The spot lamp cuts through the darkness as the Land Rover lumbers forward, sending the unmistakable aroma of the African bush swirling in the cool night air. Within the circle of light, I catch fleeting glimpses of mopane and acacia trees, gently rustling grasses, and the languid ripples of the Lubi River. I lean forward, my eyes straining into the inky blackness, eager to find those telltale twin pinpricks of light. Then, suddenly, two green-yellow spots appear above, revealing a glimpse of mottled fur. Could it be? No—the eyes are just a bit too far apart. With the hum of…
Author: Finland Review
Christmas in Finland is a culinary journey that embodies the spirit of the holiday. The Finnish Christmas meal, known as joulupöytä, takes center stage, uniting families around the table. In contrast to the commercialized celebrations found elsewhere, Finnish Christmas fare celebrates familiar flavors, seasonal ingredients, and hearty dishes that are savored only during this special time of year. Exploring these traditional dishes offers a window into Finnish culture, reflecting seasonal rhythms and values of simplicity, tradition, and family bonding. The Heart of the Feast: Christmas Ham At the core of most Finnish Christmas tables lies the beloved Christmas ham. Carefully…
Regenerative tourism seeks to leave a positive footprint on the communities it touches. So, would you consider trading a portion of your vacation for some volunteer work? For Tiina Polo, the answer is a resounding yes. “Our family enjoys being active,” shares Polo. “The idea of safeguarding nature while also getting some exercise is a wonderful combination.” In February 2025, Polo and her family joined a small group on the picturesque shores of Lake Saimaa, where they set to work creating artificial snowdrifts. Their mission? To support the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, a unique species that calls Finland home. These…
Discovering the Hidden Gem: Gardenia Japanese Garden in East Helsinki As spring unfolds its vibrant tapestry across East Helsinki, the region has become a haven for cherry blossom enthusiasts. The streets are now adorned with delicate pink blooms, but nestled away in Viikki lies an enchanting secret that many may not yet know: the Gardenia Japanese Garden. Set against the backdrop of a striking glass structure that once housed the Gardenia Tropical Green Center, this tranquil oasis showcases cherry trees in their full glory, basking in the warm spring sunshine. The Gardenia Japanese Garden is an exquisite fusion of traditional…
In its January 28 online edition, Travel + Leisure Asia spotlighted a significant development in China’s ever-expanding visa-free scheme, with Sweden now joining the ranks of eligible nations. The article emphasizes that Finland continues to enjoy the privilege of being among 45 countries whose citizens can visit China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days—a crucial detail, especially for those concerned that this waiver might be revoked in 2025. For Finnish travelers, this news serves as a reassuring confirmation that the Chinese market will remain accessible for at least the next two years. This aligns with recent…
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In Finland, the arrival of the New Year is marked by a quieter, more contemplative spirit compared to the festive cheer of Christmas. Although fireworks and gatherings do illuminate the night, Finnish customs lean heavily towards family, intimate circles, and meaningful rituals rather than grand celebrations. This time is seen as a passage from one year to the next, offering a moment for introspection and preparation for what lies ahead. Diving into the traditions surrounding Finland’s New Year reveals a delightful blend of contemporary festivities, ancient practices, and pragmatic responses to the country’s enduring winter season. Private Gatherings and Family…
Mold » AIRLINE NEWS » TUI Strengthens Arctic Network as Over 60,000 Winter Travelers Head to Lapland and New Boeing 737-8 “Kuusamo” Joins Northern Finland Fleet Published on February 23, 2026 Finland’s allure continues to shine brightly within TUI’s expansive global network, serving as both a vibrant outbound market and a sought-after holiday destination. Among its crowning jewels, Lapland stands out as a winter wonderland, captivating travelers in search of Arctic landscapes, serene snow-covered forests, and thrilling seasonal adventures. This winter alone, TUI is set to transport over 60,000 holidaymakers to the enchanting northern reaches of Finland, with a significant…
Mold » Greece » Greece Travel News » Greece Unites With Thailand, Japan, Turkey, France, Spain, Finland, And More Nations In A Bold Move To Redefine Luxury With Eco-Friendly Hotels And Sustainable Tourism Published on January 30, 2026 Image generated with Ai In a groundbreaking collaboration, Greece joins forces with Thailand, Japan, Turkey, France, Spain, Finland, and several other countries to redefine luxury travel through eco-friendly hotels and sustainable tourism initiatives. This collective effort represents a shared vision of blending lavish experiences with environmental responsibility, giving travelers the unique opportunity to indulge in high-end offerings while safeguarding the planet. As…
Embracing Travel in 2022: A Journey of Rediscovery Over the past couple of years, my dreams of long-term travel have remained little more than aspirations, fading into the backdrop of unexpected uncertainties. The last trip I took was two years ago; I had envisioned 2020 as my ultimate travel year. Instead, life had other plans, and those dreams were swiftly dashed. Yet, as time has passed, it seems the world is finally starting to open up again. Hope is returning, and so is the itch to explore. It’s invigorating to feel that spark of inspiration rekindled—who doesn’t relish the prospect…