Porvoo is a charming and historic city located on the southern coast of Finland. As a couple of travelers, we picked a bus from Helsinki to arrive to Porvoo during the winter and were struck by the well-preserved wooden buildings and picturesque old town.

After we arrived and settled in, we stumbled upon a charming Christmas market in the heart of the Old Town. The market was set up in the cobblestone streets and featured vendors selling traditional Finnish Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, and delicious food and drinks. The atmosphere was festive and cozy, with Christmas lights and the smell of gingerbread cookies filling the air. We enjoyed browsing the stalls, listening to Christmas carols, and sipping hot cocoa.

One of the main attractions in Porvoo is the Old Town, which is filled with colorful wooden houses, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. We took a stroll along the cobblestone streets, holding hands, and admired the charming architecture of the buildings, many of which date back to the 18th century. The winter added a special charm to the old town as the snow covered the wooden houses and streets, making it look like a fairytale land.

Another popular attraction in Porvoo is the Porvoo Cathedral, which is the city's oldest building. The cathedral, which was built in the 14th century, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is open to visitors year-round. We were able to appreciate the cathedral's architecture even more in the winter as the snow added a serene and peaceful atmosphere to the surroundings.

The city is also home to several museums, including the Porvoo Museum, which tells the story of the city's history and culture, and the Porvoo Art Museum, which features a collection of contemporary art.

Porvoo is also a great place for outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside and there are many hiking and biking trails nearby. We took advantage of the winter weather and went on a snowshoeing excursion in the nearby forest, which offered a completely different perspective of the natural surroundings. We also took a boat tour of the Porvoo River, which offered stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

The bus ride from Helsinki to Porvoo was comfortable and offered beautiful views of the Finnish countryside. It took us around an hour and a half to reach Porvoo and the bus station is located just a few minutes walk from the old town.

Overall, Porvoo is a charming and picturesque city that offers visitors a glimpse into Finland's history and culture. With its well-preserved wooden buildings, charming old town, and beautiful natural surroundings, it is a must-visit destination for any couple traveling to Finland, especially during the winter. Taking the bus from Helsinki is a convenient way to reach Porvoo and enjoy the journey as well. The added bonus of visiting the Christmas market, made the trip even more special and memorable.

Lapland is a magical destination that offers a wide range of unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes. From reindeer farms and husky sledding to snowmobiling on frozen lakes, there's no shortage of exciting adventures to be had in this snowy wilderness.

On our first day in Lapland, we set out to explore all that this amazing place has to offer. Our journey was organized by Sunny Safari, a local tour operator that specialized in providing unique and memorable experiences in Lapland.

Our tour began at a reindeer farm, where we were able to learn more about the important role that these animals play in Finnish culture. We were struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the calm demeanor of the reindeer, which seemed almost otherworldly with their large, antlered heads and deep, soulful eyes. We were even able to feed them and take some memorable photos with them. It was an unforgettable experience, and one that we'll treasure for years to come.

Next, we headed to a husky farm, where we had the opportunity to go sledding with a team of energetic and friendly huskies. The huskies themselves were a joy to be around, full of energy and enthusiasm as they pulled us through the snow. It was an unforgettable experience, as we glided through the snowy landscape, surrounded by the beauty of the winter wilderness. We felt a deep sense of connection with the huskies, and we'll never forget the feeling of freedom and excitement that came with sledding through the snowy hills.

After our husky sledding adventure, we decided to try our hand at snowmobiling on a frozen lake, and it was an experience that we'll never forget. From the moment we set out on our sleds, we were struck by the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape. The frozen lake stretched out in front of us, a vast expanse of snowy terrain that seemed to go on forever. As we navigated the icy surface, we were able to take in the stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, from the towering pine trees to the distant snowy peaks.

Snowmobiling is typically done in groups, with each rider following a designated guide or leader. This ensures that everyone stays safe and on track, and it also allows you to enjoy the company of others as you explore the snowy wilderness. Our group was led by a knowledgeable and experienced guide who showed us the best routes and points of interest, and who was always on hand to provide assistance or answer any questions that we had.

After a full day of adventures in the snowy wilderness, we were ready for a hearty meal. So, we headed to the northernmost McDonald's in the world for dinner – a truly unique and exciting experience! As we stepped inside, we were struck by the cozy atmosphere and the familiar smells of burgers and fries. We couldn't wait to sink our teeth into some of our favorite menu items, and we were not disappointed. It was a memorable end to a fantastic day in Lapland.

