Finland Travel Guide

Finland OVERVIEW

If it wasn't for our embedded sense of fairness, the majority would readily believe that there must be something shady going on behind Finns' world-class achievements in all snow-related endeavors. In this case, however, our grasp of the world's geography hints that it's all down to almost devout passion for winter sports that runs in the Finnish blood.

For how can you not love snow having the wonder of Lapland within easy reach? National parks hibernating under a downy duvet of milky white fluff, reindeer stamping in a dignified fashion, husky-drawn sledge rides, and wood-fired saunas to revitalize your frozen ends. If you've ever wondered how long Santa's beard is or how in the world aurora borealis comes to adorn the northern sky, this is the place to learn it!

Of course Finland is not forever ice-covered, and when the summer arrives, the whole country shakes off the remnants of winter sleep to explodes with music festivals, nightless nights conducive to endless partying, splendid trekking opportunities, and chirping of birds that draw circles above the glossy Lake District. Attracted with clean air, fatty milk and a smell of Runeberg's tarts being baked in lovely cottages, a lot of tourists head for the countryside, finding retreat in the towns of Urjala or Inari. Helsinki and Oulu are gateways to a joint experience of outstanding culture, refined dining and savvy nightlife. Turku and Rauma let you breath the air of the past while Savonlinna and Pori vibrate with music ranging from jazz through rock to classical.

OK, here comes a joke:

Q: "How do you tell an extrovert Finn ?"
A: "When conversing with you, he's actually looking at your feet instead of his own !"

Not sure which Scandinavian country it comes from, but one thing's for sure- you will not learn how not true it is until you pack your bags and give Finland a go.