy all the time,” she laughs charmingly, “it seems I never have a quiet moment.” However, she assures us she is anything but tired: “No, of course not! This is what I do – it’s what I love.” Indeed, Dahle has founded her extremely successful business on doing what she loves the most: inviting guests to

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one of the coldest, most remote locations on earth with the warmest welcome you could possibly imagine.

Something new – and different She explains that she thrives when she can tell international visitors authentic stories of old Svalbard, when the vast majority of the island’s inhabitants were miners, and guests from other parts of the country were rarely encountered.

“I love walking guests through the different rooms at the rig, telling stories about the archipelago and how people went about their lives back in the day,” she says, continuing: “These stories are reflected in the décor throughout the rig.

I’ve collected memorabilia and items from the old coalmines, and integrated them with the rest of the interior. Guests seem to appreciate this – travellers today are looking for something new, something different, when they come to these kinds of destinations. This rig may not be part of a large international hotel chain, but it has spirit and soul. I think that matters to people today.”

Treat yourself at the world’s northernmost spa Everything at Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg is the result of meticulous attention to detail, and a desire to create experiences out of

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

the ordinary. For instance, the rig boasts a newly renovated state-of-the-art spa, which is globally recognised as the world’s northernmost spa facility. Guests for whom the chilly northern climate is too harsh can warm themselves in a steaming sauna, while those who want a touch-up before dinner can indulge in various beauty treatments. Furthermore, couples and singles can enjoy a range of massages – from exotic hot stone massages to softening oil massages. “We’ve really made an effort to make the spa a place you want to spend a good amount of time at,” says Dahle proudly. “Few people expect the high standard they encounter at our spa, which we have named the Aurora Spa. Our accomplished therapists do their utmost to make you feel comforted and will have you feeling just like new in no time.”

suited to your needs. Whether you wish to make your accommodation the luxurious centre of your stay, or simply want an affordable place to rest between your outings into Svalbard’s stunning landscapes, Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg has just the place for you. Seventeen cosy single rooms and ten homely double rooms welcome you at the rig’s main building, while the ‘Luxury Rig’ house offers rooms of a slightly higher standard with larger, en-suite bathrooms and minibars. All rooms have recently been fitted with brand new, wonderfully cosy beds to make those dreams come just a little bit easier. For those really looking to jazz up their stay, the ‘Polar Night’ suite has everything you could ever wish for. Next door to this grand room you will find the Aurora Spa – need we say more?

Enjoy a polar night

Meet, mingle, dine and exchange experiences

And, as the rig offers rooms of all standards and prices, you will be able to retreat from the spa to a room perfectly

Fully pampered, well-rested and bursting with impressions from the Arctic Archipelago, all that’s missing is a grand meal.

As it happens, Dahle is as great a cook as she is a storyteller. “I make much of the food myself, and find it extremely important to only source high-quality produce from free-range animals,” says Dahle. Offering guests traditional, mouth-watering Norwegian dishes (many of these including exotic meats such as whale and seal), your options for diving into authentic Norwegian culinary delights are endless. Furthermore, for those looking to kick back and relax with a beer or two, the Polarrigg has its very own bar. “It’s a lovely addition to the dining rooms,” says Dahle. “It’s a place for guests to meet, mingle and exchange experiences.”

With such an array of exotic experiences to be enjoyed, there is no reason why Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg shouldn’t be at the top of your Svalbard travel agenda.

For more information, please visit: www.polarriggen.com

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

Sledding through a Nordic wonderland Some say it’s the most amazing way to fully experience the beauty of snow-clad scenery and those who have tried it are hooked. Dog sledding has become increasingly popular as an adventure activity in the Nordic countries over the past years, and few companies provide such a spectacular experience as Green Dog Svalbard. Merging the distinctive Arctic Archipelago landscape, world-exclusive nature phenomena and action-packed sledding trips, Green Dog Svalbard will give you memories to treasure for a lifetime.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Green Dog Svalbard

Green Dog Svalbard, situated in Bolterdalen – about 10 kilometres from the archipelago’s main settlement Longyearbyen – has kept sledding dogs since 1996.

Boasting sledding experience from Svalbard, Greenland and the Sirius Sled Patrol – the sledding unit of the Danish Navy in Greenland – the company’s experience is as thorough as it is wide-ranging.

Keeping an impressive 150 dogs at all times, Green Dog Svalbard puts extensive effort into targeted breeding and thorough care in order always to have an optimal team of dogs present to guide visitors through Svalbard’s most astounding areas. “Experiencing the landscape from a sled is completely different from all other ways you can experience

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nature,” says Martin Hartmann Munck, founder of Green Dog Svalbard. “It may seem stressing at first, before you board the sled, but once you embark on a trip it will soon become obvious that it’s an incredibly serene experience. Guests of ours who have never before been on a sled are absolutely amazed at how calm a trip can be – letting you take in the soul of the landscape along the way.”

The best of teams – living the good life Crossing breeds to ensure a social and friendly temperament is also important, explains Hartmann Munck, as the company encourages visitors to get close to the animals to feel safe and comforted.

“The dogs are a cross of Greenland dog

and Alaska Husky, which makes for a very robust and friendly breed,” he says. “It means guests who visit do not have to worry about approaching the dogs to say hi or give them a cuddle. Actually, we encourage those who go sledding with us to get to know the dogs – they’re very noisy and rowdy right before the sledding because they know what’s happening and they’re excited, but when we return they’re just as cuddly as other dogs. They want attention, so they definitely live a pretty good life up here, where they are constantly surrounded by people in awe of them,” laughs Hartmann Munck.

Quite understandably, it is the youngest of the dogs who receive the most attention.

Green Dog Svalbard welcomes around 15 to 20 new puppies every year, and they are enthusiastically shown off to all visitors. And, with the nature of Svalbard being nothing but optimal for the dogs’ development, it does not take long for the juniors to become new stars of the pack.

“They are naturally very eager to run,” says Hartmann Munck, “but the unique environment of Svalbard, with varied to-

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Destinations to Visit in Norway 2015

pography and excellent sledding conditions, completes the experience – for the dogs and the humans.”

Polar nights and the art of mushing Green Dog Svalbard offers a number of different sledding trips, from those taking a few hours to those demanding up to 78 hours of your day. Trips lasting for several days can also be arranged. You may also choose to sled through the polar night during winter – or use the summer sleds that travel by wheels after the snow has melted in early summer. Another popular choice is to travel to the nearby ice caves, where visitors are allowed to go a full 200 metres into the caves to explore the unique ice formations. No matter which trip you choose, Green Dog Svalbard puts safety and great experiences first, respecting nature at 78 degrees latitude while also making it available in a new way. “Our guests have the opportunity, under safe conditions, to take control of the sled and get to know how the dogs work in a pack. We also arrange longer, more demanding trips that teach visitors the art of mushing while also showing them more of Svalbard’s unbeatable nature scenery,” explains Hartmann Munck.

“We have accomplished, international guides with us, who will do everything they can to make the experience a memory to last for each and every visitor.”

We do not doubt it for a second.

Packages offered: - Mountain sledding trip (4 hours) - Fossil hunt with pack dogs - Foxfonna hike - Polar night sledding trip, four hours - Sledding trip to Foxdalshytta (2 days) - Sledding trip to ice cave (6-7 hours) - Sledding trip with six dogs (4 hours) - Sledding trip on wheels (summer only, 3 hours) - Sledding trip to Spitsbergen Lodge (3 days) For more information, please visit: www.greendog.no Get in touch with the team at: greendogsvalbard@gmail.com

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Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Foldvik Family Park offers children and families a chance to get back to nature, enjoy quality time together and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Attraction of the Month, Norway

Foldvik Family Park – an oasis of fun and relaxation Just 1.5 hours away from the hustle and bustle of the Norwegian capital lies Foldvik Family Park, an exploration park for the whole family that prides itself on fun, healthy activities. How about a few cuddles with little rabbits, goats or cats? Or if more fast-paced activities are more your thing, a ride on the park’s own forest train?

Whatever your child’s preference, Foldvik presents an array of entertainment to explore. Don’t just take our word for it – come explore the park for yourself!

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Foldvik Family Park

“We’ve been described as an oasis of relaxation by parents – and a park of great fun by children. I really cannot think of a better compliment than that,” says Helene M. Foldvik, general manager of Foldvik Family Park. “We let children get back to nature and enjoy the simpler, less commercial aspects of an amusement park.

We often hear parents say that they can relax here, mostly because the park isn’t

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The park’s mascot, Foffa, is a star attraction for children young and old.

crowded with souvenir shops and the pressure to buy everything in sight. That’s wonderful – and exactly how we envisioned it.”

Time spent meaningfully Although the park is a place for absolutely everyone, it is still – and mainly – a magical place created for the family’s youngest. This is proved, if anything, by the never-ending list of activities available on the spacious premises. “We’re a rather large park,” says Helene. “Many people don’t think so when looking at the gates, but inside there are vast areas of land waiting to be explored.” Children of all ages can try out activities such as the huge bouncy castles, playing in the hay barn, riding around on Råtass the tractor

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Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

or exploring the woods in the forest train.

