Balancing Tradition and Tourism: Sustainable Practices in the Baltic Sea Region

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Smørrebrød and a cappuccino, Frederikshavn, Denmark.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

At the recent EUSBSR Annual Forum 2024, I met many individuals passionate about and committed to restoring the Baltic Sea. And I can see why—the coastal regions of the Baltic Sea can easily find their way into your heart. With its striking landscapes and vibrant maritime culture, the region offers experiences that go beyond mere sightseeing. The rich maritime biodiversity invites not just observation but immersion. My recent visit to Wassersleben Strand and Flensburg, Germany, reinforced my appreciation for how these areas balance tourism with ecological responsibility. However, with popularity comes the challenge of maintaining a delicate balance between economic growth through tourism and environmental conservation. It was with this perspective that I spent my time in Wassersleben and Flensburg, observing how policies and practices are implemented to shape sustainable tourism and understanding their significance for both locals and visitors alike.

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Aalborg’s Allure: Sustainable Travel and Culinary Delights by the Fjord

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On the grounds of Budolfi Church (Budolfi Kirke) in Aalborg, Denmark.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

Aalborg’s Allure: Sustainable Travel and Culinary Delights by the Fjord

There’s something innately soothing about the sea—a powerful calm that washes over you as you set sail on an adventure. Starting from Gothenburg, Sweden, the journey to Aalborg, Denmark, began with an early morning ferry ride that promised not just transit, but an experience. The soft lapping of waves against the hull, the crisp, salty breeze, and the horizon stretching infinitely under the golden glow of sunrise set the perfect tone for the trip ahead.

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Lithuania’s Culinary Landscape: A Market Journey

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You know you’re back in Sweden, along the Swedish west coast when you have that quintessential räksallad.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

Lithuanian food culture, shaped by its history and geography, places a strong emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. Root vegetables, grains, and meats are at the heart of the cuisine. While dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup) reflect the influence of neighbouring Poland, Russia, and Germany, they retain a distinctly Lithuanian character, often incorporating traditional techniques like fermentation, pickling, and smoking.

For Nordic travellers, Lithuania offers a blend of familiarity and novelty. The widespread use of rye bread, dairy, and hearty ingredients may feel comforting and familiar, yet the Lithuanian approach to preparing and pairing these ingredients—such as using Varškės Sūris (a type of farmer’s cheese) in both sweet and savoury dishes—adds a unique twist. It’s an experience that invites you to discover something new amidst the familiar, with Lithuanian hospitality and a love for simple yet flavourful food making the trip memorable.

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Donsö Hamnfest and ÖTILLÖ Gothenburg – August 2024 at Styrsö

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Checking out the local artwork at Donsö Hamnfest, 3 Aug. 2024, Sweden.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

As the warmth of late summer settles over Gothenburg’s southern archipelago, the much-anticipated Donsö Hamnfest and the challenging ÖTILLÖ Gothenburg Swimrun had come together to create a weekend filled with family fun, breathtaking scenery, and impressive athletic feats.

Donsö Hamnfest: A Family Affair

The Donsö Hamnfest, a long-standing summer tradition, once again offered the joyful experience that has endeared it to so many. Families gathered at the harbor to engage in a wide range of activities designed to entertain all ages. From inflatable slides and bounce houses to classic carnival games like ring toss and can knockdowns, there was no shortage of fun. The culinary offerings were equally enticing, with choices ranging from freshly made pizzettes and BBQ burgers to the ever-popular ice cream stands. For those seeking a break from the summer heat, the local café provided a cool sanctuary where visitors could sip iced tea and enjoy sweet treats in a relaxed setting.

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Discovering the Peranakan Culture: A Journey Through Singapore’s Peranakan Museum

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Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & JE Nilsson 2024

Introduction to the Peranakan Community

The term “Peranakan” in Singapore today often denotes individuals of mixed Chinese and Malay/Indonesian heritage, a legacy tracing back to the 15th century. The origins of the Peranakan people are deeply rooted in Malacca, where Chinese traders are believed to have married local women. This community has been known by various names, including the Straits Chinese, born in the Straits Settlements, and the King’s Chinese, reflecting their status as British subjects after 1867.

