I am a 74 year old American woman who has lived in Europe for the last 35 years. I moved to Sweden 26 years ago having married a Swedish man. We got married and lived in Kalmar (on the east coast) for over ten years where we owned a sailboat which we frequently sailed on the Kalmar Sound. Then we moved to Trosa, a resort town also on the east coast, for another ten years and for the last nearly five years we have lived in a small village (population 650) in Dalarna surrounded by lakes. I cannot tell you how many times I have thanked my husband for being Swedish!! There is no other place in the world I can imagine living. My soul is happy. Regarding wild life, I have seen lynx, foxes, wild bores, cranes, migrating frogs in a line over the road (😂), wild geese, reindeer, other deers and many, many elk - one just this morning - and once one swimming from tiny island to tiny island while my husband and I were out in a boat fishing. Not one bear though. (Those I’ve encountered in Yosemite, California and in Wyoming.) I can assure you, as you already know, you are going to love it here! One practical bit of advice: invest in window and door nets for the summer!!! Last summer I discovered window nets that have a zipper near the bottom which you can use to effortlessly open and close your windows. Otherwise you have to unfasten the velcro (called “kardborreband” in Swedish) each time, which causes a lot of wear and tear. Warmest welcome 🫶🍾🥂🎉💥
its unimaginable to me why anyone would want to come to america after living here when i DREAM of living somewhere like this... it feels so unreal to me and it feels like home and piece of mind already to me. i want to sell all my sht and pack my bags to live here IMMEDIATELY!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 i am so tired of this concrete wasteland.
Don’t forget to wear a life jacket when kayaking and boating, especially in cold water. Cold water can shock you and cause hypothermia in minutes. A life jacket can save your life if you fall in.
I’m a Canadian triathlete and familiar with lake swimming, usually wearing a wetsuit even in the summer! 🥶 Cold water can trigger involuntary gasping due to the shock of sudden immersion, and can create an emergency if water is inhaled. Enhance your happy place with a life jacket 🤩
Hi Alex, I am an experienced whitewater kayaker. Scotland is an amazing for paddling, the Dee, Spey and Tay would all make for a good multi day kayak trip. There are lots of providers who would be able to help you with this. Glenmore lodge would be great place to gain some basic skills. Please please please get a buoyancy aid in the meantime.
This video made me realise how Swedish I really am. When You guys lit the sauna fire and then casually stod there chatting in the doorway, all my Swedish ass could think of was "close the damn sauna door!!!".
I'm so happy you're enjoying life in Sweden. Seeing your videos is reminding me why this country is such a fantastic place to live in! I tend to forget about that, being a bit home blind (or what you call it in English). So thank you so much for that, and I hope you find you're own fantastic oasis here in Sweden soon ❤
My son moved to Sweden 3 years ago for work. He bought an apartment in Stockholm and continues to rent a flat near Are for winter and summer sports. He is learning to speak Swedish and loves many aspects of living there. This is his first time living away from Canada.
I can assure you that Åre is a fantastiskt place. I’ve been travling to Åre every year since a kid and are now living there since the last 3 years. Beautiful mountains 🏔️ and wildlife and so many activites to do all year around. It’s hard not to love Åre. I think he made a great choice moving here 😊
You two are just beautiful souls! Your energy and the way you laugh together, and banter with each other is life! Great role modelling for your son. Thank you for sharing your laughter and adventures with us 🙏🏻
I lived/travelled in Sweden for 15 years. Love Sweden!! The peace, each season has its own beauty and rhythm, welcoming people. I hope you get your dream of moving there. Plus then I can get my Sweden fix watching your videos!
As a person living in northern Sweden i have to say that the winters aren’t really a big problem. You just have to know how to get the most out of it. I would say that winter is my favorit part of the year because there is so much to do. I love to ski wether it’s alpine skiing, crosscountry skiing or nordic skiing. I love to be able to skate on a frozen lake or play ice hockey. You can go ice fishing on a frozen lake, go snowmobiling and a lot more. As the icing on the cake you will see a lot of northern lights
I was in Scandinavia last year Denmark, Sweden and Norway and they were amazing countries. I love the vibe and attitude to life over there. Seems like they have a really good balance.
If you want to be safe kayaking, dress for the water temperature. At the very least, wear a brightly colored life jacket / pfd to aid search and rescue find or recover you. Also, if you own a kayak and keep it near the water, write your name and phone number in case it drifts away. A simple call to the number can prevent a lot of wasted manpower if an empty kayak is seen drifting along. BEAUTIFUL country!!!! Best of luck with your goals!👍👍
Sweden is the best place I have canoed, wild camping is so common over there, there are loads of places where people have made natural fire pits and often left some wood behind to get you started. The scenery is stunning, when I did a canoeing trip there, every time we went round a bend it was a new surprise. Would absolutely recommend a longer paddle next time you're out there. Svartälven river is one to check out, winding tree covered connections between different lakes. There are beavers to spot around there too. Love your channel, the Sweden series makes me want to get out more!
My son and his wife moved to Sweden 6 years ago, down south in the Skåne region, in Gantofta. They now now have 2 gorgeous little girls and are living their best life. I doubt they'll ever come back to Britain. We love our time in Sweden with them! I hope you find your dream home soon! 🥰
Love fika!!! Being Swedish myself but born and raised in America, one thing my dad instilled in his kids was fika 👍🏻 and the love of outdoors and adventure. When the time is right the universe will show you your dream home. 🏠
Kayaking on a lake is great but you should wear a life jacket especially when the water is really cold! When I watch your videos, I'm really glad we have a cabin by a lake (and a kayak) here in Finland!
I was thinking the same...and that there surely must be a life jacket at the house if there's a kayak.. falling into that freezing water fully clothed without a life jacket would be very scary.. and possibly fatal if far out in the lake...
