24 Hours in Vyborg: A Crossroad of Russian, Finnish, and Swedish Heritage Nestled along the shores of the Gulf of Finland, Vyborg is a captivating city that has long stood at the crossroads of Russia, Finland, and Sweden. With a rich tapestry of history and culture, it offers a unique glimpse into the intertwined narratives that have shaped this region for centuries. Morning: A Stroll Through the Old Town As the sun rises over the cobblestone streets of Vyborg, the medieval charm of the Old Town awakens. A leisurely stroll past the historic buildings reveals the influences of the various…
Author: Finland Review
Falstaff Streetfood Guide 2026: Finland’s Streetfood Stars As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, Finland is carving out a delightful niche with its vibrant street food scene. The 2026 Falstaff Streetfood Guide shines a light on the country’s most remarkable offerings, showcasing creative chefs and passionate vendors who are making their mark with innovative, mouthwatering dishes. At the heart of Finland’s street food revolution lies a commitment to local ingredients and sustainability. Many vendors prioritize seasonal produce, incorporating the freshest flavors that the Finnish landscape has to offer. This focus not only elevates the dining experience but also supports local…
Finland Whispers of the Wilderness If you’re searching for sweeping skies and untouched snowy forests, direct your gaze towards Kainuu in eastern Finland. Straddling the Russian border, this secluded region offers breathtaking vistas that resemble a scene from a holiday postcard: snow-blanketed pines, spruces, firs, and larches dotting the landscape, interspersed with shimmering lakes and birch groves bursting with berries. Why visit? While Kainuu’s forests and wetlands may fly under the radar for most travelers, they are a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, brown bears, wolves, wolverines, lynxes, and elks roam freely. Birdwatchers, too, can delight in spotting golden…
Key Takeaways A Burger King in Helsinki has introduced an in-store spa featuring a sauna. This is the world’s first fast-food spa. Patrons can order food and drinks directly to the sauna. The location recently received an award for New Concepts in Food Service. We’ve all heard of the infamous meat sweats. But at this Burger King in Finland, they might just kick in from enjoying your Whopper in the sauna. As nude dining emerges as Europe’s most quirky food trend—evidenced by a London restaurant’s staggering waiting list of 37,000—the Mannerheimintie branch of Burger King has boldly opened an in-store…
A Teacher’s Love for Bears Wins International Accolades Valtteri Mulkhainen, a health teacher at a Finnish high school, has recently made waves in the world of wildlife photography, capturing the essence of Finland’s majestic brown bears in a series of heartwarming portraits. His work has garnered several prestigious awards, including the 2018 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards for his charming series, “Mother Returns from a Parents’ Meeting.” Reflecting on his inspiration, the 57-year-old Mulkhainen shared, “Now that I’m 57, I yearn for grandchildren, and bear cubs remind me so much of young children—always playing, bickering, and then playing again.” His affinity…
Canada and Finland Forge New Youth Mobility Agreement In a significant development for international youth exchange, Canada and Finland have officially signed a youth mobility agreement that promises to enhance opportunities for young people from both nations. This initiative aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and offer valuable work experiences to participants. The agreement enables young Canadians and Finns to live and work in each other’s countries for up to one year. This initiative not only broadens horizons but also promotes collaboration in fields such as education, enterprise, and tourism. Officials from both countries expressed enthusiasm about the potential benefits of…
On the serene banks of Lake Rikkavesi in North Savo, eastern Finland, a cherished tradition endures: the smoke sauna, heated every Wednesday during the summer months, remains an inviting sanctuary for all who seek it. As dusk settles at Kaavinkoski Saunapirtti, warmth radiates from the steam rising gracefully from the hot stones. The long summer evenings attract as many as 50 bathers, each drawn to share in this communal experience. Heating the smoke sauna is no small task, requiring about six hours of dedication from a group of volunteers. Matti Rahunen, chair of the local village association, is eager to…
Why is Finland So Happy? Insights from 11 Visits Over 12 Years After visiting Finland eleven times in just over a decade, I’ve come to appreciate the unique elements that contribute to the country’s happiness. It’s not just a matter of picturesque landscapes or the serenity of its vast forests and lakes, though those play a significant role. The essence of Finland’s joy lies in its rich culture, strong community ties, and a deep-rooted commitment to social welfare. First and foremost, the Finnish embrace of equality truly stands out. There’s a palpable sense of community throughout the country, where people…
The steady influx of Chinese tourists to Rovaniemi in recent years has sparked an increasing demand for cuisine that caters to their tastes. While the city is home to three Chinese restaurants, along with a variety of eateries offering local fare, it begs the question: Is Rovaniemi truly equipped to serve its growing number of Chinese visitors? This topic was at the forefront during a recent seminar led by Xing Liu from the Natural Resource Institute Finland (LUKE). In her insightful paper titled “Remember These Things When Serving Chinese Guests,” Liu shed light on the unique preferences of Chinese tourists…
On July 21, we delve into Helsinki, the heartbeat of Finland, which stands not only as a vibrant capital but also as an extraordinary gateway to the country’s rich landscapes, cultural tapestry, and heritage. For Indian travelers flying in with Finnair, the remarkable efficiency of Finland’s rail and public transport system ensures that destinations beyond the capital are merely hours away. From medieval towns and unspoiled national parks to emerging cultural hubs, these easy day trips provide a chance to experience a different side of Finland without straying far from your Helsinki itinerary. Porvoo: Finland’s Most Charming Medieval Town [Credit:…