Older children may want to attempt striking a hole-in-one on the 18-hole minigolf course, play bocce or football. “Children of all ages enjoy their time here, and we strive to make their time meaningful and void of all cares in the world. We realise that it’s difficult to keep all the family’s children entertained all at once, and that’s why we have brought in so many different activities in open territory – children can run around as they please, and parents don’t have to feel torn between the older and younger kids. Here, they can all have fun.”

families to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the grounds. “Most visitors choose to bring whatever they would like to eat, and then use one of our many grills completely free of charge. It’s a perfect way to enjoy time together as a family, in a relaxed setting, without spending a fortune on bought food,” says Helene, emphasising that the park’s encouragement to dine al fresco does not mean there are no treats available on-site. “Our strawberries are heavenly,” she muses, “and we make some really good chicken wraps.

We also serve traditional Norwegian ‘rømmegrøt’, which is a hit with every age.”

The smallest rabbits and chickens

And, when the little animals, race cars and trains have you all worn out, there are theatrical plays to attend and meetand-greets with park mascot Foffa to be enjoyed. “Foffa is beyond popular,” explains Helene, adding: “Children flock

This is demonstrated by Foldvik’s great attention to animals, and their popularity among visitors. The park has been praised on numerous occasions for its animal friendliness, and the way animals are naturally incorporated into the park. “The farm animals are by far the most popular part of the park,” admits Helene, continuing: “We try and make each encounter between children and animals a meaningful one, letting children interact with animals and learn about them at the same time. The youngest kids particularly enjoy the roosters and chicks, not to mention the chicken incubator – where children can see how eggs are hatched and how chickens come into life and grow.”

Helene explains that the small animals are, naturally, in demand with all visitors to the park. “Oh yes, the little rabbits are very popular… and the little goats! There is something therapeutic about them.

Children become very calm in their presence, really taking in the importance of caring for the animal. We have had children with special needs come to the park and find a calm space in their everyday lives just by being around living creatures that give them something they can’t find anywhere else. For children who don’t have pets at home, it’s an especially wonderful experience.”

around him for cuddles and to get their pictures taken.” It just goes to show that Foldvik Family Park truly does live up to its motto – it’s a place where the best of memories are made.

For more information, please visit: foldvik.no

A park where good memories are made The experience of being close to nature is also reflected in the park’s backing of al fresco dining. Instead of focusing solely on purchasable food, the park encourages

The park’s many animals are very popular among all visitors – from birds and cows to the small rabbits, cats and goats.

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Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Finland

In winter, Himos offers visitors the longest and highest slopes in Southern and Central Finland, various events all week long and evenings filled with entertainment at Himos Areena.

Attraction of the Month, Finland

The fun never stops at Himos!

Want the ideal family, business or couple getaway in the perfect location and activities all year round? Craving an activity-ridden day on the slopes, a relaxing afternoon at the golf course or an exciting, music-packed summer evening? Himos Holiday Centre has it all.

By Nina Lindqvist | Photos: Himos Holiday Centre

Avid skiers, companies wishing to mix business with pleasure, nature enthusiasts, music fans and visitors simply looking for a relaxing, quality stay will surely be pleased by the wide range of accommodation possibilities and events hosted

by Himos Holiday Centre. At this family business, established in 1989, it’s all about the perfect package, says sales consultant at Himos Holiday Centre, Katja Minkkinen. “We offer a complete holiday package through a single reservation, demanding minimal effort from the customer. Our 26 years of experience in the business, combined with our incredible

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versatility, makes us one-of-a-kind in Finland,” Minkkinen emphasises.

The resort is indeed known for its versatility, providing quality accommodation, a safari, as well as seminar and restaurant services all year round. Families, companies, couples and young adults alike are sure to have a fantastic stay.

Located in central Finland in the town of Jämsä, Himos Holiday Centre is easy to reach from any of the larger cities in the country. But as the resort is also embedded in the beautiful landscape of Lake Päijänne, visitors can also enjoy the

calm of the nature, making Himos Holiday Centre the perfect destination.

Accommodation for every need There is no shortage of accommodation options at Himos Holiday Centre; the resort offers a wide range of cottages, villas, and hotel and motel rooms, to meet the needs of its versatile visitor clientele. Executive standard villas, a variety of holiday cottages, the Himos Hotel and the Lakeside motel Patalahti Inn make up the diverse accommodation menu.

“In the winter, accommodation near the slopes as well as the cross-country skiing-tracks and snowmobile tracks is a popular choice among guests, whereas the refurbished rooms of Lakeside motel Patalahti are a favourite for summer visitors, because of the serene, ‘postcardesque’ environment,” Minkkinen explains.

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Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Finland

In addition, visitors looking to add an extra touch of luxury to their stay can choose a cottage or villa featuring a luxurious outdoor Jacuzzi. Most of the accommodation options are located within walking distance of the restaurants, meeting facilities and other services that Himos Holiday Centre offers, as well as the buzzing nightlife of Himos Areena.

Adventure and activity seekers – listen up!

Fans of the outdoors face the luxury of a surplus of choices, as no matter the season, there is always something happening at Himos. The choice is yours; hit the slopes, revel in the beauty of the snowcovered landscape by signing up for a snowmobile safari – also available at night-time – or perhaps opt for a moose safari, which includes a visit to Moose Manor, where the bravest can feed the moose by hand.

Other winter activities include snowshoe trekking, ice-swimming, alpine curling and skating, perfect for families and groups looking to keep active during their winter holiday. “We also offer many activities for children such as a snowmobile school, troll forest winter adventure and a

crafts corner, making sure the youngest family members also get an adventurepacked, fun holiday,” Minkkinen says.

Everyone knows that the magnificent Finnish summer days are best spent outdoors, and at Himos Holiday Centre, every day is an opportunity to try out a new activity. The wide range of activities includes an adventure rope track, a climbing wall, sumo wrestling, canoe rental, and of course the new full-scale golf course, described by Minkkinen as “a work of art”. The course has been designed and landscaped for the surrounding terrain, taking advantage of the existing height differences.

The perfect venue for business and entertainment Besides housing and entertainment, Himos Holiday Centre also offers a selection of meeting facilities for four to 220 people, Himos Areena being the biggest one. With its excellent meeting technology and equipment, it is the ideal venue for larger events such as seminars, workshops and exhibitions. “After a day of productivity and creativity, the different sauna premises and catering

options also offer the perfect reward,” Minkkinen adds.

For outdoor events, the choice is clear; Himos Park, an event field built to host almost an endless variety of outdoor events, such as the annual classic car show that takes place here. In the summer, Himos Park is also the place to be for music lovers and festival enthusiasts.

The venue hosts festivals and concerts, which attract tens of thousands of visitors each year and cater to a wide range of musical preferences, covering everything from hip hop and rock to Eurodance and traditional, Finnish schlager music.

Wu-Tang Clan, Pendulum and Linkin Park are among the headlining names this upcoming summer.

Visitors craving a taste of the Finnish music scene head to Himos Areena, where the best Finnish artists hit the stage throughout the year. With its various restaurants and bars, it is also the perfect after-ski venue and weekend favourite.

For more information, please visit: www.himosholiday.com

There is never a shortage of experiences at Himos. A full-scale golf course, various sights and restaurants with a highly unique touch and design make every visit to Himos memorable.

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Huset is situated right in the middle of Copenhagen, only 200 metres from the main shopping area. At Huset you can enjoy a laid back atmosphere, great food, and a wide array of events – many of them free of charge.

Attraction of the Month, Denmark

In the house Experience an alternative side of Copenhagen in the first and biggest cultural house in the Danish capital.

what we are about – we offer a lot of niche activities across different genres.”

By Tina Nielsen | Photos: Huset

Since September 2013 Huset has also been home to a not-for-profit restaurant, which as the first in Europe cooks exclusively with produce that would otherwise have been thrown out. Supermarkets donate produce they can no longer sell but is not yet out of date. “We operate the restaurant entirely with volunteer workers and all profits are donated to a charity assisting refugees, Danish Refugee Aid,” says Lykkegaard. “The board game café and the restaurant are new additions that compliment the existing events programme.”

A cultural movement that started out when a building in central Copenhagen was occupied by squatters in the 1970s today offers 1,500 cultural events every year. Based around volunteering and co-creation, Huset (‘the house’ in Danish) is bang in the middle of Copenhagen, just 200 metres from the main shopping area. “We offer a really great way to experience a very different side of Copenhagen,” says marketing manager Christina Lykkegaard. “There is always something on here and many events are completely free of charge.”

The huge range of events cover film, theatre, music and the spoken word, which can be anything from stand-up comedy to poetry slams. Central to them all is that they are, in the majority, not in the mainstream yet, perhaps in a

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nod to the building’s underground history. “We are here to help new and relatively unknown talent get ahead,” says Lykkegaard. “We give space to acts that are still experimenting and improving so they can go further and get onto bigger stages and theatres. They are from a more underground part of the cultural world, so if we have a pop act on it will be an alternative pop band.”