Overall, our first day in Lapland was filled with unforgettable experiences and memories. From the unique cultural experiences to the breathtaking natural beauty of the region, Lapland truly is a magical destination. Whether you're a fan of winter sports or just love experiencing new cultures, Lapland is a place that should not be missed.

As we continue our journey through Finland, we'll be sure to share more about the amazing sights and experiences that we encounter. Stay tuned for more updates from our trip!

We recently had the opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas in Lapland by sleeping on a night train as it traveled through the snowy wilderness. We booked a journey on the Santa Claus Express, a holiday-themed night train that operates between Helsinki and Rovaniemi.

We had a private cabin with bunk beds, which was cozy and comfortable. We settled in for the night with warm blankets and good books, listening to the soothing sounds of the rails as the train carried us northward. We savored hot meals and warm beverages in the dining car as we watched the landscape passing. The menu featured a selection of classic Finnish dishes and festive treats like gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa. There was also a lounge car on board, where we could sit back and relax with good books or chat with fellow travelers.

In the morning, we woke up refreshed and ready to explore the wonders of Lapland. The train stopped at various locations along the way, including Tampere, Oulu, and Kemijärvi. In Tampere, we had a 30-minute stop and went outside for a little walk in the train station. The fresh air was invigorating and stretching our legs after a night on the train was nice. When we arrived in Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus, we were greeted by the icy beauty of the Arctic Circle and the endless possibilities of the holiday season.

But the fun didn't have to end when the train ride did. Rovaniemi is a city full of holiday cheer, with a wide range of festive activities and attractions to enjoy. We visited Santa Claus Village, where we got to meet Santa himself and see his workshop, and took a tour of the snowy landscape on a sled pulled by reindeer. We also visited the Arktikum Science Museum to learn about the history and culture of Lapland and took a dip in a thermal pool to warm up after a day of outdoor adventures.

Sleeping on a night train was a truly unique and festive way to experience the magic of Christmas in Lapland. We highly recommend booking a journey on the Santa Claus Express for anyone looking for the joy of overnight travel during the holiday season.

Suomenlinna is a sea fortress located in Helsinki, Finland. It was built on six islands and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The history of Suomenlinna dates back to the 18th century when it was built by the Swedish as a defense against Russian expansionism. The fortress was originally named Sveaborg, or "Swedish Castle," but was later renamed Suomenlinna, or "Castle of Finland," after Finland became a part of the Russian Empire in 1808.

Throughout its history, Suomenlinna has played a significant role in the defense of Helsinki and Finland. It was used as a military base and as a prison and even served as the capital of Finland for a brief period during the Finnish Civil War.

Today, Suomenlinna is a popular tourist attraction, with more than 900,000 visitors each year. It is home to several museums, cultural attractions, and a thriving residential community. Visitors can explore the fortress's tunnels and bastions, or take a boat tour around the islands.

One of the most popular attractions at Suomenlinna is the Maritime Museum, which showcases the history of the fortress and its role in Finnish naval history. The museum features exhibits on naval warfare and shipbuilding, as well as a collection of ship models and naval uniforms.

Another popular attraction at Suomenlinna is the Toy Museum, which houses a collection of more than 10,000 toys, including dolls, teddy bears, and other childhood favorites. The museum also features interactive exhibits, where visitors can try their hand at traditional Finnish games and crafts.

In addition to its museums, Suomenlinna also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking and picnicking. There are several park-like areas on the islands, as well as a public beach and several playgrounds.

In short, Suomenlinna is a unique and fascinating destination, offering a glimpse into Finland's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in military history, toy collecting, or just want to spend a day outdoors, there's something for everyone at Suomenlinna.

If you plan to visit Suomenlinna, plan at least 2 hours to visit the place, and go when the Sun is up because the views are amazing, the ferry is only about 10 minutes and the ticket to go there can be bought using HSL application.

Helsinki, also called the white city of the North, the daughter of the Baltic Sea, or simply called Stadi by the local people, is Finland's capital and the largest city and is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. If you're planning a trip to Helsinki, here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit and to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

First, be prepared for the weather. Helsinki is located in the northern part of Europe, so the weather can be quite cold and snowy during the winter months. If you're visiting during the winter, be sure to pack warm clothes, including a coat, hat, gloves, and scarves. In the summer, the weather is generally milder, but it can still be chilly, especially at night, so be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater.

Second, plan ahead and book your accommodation in advance. Helsinki is a popular tourist destination, and hotels and other accommodations can be in high demand, especially during peak tourist season. To ensure that you have a place to stay, it's a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance of your trip. You can also consider staying in a vacation rental or Airbnb, which can be a more affordable and flexible option.

