Ah, Friendly Finland!  I have a soft spot for this country possibly due to the fact that the first time I visited I was coming from Russia and the Finns were a breath of fresh air after the surly Russians.

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When: October 2001 and January 2002

Where: Helsinki

Who: with fellow teachers from the British International School in Moscow

How: We came by overnight train from St Petersburg in Russia and we left by ferry to Estonia

Weather: clear skies but chilly autumn weather

Food: nordic fare – lots of fish

Sights:  Suomenlinna, old fortress, Ateneum Art Museum

Surprises:  great shopping and super friendly people.

Tips: If you look young bring your passport when you go out to the bars – they’ll want to see ID.