But the events programme is only one part of the offering of Huset. The latest addition is a board game café, which has been a huge hit with visitors. “We have a collection of 500 analogue board games and people spend long evenings here playing while drinking beer and coffee,” says Lykkegaard. “There are some serious board game nerds here and that is part of

Be sure to include an alternative cultural experience at Huset on your next trip to Copenhagen.

For more information, please visit: www.huset.dk

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-

www.huset-kbh.dk

www.facebook.com/Huset.Koebenhavn twitter.com/HusetKBH instagram.com/husetkbh

Bastard Café

Board games, card games, coffee and 'hygge' !

Bastard Café is for EVERYONE. It doesn t matter if you know the rules of a billion games or none at all - friendly game gurus will be there to help you get started.

Keep track of what we're up to at our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BastardCafe

Opening hours

#husetkbh

Monday-Thursday: 12.00-00.00 Friday & Saturday: 12.00-02.00 Sunday: 12.00-00.00

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Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Home of the dunes For five months every year Kirsten and Per Buck open up their seaside hotel, Klithjem Badehotel, for the rest of the world to enjoy. Situated on the west coast of Denmark and overlooking the North Sea, the hotel offers stunning views and beautiful nature, and a very personal touch.

hotel is proud of its past and there are many pictures throughout the hotel that show its long history.

Beautiful nature and honest food

By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Klithjem Badehotel

“It’s a bit like ‘Fawlty Towers’ if I’m honest,” says Kirsten when describing what the hotel is like and what it takes to run it.

Although it lacks a Spanish waiter and a lanky Englishman, the hotel has a very personable atmosphere, which you experience as soon as you walk through the door. Per and Kirsten are there to greet you when you arrive and are on hand to help with anything you may need throughout your stay.

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The hotel is open from 1 May to 1 October every year, and has 24 rooms, which are all individually decorated in a Scandinavian style with a flea market twist. Despite a brief break during the Second World War, when the building was used as a German command centre, Klithjem Badehotel has served as a hotel since 1925. This was the year when Marie Nielsen opened it up as a summer retreat, as the first of only five owners. The

Klithjem means ‘home of the dunes’, which reflects the beautiful surrounding area where the beach, which is only 150 metres away, stretches as far as the eye can see. The hotel rents out bikes and can even make you a packed lunch you can take with you, whilst you explore the local bike trails. Kirsten says: “People go and explore the local area and its nature, and most of them are really tired after a day outside in the fresh air. Most of our guests end up going to bed quite early!”

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Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

The hotel serves breakfast and dinner. Per is the Head Chef and is in charge of all the cooking. Dinner is on offer from 7pm-8pm most nights and at a very reasonable price. Per is a keen hunter, so local red deer is often on the menu as the hotel is in the area where red deer are most abundant in Denmark. Many guests comment on the nice, honest cooking that happens in Klithjem’s kitchen, and everyone thoroughly enjoys not having to worry about finding a place to eat.

Providing a personal touch Klithjem is a hotel where you can get involved in the local lives and learn more about the area through Kirsten and Per. “We attend to our guests and give a lot of ourselves to every visitor,” explains the couple. They get a lot of praise from their guests, and looking through the guestbook it is clear that the couple really give the hotel’s guests that something extra which you just do not get from staying in a bigger hotel.

“We maintain a good balance between the professional and the personal,” says Kirsten before commenting on the fact that many guests come to both her and Per for advice on what to go and see and do. Many of the guests end up spending time in the communal area and have

chats with each other, although nice weather tends to bring everyone out and about. The hotel has many areas where you can sit and enjoy the sun or have a little nap in the fresh air.

Among Denmark’s top ten hotels

routine, get a breath of fresh air and enjoy what is probably one of the most picturesque parts of Denmark.

For more information, please visit: www.klithjembadehotel.dk/en

Although the local nature is the real draw, there are plenty of cultural experiences to be found, including Tirpitz (a big World War Two bunker used as a museum) and a hop on/hop off sightseeing bus. In the autumn there are red deer safaris and close by is Filsø: a regeneration area, which is the perfect spot for birdwatchers.

The area and the hotel definitely have their draws as some guests have been coming to stay every summer for the past forty years.

As a guest at Klithjem Badehotel you will be able to experience an absolutely lovely couple running a hotel in beautiful and unique surroundings. Having been voted one of the top ten hotels in Denmark and having been featured on Danish television – in a programme about Denmark’s best ‘badehoteller’ (seaside hotels) – you cannot go wrong with Klithjem. “It’s a simple place, we run it simply and we keep it simple. There really isn’t much to worry about here,” says Kirsten. It is the perfect place to get away from the stressful daily

The owners Kirsten and Per Buck.

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Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway

Fjordslottet Hotel helps you plan your ideal wedding – the most important day of your life.

Hotel of the Month, Norway

The castle of the fjord – romantic getaways and serene conferences At only 25 years old, Christian Bolstad made his dream of owning a hotel into reality. Fjordslottet Hotel, translating into ‘the fjord castle hotel’, was a manor originally built for a grand tradesman of nearby city Bergen, which had been turned into a stately hotel in the late 1990s. For Bolstad, romantic visions of serene holiday stays and beautiful weddings at the property were bountiful – visions that have come true for many a hotel guest since.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Fjordslottet Hotel

Perhaps the best foundation for creating a romantic hotel ambiance is to fall in love yourself. After buying the hotel in 2007, fate stepped in for Bolstad, as he met the woman who was to become his future wife. The scene of the first meeting? No other place than Fjordslottet. Ann, a young ergotherapist, was staying at the hotel

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when the two caught each other’s eye.

The two married, before making Fjordslottet their big project and dream – spending days and nights making sure all guests’ wishes were met. “The first years of running the hotel were absolutely amazing – we experienced a growth which is not at all common in the industry,” says

Christian. The owners, who humbly prefer to be called hosts, put such an effort into their everyday running of the hotel that guests just kept on coming – a popularity reflected in end-of-year figures. “We’re very proud of having built something that has shown a 15-20 per cent annual growth since its very start,” says Christian.

“It’s a wonderful thing to experience for a host.”

The best of both worlds It is not difficult to see why a guest would choose to pin the island municipality of Osterøy, the hotel’s location, to their travel agenda. Set in a stunning environment, encircled by several fjords and comple-

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Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway

Host your wedding at Fjordslottet Hotel: - Enjoy a full day of celebrations in the main manor house dating back to 1851.

- Everything from the ceremony to the wedding reception can be arranged at the Hotel.

- The Hotel is happy to help out with wedding planning ahead of your big day.

- Enjoy a matchless, traditional wedding dinner prepared by excellent chefs.

Host your conference at Fjordslottet Hotel: Known for its high-quality, locally sourced food, the hotel serves up the most mouth-watering feasts.

mented by mountain scenery, the island appears as a western Norwegian dream setting. To add further to the remarkable location – the hotel is found a mere 45 minutes from the bustling city centre of Bergen, Norway’s second largest city and home to several world-renowned sights.

“It’s a naturally beautiful area, with more stunning sceneries than many of our guests could dream of before coming here,” says Ann, continuing: “but at the same time we are close enough to the city for visitors to get the best of both worlds.” Christian agrees: “Absolutely, I think what sets us apart is that we offer a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a place of concentration and calm for conference guests and an ideal location to host private parties and weddings; but we are in no way isolated from the pulse of urban life for those who want to combine that with their stay here.”

colleagues for an inspirational team building event. “Weddings and conferences are our specialties, I would say, but that is not to exclude any private visitors. We do our very best to serve everyone equally well, being there for each guest – making them feel happy and comforted during their stay. And, for an occasion as important as a wedding day, you can expect us to step up and bring that extra bit of sparkle that will make the memory last for as long as it should – a lifetime,” says Christian. “For conferences we offer a multitude of activities and packages through our partners,” adds Ann. “Everything from wine tasting sessions to having a go at the shooting range – there’s a great variety of things to try. Moreover the nature gives you everything you need and more: great hiking trails, some of the best fishing waters you’ll encounter and fjords perfect for a day’s boat trip.”

A stunning getaway for weddings and conferences

The couple goes quiet, in what can only be described as a unison (and nothing but well-deserved) pride. “We simply tailor make what you need,” says Christian. “It’s as simple as that.” And for a couple whose union is a direct result of Fjordslottet’s simple magic, well, we can only agree.

Yet, most guests do venture to Osterøy to sit back, breathe and perhaps sample world-class, traditional cuisine served in abundance while enjoying themselves under the clear, Norwegian sky. All these factors are brilliantly combined for all guest groups that Fjordslottet Hotel serves – whether you wish to celebrate your wedding here or want to bring your

- The Hotel’s facilities can accommodate up to 90 people.

- Enjoy high-quality food prepared in abundance throughout your stay.

- Modern equipment is present and included.

Build strong ties to your colleagues through team building activities such as: - The popular GPS quiz - Archery training - Shooting at a professional shootingrange - Fishing trips

For more information, please visit: www.fjordslottet.no

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden

Forget fancy and formal. Koka changes the way we look at fine dining.

Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Innovating modern fine dining in western Sweden The success story of Koka in Gothenburg, starts with a bold decision to let go of something good, to create something even better. In its first year, the restaurant has already achieved a Michelin-star and multiple awards.

tuck the children in for the night, despite the fact that you are also entertaining guests.”

