Brown Bears in Finland: A Growing Presence, But Rarely a Threat In the serene landscapes of Finland, brown bears can tip the scales at an impressive 230 kilograms. Despite their size and strength, these majestic creatures rarely pose a threat to humans. Recently, however, there have been increasing reports of bears encroaching on human habitation, particularly in Ylöjärvi, a town just 11 kilometers from the bustling city of Tampere. Observations of bears wandering near homes have raised concerns, prompting action from local authorities. Last Friday, the Finnish Wildlife Agency took a proactive stance by issuing permits to deter two bears…
Author: Finland Review
The Helsinki Grand Hansa offers luxurious accommodations and an ideal location near the Finnish capital’s top attractions. (Helsinki Grand Hansa) As summer approaches, vacationers are increasingly drawn to the cooler northern climes, seeking refuge from the sizzling streets of southern Europe. A recent report from the European Tourism Commission reveals a remarkable surge in short-term rentals across the region—up by 37 percent in Norway, 32 percent in Sweden, and 24 percent in Finland. In this revitalized interest, few cities offer a more distinctive experience than Helsinki, where Lonkero, the national drink, is poured and the concept of the sauna, complete…
March 26, 2025 — 5:00 a.m Clay You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it A A A This article is part of the Traveller’s guide to The Best of Scandinavia. See below stories. Finland frequently earns top honors as one of the happiest countries in the world, a designation reaffirmed just last week. A visit to its charming capital, Helsinki, sheds light on the reason behind this acclaim. Renowned for…
Girls’ Guide to the World Unveils Finland’s Itinerary for 2025 In an exciting announcement, the “Girls’ Guide to the World” has unveiled its planned itinerary for Finland in 2025, promising an enchanting blend of cultural immersion and breathtaking landscapes. This initiative aims to empower women travelers by offering a curated experience that explores some of Finland’s most captivating destinations. Travel enthusiasts can anticipate a well-rounded exploration, showcasing everything from the vibrant streets of Helsinki to the tranquil beauty of Lapland. The itinerary is designed not only to highlight Finland’s rich history and stunning natural scenery but also to foster connections…
Ottawa/Getty Images Japan, with its captivating blend of modernity and tradition, has won the hearts of many travelers. Famous for its delectable culinary scene, efficient transport, and breathtaking landscapes, it has rightfully earned the title of the safest Asian country to visit—according to a recent survey by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection. However, the allure of this island nation has led to an overwhelming influx of tourists. While international visitors flock to its stunning locales, domestic travel has seen a decline, not just due to economic factors but also because of the overwhelming crowds at popular spots like Kyoto. Once a…
Discover Tampere, Finland: Europe’s Smart Tourism Capital 2026 As the world of travel continues to evolve, Tampere, Finland, has emerged as a beacon of innovation, setting its sights on becoming Europe’s Smart Tourism Capital in 2026. This vibrant city, nestled between two picturesque lakes, is not just a hub for technological advancements; it’s a treasure trove of culture, nature, and sustainable adventures ready to captivate global travelers. Tampere’s charm lies in its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The city boasts a rich history, once known for its thriving industrial roots, which are now complemented by a dynamic…
A visit to Santa Claus Village might be more affordable than it seems (Picture: Getty Images) Picture this: snow-kissed chalets, the mesmerizing Northern Lights, and perhaps a moment spent with Santa Claus himself. If there’s a place that embodies the magic of Christmas, it’s undoubtedly Lapland. Every winter, families and friends alike are drawn to this enchanting corner of the Arctic Circle, which spans Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Russia, in search of a little bit of that elusive holiday spirit. Between November 2024 and March 2025, Rovaniemi—celebrated as the official hometown of Santa Claus—welcomed 1.1 million overnight visitors, marking a…
Celebrating Easter in Finland: Food, Drink, and Traditions As the days turn longer and the chill of winter begins to recede, Finland welcomes Easter with a blend of rich traditions and delectable culinary delights. This festive season, steeped in cultural significance, brings families together in celebration, marked by unique customs that showcase the warmth of Finnish hospitality. Traditional Easter Foods At the heart of any Finnish Easter celebration is the food. Families take pride in preparing a feast that often features a variety of traditional dishes. One staple is “mämmi,” a dark, sweet rye pudding that is both cherished and,…
The Chicago Public Schools (CPS) watchdog has raised a significant alarm, revealing that expenditures on overnight travel have soared—doubling in the wake of the pandemic—when the district found itself buoyed by federal COVID relief funds. The Inspector General’s recent investigative report underscores that many of these trips were “questionable, excessive, and even exorbitant.” Notably, Las Vegas emerged as the top destination for staff excursions, raising eyebrows given that many of the seminars attended were also available locally or could have been accessed virtually. The report also highlighted remote trips to places like Finland and Estonia. Inspector General Philip Wagenknecht pointed…
Why Finland is the Happiest Country in the World – and Where to Visit In a world often fraught with uncertainty, Finland consistently emerges at the top of happiness rankings, captivating minds with its distinctive blend of social harmony, quality of life, and breathtaking landscapes. But what lies beneath the serene surface that has earned Finland the title of the happiest country? The Secret Behind the Smiles Finland’s secret to happiness can be attributed to several interwoven factors. A robust welfare system ensures that citizens have access to essential services such as healthcare and education, fostering a sense of security.…