For one expat partner living in Sweden, road cycling has been a way to mentally unwind, meet new people and feel more connected to his new environment – even in 45 km/h wind gusts.
A curious experience
“Relocation is a curious experience. It’s like you lose an old version of yourself and, at first, you just don’t know how to process it,” says Joaquín, a Spanish designer who previously lived in Italy with his wife for four years. Since arriving in Sweden, he’s been cycling regularly, which has helped him to find his tribe in no time at all.
An international crew
“I found a group of experienced riders, a very international crew – lots of Swedes, some Danes, and a few Germans, as well as guys from the US, Asia and South America. After every ride we’ll grab a beer (or two!) and chat about whatever. It’s been really good for me. After moving to Malmö, I had not only lost my professional identity but my social network, too.”
Battling the elements
“In Italy, I did a lot of mountain climbs. I thought Sweden would be easier for cycling because it’s flatter, but I underestimated the wind! It’s so strong – it feels like you’re fighting against it all the time. I actually downloaded an app designed for surfers that tells you which way the wind is blowing. I figured I could use it to plan my routes so I’d get the wind on my back for the way home. But even if the app says it’s coming from the northeast, the wind still seems to come from every direction…”
A form of therapy
“When you cycle with a crew, the pack usually breaks into clusters and you work with other cyclists. But I also enjoy solo rides, going at my own speed and enjoying the beauty of the Swedish landscapes. If I’ve had a frustrating day, cycling also helps me to blow off steam!” says Joaquín. And although it wasn’t easy to start over, he feels he’s in a good place now. “Cycling in Malmö has undoubtedly played a part in my adjustment. It’s helped me to process the change that I experienced. If I am a bit stressed, I love to jump in the saddle. Soon, the thoughts that were racing in my head start to slow down and often, by the end of the ride, I feel much more positive about everything.”
