Arriving at Helsinki, Finland’s refreshing and sophisticated capital. Love this vibrant city with lots of art deco, modern and neoclassical design everywhere. They said Finland is voted the happiest country and we really felt it…. People are friendly and very cultured and relaxed
This cruise is really port intensive, not much sea day in between to rest 😆. I thought I wasn’t able to make another 20000 plus steps day today, but the city invigorated me.
- Helsinki Cathedral (Helsingin tuomiokirkko) and Senate Square
Beautiful neoclassical architecture, stunning interior, panoramic views from the steps.
- Market Square (Kauppatori)
Local produce and crafts, famous for its food stalls, and lively atmosphere. Tried salmon fish soup and Reindeer hotdog
- Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)
Built directly into rock, fantastic acoustics; a unique architectural gem.
- Esplanadi Park
Lush green space, street performers, and cafés; perfect for a leisurely walk.
- Central Library Oodi
This to me is the high light of Helsinki! Best library design we have seen so far… Offered so much more than just books, there’s booking binding, sewing machines, 3D printings… Etc… The epitome of civilization vibe in there
- Helsinki train station and restaurant Taulu inside the station
Gorgeous station and the restaurant Taulu is a art deco design Gem
More street scenes
Local Phrases
- Hello – “Moi” (moy)
- Please – “Ole hyvä” (oh-leh yuh-vah)
- Thank you – “Kiitos” (kee-toss)
- Excuse me – “Anteeksi” (an-tehk-see)
- Goodbye – “Näkemiin” (nah-keh-meen)
We both love Helsinki and will be back someday to visit Finland, the land of thousand lakes and happiest place on earth!!
Today we attended a most travelled guest captains cocktail party and that is a first…. They said they usually invited around 20 most travelled couples….the captain and almost all the officers were there with cocktails and lots of fancy canapes and ordeufs…. Also gets to chat up with other guests about their travels….. Great event!!
