Ok. Maybe not EVERYTHING. But we had quite a day.

Up at 5am (we are really bad at early mornings) to catch the train from Vaasa. We got the ‘Pendolino’ – A pendulum train that goes 200km/h – Helsinki in 3.5 hrs. Slept most of the way though.

All in all we walked about 6km around Helsinki with our packs (9kgs feels like a lot more after 6hrs of sightseeing). It’s a vibrant city – we took in the sights and atmosphere (usual balance of oxygen and other gasses);
~ The Temple Church. An odd, almost subterranian modern (1969) church blasted out of the ground. Love the ‘No climbing’ signs on the rock walls. If they had bouldering comps after Sunday services I would consider joining the cult.
~ Helsinki Cathederal. More impressive from the outside than inside. I guess they ran out of budget for the interior decorator.
~ The Design District. Shops selling cool looking stuff from furniture to tools. Cashing in on Alvar Aalto’s legacy.
~ The Design Museum. Partially closed (unfortunately) and the first time we have not been allowed to take photos.
~ The National Museum. Excellent pre-history section.
~ Senate Square and surrounds (designed by some famous German architect – Engel – who was called in to make Helsinki look good).
~ Market area. Empty when we got there.
We also took an open top tour bus around town. The audio guide was good and commical – Finn with a strong Aussie accent. Chilled out in the park and watch the locals go by – perfect sunny day.

Found Chakalaka chips (world cup advertising) and headed to the EuroHostel. Biggest one we have been in and we had no problems – besides having to pay for wifi access. The tweeting bird sounds in the toilets are an odd touch.

We spent the evening repacking our gear and checking our security. Tomorrow we enter Russia and things become more interesting (difficult). I’m apprehensive.

We have managed Scandanavia on budget and on time. It has been a little rushed in some parts but that has helped keep the costs down. We are restricted with time by a fixed date in Moscow. After that it’s total freedom. We’ll be back – if only to visit Nico and Nordkapp.

P.S. My V turns the big ‘Three-Oh’ on the 29th. Will have to celebrate with a double portion of 2 minute noodles 😉

– Posted from my iPhone