A trip to Finland ( Country of Happiness )

                          A Trip to Finland

Finland is the ideal destination for those seeking breathtaking natural scenery, modern urban life, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences. Finland has something for everyone, with its pristine lakes, northern lights, and vibrant cities. Here's a recap of my trip to this lovely Nordic country.

Helsinki: A Modern City with a Rich History

My journey began in Helsinki, Finland's capital city. Helsinki is a modern city with a long history, which is evident in its architecture and landmarks. I went to see the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, a beautiful white neoclassical church that dominates the city's skyline. I also went on a tour of the historic Suomenlinna fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site on an island just a short ferry ride from the city centre.

One of my favourite Helsinki experiences was going to the Market Square, where locals sell fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Traditional Finnish dishes such as smoked salmon, reindeer stew, and Karelian pies can be found at the market. I also enjoyed shopping for souvenirs such as traditional woollen socks and Finnish glassware.

Lapland: A Winter Wonderland

My next stop was Lapland, Finland's most northern region. Skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding are popular winter activities in Lapland. I went on a reindeer sleigh ride, where I met the friendly animals and learned about the Sami culture, which is indigenous to Lapland. I also went on a husky safari, where I rode a sledge pulled by a pack of eager huskies.

The northern lights, a natural phenomenon that occurs in the Arctic sky, were the highlight of my trip to Lapland. I took a northern lights tour and witnessed the colourful lights dancing across the sky. I will never forget that magical experience.

The Land of a Thousand Lakes

My last stop in Finland was in the Lakeland region, which has thousands of pristine lakes and forests. I spent my days canoeing, fishing, and picking berries in a traditional Finnish cottage by the lake. The scenery was stunning, and I relished the peace and quiet of the Finnish countryside.

Visiting a Finnish sauna, a traditional way of relaxing and cleansing the body, was one of the most unique experiences I had in Lakeland. I went to a public sauna and joined the locals in the hot steamy room before jumping into the cold lake to cool down. It was an energising experience that left me feeling revitalised and refreshed.

People of Finland

I can say that Finns are known for being friendly, helpful, and reserved. They welcome visitors and are proud of their country's natural beauty, culture, and traditions. Because Finnish people value privacy and personal space, it is critical to respect their boundaries and avoid being overly intrusive. Furthermore, Finnish people are straightforward and honest in their communication, which can come across as blunt or rude to outsiders unfamiliar with Finnish culture. Overall, the people of Finland are known for their distinct personalities, and visitors are likely to have a positive interaction with them.

Food of Finland

Finnish cuisine is a distinct blend of traditional and modern dishes that is influenced by the country's geographical location and climate. Here are some traditional Finnish dishes:

Rye Bread - A staple of Finnish cuisine, Finland is known for its dark and dense rye bread.

Salmon - Because Finland has a long coastline, it is known for its fresh and delicious salmon dishes such as smoked salmon and gravlax.

Karjalanpiirakka - These savoury pastries made with rye flour and filled with rice or potato filling are a traditional Finnish dish.

Reindeer Meat - Reindeer meat is a popular ingredient in Finnish cuisine, especially in the country's northern regions. It is frequently prepared as a stew or roasted with herbs and spices.

Lihapiirakka - Similar to British pasties, these are Finnish meat pies. The filling is typically made up of ground beef, onion, and spices.

Lingonberries - These tart berries are a popular ingredient in Finnish cuisine, where they can be found in sauces, jams, and desserts.

Salmiakki is a traditional Finnish candy with a salty licorice flavour.

Although Finnish cuisine is not as well-known as other European cuisines, it offers a unique blend of flavours and ingredients that are worth trying if you have the opportunity.

Precautions before going to Finland

If you are planning a trip to Finland, the following general precautions should be taken:

1. Examine your travel documents: Before your trip, make sure your passport and other travel documents are valid and up to date.

2. Investigate the weather: The climate of Finland varies greatly depending on the season and location. Check the weather forecast for the locations you intend to visit and pack accordingly.

3. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.

4. Obtain recommended vaccinations for Finland from your doctor or a travel clinic.

5. Be aware of cultural norms: Before your trip, familiarise yourself with Finnish cultural norms and customs, such as the value of personal space and the Finnish concept of "sisu."

6. Stay safe: While Finland is generally a safe country, you should still take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, pay attention to your surroundings, and exercise caution when travelling alone at night.

7. Follow COVID-19 guidelines: Finland currently has COVID-19 restrictions in place, so it's critical to check the latest information and follow the guidelines for your own and others' safety.

You can help ensure that your trip to Finland is safe, enjoyable, and stress-free by taking these precautions.

Conclusion

My trip to Finland was a fantastic adventure filled with culture and natural beauty. Finland has something for everyone, from the bustling city of Helsinki to the peaceful lakes of Lakeland. I had a great time learning about Finnish culture and way of life, trying traditional foods, and exploring the beautiful scenery. If you want to have an unforgettable travel experience, I highly recommend visiting Finland.