Mats Lindsten ♥

It was probably no coincidence that our Mats was named Mats, which has its origins in Greece and means ”God’s Gift”.”

Travels were very close to Mats’ heart; he worked for Fritidsresor for 15 years, primarily in Greece and Israel. Even after all those years at Fritidsresor, Mats continued to travel; there are not many places in the world that he hasn’t visited. Traveling with Mats was something quite special; he had an enormous knowledge and a storytelling flair that made you never want to stop listening. There is no one who can tell the tales of The Thousand and One Nights like Mats. When he immersed himself in the story, you could also see his theatrical flair and the fact that he loved being the center of attention.

He knew all the places worth visiting, from the local bar to the neighborhood pub that you probably wouldn’t have found on your own, to attractions that you absolutely had to see. There was always someone who knew Mats from a previous visit and who welcomed everyone in the group with open arms.

Mats was completely unique, a person who saw everyone and included everyone. Both guests, partners, staff at hotels, restaurants, bus drivers, and more. With his positivity and joy and enormous sense of service, everyone felt seen and appreciated. It was not for nothing that he is referred to by many as Sweden’s best travel guide and has been a role model and mentor to so many in the travel industry. Mats has touched and influenced countless people around the world.

He worked at Contrast AB for over 25 years and made a very strong impact on the company’s culture and values. He was the company’s mentor and inspiration for many years and has nurtured many of our colleagues. He taught us the craft and shared his experiences.

He had a big part in Contrasts' success. He didn't like sales at all, and yet he was one of the best. He sold by being himself. Everyone liked Mats. You were drawn into his colorful descriptions of destinations.

After his retirement, he continued to be involved in the business. He brought ideas and thoughts about the future. He worked hard to bring in new customers and kept in touch with all his former colleagues to encourage and praise them. He was always available if anyone had questions or needed help with anything. Moreover, he continued to travel with several of Contrasts clients with great success.

It is not possible to replace Mats, but we rejoice and are grateful for all the fun years we had together with him!

It has been a privilege to have had Mats as a friend and colleague.

The world is definitely poorer without you!