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    Awaiting Your Return From Shore | Founded in the 13th century, Stockholm 
              is Sweden’s strikingly elegant and beautiful capital, spread out 
              over many islands at the meeting point of the Baltic with Lake 
              Mälaren. Stockholm, noted for its outstanding architecture, is one 
              of Scandinavia’s most attractive cities. In addition to its many 
              man-made monuments, Stockholm boasts a world of natural beauty. 
              One-third of the city’s total land area is devoted to parks. 
 Guided by a strong belief in individual freedom, Sweden is 
              governed by a constitution that is the oldest in use in Europe. 
              The country’s neutrality has allowed it to avoid wars for more 
              than 150 years. Its cities and industry remained intact during 
              both World Wars. A distinct political philosophy has also added 
              significantly to the nation’s success. Many of the country’s 
              social achievements can be attributed to the development of the 
              “welfare state” early in the 20th century. This provides its 
              citizens with excellent medical care and substantial retirement 
              benefits. Sweden is recognized as one of the world leaders in 
              matters of health care and life expectancy. Education standards 
              are high, accounting for the country’s 100% literacy rate.
 
 The Swedes are proud of their country and take great care to 
              preserve its great natural beauty. As the country’s major city, 
              Stockholm offers a wealth of monuments and sites, fine museums, 
              and a rich culture. There are also hundreds of excellent 
              restaurants, as well as a great selection of trendy
 boutiques and exciting nightclubs.
 
 Visitors should start their exploration of Stockholm with the 
              Gamla Stan, the Old Town on Stadsholmen; an island in the center 
              of the city, it has retained its medieval charm. The maze of 
              narrow, cobbled streets, full of art studios, boutiques, antique 
              shops, nightclubs and bars, is best explored on foot.
 
 Every year in August the colorful, ten-day Stockholm Water 
              Festival is held. During this time the central part of the city is 
              transformed into an array of temporary restaurants, bars, theaters 
              and art exhibitions, providing activities 24 hours a day. The 
              World Fireworks Championships, swimming races, a midnight 
              marathon, music and dancing are just a few of the endless list of 
              events that highlight this gigantic festival.
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    Awaiting Your Return 
    From Shore | 
  
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    Complimentary 
    Spirits Await | 
    
    Return to Your 
    Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure | 
    
    Entertainment 
    and Dancing Await You |