As I get older I have begin to despise Scandavian countries. They can be top of the pops when it comes to statistics but not everything that shines on paper is gold. The weather in those countries is atrocious. Rather chop my testicles and place them in the freezer then live in any Scandic country.
The weather is terrible no doubt but having lived in both the UK and Scandinavia, the weather isnt something to brag about in both.
Points where Scandinavia tops the UK (my opinion)
- Much better work/life balance. (
https://www.thelocal.se/20190614/sweden-ranked-among-worlds-best-places-raise-a-family-unicef-report)
- Higher standard of living. I mean seriously, what is up with the UK and having seperate taps for hot and cold water!
- Unions even for employees in the private sector are still present. They will fight for workers rights including pay rise.
- Great social security/benefits.
- Transportation is way more efficient and affordable. Barring London, inner city transportation in the UK is sometimes completely atrocious.
Points where the UK tops Scandinavia
- Far greater diversity. Immigration to Scandinavia only picked up pace in the late 70s, especially from non-European immigrants. Not to say that racism does not exist in the UK, but its less profound I felt.
- Extroverted people. If you are an extrovert Scandinavia is really not the place you want to go to. Swedes will rarely smile or engage in small talk unless they know you.
- More events/concerts/matches. Being much larger than the Scandinavian nations, the UK attracts a lot more artists and comedians(stand up). It was really easy to find something to do spontaneously in the UK whereas in Scandinavia you have to plan well in advance.
- Much more variety in shopping and definitely cheaper. It is not uncommon to see someone wearing the same jacket on the bus or having the same IKEA table in their home as well here.
Conclusion
Based on my personal experiences I felt like the UK is a much more fun place to live in, but Scandinavia is a more financially stable location. As a teenager/young adult I would definitely prefer the UK over Sweden, but when starting a family and wanting to "settle down" Scandinavia is a much better choice in my opinion.