Partnering with ADTRAV for Business & Leisure Travel in Scandinavia & Beyond
ADTRAV provides precision planning for productive corporate programs and unforgettable, curated leisure experiences. In fact, as Volvo’s Overseas Delivery program travel partner, ADTRAV has designed thousands of journeys that balance comfort and discovery across Scandinavia and the Nordic region.
Whether you’re headed there for business or pleasure, our advisors use on-the-ground expertise to recommend the best routes, sights, and cultural experiences. From the Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant cultural mix of Gothenburg (Sweden’s second largest city), to the glassy fjords of Norway, we tailor each itinerary to immerse you in local life. Rely on our experience to serve your unique needs and dive into the following overview to enhance your travel.
Business Travelers: Efficient, Compliant, Results-Driven
Scandinavia’s business culture prizes efficiency and egalitarianism. Meetings start on time, and communication is direct: don’t beat around the bush or use vague language. Show respect for hierarchy by addressing senior colleagues first, but be prepared for flat teams where everyone’s input counts— consensus decision-making is common. Punctuality is critical (being late is seen as disrespectful), and agendas are followed closely. Conversation is factual and to the point.
Be Punctual and Prepared: Arrive early to meetings (Scandinavians are extremely punctual), with any documents or slides translated if needed.
Communicate Directly: Speak plainly and honestly. Get to the point quickly and back up proposals with data. Long-winded pitches or flattery will likely fall flat.
Mind the Balance: Respect work/life boundaries. Scandinavians typically clock out on time and rarely check email after hours, so avoid scheduling meetings too late or expecting answers in the evening or on weekends.
Professional but Friendly Demeanor: Greet each person with a firm handshake and eye contact. Dress smartly in business-casual style (neat and coordinated, but not overly formal). Use first names after introductions, but follow your hosts’ lead on formality.
Skip Gifts in Meetings: Corporate gift-giving is unusual and can be awkward due to strict anti-corruption norms. Instead, show appreciation with a handwritten thank-you note after the trip.
Plan Around Holidays: Many offices slow down in summer (mid-June through August) for holidays. Avoid booking critical negotiations then if possible. Conversely, late summer/early autumn is often better for business, with schools back and vacationers returned.
- Scandinavia is moving towards a cashless society, so rely on your bank card for most purchases. Carry some cash for emergencies, but avoid large bills.
ADTRAV’s corporate travel services include integrated booking tools, centralized billing, and negotiated rates with airlines and hotels. We ensure all trips receive duty of care and in-house 24/7 support, so even in the remote Arctic or midnight sun of Finland, help is just a call away.
Leisure Travelers: Local, Curated, Memorable
ADTRAV crafts tailored experiences that connect you deeply to place and people. Vibrant cities and serene wilderness in Scandinavia and the Nordics offer a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re at a high-end restaurant or hiking in the woods, remember small courtesies go a long way.
In social or dining settings, a few general things to remember include:
Shoes Off Indoors: In homes (and sometimes small hotels), it’s polite to remove your shoes at the door, especially in winter when snow or mud is likely.
Bring a Small Gift: If invited to a Nordic home, bring a simple hostess gift like quality chocolate, pastries or wine. Flowers are appreciated in Sweden and Denmark, but check that the variety isn’t one with negative symbolism (the florist can advise).
Wait for the Toast: At dinner, hold your drink until the host makes a toast. In Sweden, for example, it’s customary for the host to make a welcome toast before the first sip. Norwegians and Finns also raise a glass after major courses.
Respect Personal Space: Don’t assume intimate greetings. A warm but firm handshake with eye contact is standard for both greeting and farewell in professional and new social encounters. Avoid hugging, back-slapping or cheek kisses unless you know someone very well.
Engage in Small Talk: Small talk may seem sparse, but showing interest in local culture is appreciated. Complimenting local food or landscape is always welcomed. Do avoid overly personal questions or controversial topics as you would in polite company anywhere.
Tipping: Not required. Service charges are typically included. If service is exceptional, feel free to round up or add ~5–10% on restaurant tabs and taxi fares, but never feel obliged. In cafes or lunch counters, tipping is even less common.
Dining Manners: Scandinavians are informal at the table. If you can’t finish your food, it’s acceptable to leave a little; hosts won’t pressure you to clean your plate. Note in Sweden and Finland you keep your fork in the left hand and knife in the right throughout. “Swedish fika” (a coffee break with sweets or sandwiches) is a beloved daily ritual—don’t pass up a chance to join in for cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) and conversation!
Learn a Greeting: Simple greetings in the local language go far and show respect. “Hej” (hey) works in Sweden and Denmark, “Hallo” or “Goddag” in Norway, and a cheerful “Tack” (thanks) or “Kiitos” in Finland will earn smiles. Scandinavians rarely correct English speakers; learning even a few words shows good faith.
Additional Tips
Scandinavian weather changes, so layers are important. Pack base layers and waterproof footwear. Don’t forget a compact travel umbrella along with sunglasses and sunscreen as the sun reflects strongly off snow and water. Book summer festivals early, and choose October–March for the best aurora‑viewing chances. Traveling to Scandinavia and the Nordics can be incredible, but with a high cost of living, budgeting is important for most. For potentially lower prices and fewer crowds, look at traveling during shoulder seasons in spring or fall.
Fast Logistics
- Currencies: SEK / NOK / DKK / EUR / ISK
- Schengen area: check visa requirements
- Adapters: Type C/E/F — bring a universal plug
Highlights & Experiences to Consider
- Foodies unite: private tastings, market tours, and chef‑led dining.
- Midnight sun (summer): experience 24-hour daylight in the far north from late May through mid-July
- Scenic beauty: guided fjord cruises, northern lights, glacier hikes, archipelago island hopping, Tivoli Gardens, and Lapland safaris.
- Specialized interests: Self‑drive Volvo routes and scenic road trips, bespoke cultural access, tracing Viking history.
What ADTRAV provides
- Complimentary upgrades on flights, hotels, cruises, and more (when available).
- Behind-the-scenes access to top attractions.
- An array of included amenities at no extra charge.
- Exclusive pricing you can’t find online.
- A dedicated travel advisor throughout your booking process and vacation.
- Direct access to your travel advisor via phone, email, or travel app throughout your journey.
This quick reference provides general guidance. Consult one of ADTRAV Vacations’ professional travel advisors for deeper insight into areas you plan to visit for more tailored advice.
Why ADTRAV?
Whether you’re closing deals in Stockholm or chasing waterfalls in Iceland, our specialized teams combine best‑in‑class technology, dedication to “service nonstop,” and reliable, in-house 24/7 support. Experience the difference ADTRAV makes!