With the string of "luck" you had, I can''t blame you for thinking of opting out of creating content for a while. I can say that I am so happy you seem to have changed your mind though. Your enthusiasm and zest for lie, your laughter - brings so much joy. Thank you for sharing your life with us. xo
Staying in a variety of different accommodations in a variety of different places is a great opportunity to learn about what ELSE is out there!!! Before taking that giant step!!!
Great advice for a holiday, but in the end you're going to be living and working there, interacting with the local community and living through the seasons. Got to suck it and see, I guess. What's wrong with Finland?🤣
@@jj-if6it Yes all three, but try by living and working there first. And countries with only three months' of good weather, you need to be there at its harshest to see if you can cope. Not jump in the first chance you get to buy a place. You have to remember, as non-residents, they'll be subject to Schengen restrictions, so this will just be a holiday home for part of the year.
Hope you keep looking for a home here in Sweden! We are just happy to be having such a great and happy couple move here! Myself I live full time in my motor home here in Sweden.
Try looking at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area between Canada and the US and see what is offered for kayaking trips. Stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, intriguing waterways, and rich history... I grew up in Northern MN and it was a place we went every year as a family
Agreed. Definitely look into the BWCA in Minnesota. It is right next to Voyeaguers National Park (I've camped on islands by boat in that area), which was stunning. Also, watching your Sweden series made me understand why so many Scandinavian people settled in MN. The lakes, the rocks, the trees are so familiar. Adding northern Sweden to my bucket list! Great job and so happy to see you relaxed and happy!
Yes I think that is where Kara and Nate did their canoe challenge videos, they would be canoe fir a while, then have to carry their canoe on along trail to the next lake. It looked challenging
I love watching you guys fall in love with this country!!! 🌱🥹 I grew up here and have always loved the nature but this really reminds me of how important it is for me to fall in love with it over and over again! ❤️🌱
I enjoyed your video. You reminded me of my grandparents my grandfather was from Sweden and my grandma was from Norway. They all ways had 10am. & 3pm coffee & a sweet roll or cookies my grandma made. Everything stopped for that time. Thank you for sharing your time with other's. 💜🕊️
What you are feeling and experiencing in the Swedish holiday home culture never goes away. Never. Your holiday home will be where your hearts are. You will never regret choosing that lifestyle, whether it's in Sweden or Canada or wherever. Clearly, you are suited for that life and environment. Seeing the joy in your eyes, body language and tone of voice brings happy tears to my eyes as I sit looking out the window of my cottage (holiday home) that is so near and dear to my heart and soul. This is the place that brings my family together and has for decades. We can go anywhere in the world, but having this to return to at any time is simply magical. You must do this. Being at your chosen holiday home will become part of you and your family, to the core. Nothing can ever replace it. Sending best wishes for success in finding your magical home.
Go anywhere you’re hearts desires!! I’m in for the ride!! Make memories and live life to the fullest!!! That’s really living!! Your baby is lucky to have you as parents!!!!
For kayaking you can't beat Canada with 60% of the world's freshwater lakes, and amazing rivers. In Ontario alone we have 250,000 lakes (30% of the Canadian lakes). As with you, Alex, this is my Zen.
Love that you like our country. There are thousands of places like the one in the last video. Only matter of time. Be patient, enjoy and don´t let go of your dream😊
I so very much love seeing you both happy through the entire video. It isn’t that I don’t enjoy watching all your adventures, because I do. With that said, how lovely it is to see you and Noah in such a happy place. That is how I feel when I visit England and my birthplace in Washington State. I cannot remember if you have visited the Pacific Northwest yet, but I suspect that you would love Puget Sound area, the Olympic Peninsula, the San Juan Islands and the Washington and Oregon coasts. 💚🌲💚
Oh my gosh that vacation cabin would be perfect for your young family. Too bad that one is not on the market. Don’t give up, the right one will happen for you. Keep the faith! Thanks for sharing your journey. 🍀
Don't give up 2 houses sold from under me and the home I wound up buying was and is perfect for my daughter and myself! I am in the US this happened in 2017. Everything we owned including the two of was in my jank care and we were homeless. Cheering you on wishing our home was more like these old Swedish cabin homes. So I am trying to style it inside like them thank you UA-cam and Pinterest! Beans you will find the hose you are meant to make your home! As soon as I saw him "get in" the kayak I was all he was going swimming I love you OMG Brrrrr!
Alex, when I was much younger I got to spend quite a bit of time in southern Germany for the weekends and sometimes even for week long stays. One of the best kayak experiences I ever had was kayaking down a large stream into the Chiemsee, paddling out to the island and having lunch, then paddling back to shore. It was actually a sponsored tour that the US Army offered while we stayed there.
I agree, but sadly a very long way to travel. They would need to fly into Vancouver or Calgary then catch a connecting flight to Prince George. From there it would be at least a 4-5 hour road trip just to reach the lodge at Bowron Lake.
I have my holiday house on the island of Gotland. For 43 years now. Never there during winter. But every summer. And soon i retire and then i will spend most of the year. Cant wait. 🙂
Don’t be sad. the hand that’s been dealt to you is sooo impressive . Y’all created your hands in the game and with your futures so😊 brite.. you are on the Swedan path…
I'm so happy you enjoyed your time there. I know your heart broke when the little cabin was lost to a bidding war. It's an Omen for an even more perfect place later ❤. ABOUT RIVER OR LAKE PROPERTY: the underground Water Table is very important to know about for each and every property before buying. A property can look beautiful at certain times of the year but basements or slabs can have incoming and outgoing water accumulation WITHIN your dwellings so that's a serious Heads Up! BLACK MOLD under or behind floors and walls from the accumulated moisture is a common HIDDEN FACTOR with Lake or River properties. Always a health consideration, especially for small children who are oftentimes entertained regularly at the floor level or on rugs. Get any Seller to state IN WRITING, IN THE CONTRACT that there is ZERO water damage year round. 😉.
Alex I would highly recommend looking at Ontario, Canada for a great kayaking trip. Two guys that do a great job of showcasing kayaking/canoe camping trips in Ontario are John Kelly’s channel Lost Lakes or Xandier Budnick.