A Tapestry of Cultures

Interestingly, the term “Peranakan,” meaning “uterus” or “someone from a mixed marriage,” isn’t exclusive to the Chinese Peranakans. There were also non-Chinese Peranakans, including the Bugis, Arab, and Java Peranakans, as well as the Peranakan Indians (Chitty Melaka) and the Jawi Peranakans, who are of mixed Indian and Malay heritage. These communities highlight the diverse and rich tapestry of Peranakan culture.

Peranakan culture is usually described as a hybrid of Chinese, Malay and Western cultures. While specific cultural practices and customs may differ from generation to generation and family to family, there are a few elements common to Peranakan culture. One such element is the language. Besides English, the Peranakans speak baba Malay, a patois described as an adulteration of the Malay language with a liberal mix of Hokkien words and phrases.

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Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Asia at the Asian Civilizations Museum, Singapore

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Asian Civilization Museum (ACM), Singapore.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & JE Nilsson 2024

The Easter weekend provided the perfect opportunity to take a few days off from Sweden and land in Singapore to spend time with my parents and catch up with good friends. All days in Singapore over the week of the Easter weekend were memorable, but the visits to the Asian Civilization Museum (ACM) and the Peranakan Museum stood out as highlights of our visit back to Singapore.

Singapore is known as the city that never sleeps. Yet, some of the more serene hours of the day can be found right at the heart of the central business district of Singapore, just before dawn when the sun begins to peek from the horizon.

In Singapore, visitors are genuinely spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, with options to suit varying preferences for location and proximity to popular spots. If you prefer the heart of the business district, then The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia, situated in the bustling Marina Bay area, is one of many accommodations around the area. It’s conveniently close to major attractions like the Singapore Flyer and Marina Square Shopping Mall, both within a 5-minute stroll. The hotel is also just a short walk from iconic locations such as Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. With the Promenade MRT station nearby, exploring the city is a breeze. The hotel’s location combines convenience with the luxury of being in one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods. And the morning quiet even on a busy Easter weekend at the Ritz Carlton? Absolutely perfect for this introvert.

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By the Motlawa River, the Old Town in Gdansk Poland

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Old Town, Gdansk, Poland.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro 2024

My journey in Gdansk, Poland, began in the heart of the Old Town, where I stayed along the picturesque Motlawa River. The riverfront’s charm, with its historic buildings and serene waters, served as a perfect backdrop for my few days’ getaway. A walk along the riverside is a journey through the city’s heart, offering stunning views of Gdansk’s architecture. The tranquility of the river is a pleasant contrast to the bustling Old Town. If I thought the riverside was reminiscent of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay in Singapore, there was good reason. Continue reading “By the Motlawa River, the Old Town in Gdansk Poland” →

Ahlströms Konditori: A Century-Old Tradition and the Allure of Semla Season

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Variations of the semla at Ahlströms Konditori, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro, JE Nilsson 2024

In the vibrant heart of Gothenburg lies Ahlströms Konditori, a revered institution since 1901. Renowned for capturing the essence of Swedish baking traditions, the café becomes a focal point as it welcomes the semla season, especially with Fettisdagen (Fat Tuesday) approaching on February 13, 2024. Here, the semla is not just a seasonal treat; it’s a culinary emblem of Swedish heritage, celebrated by locals and visitors alike.

The Swedish semla, distinct from its European counterparts, is a testament to simplicity and quality. Known for its cardamom-spiced wheat bun, each semla is meticulously crafted. The bun, with its top artfully cut off, is filled with a rich blend of milk and almond paste, and then crowned with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The cut-off top, serving as a lid, is delicately dusted with powdered sugar, completing this exquisite pastry.

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Exploring the Heart of Kaunas: Laisves Aleja, Lithuania

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At Laisves Aleja, Kaunas, Lithuania.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro 2023

It’s my first time in Lithuania, and I’m marveling at the broad streets that give a sense of pure luxury in having space to oneself. Laisves Aleja in Kaunas is the main pedestrian street that reminds me of Las Ramblas boulevard in Barcelona. It stretches impressively straight and long, framed at one end by the beautiful Church of St. Michael the Archangel. This boulevard is the lifeline of Kaunas, offering a kaleidoscope of shops and experiences.

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A Glimpse into Skördefest Harvest Festival 2023 at Tjolöholmslott, Sweden

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At the food truck arena at Skördefest Tjolöholmslott 2023, Sweden.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2023

The late summer warmth was still noticeable as I walked through the grounds of Tjolöholmslott, also known as Tjolöholm Castle, during the Skördefest, or Harvest Festival of 2023.

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