Three hundred fifty years ago, Sweden was one of the great powers of Europe. However, most of its imperial territories were lost during the 18th and 19th centuries. For example, the eastern part of Sweden, present-day Finland, was taken by Russia in 1809. Today, Sweden consistently ranks at the top of lists for health and literacy, ahead of some wealthier countries. Despite its northern location, it is warmer than other places at a similar latitude, mainly thanks to ocean currents. Highlights include the rustic villages along the Bohuslän coast, the old university town of Uppsala and the two biggest lakes, Vänern and Vättern. Fully 15 percent of the country lies above the Arctic Circle; Laponia, one of Europe’s largest protected wilderness areas, is laced with pristine rivers and remote glacial valleys. On the island of Gotland, Visby is popular with summer cruise ship passengers, but a few hundred yards away from the main square, most of the enchanting narrow streets are devoid of tourists.