I agree, we live in Ottawa, Ontario and we have so many options for beautiful kayaking spots all under an hour of our home. Lots of rivers and lakes, and each one different. It’s a great way to really relax and enjoy nature up close!
Watching your first expressions of a country I also live in as a foreigner is so fun! I love watching you guys! 😍 Speaking of winter, I know many Sweds who leave in Jan/Feb to escape the darkness (that's wayyyy worse than cold), it's pretty normal here if you have a remote or even hybrid job. Oh, the saunas are even included in rent in student accommodations! 🤣
I don’t know about kayak camping but you could come to Minnesota and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and canoe camp. There are all manner of outfitters, some that provide guides. And no grizzly bears, just much smaller black bears. Look it up. My 23 year old daughter and her girlfriend are going next weekend. I’ve been going to the BWCAW for 45 years, it’s amazingly beautiful and wild. I’m happy to answer any questions.
Fika is the best. It can really be anything you want. Chocolate, a sandwich, some toast, some fruit, yogurt. It’s very similar to a casual afternoon tea. It’s really just a lite meal, snack, or sweet.
Go for it guy's buy a home in Sweden, you both obviously love it there! (when Kayaking, always wear a life vest! I know from past experience that they keep you buoyant)
We spent a month (the entire month of Dec 2022) in wintry Scandinavia (Sweden, Denmark and Norway) and we dearly loved our daily mid-morning and late afternoon fika/kaffe breaks. The other countries have their own versions of the Swedes' fika, but same awesome concept. And, yes, everywhere we went throughout the 3 countries (plus @ the airport in Helsinki, Finland), most people spoke perfect English.
As a Norwegian I can tell we have not adopted the Swedish fika - it is a Scandinavian thing, not Swedish. We just don't call it fika. In Norway we say "kaffepause", which means "coffee break". It is not locked in at times of the day, we take it when we need it, and as many times a day as we want. We also have the term "kos", which means we enjoy the moment, with coffee, beer, wine or whatever. Chocolate, dried meat, waffles or some other snack. We light a candle if it is winter and/or dark, sit in front of the fireplace or wrap ourselves in wool blankets and just enjoy the moment - either alone or with others. In Denmark they have the term "hygge", which is more or less the same.
@@ahkkariq7406 By use the word "adopt", I didn't mean that Norwegians or Danes took it from the Swedes, but that each country has its own version. Didn't mean any offense, and have changed my post to exclude that word... But, whether fika, kaffeepause, kos or hygge, it's all a good thing. Two of our four weeks in Scandinavia were spent in Norway and we travelled much of the country - from as far south as Oslo to as far north as Nordkapp and as far east as Kirkenes - by various modes of transportation. AMAZING country where we met so many wonderful people! Can't wait to go back again! And maybe even move there -- we're considering it. BTW, my YT profile pic was taken in Vigeland Park in Oslo.
This is the best video you guys produced. I will pay money to learn from you how to make such high quality videos. Who am I kidding. Is not the best one you guys. You did so many other great videos. But this one is the one that made me write a comment. A comment, the very first comment on UA-cam. Keep going beens.
Very entertaining video 📹 👏. Sweden 🇸🇪 is very beautiful. Look forward to you finding your home 🏡 base there one day. See you on the next one adventurers 😊😊😊❤❤❤.
A kayak trip I really recommend is paddling through Rapadalen in Sarek National Park here in northern Sweden. It is a fantastic experience that allows you to view a completely unique nature! :)
I can say that I've quickly become a Travel Beans fan since seeing you in Portugal with the Newbys on their channel. You both are so entertaining and make me laugh. Love watching your adventures. 😊
Ahhh ... relaxation! Y'know, I don't think anyone would fault you for taking a break from vlogging for a bit ... if it has become too much (or not enough) it would be perfectly natural to re-centre yourselves and your creativity/sense of discovery.
I can recommend you look at property in the high coast, around Örnsköldsvik and a bit south of it, before you completely lock in Dalarna. It's a magic place in the summer if you like boat life, making daytrips to small islands, hiking up to viewpoints and outdoor life in general.
@@shaunallen5678 midges? if that's a type of mosquito then it's probably about the same or less than in Dalarna. I think the mosquito record in Sweden is somewhere in Dalarna. But it varies a lot from year to year.
Alright, Alex. In northern California, near Lake Tahoe is a place called Desolation Wilderness. Lots of people camp there every year (you just need to get a permit to camp ahead of time online) and it's a total backpacking trip, leaving no trace. In California, we have black bears, not those crazy grizzlies. But I think some places hardly see them. Plus, then you're near Lake Tahoe which is one of the most beautiful places!
If you want a long term place you have to think in your son, when he start school , if he is going or have home school, think where do you want him to have his education , and a safe country
My thoughts exactly. That kid will need to go to school soon. If I was them I would try and find a place in the UK, also consider having a second kid. You guys have access to free, high quality healthcare in the UK. Wish I had that…
You don‘t need to go that far from Zweden. Ever thought about Carinthia in Austria? We got bears, wolves and eild cats aswell. And plenty rivers and lakes.
After all those years following you on your channel I still love it to see one of your newest videos! You are such a beautiful couple (family) that spread so much positive and enjoyable energy, show me places I´ve neve been before with beautiful images, music and positive thoughts hat help me to relax after a long day of work, make me smile and let me dream of/about all the opportunities we europeans have if we start thinking "outside the box" of everydays "grind" and off the beaten path! Thank you for putting a smile on my face everytime I watch one of your videos! All the best to you and please keep up the good work and your very entertaining, informative and "therapeutic" youtube channel!!!🙂👍
Love all of your videos they are so well put together and just absolutely gorgeous. Your drone footage is amazing thank you so much for such great videos ❣️❣️
A tip for kayaking Alex. When getting in and out of the kayak lay your paddle across the kayak just in front of the cockpit with one end resting on the shore and use the paddle to hold onto and stabilise the kayak. I hope that makes sense as a description. It makes things easier anyway.
