The lovely people of Sweden are well aware of the fact that many Americans mistake Sweden for Switzerland both geographically and culturally. What distinguishes Swedish culture from Swiss culture is a mystery to half of Americans and ofcourse to half of the globe.

There has never been a better opportunity to clear up the uncertainty that arises from failing to adequately inform tourists about the distinctions between not just the natural landscapes and geography but also the cultures of the various places.

Sweden and Switzerland no longer wish to be confused with one another after decades of uncertainty. Both countries start with “Schw” and are in Europe, however they are unrelated to one another. Previous efforts to clear up the confusion were insufficiently successful. Sweden is now seeking to alter that.

Discovering, for example, that many Americans associated the aurora borealis with Switzerland rather than Sweden, or that more than 80% of survey respondents picture mountains when they picture both Sweden and Switzerland, but only 20% associate Sweden with a nearly 2,000-mile coastline.

Sweden is a country in Scandinavia, Northern Europe, that has thousands of lakes and coastline islands, as well as huge boreal forests and mountains covered with glaciers. Its main cities are coastal: Gothenburg and Malmö in the southwest, and Stockholm, the capital, in the east. Built on fourteen islands is Stockholm. Along with the mediaeval old town, Gamla Stan, royal palaces, and outdoor museums like Skansen, it boasts almost fifty bridges. While Switzerland is a mountainous Central European country, home to numerous lakes, villages and the high peaks of the Alps. Its cities contain medieval quarters, with landmarks like capital Bern’s Zytglogge clock tower and Lucerne’s wooden chapel bridge. The country is also known for its ski resorts and hiking trails. Banking and finance are key industries, and Swiss watches and chocolate are world renowned.

So, whether you’re thinking about travelling to Switzerland, the country in central Europe, where you can see the Matterhorn, Rhine Falls, and alpine glaciers, as well as the well-known cities of Zurich, Geneva, Bern, and Lucerne, or Sweden, the country in Scandinavia sandwiched between Norway and Finland, with thousands of seaside islands and inland lakes, beautiful boreal forests, and the capital, Stockholm, you can be more aware of the differences—especially before you book a plane ticket!