Last year, tourism from Norway decreased in the county when the corona pandemic made it more difficult to move across the border. But this summer it is different, vaccination passes and lower infection rates mean that more Norwegians are choosing to vacation in Sweden again, something that is noticeable at Östersund's campsite, among other places. 

When Norway, just after midsummer, lifted the requirement to quarantine when traveling from Jämtland County, many in our neighboring country packed their bags. The Norwegian newspaper Adressa reports that 9,000 Norwegians have crossed the border since the quarantine requirement upon entry was lifted. The effect is noticeable in Östersund where the campsites have received more bookings.

– Since midsummer, 105 Norwegians have stayed here. Compared to last year, when we had no Norwegian visitors at all, this is an 800 percent increase so we are very happy that they are back, says Johan Ohlzon, site manager at Östersunds Camping.

Depending on the event 

But despite the arrival of tourists from Norway, the campsite faces challenges. Norwegians usually make up 85 percent of the guests during the summer, and when they didn't come last summer, they lost their most important source of income. This year too, there is a noticeable drop in visitors as corona restrictions prevent public events such as Storsjöyran.

– Östersund is an event city, so we are a bit dependent on things happening that make people want to come here. I think things have gone better for the mountain campsites as people go there for the sake of nature, says Ohlzon.

Source:svt.se