Look up Simon Bloke in the woods/Kent Survival. They both do camping/canoe van camping in the UK. although they did travel camp and canoe across Sweden last year.
Fika is the adult version of "milk & biscuit" that I experienced at some English scools and kindergartens in the 90's. But fika is not only at a work place... We also meet up at cafés or coffee shops for "en fika" that can be everything from 15/30 min to several hours. I love every bit of you telling us how it is... because that's the way fika is... pretty flexible.
You guys are so relaxing and fun to watch. Wake up drink my coffee and watch you and your adventures and having Noah in the mix watching him grow up and seeing how great you both are with him makes my day, So sorry you didn't get your house but you will find one maybe better than the last don't rush it. But anyway Stay Safe, Safe Travels and Love and Prayers Always see you in the next video. God has a plan for you guys and maybe that's why you didn't get that house he may have a better place if store for you guys think positive always.
Make your base Sweden for sure. I think you could in time make your land a holiday campsite business for likeminded people. It’s perfect for you. You look happier here in a long time of managing stress.
You look so relaxed. I hope you follow your heart and find a place by water in the Swedish countryside. The fact that many people already speak English certainly would help with the transition.
I am so glad you found a way to feel recharged. I find your channel a way for me to feel well with the world. The way you seem to enjoy each other and your new child, is quite heart warming. (To be honest, from what I have seen of Swedish winters, I do wonder if you would enjoy them in the same way that you enjoy the Swedish summers and spring. So I am glad that you are open to look at other places.)
Sweden definitely fits you all for the down time you need. Over the next few years as Noah get his earthly feet under him, a place in Sweden would be a great base for you all! You guys thrive in the natural world like many of us. The natural world is the real world. Not our cities and man made places. They are great for community for sure but the closer they can be to nature the better the community. I've lived in Colorado for 32 years and being close to both city and nature is great! I need the mountains like a bee needs honey! And you present Sweden like a flat Colorado! LOL. And you guys edit awesomely. You give us a close sense of where you are when you are where you are. Thank you! Plus, you guys are hilarious, intriguing and totally British, Keep being you guys and we will still be here!
Come to the states Colorado river is the best and there's many other places in the states. I really like you guys watching is a calmness. Your wife is wonderful. You seem like an awful good husband and father. I would love to meet you guys someday I traveled in East Africa as a missionary for yearskayaking is definitely something that gives you peace. My wife and I enjoy long bike rides. Another escape we have lost two children 19 and 37 and believe me we like to get away from things keep up the good work. Love you guys.
I was always taught to get in a canoe by putting the paddle behind the seat and across the jetty , then put your hand on the paddle and your weight will brace it to the jetty as you get in, you may even keep your feet dry. :)
You would love it here where i live in Sweden! Jämtland county is close to Dalarna county and Norway. We have an Airport here in Östersund. You can just take a flight from Copenhagen airport in Denmark. You can find REALLY cheep houses and A LOT of lakes here! And close to the airport!A beautiful county with a lot of wildlife!! It will suit your family perfectly! Look it upp!!!!!! ❤️🙏🪄🍿
It looks gorgeous! Loving these vids (much more than the van ones) - really loved your Italy series too. The aerial shots are amazing - thanks for sharing!
I am a 74 year old American woman who has lived in Europe for the last 35 years. I moved to Sweden 26 years ago having married a Swedish man. We got married and lived in Kalmar (on the east coast) for over ten years where we owned a sailboat which we frequently sailed on the Kalmar Sound. Then we moved to Trosa, a resort town also on the east coast, for another ten years and for the last nearly five years we have lived in a small village (population 650) in Dalarna surrounded by lakes. I cannot tell you how many times I have thanked my husband for being Swedish!! There is no other place in the world I can imagine living. My soul is happy. Regarding wild life, I have seen lynx, foxes, wild bores, cranes, migrating frogs in a line over the road (😂), wild geese, reindeer, other deers and many, many elk - one just this morning - and once one swimming from tiny island to tiny island while my husband and I were out in a boat fishing. Not one bear though. (Those I’ve encountered in Yosemite, California and in Wyoming.) I can assure you, as you already know, you are going to love it here! One practical bit of advice: invest in window and door nets for the summer!!! Last summer I discovered window nets that have a zipper near the bottom which you can use to effortlessly open and close your windows. Otherwise you have to unfasten the velcro (called “kardborreband” in Swedish) each time, which causes a lot of wear and tear. Warmest welcome 🫶🍾🥂🎉💥
How lovely! Okay, I'm sold! ♥
Sounds lovely!
Sounds wonderful 👍👍👍
I’m just trying 😊😊
its unimaginable to me why anyone would want to come to america after living here when i DREAM of living somewhere like this... it feels so unreal to me and it feels like home and piece of mind already to me. i want to sell all my sht and pack my bags to live here IMMEDIATELY!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 i am so tired of this concrete wasteland.
Don’t forget to wear a life jacket when kayaking and boating, especially in cold water. Cold water can shock you and cause hypothermia in minutes. A life jacket can save your life if you fall in.
Ditto this. I live in Colorado and around 20 people die in our cold lakes every year, mostly due to lack of simply wearing a life vest.
And a thick wetsuit!
And to know how to fall out and get back up or out!
I’m a Canadian triathlete and familiar with lake swimming, usually wearing a wetsuit even in the summer! 🥶 Cold water can trigger involuntary gasping due to the shock of sudden immersion, and can create an emergency if water is inhaled. Enhance your happy place with a life jacket 🤩
Hi Alex, I am an experienced whitewater kayaker. Scotland is an amazing for paddling, the Dee, Spey and Tay would all make for a good multi day kayak trip. There are lots of providers who would be able to help you with this. Glenmore lodge would be great place to gain some basic skills. Please please please get a buoyancy aid in the meantime.
1000%
This video made me realise how Swedish I really am. When You guys lit the sauna fire and then casually stod there chatting in the doorway, all my Swedish ass could think of was "close the damn sauna door!!!".
