Finland - Day 2

Slept like a log, woke up ready for the day.

We took a short walk to the pier and boarded our ferry to Suomenlinna. Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1748 to protect against Russian expansion. Today it has museums, cafes and small restaurants. It’s a really cool mix of history and laid-back outdoor vibes—think cobblestone paths, sea air, and old fortress walls. Perfect for wandering, especially if you like casual exploring with a little story behind it.

Next was a hotel inspection of the Solo Sokos Pier 4. The sounds of the Finnish forest welcome you as you enter the beautiful lobby. The proximity to nature, domestic raw materials and authentic materials create a multi-sensory and atmospheric environment where everyone feels good to be, rest and work A perfect location for sightseeing, shopping and next to the ferry terminal.

We then made our way to Vaanta for a traditional Finnish sauna experience and if we dare, a cold water plunge. Side note, the Sokos hotel chain is the only chain in Helsinki with in house saunas.

First was the smoke sauna, It’s considered the most traditional and even “sacred” form of sauna in Finnish culture—people often associate it with relaxation, reflection, and connection to nature. Heated for 6 hours then aired out. After the heat of the sauna, and some coaxing from my fellow travelers, the cold water plung was!

On our way to the airport for our flight to Rovaneimi we have a surprise stop at Fazer Experience Visitor Centre. This is basically a fun, interactive attraction in Finland run by the famous Fazer chocolate and food company. This place was so cool and I wish we had time to truly experience it.
https://www.visitfazer.com/en/

We arrive at the Helsinki Airport and after a short delay we arrive in the Lapland’s, specifically Rovaneimi. Snow is covering the ground and big flakes are falling. This will be our home for the next two nights, also home to Santa’s Village.

A quick check in at the Sokos Hotel Vaakuna and I finally settle into bed at 11 PM. Around every corner you how the people of Finland care for each and for Mother Earth. What a day!!!Read more