If you’re moving to a village in the Kalix municipality, it’s okay to spontaneously knock on doors and see if the new neighbors have time to get to know you. And if you’re moving to a village near Kalix, you can generally leave your door unlocked all day.

Greet people on the streets in the villages with a friendly “Hello”; many will also be happy to have a chat.

Join local groups on social media to learn more about events in the region (such as Facebook groups like “You know you’re from Kalix if…”).

Take a deep breath to make a “ssschhh” sound – which means “yes” in the local language! Swedes are generally good at English and will switch to it as soon as they notice you’re from abroad. If you want to learn Swedish, persist in trying even if you make mistakes.

For everyday problems (with the car, computer, small things in the house, etc.), don’t immediately look for a specialist – as in big cities – but ask the neighbors first if they can help or know someone who can. This way, you’ll save a lot of money and get to know people from the area at the same time!

Say goodbye to your notions of “lunchtime rest” or “Sunday rest” – in Kalix, you do what needs to be done when the weather permits, whether it’s using the snow blower or the lawnmower.

Get used to experiencing five seasons, not four. The fifth season, “spring-winter,” is the locals’ favorite time of year. And according to the Sami calendar, there are even eight seasons.

It can get really hot in Kalix during the summer – with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Make sure to pack summer clothes when you move!

Buy a kick sled, which, along with snowmobiles and skis, is the locals’ favorite winter transportation.

If you don’t have one already, save up for 1) a snowmobile and 2) a boat – it’s the best way to enjoy all seasons in the Kalix municipality.

Learn to read the most important animal tracks and sounds – every walk in the forest will be even more enjoyable, as there is always much to discover!

When driving, immediately slow down if someone approaches you with flashing high beams. It means there are reindeer or other animals on the road.

Be cautious if you see black plastic bags hanging along the roads. It means there are reindeer roaming the area and/or that the wildlife fence has been opened. Reindeer often stand or walk along the roadside but may also lie down on the road and lick up some scattered salt during winter – or lie down!

Be prepared for the first snow in October! Mostly it comes later, but you never know. Don’t get frustrated if you receive spring pictures from your old homeland in March – in Kalix, the river and the Bay of Bothnia usually remain frozen until May. There is still snow on the ground in April. At least.

Buy a good dark curtain for the bedroom; even in Kalix, it’s practically bright 24/7 during the summer.

Get used to grilling outdoors even in minus 30 degrees Celsius! And enjoying it! With the right clothes and a winter-resistant reindeer skin as a sitting and standing pad. Grilling also means, of course, becoming an expert at making fires if you’re not so good at it yet.