Travel Guide Sweden - Country Information

Coordinates: 62 00 N, 15 00 E
Population: 9,016,596 (July 2006 est.)
Religions: Lutheran 87%, Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Baptist, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist
Languages: Swedish, small Sami- and Finnish-speaking minorities
Climate: temperate in south with cold, cloudy winters and cool, partly cloudy summers; subarctic in north
Elevation: lowest point: reclaimed bay of Lake Hammarsjon, near Kristianstad -2.41 m / highest point: Kebnekaise 2,111 m
Hazards: ice floes in the surrounding waters, especially in the Gulf of Bothnia, can interfere with maritime traffic
Background Sweden: A military power during the 17th century, Sweden has not participated in any war in almost two centuries. An armed neutrality was preserved in both World Wars. Sweden's long-successful economic formula of a capitalist system interlarded with substantial welfare elements was challenged in the 1990s by high unemployment and in 2000-02 by the global economic downturn, but fiscal discipline over the past several years has allowed the country to weather economic vagaries. Indecision over the country's role in the political and economic integration of Europe delayed Sweden's entry into the EU until 1995, and waived the introduction of the euro in 1999.

Summary of recommendations:In general, no special immunizations or medications are necessary for travel to Sweden. Tick precautions are advised for rural and forested areas, as below