First impressions of Helsinki

From the minute we got entered the airport, Finland struck us as clean, efficient, and very modern. These initial reactions got even more positive upon arrival and n Helsinki. We he city is a charming mix of imposing architecture from the late 1800s ( large department stores, residential buildings, and hotels), art deco from the early 20th century (primarily office buildings), and modern glass skyscrapers (post full independence in 1994).

Each architectural segment represents the major eras of Finnish history — ownership by Sweden (1617-1808), conquest by Czarist Russia (1808) as the semi autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland, independence following WWI, close relationship with USSR following WWII, and post becoming a member of the EU in 1994. The Finns were never comfortable with the country’s relationship with Russia, and are thriving in the era of independence.

Tom has photos of many buildings, but I guess those will be uploaded tomorrow.
.Read more