As winter blankets Scandinavia, the enchanting pursuit of the northern lights beckons travelers to its northern realms. These vibrant celestial displays—swirling greens, purples, blues, and yellows—transform the dark Arctic skies into a breathtaking spectacle. Magical northern lights on the Lofoten Islands / Johannes Groll Journeying beyond the Arctic Circle during the winter months offers a captivating opportunity to witness this phenomenon, provided the sky is clear. But where exactly in Scandinavia can you best experience this cosmic ballet? How can you elevate your chances of witnessing such a remarkable event? Here’s your essential guide to understanding the northern lights, along…
Author: Finland Review
A winding gravel road meanders toward the remnants of the Strömfors ironworks harbor in Loviisa, a charming town perched on Finland’s southern coast, about 85 kilometers (50 miles) east of Helsinki. The slope rises gently, punctuated by red-ochre cottages that once sheltered the ironworks’ dockworkers, forming a quaint village of its own. Among these nostalgic structures, one cottage stands out, its white-paned windows beckoning. Now a year-round refuge for a family, it has been lovingly cherished and restored. “The exterior is protected, and to us, it’s just perfect,” shares Pia Lohikoski. “We want the interior to feel just as timeless.…
The elusive Eurasian lynx, a naturally reserved creature, tends to keep its distance from humans. Yet, like many wild animals, it can become defensive if it feels threatened. Once driven to extinction in various regions of Europe, this remarkable feline has made a notable resurgence in countries such as Finland, Estonia, Czechia, Austria, Albania, Slovenia, Serbia, and Ukraine. Beyond these nations, the lynx has also been spotted in parts of Germany, Switzerland, and France. However, a troubling incident occurred in January 2025 when four lynx were captured in the Scottish Highlands after being released unlawfully. This illegal act not only…
1. Salmiakki (Salty Licorice) Photo: JRJfin/Shutterstock In Finland, licorice takes a turn that may surprise many outside the country. Commonly known as salmiakki, this pitch-black candy is infused with ammonium chloride, delivering a uniquely sharp salty flavor. For those unaccustomed to it, the taste can be jarring at first. Yet, for generations of Finns, this treat is nothing short of addictive, affectionately dubbed “black gold.” It’s a staple in their travel bags, a little piece of home wherever they go. Salmiakki isn’t limited to just one type of candy. You’ll find it in an array of forms—ice creams, chocolates, fudges,…
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According to Dam Removal Europe, Finland has achieved a remarkable feat in river restoration, dismantling a record 138 barriers last year—more than any other country in Europe. This significant initiative is aimed at rejuvenating waterways, allowing migratory fish and diverse wildlife to thrive once more. In a recent report released by the WWF, which partners with various organizations including the Nature Conservancy and the European Rivers Network, it was highlighted that over 500 river barriers were either removed or bypassed across the continent. Finland led the charge, with France following closely behind, removing 128 obstacles. The report painted a sobering…
Ireland Joins Forces with Finland, Scotland, Austria, and France to Advance Eco-Tourism as Laois Unveils New Accessible Woodland Entrance and Eco-Stay Accommodations In a commendable effort to bolster eco-tourism, Ireland is aligning with Finland, Scotland, Austria, and France on an initiative that highlights sustainability and accessibility in travel. As part of this collaborative endeavor, the picturesque county of Laois recently unveiled its new accessible woodland entrance, along with eco-stay accommodation projects that promise to enchant visitors while promoting environmental responsibility. The development of the woodland entrance is a notable milestone, designed not only to enhance visitor access but also to…
The verdict: My journey through the Finnish McDonald’s menu turned out to be a mix of triumphs and disappointments, a culinary rollercoaster of sorts. One of the most talked-about items, the McVegan, was a letdown. While the idea of a rye bun sounded appealing, its flavor clashed with the beef burger. As for the salad? It hardly seemed worth the calorie count. On a more positive note, I found two standout items that I would gladly order again: the Falafel Bites and the Pizza Mac, both of which also happened to be the most budget-friendly options available. Unfortunately for fans…
Manchester United Set for a European Pre-Season Adventure As the warmth of summer approaches, Manchester United is gearing up for an exciting pre-season tour across Europe. The team will embark on a series of friendly matches in July and August, making stops in Finland, Sweden, Norway, the Republic of Ireland, and Poland. According to reports from The Athletic, the journey kicks off in Helsinki, Finland, where United will face Wrexham on July 18. Following that opener, they will take on Rosenborg in Trondheim, Norway, on July 24, before heading to Stockholm to take on Atlético Madrid on August 1. The…
Few architects have left as indelible a mark on Finland’s landscape as Alvar Aalto. Aalto is hailed as one of the nation’s most significant architects and designers, instrumental in shaping a distinct Nordic take on modernism. His influence spans public buildings, churches, residential complexes, furniture, and glassware, with his creations found not only across Finland but also internationally. Today, an initiative is underway to secure UNESCO World Heritage Site designation for a remarkable collection of 13 locations that celebrate Aalto’s legacy, collectively known as the Aalto Works. Architecture Designed for People The Muuratsalo Experimental House (1952–54) serves as both studio…