Hahahaha, I'm not Swedish, but half Finnish, so I was thinking something of the same! lol
I think that if I had been there, I would too ... and I am English 😂
As a Swede growing up with a Finnish grandfather all i could hear in my head watching that was swearing in finnish LOL
I'm not Swedish but ahhh I was the same like...why are you wasting the heat???
I'm so happy you're enjoying life in Sweden. Seeing your videos is reminding me why this country is such a fantastic place to live in! I tend to forget about that, being a bit home blind (or what you call it in English). So thank you so much for that, and I hope you find you're own fantastic oasis here in Sweden soon ❤
Never seen you two look so relaxed. Sweden looks good on you.
😊 thank you
So glad that you found such a happy place to stay! Please don’t cancel your channel! You are one of my favorites!!!
My son moved to Sweden 3 years ago for work. He bought an apartment in Stockholm and continues to rent a flat near Are for winter and summer sports. He is learning to speak Swedish and loves many aspects of living there. This is his first time living away from Canada.
I can assure you that Åre is a fantastiskt place.
I’ve been travling to Åre every year since a kid and are now living there since the last 3 years.
Beautiful mountains 🏔️ and wildlife and so many activites to do all year around.
It’s hard not to love Åre.
I think he made a great choice moving here 😊
You two are just beautiful souls! Your energy and the way you laugh together, and banter with each other is life! Great role modelling for your son. Thank you for sharing your laughter and adventures with us 🙏🏻
sometimes someone else writes the comment you were thinking.
I lived/travelled in Sweden for 15 years. Love Sweden!! The peace, each season has its own beauty and rhythm, welcoming people. I hope you get your dream of moving there.
Plus then I can get my Sweden fix watching your videos!
As a person living in northern Sweden i have to say that the winters aren’t really a big problem.
You just have to know how to get the most out of it.
I would say that winter is my favorit part of the year because there is so much to do.
I love to ski wether it’s alpine skiing, crosscountry skiing or nordic skiing.
I love to be able to skate on a frozen lake or play ice hockey.
You can go ice fishing on a frozen lake, go snowmobiling and a lot more.
As the icing on the cake you will see a lot of northern lights
Sounds like heaven.
I was in Scandinavia last year Denmark, Sweden and Norway and they were amazing countries. I love the vibe and attitude to life over there. Seems like they have a really good balance.
If you want to be safe kayaking, dress for the water temperature. At the very least, wear a brightly colored life jacket / pfd to aid search and rescue find or recover you. Also, if you own a kayak and keep it near the water, write your name and phone number in case it drifts away. A simple call to the number can prevent a lot of wasted manpower if an empty kayak is seen drifting along.
BEAUTIFUL country!!!! Best of luck with your goals!👍👍
I love you beans, you're so natural, down to earth and have a wicked sense of humour, it's so nice to watch such a non affected genuine lovely family.
Sweden is the best place I have canoed, wild camping is so common over there, there are loads of places where people have made natural fire pits and often left some wood behind to get you started. The scenery is stunning, when I did a canoeing trip there, every time we went round a bend it was a new surprise. Would absolutely recommend a longer paddle next time you're out there.
Svartälven river is one to check out, winding tree covered connections between different lakes. There are beavers to spot around there too.
Love your channel, the Sweden series makes me want to get out more!
The Boundary Waters. North of Duluth, Minnesota, USA. At the very tippy top of Minnesota on the Canadian Boundary. A-Gagillion small lakes there.
Agree - around the northern Great Lakes is very wild and picturesque, either side of the border.
Came here to suggest this, too. I have zero experience but watched Kara and Nate give it a go.
I'm here in the Boundary Waters selling my homestead to move to my family's homeland of Sweden as quick as I can . ❤😊❤
I felt super sad when they said the channel nearly ended. 😢 Glad you both found a little spark for the channel again. ❤
Me too
My son and his wife moved to Sweden 6 years ago, down south in the Skåne region, in Gantofta. They now now have 2 gorgeous little girls and are living their best life. I doubt they'll ever come back to Britain. We love our time in Sweden with them! I hope you find your dream home soon! 🥰
Wet jeans are SO heavy. You should wear something lightweight, in case you tip over, so you don't have to work so hard to keep yourself afloat. LOL
Love fika!!! Being Swedish myself but born and raised in America, one thing my dad instilled in his kids was fika 👍🏻 and the love of outdoors and adventure. When the time is right the universe will show you your dream home. 🏠
You both look amazing and rested, Sweden definitely agrees with you 🥰
Kayaking on a lake is great but you should wear a life jacket especially when the water is really cold! When I watch your videos, I'm really glad we have a cabin by a lake (and a kayak) here in Finland!
I was thinking the same...and that there surely must be a life jacket at the house if there's a kayak.. falling into that freezing water fully clothed without a life jacket would be very scary.. and possibly fatal if far out in the lake...
With the string of "luck" you had, I can''t blame you for thinking of opting out of creating content for a while. I can say that I am so happy you seem to have changed your mind though. Your enthusiasm and zest for lie, your laughter - brings so much joy. Thank you for sharing your life with us. xo
Staying in a variety of different accommodations in a variety of different places is a great opportunity to learn about what ELSE is out there!!! Before taking that giant step!!!
Great advice for a holiday, but in the end you're going to be living and working there, interacting with the local community and living through the seasons. Got to suck it and see, I guess. What's wrong with Finland?🤣
@@LoremIpsum1970yeah why Sweden and not Norway or Finland?? I'd want to try out lots of countries and live somewhere for a while before buying
@@jj-if6it Yes all three, but try by living and working there first. And countries with only three months' of good weather, you need to be there at its harshest to see if you can cope. Not jump in the first chance you get to buy a place. You have to remember, as non-residents, they'll be subject to Schengen restrictions, so this will just be a holiday home for part of the year.
@@LoremIpsum1970 yes exactly
Hope you keep looking for a home here in Sweden! We are just happy to be having such a great and happy couple move here!
