I am sharing a small personal project I completed recently. So if you have the time (about 20 minutes) and interest have a look and listen to Water Crossings here: http://www.deanckcox.com/lcc/borders/

Here’s some background:

Sweden shares 2,200 kilometers of land borders with Nordic neighbors Norway and Finland. But it’s the connection Sweden has with the rest of Europe along its 3,200 kilometers of coastline via ferry traffic that helps shape much of the country’s culture and economy. Currently more than 40 ferry lines connect Swedish shores with more than a dozen other European countries. These lines support commerce and migration as well as tourism and entertainment.
This presentation of audio slideshows – four chapters of photos and audio recordings – explore several of the themes that connect Sweden with other European countries. Passengers on four of the main ferry lines tell in their own words why they are on the journey and how it is a part of their lives.

Three young adults make the 20-minute hop to Denmark to buy alcoholic products cheaper than in Sweden due to a lower tax rate. A Croatian truck driver explains his monotonous routine, a lifestyle shared by thousands of long-distance truckers who sustain Sweden’s commerce with the rest of Europe. A Polish ship builder travels to the far north to secure a financial future for himself and his family. As a farewell gift to a friend moving away, a group of 20-something Swedes enjoy a daylong party on possibly Sweden’s most famous ferry ship – Cinderella.

As ferries travel nonstop day and night across watery boundaries, these stories document that, although disconnected by land, Sweden still maintains strong links with the rest of Europe.

Of course all comments, criticisms, feedback, etc. accepted and appreciated.

Cheers