Directory A-Z - Sweden - page 731

tertainment venues, but it's best used in conjunction with more up-to-date listings in local
papers; as elsewhere, gay venues in the region can change with the speed of summer.
Another good source of local information is the free monthly magazine QX . You can pick
it up at many clubs, shops and restaurants in Stockholm, Göteborg, Malmö and Copenha-
gen (Denmark). The magazine's website ( www.qx.se ) has excellent information and recom-
mendations in English.
One of the capital's biggest parties is the annual Stockholm Pride , a five-day festival cel-
ebrating gay culture, held between late July and early August. The extensive program cov-
ers art, debate, health, literature, music, spirituality and sport.
Insurance
Depending on the type of policy you choose, insurance can cover you for everything from
medical expenses and luggage loss to cancellations or delays in your travel arrangements.
In Sweden, EU citizens pay a fee for all medical treatment (including emergency admis-
sions), but showing an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) form will make matters
much easier. Enquire about the EHIC well in advance at your social-security office, travel
agent or local post office. Travel insurance is still advisable, however, as it allows treatment
flexibility and will also cover ambulance and repatriation costs.
If you do need health insurance, remember that some policies offer 'lower' and 'higher'
medical-expense options, but the higher one is chiefly for countries that have extremely
high medical costs, such as the USA. Everyone should be covered for the worst possible
scenario, such as an accident requiring an ambulance, hospital treatment or an emergency
flight home. You may prefer a policy that pays health-care providers directly, rather than
your having to pay on the spot and claim later.
Worldwide travel insurance is available at www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings. You can buy,
extend and claim travel insurance online any time - even if you're already on the road.
Internet Access
If you plan to carry a notebook computer or tablet, remember that the power-supply voltage
in Sweden may vary from what you have in your home country. To avoid frying your elec-
tronics, use a universal AC adaptor (many laptop adaptors already include this; check the
label on your power cord) and a plug adaptor, which will enable you to plug in anywhere.
Most hotels have wireless LAN connections, and some have computers and printers in
the lobby or business centre, or even laptops you can borrow. Nearly all public libraries of-