Myself I live full time in my motor home here in Sweden.
Try looking at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area between Canada and the US and see what is offered for kayaking trips. Stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, intriguing waterways, and rich history... I grew up in Northern MN and it was a place we went every year as a family
with a baby?
Yes!
Agreed. Definitely look into the BWCA in Minnesota. It is right next to Voyeaguers National Park (I've camped on islands by boat in that area), which was stunning.
Also, watching your Sweden series made me understand why so many Scandinavian people settled in MN. The lakes, the rocks, the trees are so familiar.
Adding northern Sweden to my bucket list! Great job and so happy to see you relaxed and happy!
I was going to say the same. Half Canada half USA
Yes I think that is where Kara and Nate did their canoe challenge videos, they would be canoe fir a while, then have to carry their canoe on along trail to the next lake. It looked challenging
You made my day with the WC incinerator call Cinderella 😂😂😂😂
I love your guy’s videos. Your always happy and smiling and enjoying each other’s company.
Can't wait to see what's next in store for the beans ❤
Us too! 😄💛 Thank you
Emma looks so happy and glowing in this video. I think you all have found “your place” 😊
18:21 The color behind Alex during these shots is absolutely stunning...
Yes it was and wonder if they enjoyed the Aroura borealis
I love watching you guys fall in love with this country!!! 🌱🥹 I grew up here and have always loved the nature but this really reminds me of how important it is for me to fall in love with it over and over again! ❤️🌱
I enjoyed your video.
You reminded me of my grandparents my grandfather was from Sweden and my grandma was from Norway.
They all ways had 10am. & 3pm coffee & a sweet roll or cookies my grandma made.
Everything stopped for that time.
Thank you for sharing your time with other's. 💜🕊️
What you are feeling and experiencing in the Swedish holiday home culture never goes away. Never. Your holiday home will be where your hearts are. You will never regret choosing that lifestyle, whether it's in Sweden or Canada or wherever. Clearly, you are suited for that life and environment. Seeing the joy in your eyes, body language and tone of voice brings happy tears to my eyes as I sit looking out the window of my cottage (holiday home) that is so near and dear to my heart and soul. This is the place that brings my family together and has for decades. We can go anywhere in the world, but having this to return to at any time is simply magical. You must do this. Being at your chosen holiday home will become part of you and your family, to the core. Nothing can ever replace it. Sending best wishes for success in finding your magical home.
Go anywhere you’re hearts desires!! I’m in for the ride!! Make memories and live life to the fullest!!! That’s really living!! Your baby is lucky to have you as parents!!!!
You are the most relaxed and joyful of any situation you’ve encountered.
For kayaking you can't beat Canada with 60% of the world's freshwater lakes, and amazing rivers. In Ontario alone we have 250,000 lakes (30% of the Canadian lakes). As with you, Alex, this is my Zen.
Similar experience in Nova Scotia….Yes lots of coastal kayaking but tons of lakes and rivers too!
Kayaking is kick butt in British Columbia too!
Yes...^^^ You would have a hard time beating Algonquin Park for kayaking trips.
Also northern Saskatchewan is beautiful and wild.
"And that was the last time we ever saw Alex" - hysterical! This was a great video - relaxing and you looked so happy.
Love that you like our country. There are thousands of places like the one in the last video. Only matter of time. Be patient, enjoy and don´t let go of your dream😊
What incredible scenery!! The lake looked so peaceful!
Yes, I get the giggles when I’m really tired!!! ❤️👍🤗💕🥰
I so very much love seeing you both happy through the entire video.
It isn’t that I don’t enjoy watching all your adventures, because I do.
With that said, how lovely it is to see you and Noah in such a happy place.
That is how I feel when I visit England and my birthplace in Washington State.
I cannot remember if you have visited the Pacific Northwest yet, but I suspect that you would love Puget Sound area, the Olympic Peninsula, the San Juan Islands and the Washington and Oregon coasts. 💚🌲💚
What an amazing cabin and scenery! STUNNING!! We might have to look into Sweden for a vacation!
I was literally in tears when you didn't get that lovely home!!!! It was perfect, I wanted it too!!! And affordable. I pray you will perservere.
So nice to see you guys so happy, relaxed and in love ❤
The boundary waters between Canada and Minnesota has many lakes and portages between them. Beautiful!
You two look so happy in this environment
Oh my gosh that vacation cabin would be perfect for your young family. Too bad that one is not on the market. Don’t give up, the right one will happen for you. Keep the faith! Thanks for sharing your journey. 🍀
Don't give up 2 houses sold from under me and the home I wound up buying was and is perfect for my daughter and myself! I am in the US this happened in 2017. Everything we owned including the two of was in my jank care and we were homeless. Cheering you on wishing our home was more like these old Swedish cabin homes. So I am trying to style it inside like them thank you UA-cam and Pinterest! Beans you will find the hose you are meant to make your home! As soon as I saw him "get in" the kayak I was all he was going swimming I love you OMG Brrrrr!
Kaffe and kexchoklad is a perfectly fine fika.
Alex, when I was much younger I got to spend quite a bit of time in southern Germany for the weekends and sometimes even for week long stays. One of the best kayak experiences I ever had was kayaking down a large stream into the Chiemsee, paddling out to the island and having lunch, then paddling back to shore. It was actually a sponsored tour that the US Army offered while we stayed there.
Thank you Emma. Love the thumbnail ❤
Bowron Lakes in British Columbia Canada is an amazing place to kayak or canoe in the wilderness.
I agree, but sadly a very long way to travel. They would need to fly into Vancouver or Calgary then catch a connecting flight to Prince George. From there it would be at least a 4-5 hour road trip just to reach the lodge at Bowron Lake.
Oh my Noah is walking so good now, he is just adorable. Was another wonderful trip, thanks for taking us with you…❤❤❤❤
Learned something new. I like the idea of fika too. 10 and 3 snack and coffee.