Third, take advantage of public transportation. Helsinki has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and the metro. This is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, and it's also a great way to see some of the city's sights and attractions. You can purchase a day pass or a multi-day pass, which will give you unlimited access to the city's public transportation system. Download the HSL application, it's really convenient to buy the tickets and have them on your phone. If you want to visit other places that are not inside Helsinki, you might need the VR Matkalla for trains or Onnibus for buses.

Fourth, try some of the local food and drink. Helsinki has a vibrant food and drink scene, and there are many restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Some local specialties to try to include salmon soup, reindeer meat, and rye bread. Helsinki is also known for its world-class coffee culture, so be sure to try a cup of Finnish coffee while you're there. We highly recommend going to the Market located next to Esplanade Park, where you can find a lot of different options to eat. Talking about the coffee, we found Regatta absolutely amazing, located next to Sibelius Park, the place is charming and the drinks delicious.

Fifth, visit some of the city's museums and attractions. Helsinki has several interesting museums and attractions to explore, including the Helsinki Cathedral, the National Museum of Finland, and the Ateneum Art Museum. Be sure to check out the Helsinki Design District, which is known for its many design shops, galleries, and studios. Take a rest in the Helsinki Central Library, it's just next to the train station, and the possibilities there are much more than just picking a book, you will be not disappointed.

Finally, be sure to take some time to relax and enjoy the city. Helsinki has many beautiful parks and green spaces, including Helsinki Central Park and Esplanade Park, which are great places to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can also take a boat tour of the Helsinki archipelago, which is a group of islands just off the coast of the city, and read our article specific about Suomenlinna.

Visiting Andorra can be quite a curious experience, but it all depends on how you approach it. But what is Andorra? Andorra is a small country between Spain and France, outside the European Union and the Schengen Space, and the official language is Catalan. Still, you will not face any problems speaking Spanish or English. The fastest way to get there is from Barcelona by road. The capital of this micronation has a central bus station, with different regular routes with several cities; although we recommend arriving by car. It also has an airport (located in Spain, called Andorra-La Seu d'Urgell), but currently (summer 2022), only flights arrive from Madrid. Arriving by car offers you the possibility to move freely around the country, which you cannot do comfortably if you go by public transport. Despite being an extremely small country, there are plenty of activities to do, although the most common is going skiing during the winter. But in our case, we focus on visiting the country during the summer. It's the second time we've visited it, so we're starting to know the area a little. Surely, the most important activity to do is a visit to Caldea. Caldea is the largest spa in southern Europe, and tickets cost around €40 for about 3-4 hours of access. But the best way to visit the place is to look for an offer that includes entrance to Chaldea. There are different options, from the entry with the hotel or the combined access with the Tibetan Bridge or Naturlandia. In our case, this year we found a very interesting offer for around €100 including a 3-hour entrance to Caldea, access to Cirque du Soleil show, and accommodation in a 4-star hotel with dinner and breakfast, which we found quite interesting. It is important to note that if you visit the country with a non-EU passport, you have a multiple-entry visa in the Schengen area since when you cross the border, you leave the Schengen area. Therefore, if you are stopped
on the way back, you will not be allowed to re-enter. Consequently, it is better to go with your shoulders covered. The hotel we stayed in is Hotel Piolets Centre, which we found quite normal. It has a blue zone car park right next door, and we had no problem parking there, only when paying, the machine accepted coins, and that was it. Once inside the hotel, we had an hour in the thermal space of the hotel itself, but we were in for a surprise as no one had told us that it had to be reserved. Luckily, it was quite empty, and we could access it without problems. Dinner was an open buffet, quite typical in hotels, very varied, and of acceptable quality. Nothing stood out above the rest, but nothing extremely bad, either. We calmly went to the Cirque du Soleil show area when we finished dinner. One thing that surprised us was that they did not allow us to enter a camera; instead, they did not put any impediment to going inside with the cell phone camera. But that didn't stop us from fully enjoying the show, a gem that had us enjoying ourselves, singing and dancing from the first minute to the last. An unforgettable amazing show.

To see more, check out our vlog showing our experience!

Hi,

We are Ducks & Whales, a couple with one passion: to travel as much as we can. We like to explore new places with no rush, and like many people, we are not digital nomads, and it is not our intention to become one.

We really enjoy preparing trips, searching for destinations and activities to do before we go, and when we come back, we like to explain our experiences whenever someone asks for them.

Now, we take another step and plan to explain our experiences to anyone ready to read them. In this blog, you will find some of our experiences, how we prepare for trips, how to visit some places and the approximate budget that will need.

We really hope you enjoy reading us!!!