5 Home Comforts I Miss from the UK
So I’ve been living in Sweden, for nearly 2 whole months now!
And… I’ve noticed a couple of things I’ve been craving and missing that are readily available in the UK.
Ribena:
Now if you don’t know what Ribena is, then hear me out… it is a blackcurrant cordial drink (squash/juice). You mix it with water either hot or cold and enjoy. Other brands are available in the UK and they are just elite. Robinsons, Vimto, etc… all would be ample to have especial on a hike in a thermos. However, here I have not yet found many cordials if any.
Jammy dodgers:
Now, this is a childhood favourite which has come into my adulthood, amongst mint viscounts and party rings. You can’t beat the occasional biscuit. Again the UK trumps what I have found so far in Sweden for biscuit cuisine.
One thing why I miss Jammy dodgers, in particular, is that they’re vegan and also not too dry. There is something special about dismantling and eating them, or biting away at the outer circumference leaving the heart to the end.
A good packet of crisps:
Don’t get me wrong Sweden has some nice crisps, but they’re not walkers prawn cocktail or Watsits. I have yet to find a packet of Quavers either. These things are just such throwbacks and take you back to being in the UK growing up.
If you’ve not tried them before, then get on it… These are satisfying for the senses!
Bagels:
Not normally affiliated with the UK, but you can always buy these in the supermarket in the UK. Or if you’re very lucky you have a bagel shop near where you live, as I had in Leamington Spa.
Depending on the time of day, or mood you can put most fillings inside a bagel, and it is great. I used to go to a place called Steamhouse. Plus the pre-climbing ritual Alun and I used to have of a bagel and peanut butter was always a staple in our week.
Buying wine on a whim:
You know the feeling you’ve had a long day, or you fancy a nice night in with a bottle of wine, some good food and a film. Or you have a friend over for dinner or to hang out for a drink. Back in the UK, you’re able to go to the corner shop, and pick up some cans of beer, or a bottle of wine usually within a short distance of where you live, at most times of the day, and often on a deal.
Here you can only really go to one place, I have yet to see them have any offers on alcohol, and the working hours are not as vast as back home.
Maybe my liver is thanking me for this, or I have a larger stock of stuff in the house ready!
This is just a silly list of little things I find myself missing. I love it here in Sweden, and the friendships I have made, plus the work/culture I get to do here has been incredible so far. Just if you’re coming to Sweden, send some supplies with you :P.
let me know in the comments if you’re missing anything from your home country.
