This was the first time National Geographic Explorer has visited Ahus, a small city of 11,000 people in southern Sweden. It certainly won’t be the last. This charming community is the world headquarters of Absolut, the iconic vodka brand. After a lovely Zodiac ride through the morning mist, we divided into two groups, one that toured the factory (and got a lesson in how to make a Cosmopolitan cocktail) and the other that strolled to a nearby beach where they learned about the town’s historic eel fishing tradition. After a delicious lunch together at the Absolute Home, an ornate building that was once the office of Absolut’s founder in the late 1800s, the groups switched places. It was a lovely visit to a picturesque community that we will “absolutely” add to our regular list of destinations.
This was the last day of our expedition across the Baltic Sea, and we ended the day with the Captain’s Farewell in the lounge. I was moved to recite this fitting poem by Swedish songwriter and bon vivant, Evert Taube. I think it speaks to all travelers – those who literally take to sea and those whose journey is the voyage of life:
While still the boat sails along
While still the heartbeat is strong
While still the sun’s rays on waves are a glittering throng
Though you should suffer, perform each endeavor
There will be rest soon for ever and ever!
But that’s no reason at all
To not be glad and stand tall
It’s time to strike up a quite irresistible waltz!
It’s such a great stroke of luck you’re alive now, my friend
And can waltz through the day around Havana!
And when your last money’s gone, go to sea once again
With the trade wind your sailor’s bandanna
Do your duty aright
Go on land that’s in sight
Take a kiss maybe two in the dance’s swift flight!
While still the boat sails along
While still the heartbeat is strong
While still the sun’s rays on waves are a glittering throng
