Located in the Nordic region of Europe and sandwiched between Sweden and Russia, Finland has a population of 5.3 million people, of which most lives in the southern regions. Finland is considered one of the most stable countries in the European Union, and it offers many scenic and cultural treats. Finland is the land of Northern Lights, the Midnight Sun, modern bustling cities, and vast stretches of forests, sparkling lakes, and steams.

 

 

History

Finnish speaking people entered Finland from the south and pushed the Lapps to the north in the 8th century. Christianity was established in the 11th century, and Sweden conquered Finland in the 13th century and maintained control for over 400 years, but wars with Russia over Finland were constant. Beginning in 1721, Russia started gaining more territory until 1809 when Russia took control of all of Finland; however, they allowed Finland to self-rule. In 1899, the Czar imposed greater control, but after the communist takeover in Russia in 1917, Finland declared its independence. At various times during the last 90 years, Russia has tried to gain control, but Finland has maintained its independence.

 

Culture and Sightseeing

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is filled with stately buildings, ornate palaces, and fascinating museums. In Helsinki’s harbor is the 18th century fortress of Suomenlinna.
In Olavinlinna is the famous 500 year-old St. Olaf’s Castle, which looks like a fairy tale castle.
Turku, a 750 year-old town, was once the capital of Finland. It has a restored 13th century castle, which houses a Viking museum, and 30 workshops representing different traditional trades.
For wild, unspoiled, largely uninhabited beauty, Lapland can not be outdone. Lapland is full of crystal clear lakes, large tracks of forests, and wide open meadows and hills.

 

Eat & Drink

Finnish cuisine boasts savory fresh fish dishes, like pike, whitefish, and Baltic herring. Rye bread, thick soups, and berries are also popular dishes. In Lapland, reindeer dishes are served. There are two kinds of restaurants: Those that serve all kinds of alcohol, and those that serve only beer and wine. Less expensive lunches can be found at a Kahvila or a Baari. The drinks to be enjoyed in Finland are the Finnish berry liqueurs, ice-cold Finnish vodka, Finlandia vodka schnapps, and Finnish beer.