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Koka

Koka offers the choice of three, five or seven courses to allow flexible dining. The prices are slightly lower this time around, making it easier to attract a mixed crowd.

Persson enjoys having couples and families as well as business people all dining at the same time. ”It is more alive and dynamic, with more things happening. The classic fine dining format can sometimes be a little too quiet. Not everyone is comfortable around that,” he says.

Merely a year has passed since Björn Persson and his team decided to close the Michelin-restaurant Kock & Vin after 14 years, to take a chance at Koka – a new modern fine dining experience. And things are going well. “It has been an amazing first year for us,” says Persson and the festive occasions sure have been coming in a steady stream lately.

Koka won ‘Restaurant of the Year’ in November, and recently topped it off by

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being appointed this year’s ‘Rising star’ in White Guide. And let’s not forget about the shiniest star of them all – the one in the Michelin Guide 2015.

According to Persson, the fine dining scene has changed a lot over the years, especially when it comes to official entertainment. ”You want to eat something really good, without spending the entire evening,” he says. Speaking as a parent he adds: “You might want to make it home to

Despite its high-end food, the atmosphere is laid-back. You will not spot a single

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden

white tablecloth as far as the eye can see.

The cuisine is devoted to “modern WestSwedish gastronomy”, a take on the New Nordic cuisine. This means you can expect pure flavours and slightly lighter dishes based on local produce. “It is not like the food in competitions, where you wonder: Is it food, meccano or a painting? It should just be tasty and good,” he says.

At Koka, the passion for local produce and flavours meets a long-standing philosophy of pairing food and drinks. Perhaps because Persson himself is a trained sommelier. “The food and drinks go together and enhance each other. Every dish starts with a beverage, more or less,” he says.

Aspects such as where the produce is sourced and in what order the dishes are served are also taken into consideration when putting together a new set menu.

“The aim is to create variation and surprise you a little,” he says.

The ingredients are locally sourced and often organic, but the shifting Swedish seasons are more of an inspiration than a limitation. “Like when the fresh asparagus arrives, or when the lamb or shellfish is at

its best, a lot of inspiration comes from the ingredients,” he says.

The location on the west coast means that fresh seafood is available aplenty, but being Koka, it tries to serve a new take on the classics: ”Not langoustine au gratin or regular shrimp, but something like raw shrimp and grilled langoustine, so even if you visit Gothenburg to try seafood, you get something modern,” he says. Koka wants to be innovative and in the forefront, or as Persson himself puts it: “We really want to be the leading actor in West Sweden.”

Over the years Persson has built quite a restaurant empire in Gothenburg. He runs the downstairs wine bar Björns Bar, the ambitious neighbourhood restaurant

Familjen and Spisa, a Nordic tribute to the Mediterranean sharing cuisine. This summer he also goes back to basics, with Perssons på Kajen in Hunnebostrand, a 1.5-hour drive up the coast. With its location right at the harbour-front, he describes it as a classic Swedish summer restaurant.

But what’s next for Koka? Despite more stars to chase and awards to win, Persson says it is really down to just offering the very best. “We always want to exceed everyone’s expectations. We want to create something even better tomorrow.”

For more information, please visit: www.restaurangkoka.se

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

Great French food for any day of the week At Odense’s Kok & Vin, informal moods and tastes of Lyon and Paris merge with Danish life. This means that no occasion is too small for a great night dining out.

mark, tended to focus on a rather ceremonial and white cloth setting.

By Thomas Bech Hansen | Photos: Kok & Vin

As Falkesgaard Hansen puts it, a rainy, run-of-the-mill Tuesday evening should no longer be an excuse to stay at home.

Nor should the grand production of a glittering weekend night be a requirement for culinary experiences. “Our inspiration comes from France and cities like Lyon and Paris, where the focus is on good, traditional meals as the centre of lively social gatherings in an informal atmosphere. We try to replicate all that, and at reasonable prices. Our location in the centre of Odense means we are within con-

This April, Odense’s Kok & Vin – Danish for ‘Chef and Wine’ and phonetically a humoristic pun on the French classic dish Coq au Vin – celebrates three years of deliciously simple, well-crafted French food, providing citizens of and visitors to Hans Christian Andersen’s birth town with an authentic bistro experience. One of the founders, Steffen Falkesgaard Hansen, is still ever-present in the kitchen. The restaurant’s objective is to incorporate a

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bit of looseness and joie de vivre without compromising on quality.

Relaxed yet uncompromising “When we first started out, we felt that Odense needed a relaxed place to go out for dinner, but where there would be no compromises with regards to methods and quality,” explains Falkesgaard Hansen. His observation was that many French offerings in Odense, let alone Den-

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

venient reach for most people. Perhaps they are out on the town anyway, and just fancy dropping in.”

Food and theatre In fact, Kok & Vin is located in a particularly lively part of Denmark’s third biggest city with Odense Theatre, one of Denmark’s most renowned stages, only a few hundred metres down the road. This is reflected in the composition of the menu.

“Food and cultural experiences go hand in hand. When people come in for a preshow meal they do not need anything heavy to digest during the following performance,” reflects Falkesgaard Hansen, and highlights the post-theatre menu.

“When guests return after the show, we offer French cheeses, pickled delicacies, rillettes or basically any delicacies that fit with the aftermath of going to a play.”

Ever-present Head Chefs The ethos of Kok & Vin is as evident today as it was at the beginning, three years ago. Steffen Falkesgaard Hansen and cohead chef, Christoffer Tornhøj Schärfe are

determined to nurture their low key, highquality approach to French cuisine. Therefore, at least one of them is always present at the restaurant, either in the kitchen or on the floor chatting to guests. “Guests must be able to recognise Christoffer and myself in this as much as we do. We have our own way of doing this, and that makes

us immensely proud. At the same time, we remain humble and continuously remind ourselves that success is fleeting.

We must keep striving to strike the perfect balance and give all our guests a great, authentic bistro experience,” explains Falkesgaard Hansen.

Head Chefs speak: Kok & Vin’s two head chefs, Steffen Falkesgaard Hansen and Christoffer Tornhøj Schärfe, sum up their mission: “Our goal with Kok & Vin is to give the people of Funen, and the rest of Denmark's population, experience of a cuisine that exudes love, dedication, passion and respect. We want to give people who enjoy life the excuse to go out and eat on a grey and rainy Tuesday night. After all, life is all about eating and drinking. So let's make it relaxed, in good spirits and in a cosy setting.”

A glimpse of the menu Pork rillettes with with tarragon mustard Classic beef tartare with mixed salads Bouillabaisse with fish and shellfish.

Potatoes, croûtons and Sauce Rouille A selection of French cheese Apple trifle with sorbet, white chocolate and yoghurt Petits fours

For more information, please visit: www.kokogvin.dk

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

Every season has it perks with fine and local ingredients.

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

Cultural identity with sustainable food Folk og Fe has managed to capture the essence of Norway by upgrading classical dishes using delicate and specialist knowledge. The restaurant is located in the old town of Trondheim, Bakklandet. Here you will not find the standard beef or chicken fillet on the menu – the chefs make sure that none of the mouth-watering food goes to waste.

we use the parts of the animal that have the strongest flavours,” says Fjæreide. To be able to make this type of food the chefs need special knowledge of the product as well as how to prepare it.

By Camilla Brugrand | Photos: Marius Rua

A successful start-up

The menu changes as the seasons go by. Every day both chefs and customers will get a tasty surprise brought by the fishermen from the area and further north. “We never know what type of fish they will bring us, but that is what I like about it. Every day we could end up serving something different,” says chef and owner Stian Fjæreide. Only using wild fish and not seafood that comes from the many fish farms in the area is

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just one of the many things that makes Folk og Fe stand out from the crowd.

Nothing goes to waste Locally produced food is one of the restaurant’s core values. Most of the dishes served at Folk og Fe come directly from the surrounding areas; the others come exclusively from Norway. “We use commodities that no one else uses and we use everything. Tenderloin and sirloin less,

Folk and Fe have been open for a little over a year now, and the business has exceeded all expectations. The venue had not been in use for over two years before Fjæreide decided to give it a try. “We opened the place not knowing what to expect. I have worked in restaurants before, but never started something myself,” he said. A lot of people showed an enormous interest in the place and soon the owners had their hands full. The local residents have been very enthusiastic about the

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As well as tasting delicious, the food is also beautifully presented.

start-up, and it attracts curious visitors from all over the world.

that is the reason we will not go out of fashion,” says Fjæreide.

Stored in the soil

Seek them out

The restaurant gives guests the option to choose between a three, five and seven course menu package, but they may also pick from the board menu what they want to eat. All the food that is served has touches from the region Trønderlag in them. The famous clipfish and Jerusalem artichoke produced locally are available all year because of hardworking farmers. “There is a local farmer who has Jerusalem artichokes in the ground on his farm all year around. Even in the winter with the frost on the ground he goes out and picks it out of the soil. It’s pretty impressive. The clipfish is stored in a layer of salt and always available,” said Fjæreide.

