9th May 2019: Immersed in Helsinki’s Charms

Upon docking at Helsinki’s port from Tallinn, my journey through this Finnish gem began. Navigating the tram system, I ascended steep slopes to reach “The Yard Hostel.” Nestled centrally, just a 5-minute walk from Helsinki central station, the hostel presented a perfect blend of convenience and comfort. As I checked in, the spacious and clean room at The Yard Hostel greeted me, promising a pleasant stay.

The hostel boasted dormitory rooms, private rooms, and complimentary WiFi. Shared bathroom facilities coexisted with a large common lounge, adorned with dining tables, sofas, and a TV. Despite the bustling city outside, the hostel offered a haven of tranquility.

Venturing into the city, the vibrant streets were alive with tourists and locals alike. Shopping malls buzzed with activity, and I couldn’t resist collecting a few treasures from a local shop. Street musicians added a melodic touch to the lively atmosphere.

Embarking on a 20-minute walk from the city center, I reached the awe-inspiring Temppeliaukion Church, also known as the Rock Church. Designed by the Suomalainen brothers in 1969, this Lutheran church is hewn directly into solid rock, allowing natural light to filter through its skylight.

A tram ride later, I found myself at Helsinki Cathedral, a tribute to the Grand Duke of Finland, Tsar Nicholas I of Russia. Also known as Nicholas Church, this Finnish Evangelical Lutheran cathedral stood majestically in the Kruununhaka neighborhood.

From the ferry port near the Market Square, I embarked on a journey to Suomenlinna, an inhabited sea fortress spanning eight islands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna welcomed me with its rich history and scenic beauty. Despite the chilly evening, the exploration was invigorating, with museums, a Finnish submarine, and picturesque landscapes.

Caught in a rain shower at the Market Square, I couldn’t fully savor the experience. Nonetheless, I managed to purchase a small souvenir and trudged back to the city center in the rain, adding a touch of adventure to my evening.

https://lappires.com/en/

To culminate my day, I booked a dinner reservation at Lappiravintola, an authentic Lappish restaurant. The ambiance, interior, and friendly service added memorable moments to my culinary adventure. As I enjoyed my meal, a stranger’s unexpected kindness touched my heart. Mistakenly perceived as upset, a woman approached, offering words of comfort. It was a reminder that even in a foreign land, unexpected angels can brighten your journey.

Checking out from The Yard Hostel, I left my luggage in the storage room for a serene day at Helsinki Zoo. Navigating the city’s buses, I found my way to the zoo, surrounded by nature’s calm and peaceful ambiance. Although the zoo didn’t stand out compared to others, the tranquility offered a peaceful closure to my European journey.

With shared toilets always bustling, a gentle reminder to fellow travelers echoed in my mind – be considerate and share the facilities. After exploring the zoo, I retrieved my luggage, headed to the airport, marking the end of my European adventure in May 2019.

As I boarded my flight back to Chennai, the memories of Helsinki’s charm and unexpected kindness lingered, making it a fitting end to a memorable European sojourn.