Finland Travel Information & Tips | Trip to Finland | Finland Tourism

Santa Claus is believed to live here with his reindeer. This country is usually voted one of the top 10 destinations by tourists every year. Interestingly, Finland, which is located in the northern part of Europe, is also supposed to be the sixth largest European country in terms of area. It is actually an archipelago. The Finns, as the natives are called here speak both Swedish and Finnish, where as the capital is Helsinki. Finns are reported to be some of the happiest people on earth and why not? For Finland is a nation, which believes in giving liberties to its people, which has low levels of corruption and bestows political, rights too. Not for nothing then that Finland was rated one of the most peaceful countries in the world.

Archaeologists believe that the area, which we now call Finland, came together during the Stone Age. The earliest inhabitants were primarily hunters. Today, Finland has one of the lowest populations in Europe, with the majority of the natives having lived in the land for generations. Foreigners comprise a mere 2% of the population. Finland today has a free market economy with a per capita output on par with other established nations. Manufacturing is an important industry here, and of late cell phones produced here have found a huge market worldwide. The Finnish culture can be said to be an indigenous one. However, more than 500 years of Swedish rule too has played its role in influencing the culture here. Finland has contributed much to the arts notably music, literature and classical music.

Finland is noted for the remarkable differences in climate and landscape throughout the land. The beauty however lies in the fact that the traditions, food and culture too vary with each scenic change. The winter period is famed here, and since the season coincides with Christmas, festivities and celebrations reach a peak. The autumn season is also very beautiful and draws a lot of tourists.     Each of the islands- Lapland, West Coast, Lake District, Southern Finland and Helsinki are unique in their own way.

Helsinki – This city cannot be described in a mere word, and has much to offer visitors. The Senate Square located here is an example of 19th century neoclassical architecture. The Helsinki Cathedral, Government Palace, National Library and University of Helsinki make up the four buildings here. The Suomenlinna Viapori-Sveaborg fortress is one of the biggest sea fortresses in the world, and is a World Heritage Site. It was built in 1748 and hosts many tourists. Shopping is a treat here and the ideal place to do that is at the Market Square, where the many shops here sell international crafts and souvenirs. The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, has showcased both Finnish and international art since the 1960’s. The theatre located here has many dramas, dance performances and lectures. This country is one of the best places to hone your skating skills. The Ice Park located near the station square, which opens in November, is a place where people love to relax. Sea Life Helsinki entices you to witness a world, where hundreds of sea creatures, live in a protected environment. Here one can spot creatures ranging from shrimps to sharks. There is even a Helsinki zoo, which opened in 1889, which includes animals from all over the world. Many endangered rain forest species, and large carnivores are found here, besides endangered creatures like musk oyx and snowy owl.

The rest of Finland too has much to offer a tourist. The Ahtari Zoo , which is famous, is home to more than 300 animals from 65 species including the brown bear and the elk. The animals here are found mostly in the Nordic region. If you wish to truly have a ‘cold’ experience, a visit to the Snow Castle in Kemi, will be an unforgettable experience. Here the tables at the restaurant and the chairs too are made of ice. In fact you can even stay at the Snow Hotel, in rooms designed by artists and painters, to enhance the experience. Lutheranism is very popular here in Finland with a large number of the population strictly adhering to it. The Turku Cathedral, is the mother church of the Lutheran Church of Finland, and is also reputed to be one of the best examples of Finnish architecture. This church dates back to 1300, and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Visitors will find the museum here a delight as many statues and silver items on display date back to the 14th century. The Kenkavero, is a wooden vicarage with a 500 year old history.

A trip here would be incomplete without tasting the natural beauty around. More importantly, if you have the adventurer in you, Finland gives you the space to try out a variety of activities and sports. The abundance of waterways and the number of routes all around, are ideal for canoeing. It is no wonder then that the Tahko Rowing and Canoeing event takes place here . The flat roads, with an occasional steep climb are ideal for biking. In addition, many cycling tracks are well laid out and marked so that you can take in the calm hills, lakes and forests on your ride. Aland is best seen on bike, and the journey from Helsinki to Vaasa on the west coast, is another favourite with bikers. If fishing is a hobby, give the salmon rich waters of Lapland, and Trout filled waters of Central Finland a try. Not only do the waters hold a varied sea life, but it is the beauty that never fails to touch you. There are certain forests in Finland where hunting is permitted as long as one has the required license too. Moose, hare, grouse are a few creatures that are hunted for sport. If simply animal watching is your interest then, there are many wild forests where animals can be spotted in their natural habitat.

A vacation here is sure to rejuvenate your senses, and even help you develop a new passion or two.

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