Helsinki Finland: 3 nights (Sept 5-6)
Arrived in Helsinki on the Vikingline Cinderella around 11am, walked a few blocks to the Scandic Grand Marina hotel. Stored my luggage then hit the streets, wandering around the waterfront Market Square admiring the various trinkets, handcrafted items and street food offered by the vendors. Then I rode the light rail tram to kill some time until my room was available.
On the tram I met a small group of travelers from all over the world who were part of an educational study group who were spending 3 months in Finland. We had some nice conversations while they pointed out several sightseeing locations.
They exited the tram to go on an underground tour and I headed to the Temppeliakio church which was carved out of the granite rock and features a roof made of 13 miles of copper ribbon. Very unique and beautiful. Then I wandered over to the central library which features unique architecture and many services for the locals. Had a delicious bowl of Salmon soup with potatoes in the cafe and then walked around the beautiful interior, the books on display never had it so good.
As I exited the library a thunderstorm rolled in but I made it to the tram pickup stop covering before the heavy downpour began. Arrived back near my hotel and got a wee bit wet walking a couple of blocks. Minor regret that I didn't bring my travel umbrella. Checked in to my nice room and relaxed for the rest of the day. The hotel had a self-serve laundry room downstairs which worked out perfectly to replenish my wardrobe for several more travel days.
The next day the weather was sunny with some occasional high clouds so I took the 15 min ferry out to Suomenlinna Fortress to wander around learning the history of this important battleground. Returned to Helsinki and walked around the city until finding Niski pizza where I had a very tasty "Nickan" artisian pizza with goat cheese, tomatoes, balsamic and arugula. A pint of local Lager quenched my thirst. Back to the hotel for the evening. Tomorrow I plan to take a cruise ship over to Tallinn for the day.