Set in the northern part of Europe, the country of Finland is bordered by Sweden, Norway, Russia, and the Gulf of Finland.  It has an impressive 30,000 islands off its coast, and 188,000 island lakes, which makes this Nordic country renowned as one of Europe’s most striking travel destinations. Still, regardless of such beauty, Finland’s past was tumultuous.  At one time, it was caught in a tug-of-war between Sweden and Russia, and in fact, did not declare its independence until 1917.

Today, Finland’s residents enjoy a high standard of living, and Finland is a modern, progressive country.  Its capital, Helsinki, was founded in 1550, and boasts cosmopolitan comforts and a vivacious nightlife.  Whether you are into museums, a travel through the archipelago, or just want a Finnish sauna, you will want to stop in Helsinki.

One of Helsinki’s most famous travel attractions is Temppeliaukia Church.  It was built by brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, and they carved it into solid rock.  Another favorite stop is Soumenlinna, an 18th century Sea Fortress.  It was originally constructed to secure Helsinki against Russial attacks.  Built in the 1740′s, it is one of the largest in the world. 

Finland boasts more museums per capita, than any other place in the world.  Two that top the list are Ateneum Art Museum, and National Museum.  Moreover, if it’s a castle and moat you want to see, stop at Hame Castle.   It was built in the 13th century, then converted to a prison in the 1830′s.  Now, however, it has been restored to a modern-day museum. 

Constructed in 1950, Korkeasaari Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world.  Another must-see is the Olympic Stadium.  It was built in 1940, but due to WWII, the games were cancelled.  It was not until 1952 that Finland finally hosted the Olympic Games.  

St. Olaf’s Castle, Olavinlinna, is one of Finland’s better known attractions.   This 500-year-old castle is balanced on the edge of a tiny green island lake, and looks like it came right out of a fairytale.  The King’s Road is worth seeing, as well.  Winding along the southern coastline, this road once connected Sweden and Russia, and still has many intact taverns, castles, manor houses, cottages, and stone churches.

If you want to see a medieval town, Turku is the oldest in Finland, and worth the visit.  This 750-year-old town was at one time, Finland’s capital.  It has a 13th century castle that has been restored, and it now serves as a Viking museum.  Of course, if you are in Finland, you must see the Land of the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights.  Sparsely populated, this wilderness is known for its open fells and hills, uninhabited forests, lakes as clear as crystal, babbling brooks and foaming rapids.  Be sure to try the salmon, or maybe a reindeer steak, and taste some rare golden cloudberry wine.  Lapland is, of course, the home of Santa Claus.  Definitely plan a trip to visit Santapark. It is St. Nick’s very own theme park!

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