A Journey to Winter’s Embrace in Lapland I’ve yet to whisk my children away to the snowy wonder of Lapland to meet Father Christmas, but like many, I yearn for a seasonal escape. This time of year often feels overwhelmed by festive chaos—parties, endless wrapping of gifts—but there’s an undeniable allure in the thought of finding solace in a vast, serene landscape blanketed in snow. Thus, I find myself in Finland’s far north, just 180 miles from where the land gives way to the icy reach of the Arctic Ocean—a remote corner pointing its frozen fingers toward the North Pole.…
Author: Finland Review
Helsinki’s VALO Hotel & Work once again claimed top honors as Finland’s leading hotel at the World Travel Honors held last week in Berlin, reinforcing its reputation as a trailblazer in the realm of functional, hybrid accommodations. “This recognition is not just a win; it’s a testament to the VALO team’s unwavering passion for our guests and our mission,” remarked Hannu Holma, co-founder and CEO of VALO Hotel & Work. He emphasized the hotel’s commitment to bringing “Authentic Encounters” into the daily lives and work experiences of its patrons. Holma acknowledged the significance of this award, stating, “This accolade sets…
HELSINKI – Finland’s government is currently grappling with intense backlash and allegations of racism following a controversial incident involving its representative at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant. Sarah Dzafce, who recently held the Miss Finland title, was captured in a photograph pulling the corners of her eyes—a gesture that many have denounced as offensive and racially insensitive. The photo, which quickly gained traction on social media, was accompanied by the caption “eating with a Chinese.” The fallout was immediate, with officials and commentators from both Finland and various Asian nations condemning the post as discriminatory. Dzafce, who earned her title…
In Finland, silence is not merely a void waiting to be filled; it’s a cherished experience to be savored. This reverence for quiet is reflected in many beloved Finnish pastimes, which often unfold at a slower pace. Activities like hiking, canoeing, and berry picking invite individuals to immerse themselves fully in the present without the distractions of rigid schedules or complex instructions. Even in urban spaces, tranquility is within easy reach. Tampere and Turku offer opportunities for a refreshing swim or a tranquil forest hike, while in Helsinki, you can glide through the serene waters of the eastern archipelago or…
Norway Joins a Host of Less-Visited European Gems for Travelers Seeking Authentic Experiences In an exciting development for travelers seeking a serene escape from the bustling crowds of more popular destinations, Norway has recently positioned itself alongside lesser-known European countries like Iceland, Kosovo, and Estonia. This initiative is part of a broader trend that invites intrepid explorers to discover the quieter, yet equally captivating, cultural wonders offered by nations such as Moldova, Finland, San Marino, Montenegro, and Lithuania. These countries, often overshadowed by their more frequented counterparts, now stand ready to welcome visitors to their unique landscapes and rich heritages,…
Illustration by Dawn Cooper 1. Red-breasted Goose, Lauwersmeer National Park A close-up of the striking Red-breasted Goose (Branta ruficollis). Red-breasted goose in Lauwersmeer NP © Ger Bosma/Getty Each winter, Lauwersmeer National Park transforms into a vibrant sanctuary, attracting impressive flocks of barnacle and white-fronted geese. Among these familiar faces, the elusive red-breasted goose makes an appearance, along with Montague’s harrier and golden oriole, both of which breed within the park’s diverse habitats. 2. Sand Lizard, Hulshorsterzand, Veluwe Sand lizard in Hulshorsterzand, Veluwe © David Courtenay/Getty In the heart of the Veluwe lies Hulshorsterzand, the premier site for inland sand drifts…
Finland Is Expanding Its Luxury Appeal Published 2024 | The New York Times Finland, long celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and commitment to sustainability, is now setting its sights on a new frontier: luxury tourism. As the global travel landscape evolves and affluence shifts towards experiences over possessions, Finland aims to carve out a distinct niche that marries opulence with its natural beauty. The country’s high-end offerings are blossoming, particularly in regions like Lapland, where the Northern Lights illuminate the frigid sky and create a backdrop for exclusive retreats. Here, visitors can indulge in lavish lodges that boast private saunas…
Published March 23, 2024, 07:00 AM As I stepped off the small plane and inhaled the brisk air at Kittila Airport, a chill swept through me. At 9 a.m., the stars still twinkled in the sky, a testament to the remote beauty of Finnish Lapland, where the temperature had plummeted to a brisk minus 4 degrees. Descending the gangway and onto the icy tarmac felt surreal. I know I’m in the minority when I say that my idea of fun involves basking above the Arctic Circle in January, but this polar night adventure had long been on my bucket list.…
Oversight Lapses Lead to Surprising Spending Spree in Chicago Public Schools Travel In a revealing report released Wednesday, the Inspector General of Chicago Public Schools (CPS) shed light on a significant increase in overnight travel expenditures — a trend that doubled post-pandemic, fueled by an influx of federal COVID relief funding. The findings paint a picture of questionable, extravagant travel choices made by staff, with Las Vegas emerging as the top destination. Despite many of the seminars attended being available locally or even offered via virtual formats, trips to distant locales such as Finland and Estonia also captured taxpayer dollars.…
A Glimpse Into Cold War Relics: The Finland Air Force Base For enthusiasts of Cold War history, the secretive Greenbrier Bunker in West Virginia often takes center stage. Yet another intriguing piece of history has recently hit the market: the Finland Air Force Base nestled atop Lookout Mountain in Minnesota. While the charming town of Finland thrives as a hub for outdoor adventure, the abandoned base remains a haunting reminder of Cold War tensions, real estate dreams, and an unexpected environmental legacy. Finland may boast the title of one of Minnesota’s most idyllic small towns, yet the nearby air base…