Word of mouth has led many international tourists to the cosy and exotic venue. One of the exciting features of the place is that the guests don’t know exactly what they will be served once they arrive. New and Nordic flavours are the only experience guaranteed. “I think people like not always knowing what is coming out of the kitchen. We get people to try different flavours that they perhaps haven’t tasted before. The feedback has been excellent and it seems that people appreciate the initiative. Business people bring their clients away from the city centre of Trondheim out here to give them a real taste of Trønderlag,” said Fjæreide.

Fjæreide. Folk og Fe also serves homemade sourdough bread, crackers and flatbreads to all their guests. Crispbread has become so popular that they had to copy out huge numbers of recipes because of the high demand.

A memorable meal The aim of the restaurant has always been to create an enjoyable and cosy environment where people can make fond new memories and experience something new, but traditional. “We want to take our guests back to the roots of the national cuisines. Our visitors like simple, tasty and rustic food prepared with love. To sum it up; we are unpretentious, local and long lasting,” said Fjæreide. Folk og Fe is definitely a haven for foodies to enjoy and try out some new traditional flavours with a modern twist.

Hungry guests Sustainable, not trendy What other restaurants throw away is exactly what Folk og Fe serves its visitors. “We have a sustainable food policy, which means that we use all parts of the animal or vegetable that we are serving.

The stems and leaves of a fruit are as valuable to use as the rest of it. That is part of our concept and the reason I believe this restaurant will survive, in the long run. We don’t follow a trend, and

It seems as though people can’t get enough of the traditionally cooked food.

One day, some guests ordered the ‘Very Hungry’ package, which consists of seven courses. When they were on their third course, clipfish and Jerusalem artichoke, they asked if this dish could be repeated instead of tasting anything else. “Of course we could arrange it, but we recommended that it might be a bit too much of a good thing and they agreed,” said

For more information, please visit: folkogfe-bistro.no

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Finland

At Kathmandu Palace you will experience good service in a relaxed environment, while savouring some of Finland’s most exotic flavours.

Restaurant of the Month, Finland

A shortcut to the spirit of Nepalese cuisine Nestled between the Nordic houses of the Finnish city of Espoo is an exotic palace that takes its name from an equally beloved Nepalese city. Kathmandu Palace stands out as one of the few authentic Nepalese restaurants where Finns can enjoy their own little piece of Nepal. Despite having been around for just six months, the seats are always taken when the restaurant opens its doors – and so they should. Owner Nabin Bhattarai aims to spice up even the chilliest Finnish spring times by offering Nepalese delights in warm, joyous surroundings.

By Caroline Edwards | Photos: Kathmandu Palace

“My parents live in Kathmandu, I have my roots there and that is something I wish to honour,” tells Nabin Bhattarai, as he explains what made him name his restaurant Kathmandu Palace. As a chef and former waiter, Nabin had several years of experience from Nepalese restaurants behind him before he finally opened up one of his own. Today this cosy gem attracts people from all over town who wish to immerse themselves in colourful, Asian flavours.

Nabin and his team strive to always deliver a good service in relaxed surroundings, while inspiring their guests to in-

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dulge in Nepalese food. “The Finnish people are just crazy with our Naan bread.

The first thing people want to know is whether the bread is included in the prices or not,” explains Nabin as he goes through the menu of culinary delights.

Despite a wealth of colourful treats, it’s the Naan bread that lures people in.

And once they have fallen for it, the rest tends to follow. “We experience an increasing interest in Nepalese cuisine and during lunch hours the place gets packed. People are simply falling head over heels for Nepal.”

And why wouldn’t they? With a decently priced menu, good quality food and a friendly service, Kathmandu Palace is every bit the hospitable hide-out many people crave in their busy everyday life. On top of their usual lunch and dinners, Kathmandu also hosts private and corporate parties as well as events. This is a palace.

You can simply lean back in your chair and relax to the humming sound of Nepalese folk music whilst Nabin and his team take care of the rest.

For more information, please visit: www.kathmandupalace.fi

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Scan Magazine | Business | Key Note

Scan Business Key Note 103 | Business Profiles 104 | Conferences of the Month 106 | Columns 109 | Scandinavian Business Calendar 111

106

108

If you believe that, you’ll believe anything?

By Paul Blackhurst, client director at Mannaz

What are your goals for 2015? You really should have some. There is so much research confirming the benefits of setting goals. Or, is there?

I am writing this one from a sun lounger next to an indoor pool in an English health spa. Life has been busy over the last few months so I thought I would take some time out and relax. Unfortunately, rather than being relaxed, I realise that I am stressed about trying to cram in every treatment and use every facility before time runs out. My children call this “Dad’s queue anxiety” and they watch out for it every time we travel. Intellectually, and for my health, I would like to change this behaviour. From a psychological perspective, I must hold some beliefs which explain and support why I act this way. Identifying and changing underlying beliefs is the key to changing behaviour. Changing behaviour through effort and willpower is rarely sustainable.

There must be a common belief that drives the behaviour of being busy. The 17th century French philosopher, Blaise Pascal said: “All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in

a room alone.” Pascal sounds like he was one of life’s introverts but he makes a good point. Pascal was also a man who suggested that beliefs can be changed at will. He even approached the subject of religious beliefs in a logical way.

‘Pascal’s wager’ is the following: "If Jesus does not exist, the non-Christian loses little by believing in him and gains little by not believing. If Jesus does exist, the nonChristian gains eternal life by believing and loses an infinite good by not believing.”

Paul Blackhurst, client director at Mannaz

111

Pascal says it makes logical sense simply to believe. The challenge with Pascal’s wager may be a theological one, but it also contains the suggestion that we can choose and change our beliefs at will. This is not easy; however all personal breakthroughs begin with this step. The moment you begin to honestly identify and question your beliefs you can no longer feel certain about them. If you can also find evidence to undermine them, it opens the door to replacing old, disempowering beliefs with new ones that support you.

Here are ten examples of empowering beliefs to try on in the next few weeks: 1. The past does not equal the future.

2. There is always a way if I am committed.

3. There are no failures, only outcomes – as long as I learn something, I am succeeding.

4. If I cannot, I must; if I must, I can.

5. Everything happens for a reason and a purpose that serves me.

6. I find great joy in little things… a smile… a flower… a sunset.

7. I give more of myself to others than anyone expects.

8. I create my own reality and am responsible for what I create.

9. If I am confused, I am about to learn something.

10. Every day above ground is a great day.

Now, if you will excuse me, I have to get to my massage appointment.

Issue 75 | April 2015 | 103

Cekura’s Safemate is a small, splash-proof device which, at just one touch, put its wearer in contact with Cekura’s help centre where health professionals will be ready to help.

Feel safe and Cekura With a continuously growing senior population it is becoming increasingly urgent to think of new solutions when it comes to sound and financially sustainable elderly care. Danish Cekura aims to lead the way with service and safety solutions for the future.

knowledge of established people within the US sector as several of these sit on Cekura’s advisory board.

Targeted help

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Cekura

Based on the ideas of leading figures within the American sector for emergency response systems, Cekura was founded in in 2012. “Looking at the Nordic countries’ health statistics, it’s obvious that the number of elderly people is increasing.

People live longer, and, even though we are generally more healthy, the number of people living with lifestyle diseases and

chronic disabilities is also rising. The fact is that we have limited public resources so, in the end, we need to find another way to handle the increasing need for care,” CEO of Cekura Jimi Danielsen says and adds: “The Nordic market did not have any such alternatives and that’s why our company was founded – a family member of one of our founders got seriously ill and when he was not able find a suitable solution for his needs he set out to create it.”

As a diplomat, the aforementioned founder had contacts within the American sector for emergency response systems and with their help he began creating a business plan for the Nordic market.

Within a year Cekura was ready to offer a complete emergency response solution.

The company still benefits from the

Jimi Danielsen, CEO of Cekura

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Cekura offers not just emergency response services but also alarm systems and medicine administration. The emergency response service and medicine administration are handled exclusively by health professionals, and it is not just the elderly who benefit. “Our employees help and support elderly people as well as younger people, and they are there to help with both primary and secondary conditions. It might be that some of our clients have an urgent need to discuss their condition with a health professional or maybe they need to talk because their primary condition is causing anxiety and depression. We have all kinds of patients, from people suffering from diabetes and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) to people who are suffering from anxiety and loneliness. In all cases we help and take care of the person in their everyday life,” says Danielsen.

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Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Cekura

And, for the people who might be worried that a privately owned company might be less reliable than a public service, Danielsen assures us that the contrary is the case: “Of course our ambition is to prove that fulfilling a need in society can lead to a successful business, but it also entails a great responsibility. Our business offers a very serious product, and when we talk about our clients, we talk about people with great needs and that means that we have to have a 100 per cent success rate. The fact that we are a commercial company just means that the standards are even higher; we cannot make mistakes or not answer a call – and our ratings show that we don’t.”

