Helsinki on a winter city break? Here are the top things to do
Like the rest of Finland, Helsinki knows how to embrace winter and make it even enjoyable. Visiting in winter may require a little planning so you don't have to spend too long in the cold, but it is a fantastic experience - definitely not inferior to a summer visit. In this guide I share all my favourite things to do in town when temperatures plummet below freezing, the city is covered in snow, and the harbour is a solid slab of ice. I was there, and enjoyed every minute. Follow my tips and you won’t regret booking that winter city break in Helsinki.
All you need to know to reach Finnish Lapland from abroad
Unless you are one of the lucky ones with a direct flight, getting to Lapland can be either expensive or a bit of an ordeal. Or both. It sure proved challenging for me. But fret not: just like I managed to reach Lapland by booking transport only three weeks in advance and without busting the budget, you will be able to do the same. All you need is a little creativity and all the information in this guide!
I took the overnight train from Helsinki to Lapland, and you should too
The best way to reach Finnish Lapland from Helsinki? There is no doubt in my mind: by overnight train! Hop on the Santa Claus express to experience a magical winter adventure in complete comfort while helping the environment and even saving some scratch. This guide contains all you need to know about the journey and how to make it happen without surprises.
All you need to know to rent a car in Finnish Lapland in winter
However you have chosen to arrive to magical Lapland, my heartfelt advice is to continue on by car. This will give you a deeper immersion in this land from total comfort, and the freedom to stop at will, be it to snap a few pictures of the magical scenery and the cute cabins that pepper it, to park at the trailhead of an enchanting nature walk, or even just to listen to the peaceful silence. For most of us, driving in Lapland means renting a car. I have been there and am happy to share all you need to know to make it happen.
My husky safari in Finnish Lapland
Want to know what to expect from a winter husky sled ride? This article is for you.
Read about my personal experience of a husky sled ride in Lapland, what I did and didn’t expect, went well and what not so well – spoiler alert: mushing a sled is not the most straight-forward thing, especially if you are my size. I am sharing my honest impressions so you can decide whether husky safaris are for you.
Guide to an ethical husky safari
Are you searching for a tool to help you identify an ethical husky safari? Look no further! After researching the industry, I was able to put together a no-nonsense guide that highlights all the factors we should keep into account when sourcing a dog sled operator. We only want to help farms that look after their furry workforce!
Should you go on a husky sled ride?
You come across a video of a team of fluffy and enthusiastic huskies pulling a sled across some pristine snowy wilderness, white trees passing by at full speed on both sides, and the golden glow of the low sun giving the whole scene a dreamy quality. If that scene moves something deep inside of you, you’re not alone.
Many of us dream of experiencing that deep connection with a creature we love. However, with that dream should also come a few uncomfortable questions. We should all wonder if it’s ethically ok to enjoy a day out while these guys do all the hard work.
An introduction to Finland
If you want to know how it feels to visit Finland and want to discover where the magic of this country lies, this article is for you. It is in its quiet and unpretentious essence that resides the magic of Finland’s nature. Its deep calm makes its way inside of you as your breathing slows down, your chest expands, and the creases of your forehead smoothen. The Finns know it better than anyone else. You will find them out there most of the summer, and you will also see them outside during the long, harsh winters, cross-country skiing in one of Finland’s 41 national parks or even just to go to the next town.