Finland is a country in Northern Europe, between Sweden and Russia. It is an independence state by itself with a very unique language, Finnish. There are approximately 5 million people living in Finland. (including santa claus)
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Finland has alot to offer due to the different seasons. In the winter, you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and do all kinds of winter sport.. And In the summer time, day is longer than night and it is a good time to go hiking or camping in the forest and kayaking at the lake. You can also bbq & just sit and enjoy the peaceful lake....
If you are visiting only the city of Helsinki, it is ideal to just go on foot or take the tram.
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| Favourite spots: |
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A statue of Mannerheim near the Kiasma museum
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If you an art lover like me, you should check out the Kiasma museum for contemporary Art. Admission is 6€ for adults but cheaper for students. Free entrance on Fri 17-20.
Another favourite spot of mine is the Kaivopuisto Park which is surrounded by embassies and villas. It's a nice place to relax and enjoy the sea. There are many cafés and restaurants nearby too. Occasionally, there are also concerts at the park featuring Finnish singers/Bands. In the winter time, it is nice to visit Esplanade Park as there is often a christmas market with christmas food and special handicrafts. Summertime, the park host many popular events like fashion show, etc and people like to sit there and enjoy the sun :)
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| What's really great: |
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Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, it's nice to go there and picnic with your friends :)
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| Sights: |
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Some of the top sights to see are Senate Square, Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, Linnanmäki Amusement Park and Sea Life Helsinki, Korkeasaari Zoo, Temppeliaukio Church, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral. However, it is good to get to know the locals and learn something about their culture as Finland has a very unique culture of their own, not only in terms of language but also their food and way of living.
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| Accommodations: |
1. Hotel Kämp - The only 5 star hotel in the Nordic Region. Very expensive but it has got a rich history and very cosy ambience. There is also a library at the cafe/bar where you can read while sipping your drinks. The room is large and very classic. (Even the bathroom comes with rubber duck :) !)
2. Sokos Hotel Vaakuna - it is a middle range hotel right in the center of Helsinki nearby the railway station. Very good location.. almost walkable distance to all the major shopping malls.
3. Eurohostel - for those who are on budget. Hostel is situated at Katajanokka close by the centre of Helsinki, Market Square and the ferry terminals of Viking Line and Nordic Jet Line. It cost roughly about 25 euros per night per person.
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| Hangouts: |
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Cafe Esplanad - An excellent place to sit and have a chat with your friends. They offer all kinds of nice bakeries in big portions and also serve coffee, tea and drinks.
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| Restaurants: |
Strindberg- a classic Scandinavian restaurant in the city centre near the esplanade park. Signature items include Rydberg steak and grilled salmon, while fried pike, pistachio sauce and cauliflower-potato gratin is another favourite. An informal café is on the ground floor.
Zetor - Very interesting restaurant with funny menus. And also an unusual country-feel with tables made out of tractors. A good selection of reasonably priced Finnish food.
Restaurant Satkar - one of my favourite restaurant, it serves Nepalese food which includes all kind of vegetables, meat and seafood dishes. The main dish usually comes with rich plus delicious Nan bread and sauces. The interior of the restaurant is also decorated with beautiful painting of the Himalayas mountains.
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| Other recommendations: |
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Aleksanterinkatu - lots of restaurants and shops along that street.
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Published on Saturday May 5th, 2007
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Publish on Facebook
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Sun, May 06 2007 - 09:54 PM
 by downundergal
| Good effort but I feel you just need to expand on the details a little. |
Sun, May 06 2007 - 11:30 AM
by mistybleu
Hey Heather, nice report, I look forward to reading more from you.
All the best - Amanda |
Sun, May 06 2007 - 08:33 AM
by rangutan
This is absolutely great being the FIRST REPORT from Helsinki!!!
Sadly a bit short but can always be improved. Wonderfull! |
Sun, May 06 2007 - 03:23 AM
by marianne
| Good report and nice photos |
Sun, May 06 2007 - 01:16 AM
by davidx
| Makes me long to go back to Helsinki. Very good report. |
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