Our high rise apartment in Grondal is one of hundreds to be seen all over Stockholm. This appears to be standard living in the areas around and close to the city. As most do, our apartment overlooks Lake Malaren and has sweeping communal lawns, BBQ and outdoor living facilities and access to the water. Ours has a small marina as do many others.

There is a constant passing of assorted boats - kayaks, modest fishing boats, launches, speed-boats, yachts of all sizes, transport and pleasure ferries and the occasional large industrial ship. The view changes with the time of day, from glistening morning light through high, hot midday sun to the lower light of evening and eventual sunset. But, at this time of year, it is never completely dark.

Within a short walk from the entrance to the apartments, is another smaller and peaceful area, Lake Trekanten around which people stroll, jog, push babies, accompany children, cycle and walk dogs. We saw a couple of people fishing, many water birds, including white swans, and were most intrigued to spot a huge hare leaping along a side path and into the bushes.