When you're on a cruise, the time spent in port varies from city to city. We had lots of time in some port cities, while we had just quick visits in others. Helsinki. . . was one of those quick stops!
We had only a few hours in Helsinki. Just enough time to join up with a walking tour. . .
plug into our special radio sets. . .
and hit the streets of Helsinki!
The street signs in Helsinki were interesting . . . and complicated!
Finland has two official languages -- Finnish and Swedish. Street signs feature both -- the first line is in Finnish; the second line is in Swedish.
As we walked about, we were surprised by all the rock in the landscape! It was everywhere -- and just beautiful.
Helsinki was a mix of old-world charm. . . and sleek, modern design. It was a busy, moving kind of city -- and really hopping the day we were out walking, as Helsinki was busy hosting the European Track and Field Championships at the time.
Still, we found peace and solace in city parks. . .
and plenty of coffee to drink!
In fact, one of Helsinki is home to the most voracious coffee drinkers in the world!
Wehad the chance to visit one of Helsinki's farmer's markets.
Just like the farmer's markets here in Michigan . . . only. . .
well. . . I couldn't read the signs!
Charming bear and reindeer images were everywhere in the city.
And you know all that rock I mentioned?
Well. Sometimes, it holds amazing surprises deep within! The rock wall above. . . was an outside wall of the amazing Temppeliaukio Church . . . that looks like this from the inside!
And. . . with that. . . our walking tour of Helsinki was over!
That very afternoon, we were back aboard the ship. . .
and on our way to Russia!
You've shared a picture perfect postcard of Helsinki and it's sights.
Posted by: margene | 07/16/2012 at 10:31 AM
I guess I always assumed that Finnish and Swedish were similar and that people who could read one could read the other - I love that they use both languages on their signage!
Posted by: Carole | 07/16/2012 at 11:30 AM
So lovely.
Russia! :D
Posted by: Cookie | 07/16/2012 at 01:47 PM
When you mentioned the voracious coffee drinkers, I read it as drinker and immediately thought of Mrs. Olson. Was it Folgers coffee that she was the spokesperson for? Strange how a person's (my) mind works! ;)
Helsinki must be literally built out of a rock.
Posted by: Marilyn | 07/17/2012 at 10:47 AM