One of the products Cekura offers is a ‘Safemate’, a small, splash-proof device that clients can clip onto their clothes and take everywhere, even in the shower. With one touch, the device, which has an inbuilt GPS and SIM card, will put its wearer in contact with Cekura’s help centre where health professionals will be ready to help with anything from calling assistance, giving directions, or offering reassurance and comfort. The Sekura Safemate subscription (P40 per month) covers a 24/7 service and includes all services – meaning that clients will never experience any unpleasant surprises in the shape of extra bills etc.

the right help at the right time, and we stay with them until the situation is resolved. But we also help with more everyday tasks such as getting out of bed or arranging an appointment with their doctor.

In that way we can make sure that situations do not escalate,” explains Danielsen, who is also a member of the charity Make-A-Wish’s Advisory Board.

For more information, please visit: www.cekura.dk

Easing the burden That the need for a system like Cekura’s already exists is evident from the rapidly growing number of private clients signing up for the company’s services. But Cekura is also working with the public sector to explore how its system can help lessen the burden within public health and elderly care sectors. In the municipality of Odense, Denmark, the company is working to see how its products can make people less dependent on the public sector.

“People might call in because they had a fall and cannot get help or they might be worried that they did not take the right medication. We make sure that they get

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Conference of the Month, Norway

Austkil gjestegård and konferansesenter: Creativity and inspiration in authentic surroundings A mere 20 minutes outside Trondheim Airport, Værnes, you will find a warm and welcoming conference centre far from your everyday package resort. Managed by passionate hosts Tone Løwe and Ole T. Hofstad, Austkil gjestegård og konferansesenter (Austkil guesthouse and conference centre) serves up a tempting menu of inspiring talks, unbeatable surroundings, authentic cooking, mindboggling mysteries and creative madness. Looking for something that’s truly out of the ordinary? Look up north.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Austkil gjestegård and konferansesenter

From the moment you set foot on Austkil gjestegård og konferansesenter you are greeted by authentic Norwegian farming history of grand measures. Comprising charming old buildings from the 18th and 19th century alongside newer additions, the farm and its surroundings boast just the

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right amount of quaint charisma to make a lasting impression. That its owners possess the same kind of distinctive charm becomes evident when speaking to Tone Løwe, host at the conference facility as well as licensed coach. “We’ve tried to be slightly creative when coming up with names for

the different houses and rooms,” she smiles. “It’s been important for us to preserve that unique history that the makes up a lot of the area. The farm used to keep farmyard animals, and so we have named some of the rooms after these. The same goes for different kinds of grains that have been cultivated here throughout the times – these now serve as designated names for some of our spaces as well.”

Leaving restrictions at the door Few words are better suited to describe the atmosphere at Austkil than creativity.

From the cartoon artworks decorating the walls of the centre’s gallery to the list of activities available for large and small

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Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Norway

conference groups, Løwe and Hofstad create a seamlessly creative ambiance for everyone to enjoy. “We have a lot of space,” says Løwe, “which lets guests move around as they like and mingle with each other, no matter the weather. The last thing we want is for guests to feel confined or restricted in any way.”

Restrictions are justly left at the door at Austkil, as one of the centre’s main attractions requires visitors to step into the shoes of someone else. Based on the popular ‘murder mystery’ party concept, the ‘mord til middag’ (literally ‘murder for dinner’) dining option lets conference attendees engage in secretive role-play during their meal. With six of the dinner guests playing key roles in the murder drama and the rest supporting the action through various tasks, there are plenty of secrets to be uncovered. “It gives the dining experience something extra, while also bringing it down to an informal level,” says Løwe, admitting that she often steps into the mystery as the designated inspector.

“Well, you have to take part in the fun,” she laughs, “I mean, how often do you get to call out your boss, naming them the

harlot of the plot? It’s intriguing seeing people who usually only interact in a professional setting let loose and have fun.”

She adds that she finds it important to be present for all guests at the centre.

“That’s not to say we should intrude, but I think it’s important to show some genuine engagement in the visitors’ experiences. If not, why are we here?”

Teambuilding and specialised coaching Løwe is currently in the process of developing a new dinner concept that, similar to ‘mord til middag’, will break the ice and gets dinner guests active. “It will be far more than just eating; the idea is to make it a rounded experience including all senses and several locations here at the centre. It will be more like a teambuilding activity,” she states, adding that she also offers specialised coaching for all conference groups. “I’m passionate about communication and language, and how people in an organisation can work together to reach their goals. Ole on his side has a background in journalism and media, and can advise companies of all sizes on how to communicate efficiently and precisely in writing and speech,” she notes.

Palpably energetic in her descriptions, it is difficult not to be affected by Løwe’s passion for what she does. From the organic, locally sourced food and homemade crispbread served for breakfast to the tailored coaching sessions, all measures are taken to ensure a conference break that will stay with guests long after they have left Austkil’s picturesque grounds. “I think that’s what people want today,” she contemplates, “something that isn’t necessarily a set package deal, but more of an authentic experience.

That’s what we are good at!”

Austkil in brief: - 15 rooms with beds for 27 people - Convention hall accommodates up to 70 people - AV equipment and wireless Wi-Fi available Email: post@austkil.no Phone: +47 92060573 Address: Austkil 7520 Hegra For more information, please visit: www.austkil.no

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Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Denmark

Conference of the Month, Denmark

Good food and company – in all honesty Combine a cosy, Danish kro, the traditional inn experience, with action-packed activities and good meeting facilities and you have Hejse Kro – the perfect mix of work and leisure. A conference at Hejse Kro stands out with its atmosphere and soughtafter location. Situated only an hour away from the German border and close to the motorways connecting to the rest of Denmark, it makes the perfect conference venue. Not only do you get to enjoy mouth-watering dishes made the traditional way, you also get to chat to ‘kromutter’ and ‘krofatter’, the happy owners of Hejse Kro.

By Caroline Edwards | Photos: Hejse Kro

The Danish kro culture is something of its own. The old inns have offered guests a clean bed and honest food for centuries, and their legacy is still kept alive. Hejse Kro’s very own father and mother, Per Elkjær and Charlotte K. Døj, believe in what they do, and if they can’t do it the real and honest way, they won’t do it all.

“Whenever people enter our kro, the formality disappears and they find themselves feeling at ease in their surroundings,” says krofatter (the ‘father of the inn’), Per Elkjær.

Unlike larger conference facilities, Hejse Kro has the advantage of offering some-

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thing more personal. “We offer several meeting packages to companies who wish to host their conference at Hejse Kro, one of them even includes the new bridgewalking activity that will open on the 10 May 2015,” says Per, highlighting that this is the first of its kind in Europe. The adventure takes you above the stunning bridge Lillebælt, offering unimpeded views of the Danish sea.

Activities are important during a conference, and apart from supplying the mostneeded technical equipment, Hejse Kro helps planning the event from start till finish. The owners are determined to do the

very best they can to create an environment in which the participants take an active part.

And what happens afterwards? Well, it usually ends with a big hug for krofatter and kromutter. “This is the kind of place where we get close to people. We might not be able to create a home, but we can make people feel comfortable,” finishes Per Elkjær, who is proud to own a kro that boasts an atmosphere that is nothing if not cosy, a place where the modern comfort needed to pull off a top-notch conference meets old Danish traditions.

For more information, please visit: www.hejse-kro.dk

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Scan Magazine | Business | Nordea

Thina Saltvedt on oil trends, OPEC and environmental effects No market in the world has a greater impact on the global economy than the oil market. We sat down for a quick chat with Thina Saltvedt, oil analyst at Nordea Bank and picked her brains about the state of the world of oil.

By Astrid Eriksson & Julie Lindén | Photo: Nordea

Tell us about your job at Nordea?

And secondly?

I work in the analysis of and economic research in oil trends across the globe, on which I base forecasts for the global oil market and industry. In simple terms: my job is to convey how these trends affect us, and what kind of impact they have on our lives – from inflation and the cost of fuel to states of flux in currencies and interest rates.

Secondly, OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) has changed their strategy. By employing a cartel strategy, OPEC has cut production in order to push up prices. Now it has changed its strategy going for market share instead flooding the market with cheap oil. This has put an interesting spin on market competition and new forms of fossil fuel use – for instance that of US shale oil producers now serving as the marginal barrel of oil or swing producer in the market.

How’s oil doing these days? Could you give us a quick guide to current trends?

We see two rather substantial changes: one is that the decade between 2003 and 2013 has seen a sturdy increase in oil prices, as most people are well aware of.

That kind of growth does something to the market. Fifty-five per cent of oil goes into fuel for transport, which is of course something that people of all trades depend on. Right now though, we are experiencing a differentiation and efficiency improvement in how transportation happens; i.e. airplanes use much less fuel than before, and increasingly people choose to drive more eco-friendly cars, or electric cars even. The demand for oil goes down, and therefore prices ultimately decrease.

You mentioned transport, which obviously affects people personally but also globally. How does climate change affect the oil market?

We see that people are becoming increasingly conscious of how the use of fossil fuels directly contributes to climate change and therefore more people become reluctant to invest in fossil fuels – mainly because there are plenty of new solutions coming up supporting the green revolution. For the same reason investors are starting to abandon coal investment: burning coal is the largest emitter of CO2 on the planet. Analysts speak of a socalled ‘green shift’ where for example de-

veloping countries may move directly to sustainable energy when building their electricity systems and infrastructure, without passing through the era of fossil fuel use that has defined the last century in the western hemisphere. Greener, cleaner alternatives have it over all – people want to support and invest in sustainable ways of moving forward, and this is making its mark in the oil market.

