Hotel Review: Discovering the Star Arctic Hotel in Saariselkä, Finland Nestled atop the enchanting Kaunispää mountain in Finnish Lapland, the recently opened Star Arctic Hotel offers an unparalleled retreat that promises both breathtaking views and an enchanting experience. With its thoughtfully designed accommodations, guests are treated to the serene beauty of Saariselkä, where nature reigns supreme. As the sun sets and the first stars prick the darkening sky, the northern lights often put on a mesmerizing show, casting vivid colors across the landscape. This idyllic setting makes the Star Arctic Hotel a prime destination for anyone seeking a unique getaway.…
Author: Finland Review
Finland Redefines Its Tourism Narrative: Culinary Delights Take Center Stage Alongside the Northern Lights Finland is poised for a transformation in its tourism strategy, aiming to pivot away from a focus solely on its stunning landscapes, expansive lakes, and reputation as the world’s happiest nation. In this dynamic shift, Finnish tourism officials are spotlighting Nordic gastronomy as the next big attraction for discerning travelers. At the heart of this initiative lies Finland’s Official Tasting Table—a meticulously crafted campaign designed to elevate Finnish culinary traditions from being a mere backdrop to a central narrative in the tourism experience. This evolution mirrors…
Nestled around the picturesque Sapokka Bay in Kotka, the Sapokka Water Garden is a serene urban oasis where the splendor of water features takes center stage. My mind had long held onto the image of a towering waterfall nestled within this green space. So, when I found myself in Kotka for an entirely different purpose, the sight of that very waterfall beckoned me to meander through the Water Garden during my brief visit. Sapokka Water Garden View on map Tallinankatu, Kotka 1.6 km from Kotka Railway Station Kotka, located in southeastern Finland, sits at the confluence of the Kymi River…
Europe on Edge: Russia’s Nuclear Warning Amid NATO Arctic Operations in Finland and Sweden As the conflict in Ukraine escalates, travelers in Europe are advised to stay alert. Tensions have soared following Russia’s recent nuclear warning pertaining to NATO’s military operations in the Arctic, specifically in Finland and Sweden. In an exclusive report, sources reveal that Moscow views the increased NATO presence as a direct threat to its borders. This shift in geopolitical dynamics has raised concerns not just for security but for tourism and travel across the region. Travelers planning trips to Finland and Sweden should be particularly vigilant,…
11 Hidden Gems in Finland You Probably Haven’t Discovered Yet Finland, often celebrated for its pristine landscapes and rich culture, is dotted with enchanting spots that remain undiscovered by many travelers. If you think you know Finland well, here are eleven remarkable places that might surprise you. 1. The Archipelago Sea This stunning stretch of water between the southwest coast and the Åland Islands is a treasure trove of over 20,000 islands. The serene beauty and unique ecosystems make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. 2. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park Located in Lapland, this national park features traditional…
When your client is Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s most celebrated figures, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Yet Finnish chef and restaurateur Arto Rastas remains remarkably unfazed. With a career that has included cooking for royalty and world leaders, he thrives under pressure. Rastas’ culinary journey began at the age of 14, when he took an assistant position at a roadside service station in Rovaniemi, a town nestled on the Arctic Circle. In those early days, he was crafting simple sandwich fillings, far removed from the gourmet offerings of high-end cuisine. It was in Northern Finland that Rastas first had…
The Increasing Presence of Hornets in Finland: A Summer Surprise This summer has brought a noticeable surge in the population of hornets across Finland, as confirmed by the Natural Resources Institute (Luke). These large wasps, known for their distinctive size and aggressive nature, seem to be thriving more than usual this season. Senior scientist Jouni Sorvari from Luke attributes this spike to a combination of warmer temperatures and extended summers — phenomena that are increasingly tied to climate change. “The changes in our climate are allowing hornets to proliferate,” he explains, highlighting a trend that many wildlife observers have noticed.…
Seeking an Aurora Borealis Spotter: An Unforgettable Job Opportunity If you’ve ever dreamt of witnessing one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles, now’s your chance. The Arctic Snow Hotel in Finland is on the hunt for an official northern lights spotter—a role that promises to deliver the thrill of a lifetime, as you help guests catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Aurora borealis. Nestled close to the Arctic Circle, this unique hotel is offering a seasonal position for those enthusiastic enough to wake up in the quiet hours before dawn, scanning the expansive Finnish sky for the vibrant lights that have…
A Dumpster Diver Delves into Finland’s Food Waste Crisis In a striking commentary on Finland’s struggle with food waste, Teemu Arppe, a dumpster diver turned influencer, has captured the attention of readers and advocates alike. His story, vividly recounted by Helsingin Sanomat, sheds light on a growing issue in a nation where plenty coexists uneasily with waste. For nearly a decade, Arppe has eschewed traditional grocery shopping, finding his sustenance instead in the skips behind supermarkets. His adventures in Helsinki, particularly in its more affluent neighborhoods, often yield surprising results—perfectly good, discarded groceries transformed into unexpected treasures. On a recent…
Choosing Between Finland and Norway for Your Northern Lights Adventure When it comes to planning a trip to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, deciding between Finland and Norway can be daunting. Both countries lie beneath the auroral oval, boast excellent winter tourism infrastructure, and promise stunning displays of green and purple hues painting the Arctic sky. However, each destination provides a unique experience on the ground, influenced by everything from weather patterns to pricing and crowd sizes. This guide takes a closer look at the two countries, offering practical insights to help you determine which one might be your best…