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Visit Finland

It’s regarded as the most quirky and mysterious of the Nordic countries – and the happiest in the world, according to the United Nations’ 2018 World Happiness Report. And who wouldn’t be happy living in a country that’s home to Santa’s North Pole Christmas workshop and the breathtaking aurora borealis (aka the Northern Lights). 

The Finlanders also seem to get their happy fix from a good mix of offbeat oddities: the wife-carrying festival or air-guitar world championships, sleigh rides in the snow pulled by reindeer or husky dogs, and naked saunas (followed by frigid lake swims). 

Finland is of course known for its unspoiled wilderness – there are more than 1,000 lakes and islands. Or travel to the “top of the world” – to the Arctic Circle – and take in the Northern Lights, one of nature’s finest open-air art exhibitions. You might even be lucky enough to see one of the country’s elusive and rare European brown bears, or learn about the unique culture of the indigenous Sami people. 

In summer, soak up the sunshine on a beer terrace in Helsinki – these pop up as the weather turns warmer and are a great place to rub shoulders with the infamously-quiet Finns. 

In winter, stop at a café for a hot brew – residents are some of the world’s biggest coffee drinkers (necessary to keep awake when you get so little daylight and to fend off the frigid temperatures!). 

Local delicacies to try: smoked fish such as salmon, herring and whitefish, free-range reindeer, foraged mushrooms, root vegetables and Lapland cloudberries and lingonberries. 

Best for:

Active Travellers; Arts + Culture Lovers; Eco Travellers; LGBTQ-friendly; Nature Lovers; Special Events/Parties

Go there!

Europe
from R25,633 p/p sharing
See the magical glow of the northern lights from your glass igloo!
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