Atlantica - 01.05.2007, Qupperneq 39

38 a t l a n t i c a
When the doors opened I realized why. The
starting point of the museum sits at the top
floor of Universeum, its glass ceiling enclosing a
recreated ecosystem like that of northern Sweden
– coniferous trees, clear spring water, and chilly
temperatures. The ponds were full of life from
the region, including frogs and fish swimming
around.
As the path descends through this eco-system,
it guides the visitor to the second of three envi-
ronments, this time the sea. Kids stared wide-
eyed through huge glass windows and ceilings as
sharks swam past, one with its baby shark swim-
ming directly underneath it.
The third and most popular system is the
rainforest that Ida recommended. Humid and
tropical, birds and monkeys roamed free. There
was even an anaconda swamp – thankfully out of
reach of potential human victims.
In addition to the opportunity to walk through
re-created atmosphere, children could explore
special play areas and zones, learning about the
human body and space, among other things. Even
the toilets were environmentally friendly. “Here
at Universeum we recycle our urine (pee) from
visitors and staff,” proclaimed a sign posted on
the inside of every stall. Apparently the urine is
digested by microorganisms which feed some of
the museum’s fish.
The people are exceptionally friendly. It was
not unusual for people to ask us if we were lost or
provide us with restaurant recommendations on the
street. – Laura
Gothenburg is a lovely town and well deserving
of its reputation as the friendliest city in Sweden.
– Robert
Gothenburg certainly boasted enough attrac-
tions to keep me busy for a few days. And for any
visitors later in the season, two of the biggest
attractions, the Liseberg amusement park and
the New Älvsborg Fortress, are open. But the city
can also lay claim to the great triumvirate of a
successful weekend break: good food, shopping,
and nightlife.
Yet despite delectable cinnamon buns, enthrall-
ing museums, and tranquil islands, the city’s
charms still lie mostly undiscovered by those
outside Scandinavia. You’re not likely to see
many people strolling up the Avenyn looking
bemused and consulting a huge paper map. But
that’s an attraction in itself. You get to plot the
points yourself – or just ask for help and the sug-
gestions, from friendly locals and beyond, will
come flooding in. a
GothenburGa
PLACES MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Husaren, Haga Nygata 26, cafehusaren.se.
Köttbullar Källare, Vasagatan 24.
Sticky Fingers, Kaserntorget 7, stickyfingers.nu.
Hearts of Black Science,
myspace.com/heartsofblackscience.
Universeum, Södra Vägen 50, universeum.se.
Icelandair flies two times weekly
from Keflavík International Airport to
Gothenburg.
Vrängö Island.