For more information and news: follow Thina Saltvedt on Twitter, @ThinaSaltved

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Scan Magazine | Business | Nordea

Inheritance – do you need a will?

Rules on tax and inheritance differ markedly across countries. To make a will is almost always a good idea – but check the applicable rules first.

By Lars Lindved and Roberth Josefsson | Photo: Nordea International Private Banking

It is exciting to move to another country.

New career opportunities, a new language, a different culture and new friends, a new school for your children and perhaps a better climate. You look into tax matters, but mostly because you want to know the effect on your wages and pension. The rest you deal with as you go along. But ‘the rest’ may include the most important issues: how to best provide for your immediate family – also in terms of taxation – when you are no longer there.

Often, this issue is ignored because it can be discomforting to consider what may happen when we are no longer alive. Yet these thoughts may be among the most important of your life.

So how should you go about it? Well, most importantly you should set the objectives of your inheritance planning, addressing such questions as: - Who should inherit and how much?

- Do I wish some beneficiaries to inherit specific items?

- Should the inheritance be subject to conditions, such as separated property for heirs or assets put into a trust?

- Would I like to leave some of my assets to charity?

Even if you do not have special wishes, it is always a good idea to make a will. A will can not only resolve issues such as those mentioned above, it can also save your heirs from having to make important decisions, like agreeing, in the absence of specific instructions, about what you might have wished. However, before making a will, you should familiarise yourself with the principles of estate distribution, forced heirship rules and tax consequences.

The choice of jurisdiction can be crucial to the inheritance allocation. In the United

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Kingdom, for example, the entire estate can be freely allocated by will, i.e. there are no clear rules that safeguard an inheritance for children, spouses or other family members. In Spain, on the other hand, children are entitled to inherit at least two thirds of a parent’s estate, while Swedish rules entitle children to only a quarter.

It is important to check all inheritance rules, even those concerning the formalities. Not only tax rates are important; of equal significance are how the rules work and their implications for family members and property, both in

the country of residence and outside.

In conclusion, it is important to look at the location of both heirs and property, and plan accordingly, because these can have a major impact on the outcome, both in terms of civil law estate division and taxation.

The new EU/EEA rules coming into force this summer will provide greater flexibility and simplify the choice of rules to apply, but they will also require more investigation into the effects of what an active selection of jurisdiction and rules will have.

Lars Lindved and Roberth Josefsson are both wealth planning specialists at Nordea International Private Banking (Luxembourg / Switzerland / Singapore).

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Scan Magazine | Business | Columns

The right kind of praise

By Steve Flinders

Whenever I ask junior managers across Europe about praise, they usually tell me that they give more of it than they receive. In certain big companies, I’m told, the absence of criticism must be interpreted as praise.

isn’t also relevant to the adult workplace. He says children are praised too much and are getting the wrong kind. Children praised for being clever may end up under-performing and anxious because they lack an incentive to do better.

I used to find this quite sad and frustrating.

Don’t we all benefit from praise? Isn’t it motivating to be told that we’re doing a good job? I remember the thing I appreciated most from my first coach was the encouragement she gave me: I realised I wasn’t getting any from anyone else.

I know that praise (“You did a good job ...”) is different from feedback (“... and here’s how I think you can do even better next time”) but I understand now that I need to be more discriminating about praise itself. He says good praisers only praise when someone has done something really difficult; that they observe, listen and say thank you. Too many parents are lazy praisers, simply lifting their own self-esteem for a while.

So I’ve always told managers that praise is good and that there should be more of it around the workplace. Yet after reading one of the fascinating essays in The Examined Life by psychoanalyst, Stephen Grosz, I’m not so sure.

Admittedly he focuses on how we praise children but I wonder whether the research he cites

The UN’s World Happiness Report tells us that Scandinavians are the happiest people in the world so maybe they don’t overpraise their children or colleagues. In any case, don’t tell me you liked this. I might get lazy or anxious.

Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, now based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com www.coachingyork.co.uk/item/ steve-flinders

Scandinavian Business Calendar

By Julie Lindén

– Highlights of Scandinavian business events DUCC presents: From brewer’s yeast to personalised medicine This is an event for anyone interested in innovation, science, therapeutics and life science in general.

There will be a mix of pharma, biotech, academia and VC from a variety of backgrounds (business side as well as R&D) and with no particular geographic connection. The event will be followed by an evening of networking.

Time and date: Deutsche Bank AG 1, Great Winchester Street, EC2N 2DB London, Great Britain Venue: 23 April 6pm – 9.30pm

Activity day with NBCC in Scotland Don't miss NBCC’s signature event of 2015 and the wonderful opportunity to play the Ryder Cup course at Gleneagles. There will also be activities for non-golfers. This is a unique networking opportunity where both the London and Aberdeen chapters come together to enjoy the fantastic facilities at Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland. It is just one hour's drive from both Glasgow and Edinburgh international airports, and nestles in the heart of a beautiful Scottish glen. Activities taking place are: golf, off-road driving, clay target and archery/or air rifle or spa.

They have even thought about your other half; the hotel spa has treatments to suit everyone.

Time and date: 20 April Venue: The Gleneagles Hotel

there themselves, ask questions, and network with like-minded people from various industries.

Time and date: 20 May 6pm-8pm ember Venue: Regency Hotel, South Kensington, London

Healthy, happy and at work with SCC The Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK in collaboration with TalisLife and Aveqia invites you to an evening of insightful and inspirational workshops on the theme of corporate wellness. Happy, healthy and at work will address how you can stay healthy and happy, and also be the best that you possibly can be at work as well as in your personal life. Tickets are limited, so sign-up now to avoid disappointment.

Time and date: 21 April 6pm – 9pm Venue: Aveqia, 2 St Bride Street, London EC4A 4AD

Doing business in Britain – dos and don’ts Get ready for an entrepreneurial boost as five talented speakers from Britian as well as Scandinavia share their experiences of doing business in the UK at this exciting event hosted by the Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce in London.

Learn more about starting your own business and financing your ideas from people who have been

Photo: Courtesy of DUCC

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Scan Magazine | Humour | Columns

IS IT JUST ME...

By Mette Lisby

Who was shocked when a recent survey showed that more than 25 per cent of Britons believe that women are fully or partly to blame for being raped if they wear sexy or revealing clothes?!

It is mind boggling to me how this logic works.

Or rather: Imagine this logic put to work in how we view other crimes.

For instance, imagine shoplifters defending themselves with a: “Well, the goods were placed deliberately for me to see, so I thought I was allowed to take them.” Stores, supermarkets, shopping malls would look a lot different if people viewed the actions of store managers the way they view scantily clad women.

And imagine a bank robber claiming his innocence by insisting that the bank provoked him to steal. “Your Honour, I went inside the bank and they had all this money. Actually, one employee behind the teller was counting some money, flaunting it, provocatively, right in front of me. How was I supposed to know he didn’t want me to take it?”

Now imagine if all of us unleashed this logic into our everyday lives – that we could all judge

what people wanted from the way they dressed AND that the way they dress is a signal to each and every one of us, specifically, to feel free to take advantage of them, based on what they dress up for.

So when I meet someone wearing a boring suit and a blue shirt, I would conclude that he looked like an accountant and that it would be considered reasonable that I should feel entitled to expect he’d do my tax returns?

For free?

And people wearing handyman canvasoveralls are simply "asking for it" when I ask them home and force them to fix my washing machine, even though my invitation was only a subtle “would like to come to my place and have a cup of coffee?” Because handymen must be aware that it’s open for the rest of us to “read between the lines” and expect them to fix our houses, under the same cup of coffee pretence, right?

Gala Pie I have now lived in England for 20 years. It would be easy to assume that by this point I’m more English than Swedish and that I am now familiar with all aspects of British life. This is not so. I find it (mostly) reassuring that I still come across things that are completely new to me. It reminds me that I am a foreigner, which I feel is an important part of my personality. It can be really hard to be a foreigner, but it also allows you to see things from a perspective that would otherwise be invisible. And it means that you can take delight in finding new tricks up Britain’s sleeves. Like Gala Pie. For those of you who – like me – have never come across this before, I can best describe this as a kind of assault on culinary decency. It’s cold pork meat, stuffed with egg, wrapped in pastry and sliced. If you’re English you’re probably wondering what on earth I’m talking about, it’s just

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Or must handymen simply have to learn to just not walk around and look like handymen because: “Your Honour he was sending confusing signals to the rest of us.”

Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.

By Maria Smedstad

THAT?!?!’ I didn’t even have the words in Swedish to describe it. And then, on tucking into the dish came the second good thing about (still) being foreign. It’s the surprise and delight that follow the discovery of a new thing that you really enjoy.

Some people have to resort to tango lessons, or sky diving. To a foreigner, it can be as simple as a cold slice of Gala Pie.