I have my holiday house on the island of Gotland. For 43 years now. Never there during winter. But every summer. And soon i retire and then i will spend most of the year. Cant wait. 🙂
Don’t be sad. the hand that’s been dealt to you is sooo impressive . Y’all created your hands in the game and with your futures so😊 brite.. you are on the Swedan path…
I'm so happy you enjoyed your time there. I know your heart broke when the little cabin was lost to a bidding war. It's an Omen for an even more perfect place later ❤. ABOUT RIVER OR LAKE PROPERTY: the underground Water Table is very important to know about for each and every property before buying. A property can look beautiful at certain times of the year but basements or slabs can have incoming and outgoing water accumulation WITHIN your dwellings so that's a serious Heads Up! BLACK MOLD under or behind floors and walls from the accumulated moisture is a common HIDDEN FACTOR with Lake or River properties. Always a health consideration, especially for small children who are oftentimes entertained regularly at the floor level or on rugs. Get any Seller to state IN WRITING, IN THE CONTRACT that there is ZERO water damage year round. 😉.
a swede here!!
so sad that you did not get the house!! welcome back and i hope you find your dream home!!
Alex I would highly recommend looking at Ontario, Canada for a great kayaking trip. Two guys that do a great job of showcasing kayaking/canoe camping trips in Ontario are John Kelly’s channel Lost Lakes or Xandier Budnick.
Also no Grizzly Bears in Ontario
I agree, we live in Ottawa, Ontario and we have so many options for beautiful kayaking spots all under an hour of our home. Lots of rivers and lakes, and each one different. It’s a great way to really relax and enjoy nature up close!
Love Loved 🥰 this. Especially being ancestrally Swedish, love seeing the old homeland of my grandparents. 🎉❤❤🍻
Watching your first expressions of a country I also live in as a foreigner is so fun! I love watching you guys! 😍
Speaking of winter, I know many Sweds who leave in Jan/Feb to escape the darkness (that's wayyyy worse than cold), it's pretty normal here if you have a remote or even hybrid job.
Oh, the saunas are even included in rent in student accommodations! 🤣
I don’t know about kayak camping but you could come to Minnesota and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and canoe camp. There are all manner of outfitters, some that provide guides. And no grizzly bears, just much smaller black bears. Look it up. My 23 year old daughter and her girlfriend are going next weekend. I’ve been going to the BWCAW for 45 years, it’s amazingly beautiful and wild. I’m happy to answer any questions.
That place looks beautiful! And all the wildlife! We simply won't allow you two to end your channel. Stop that silly talk immediately. 😁
Fika is the best. It can really be anything you want. Chocolate, a sandwich, some toast, some fruit, yogurt. It’s very similar to a casual afternoon tea. It’s really just a lite meal, snack, or sweet.
Go for it guy's buy a home in Sweden, you both obviously love it there! (when Kayaking, always wear a life vest! I know from past experience that they keep you buoyant)
This was a really special video. I found you guys from your friends in Portugal! Please don’t give up your channel. I love your energy!
We spent a month (the entire month of Dec 2022) in wintry Scandinavia (Sweden, Denmark and Norway) and we dearly loved our daily mid-morning and late afternoon fika/kaffe breaks. The other countries have their own versions of the Swedes' fika, but same awesome concept. And, yes, everywhere we went throughout the 3 countries (plus @ the airport in Helsinki, Finland), most people spoke perfect English.
I live in New Zealand and we have morning tea and afternoon tea breaks too
As a Norwegian I can tell we have not adopted the Swedish fika - it is a Scandinavian thing, not Swedish. We just don't call it fika. In Norway we say "kaffepause", which means "coffee break". It is not locked in at times of the day, we take it when we need it, and as many times a day as we want. We also have the term "kos", which means we enjoy the moment, with coffee, beer, wine or whatever. Chocolate, dried meat, waffles or some other snack. We light a candle if it is winter and/or dark, sit in front of the fireplace or wrap ourselves in wool blankets and just enjoy the moment - either alone or with others. In Denmark they have the term "hygge", which is more or less the same.
@@ahkkariq7406 By use the word "adopt", I didn't mean that Norwegians or Danes took it from the Swedes, but that each country has its own version. Didn't mean any offense, and have changed my post to exclude that word... But, whether fika, kaffeepause, kos or hygge, it's all a good thing. Two of our four weeks in Scandinavia were spent in Norway and we travelled much of the country - from as far south as Oslo to as far north as Nordkapp and as far east as Kirkenes - by various modes of transportation. AMAZING country where we met so many wonderful people! Can't wait to go back again! And maybe even move there -- we're considering it. BTW, my YT profile pic was taken in Vigeland Park in Oslo.
What a beautiful cabin & location. I feel more relaxed just from watching!
This is the best video you guys produced. I will pay money to learn from you how to make such high quality videos. Who am I kidding. Is not the best one you guys. You did so many other great videos. But this one is the one that made me write a comment. A comment, the very first comment on UA-cam. Keep going beens.
The Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota is a great place to kayak/camp. Lots of beautiful lakes and wildlife. Thank you for sharing your travels :)
Very entertaining video 📹 👏. Sweden 🇸🇪 is very beautiful. Look forward to you finding your home 🏡 base there one day. See you on the next one adventurers 😊😊😊❤❤❤.
I used to live in Borlänge in Dalarna and moving back eventually. I’m glad my family and I have dual citizenship!
A kayak trip I really recommend is paddling through Rapadalen in Sarek National Park here in northern Sweden. It is a fantastic experience that allows you to view a completely unique nature! :)
I can say that I've quickly become a Travel Beans fan since seeing you in Portugal with the Newbys on their channel. You both are so entertaining and make me laugh. Love watching your adventures. 😊
Ahhh ... relaxation! Y'know, I don't think anyone would fault you for taking a break from vlogging for a bit ... if it has become too much (or not enough) it would be perfectly natural to re-centre yourselves and your creativity/sense of discovery.
The paper for the toilet looks like a giant coffee filter.
YES! 😂 That’s exactly what I though when we watched it back!
