Navigating Life in Sweden: Arabella Carey Adolfsson's Journey from California

Arabella Carey Adolfsson, originally from San Diego, California, moved to the remote island of Torpön, Sweden, in October 2022. This transition has presented both opportunities and challenges as she adapts to a new lifestyle and culture.

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Adolfsson's journey to Sweden is not her first; she previously lived in Lund for two and a half years before returning to the U.S. due to homesickness. The couple's decision to relocate again was influenced by a serendipitous discovery of a lakeside property in Torpön, which they purchased within a month.

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Adolfsson describes her new home as “in the middle of nowhere,” where days can pass without seeing anyone other than her husband, Stefan. This isolation has been a significant adjustment, especially for someone who thrives on social interaction. She reflects on the absence of her large extended family in California, stating, “There was a huge slice of my life that was taken away.”

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Adolfsson has faced cultural barriers, including language difficulties and the reserved nature of Swedish social interactions. Although she has taken Swedish classes, she finds it challenging to integrate fully. She contrasts her Hispanic background, which embraces physical affection, with the more reserved Swedish culture, noting, “You don’t have a lot of hugging and kissing.”

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Despite the challenges, Adolfsson appreciates several aspects of her new life. She notes a distinct “lack of stress” compared to her previous life in California and highlights the lower cost of living in Sweden, particularly in housing and healthcare. She recalls a hospital visit that cost her less than $100, a stark contrast to U.S. healthcare expenses.

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While she enjoys the natural beauty of Torpön and the opportunities for travel across Europe, Adolfsson misses familiar comforts, particularly good Mexican food. She expresses frustration with the “do-it-yourself culture” in Sweden, which she finds overwhelming. Reflecting on her age, she suggests that moving would have been easier when she was younger, stating, “Change is more difficult the older you get.”

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Adolfsson advises others considering a similar move to ensure they have a connection to their new location and to be prepared for loneliness and challenges. She emphasizes the importance of understanding that integration takes time and that great memories can emerge from tough experiences.

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• “It’s gorgeous here,” — Arabella Carey Adolfsson

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• “There was a huge slice of my life that was taken away,” — Arabella Carey Adolfsson

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• “You’re going to be lonely and alone at times,” — Arabella Carey Adolfsson

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Adolfsson plans to continue living in Sweden while returning to San Diego every few months. She hopes to eventually persuade her husband to return to California permanently, reflecting on the complexities of her relocation experience.

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