Gala Pie, it’s completely normal. Slap it on a plate, chuck on some coleslaw and a handful of salt and vinegar crisps and Bob’s your uncle. To me however, being presented with this meant having to dig my phone out my bag in order to take a picture for my relatives in Sweden. Naturally their response was ‘WHAT IS

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

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Scan Magazine | Culture | Columns

Train like a Viking – top tips for when embarking on a life change My Viking Method consists of unique functional exercises, worked through within specific time frames. Incorporating a series of switches between functional cardio and resistance exercises, the method forces the body to work to the maximum. The foundation is always the same:

By Svava Sigbertsdóttir

Be moderate when you start training Don't go from doing no training to two-hour daily gym sessions. Start with going for two sessions a week, and make that part of your routine. Try out different things, find out what type of training you enjoy and can see yourself doing weekly. Once that is in your routine, up the frequency intelligently. Get a trainer, join a class or get an exercise programme online – there are so many options. Use them.

Change your diet bit by bit Same as with the training, do not do a diet flip over night. Start by changing your breakfast and snacks.

Get used to that change. Then change your lunch.

Then your dinner. The main reason why so many give up when changing their eating habits, is that too many changes are introduced too fast.

Be positive Do not tear yourself down if you cannot do everything perfectly straight away. Try your hardest but

do not be hard on yourself. Where is the fun if you could do everything straight away? Set small training and nutritional goals and reward yourself when you reach them. Celebrate each victory!

This is a life change – so make it last You want to optimise the quality of your life in the long run – not just for April. If the main reason you are making this change is weight loss, then do not get disheartened if you do not reach your ideal weight in four weeks. Do not be impatient. Make this change in the right way and you will reap the benefits for the rest of your life..

Make training a part of your life Enjoy it. Have fun with it. Train with your kids, your partner, your friends. I do different obstacle races throughout the year with my friends and my daughter is joining me for the next one. This is a great way to train towards goals and enjoy an amazing satisfaction when you finish a race.

LOST FOR WORDS

Svava Sigbertsdóttir is the founder of the Viking Method – an exercise regime that leads to visible, instant results. www.thevikingmethod.com

By Adam Jacot de Boinod

Photo: Iceland.is

The Icelandic and indeed Old Icelandic vocabularies have some wonderful examples the definitions of which raise the eyebrows of the outside world.

Icelandic:

Old Icelandic:

sofa sleep

bjor-reifr cheerful from beer-drinking

féauðnu-maðr a man lucky with his sheep

bless goodbye

eldhus-fifi an idiot who sits all day by the fire

fara a puttanu to hitchhike (literally, to travel on the thumb)

af-vegar fallen on one's back and unable to rise

beina-fœrsla the removal of bones (from one churchyard to another)

hvelreki good luck (literally, may a whole whale wash up on your beach) hippoppolli to jump into puddles

búa-grettur a quarrel between neighbours

toelva computer (formed from the words for digit and prophetess)

bráða-hola a hole where the wild beasts carry their prey

sneisar-hald the part of a sausage in which the pin is stuck

ber-dreymr having clear dreams as to the future

Adam Jacot de Boinod was a researcher for the BBC television series QI and is the author of The Meaning of Tingo and the creator of the iPhone App Tingo, a game involving interesting words. Here he looks at what interests the outside world about the Scandinavian languages.

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Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Music

Scandinavian Music Norwegian balladeer Marion Raven has turned things on their head with her new single Kicks In. On it, we get to hear Marion unleashing her inner Scandinavian electro siren, but with a fun edge to it – almost glam rock. It’s not what you were expecting to hear from a Marion Raven single, but it sounds all the more awesome for it. It’s the second track to be taken from her new Scandal album, following the much more Marion-sounding ballad (and also awesome) Better Than This.

Another artist offering up something different is one of Sweden’s biggest pop stars, Darin. Ta Mig Tillbaka marks the beginning of a brand new era for Darin. It’s the first time he’s released an original song in Swedish, and it’s the first big rein-

vention of his ten-year career. The song is an atmospheric folk ballad and sets him aside, sonically, as a one man First Aid Kit. And though he’s always been successful in Sweden with his English language dance, pop and R&B, this new direction might well see him go stratospheric over there. It’s already becoming a hit in neighbouring Norway too.

Fans of Swedish rock outfit The Ark will be pleased to hear former frontman Ola Salo’s new solo output. His new single How I Kill sounds precisely like what made The Ark so big a decade ago. That’s not to say he’s trading on former glories – it just sounds like he’s doing the style of music that he loves the most, and therefore sounds the most comfortable doing. It’s got a nostalgic quality to it, and there is a lot of charm to be found within the backing vocals – a cross between gospel music, and well, The Ark. Eurovision winner Loreen has just released her first new single in almost two

By Karl Batterbee

years. She returned with Paper Light (Higher) – a cool and contemporary dance track that is based around a piano house riff and elevated by Loreen’s inimitable vocals. Drawing comparisons to Keisza, it’s a song good enough to make Europe fall in love with her all over again.

Finally – don’t pretend you’re not partial to a bit of Ace of Base. They’ve just released a ‘new’ album, Hidden Gems, on which they have collected together a whole load of rare and unreleased tracks from their twenty-year long career. And while it may well be an album of what are essentially re-mastered and polished-up album rejects from yesteryear – it’s a damn sight better than a lot of the pop albums that have so far been released in 2015. www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@googlemail.com

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Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here!

Von Hertzen Brothers on tour (April) Finnish rock band Von Hertzen Brothers are touring the UK this month with their latest album New Day Rising. www.vonhertzenbrothers.com Sakari Oramo and the BBC Symphony Orchestra (23 May) An evening of music by Nielsen, Sibelius, Rachmaninov and Foulds, conducted by Finnish Sakari Oramo and featuring pianist Denis Kozhukhin. Barbican Hall, London, EC2Y. www.bbc.co.uk/events

Mew on tour (May) Danish rock band Mew are touring Europe with their 2015 album + -. mewsite.com Prince Eugen 150 years – Facets of a life (Until 24 May) The Swedish Prince Eugen's 150th anniversary is celebrated with a major jubilee exhibition that presents a full-body view of the Prince. Prince Eugen the artist makes up the core of the exhibition, but the gallery also shines a light on the Prince's role as an art collector and designer. Works by his friends, including Carl Larsson, Nils Dardel and Anders Zorn, are also featured. Tue-Sun 11am5pm, Thu until 8pm. Waldermarsudde, Prins Eugens väg 6, Stockholm. www.waldermarsudde.se Ismo Hölttö (Until 31 May) Finnish photographer Ismo Hölttö documented Finns in their own living environments in the ‘60s and ‘70s. He travelled extensively and captured the lives of people living in remote areas and the Finnish Roma minority among others. The photographs in this exhibition were taken at a time when life in Finland changed at an exceptional speed. Cities grew fast, living standards improved and traditional rural communities began withering. Tue & Fri 10am-6pm, Wed & Thu 10am-8pm, Sat & Sun 10am-5pm. Ateneum Art Museum, Kaivokatu 2, Helsinki. ateneum.fi

What's happening?

(Until 2 Aug) Art was torn from the frames and down from the pedestals. It mixed and merged with popular culture, everyday life, fashion, sexual liberation, and the new women's movement. The exhibition What's Happening focuses on experimental art from the period 1965 to 1975 and features artists such as Lene Adler Petersen, Per Kirkeby, Andy Wahol and Marina Abramovi’ c. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, Wed 10am-8pm. National Gallery of Denmark, Sølvgade 48-50, Copenhagen. smk.dk Below right: Lene Adler Petersen, One of a total of 484 works from the series Cuttings on Paper with the Female Sign, 1974, Collage, 226 x 159 mm. © The Royal Collection of Graphic Art. SMK, National Gallery of Denmark

Photo: Per Myrehed

Johanna Billing: Pulheim Jam Session (Until 25 April) Swedish conceptual artist Johanna Billing's site for her new video work is the region of Pulheim in Germany. Tue-Fri 11am-6pm, Sat 12noon-5pm. Hollybush Gardens, London, EC1R. hollybushgardens.co.uk

Tove Styrke on tour (April/May) Former Swedish Idol contestant, Tove Styrke is touring Europe this spring. www.facebook.com/tovestyrke

Anders Zorn. Photo: John Davidsen

Forms of Freedom: African independence and Nordic models (Until 19 April) During a few intense years in the ‘60s and ‘70s, Nordic architects contributed to the rapid process of modernisation in Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia which were liberated at that time. The leaders of the new African states wanted partners without a murky colonial past and established bonds with the Nordic countries. The exhibition tells the incomplete story of this architectural production, exploring how these works were absorbed, rejected, adapted and transformed. Tue, Wed & Fri 11am-5pm, Thu 11am-7pm, Sat & Sun 12noon-5pm. The National Museum - Architecture, Bankplassen 3, Oslo. nasjonalmuseet.no

By Sara Schedin

Issue 75 | April 2015 | 115

2_9_ScanMag_75_April_2015_Text_Q9_MADS_Scan Magazine 1 07/04/2015 21:43 Page 116

#Mountainlife

HEMSEDAL – ALL YEAR ROUND Enjoy active days in the Norwegian mountains with family and friends!

Book your mountain holiday at hemsedal.com