Yes and is fitting since coffee makes u poop! 😃😃✌👍❤💩
One of the great lakes in Michigan would be good for your kayaking trip. Lots of water and lots of nature to be around.
I can recommend you look at property in the high coast, around Örnsköldsvik and a bit south of it, before you completely lock in Dalarna. It's a magic place in the summer if you like boat life, making daytrips to small islands, hiking up to viewpoints and outdoor life in general.
Can confirm this! We just bought a lake house there and it’s amazing!!!
What about the midges?
@@shaunallen5678 midges? if that's a type of mosquito then it's probably about the same or less than in Dalarna. I think the mosquito record in Sweden is somewhere in Dalarna. But it varies a lot from year to year.
Alright, Alex. In northern California, near Lake Tahoe is a place called Desolation Wilderness. Lots of people camp there every year (you just need to get a permit to camp ahead of time online) and it's a total backpacking trip, leaving no trace. In California, we have black bears, not those crazy grizzlies. But I think some places hardly see them. Plus, then you're near Lake Tahoe which is one of the most beautiful places!
If you want a long term place you have to think in your son, when he start school , if he is going or have home school, think where do you want him to have his education , and a safe country
My thoughts exactly. That kid will need to go to school soon.
If I was them I would try and find a place in the UK, also consider having a second kid. You guys have access to free, high quality healthcare in the UK. Wish I had that…
You don‘t need to go that far from Zweden. Ever thought about Carinthia in Austria? We got bears, wolves and eild cats aswell. And plenty rivers and lakes.
After all those years following you on your channel I still love it to see one of your newest videos! You are such a beautiful couple (family) that spread so much positive and enjoyable energy, show me places I´ve neve been before with beautiful images, music and positive thoughts hat help me to relax after a long day of work, make me smile and let me dream of/about all the opportunities we europeans have if we start thinking "outside the box" of everydays "grind" and off the beaten path! Thank you for putting a smile on my face everytime I watch one of your videos! All the best to you and please keep up the good work and your very entertaining, informative and "therapeutic" youtube channel!!!🙂👍
Love all of your videos they are so well put together and just absolutely gorgeous. Your drone footage is amazing thank you so much for such great videos ❣️❣️
A tip for kayaking Alex. When getting in and out of the kayak lay your paddle across the kayak just in front of the cockpit with one end resting on the shore and use the paddle to hold onto and stabilise the kayak. I hope that makes sense as a description. It makes things easier anyway.
Look up Simon Bloke in the woods/Kent Survival. They both do camping/canoe van camping in the UK. although they did travel camp and canoe across Sweden last year.
I was going to post the same thing!
Fika is the adult version of "milk & biscuit" that I experienced at some English scools and kindergartens in the 90's. But fika is not only at a work place... We also meet up at cafés or coffee shops for "en fika" that can be everything from 15/30 min to several hours. I love every bit of you telling us how it is... because that's the way fika is... pretty flexible.
Thanks for sharing your lovely adventure in Sweden? Best of luck on your search for a place of your own🥰
You guys are so relaxing and fun to watch. Wake up drink my coffee and watch you and your adventures and having Noah in the mix watching him grow up and seeing how great you both are with him makes my day, So sorry you didn't get your house but you will find one maybe better than the last don't rush it. But anyway Stay Safe, Safe Travels and Love and Prayers Always see you in the next video. God has a plan for you guys and maybe that's why you didn't get that house he may have a better place if store for you guys think positive always.
Make your base Sweden for sure. I think you could in time make your land a holiday campsite business for likeminded people. It’s perfect for you. You look happier here in a long time of managing stress.
7:43 our fika time is like your tea time
You look so relaxed. I hope you follow your heart and find a place by water in the Swedish countryside. The fact that many people already speak English certainly would help with the transition.
It's certainly very beautiful in that spot, it seems like that would be a perfect spot to settle down.
I am so glad you found a way to feel recharged. I find your channel a way for me to feel well with the world. The way you seem to enjoy each other and your new child, is quite heart warming. (To be honest, from what I have seen of Swedish winters, I do wonder if you would enjoy them in the same way that you enjoy the Swedish summers and spring. So I am glad that you are open to look at other places.)
I felt better watching this... infectious. Thanks!
Sweden definitely fits you all for the down time you need. Over the next few years as Noah get his earthly feet under him, a place in Sweden would be a great base for you all! You guys thrive in the natural world like many of us. The natural world is the real world. Not our cities and man made places. They are great for community for sure but the closer they can be to nature the better the community. I've lived in Colorado for 32 years and being close to both city and nature is great! I need the mountains like a bee needs honey! And you present Sweden like a flat Colorado! LOL. And you guys edit awesomely. You give us a close sense of where you are when you are where you are. Thank you! Plus, you guys are hilarious, intriguing and totally British, Keep being you guys and we will still be here!
Love the Cinderella name of incinerator toilet! Don't buy until you rent a week in winter!
Come to the states Colorado river is the best and there's many other places in the states. I really like you guys watching is a calmness. Your wife is wonderful. You seem like an awful good husband and father. I would love to meet you guys someday I traveled in East Africa as a missionary for yearskayaking is definitely something that gives you peace. My wife and I enjoy long bike rides. Another escape we have lost two children 19 and 37 and believe me we like to get away from things keep up the good work. Love you guys.
I was always taught to get in a canoe by putting the paddle behind the seat and across the jetty , then put your hand on the paddle and your weight will brace it to the jetty as you get in, you may even keep your feet dry. :)
You would love it here where i live in Sweden!
Jämtland county is close to Dalarna county and Norway. We have an Airport here in Östersund. You can just take a flight from Copenhagen airport in Denmark.
You can find REALLY cheep houses and A LOT of lakes here! And close to the airport!A beautiful county with a lot of wildlife!!
It will suit your family perfectly!
Look it upp!!!!!!
❤️🙏🪄🍿
It looks gorgeous! Loving these vids (much more than the van ones) - really loved your Italy series too. The aerial shots are amazing - thanks for sharing!