There is a recent trend among Swedes to travel to new more exotic places that they have not visited before.
According to a Nordea survey from June 2025, nearly four out of ten Swedes (38%) planned to travel abroad during the summer vacation, up from 34% the previous year.
The Swedish krona strengthened during the spring of 2025, giving better purchasing power abroad. Countries such as Greece, Mallorca, Turkey, and Cyprus became particularly good value, and Mexico became 20% cheaper compared to the previous year.
How to handle jetlag after a long vacation abroad?
Anyone who has ever traveled long-haul has likely experienced the pain of jet lag. We've all experienced extreme fatigue and a feeling of lightheadedness that hinders the enjoyment of our trip. Long journeys, particularly across continents, can easily disrupt our body's biological clock. Fortunately, jet lag can be significantly mitigated with advance preparation and a few adjustments to our daily routine both during and after our trip.
Preparing for Departure:
Experts recommend gradually adjusting to the local time zone by advancing or delaying bedtime and mealtimes by 30 minutes to an hour a few days before your trip. Even if you can't achieve perfect synchronization, a partial adjustment can be effective.
Principles to Follow During Your Flight:
Remaining hydrated is paramount during your flight. Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol whenever possible.
How to Use Sunlight After Arrival:
You can use sunlight in your new time zone to regulate your circadian rhythm.
• If traveling east (Stockholm to New York): Exposure to morning sunlight helps your body wake up earlier.
• If traveling west (Paris to Los Angeles): Exposure to afternoon sunlight can be effective in delaying your bedtime.
Example of a 'Sleep Schedule Adjustment':
Dr. Anthony L. Komaroff, using the example of a west-to-east trip, suggests advancing your bedtime by 30 minutes to an hour each day for three days before your trip. This can significantly help your body adjust faster and reduce fatigue.
• Day 1: Normal bedtime: 10:00 p.m.
• Day 2: 9:30 p.m.
• Day 3: 9:00 p.m.
• Day 4 (departure day): 8:30 p.m.
Jet lag isn't simply an inconvenience that gets better with time. It's a problem that can be fully managed through pre-departure preparation, proper lifestyle habits during the flight, and active use of sunlight upon arrival. If you're planning a long-distance trip this summer, changing small habits before departure can help you enjoy your time at your destination more energetically.
Source: Boosting Your Energy (Medical Editor: Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Simcox-Clifford-Higby Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Senior Physician, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston)
