Finland

Finland offers such variety throughout its vast landscape that it’s best to learn a bit about the cities and regions before you go. That way you can plan to experience a taste of all the many facets of Finland!

From the Baltic Sea to the Arctic Circle
The seventh-largest Western European country, Finland is nestled between Sweden, Norway and Russia, with the Baltic countries to the south, separated by the Gulf of Finland. Its borders stretch from its capital city of Helsinki on the southern coast, up to the expansive and sparsely inhabited landscape of Lapland above the Arctic Circle. Finland is home to untouched forests, 187,888 crystal-clear lakes, 179,584 islands and 5,100 rapids.

Surrounding Helsinki is the culturally and historically rich King’s Road. This scenic southern region stretches west of Helsinki to the 770-year-old former capital of Turku and east to the spectacular Lake District. Finland’s southern coastline is also cradled by a thousand islands, forming a breathtaking archipelago--the largest in Europe.

Land of the Midnight Sun
Warmed by the Gulf Stream, this Scandinavian country enjoys a climate similar to that of New England and the Great Lakes region of the United States—with four very distinct seasons. In the summertime, the lush countryside basks in the warm, nurturing rays of the sun that shines for 15 hours a day! In the northern regions, the sun remains high in the sky for two months, shining 24 hours a day. Between the months of October and April, Finland becomes a vibrant and glowing festival of lights. Fondly referred to as the “Lively Season,” visitors have a wealth of cultural and historical attractions from which to choose.

No matter where you visit in Finland, from the spectacular archipelago in the south to exotic Lapland in the north, you will find a vibrant, friendly country of sophistication, fascinating history and unspoiled natural beauty—where English is widely spoken.

ICELAND

Iceland is closer than you think and more fun than you ever dreamed of. This mid-Atlantic island is the nearest European neighbor to the U.S. In fact, Iceland is at the halfway point from the East Coast to the European continent. With daily or frequent flights from New York, Baltimore/Washington, Boston, Minneapolis, Orlando and San Francisco, this awesome and virtually jet-lag free destination awaits you with plenty of action.

The chilliest thing about Iceland is really its name. In January the temperature is warmer than in New York and the welcome for travelers is always warm. In Iceland, almost everyone speaks fluent English and Americans always feel welcome. Experience extraordinary views of surging geysers, thundering waterfalls and moonlike volcanic craters. Play golf at midnight because the sun never sets in summer. Fly to the Westmann Islands and visit some of the 10 million puffins that live there. Iceland is for the young and the young at heart. Be a leader and head straight for the "coolest" destination on earth. You will never regret it.

Reykjavik is a city where you’ll feel safe to walk the streets. Cozy, charming, a “village feel” and friendly people. But as much entertainment, action and things to do as a metropolis of millions. And with all the modern conveniences, a high quality of life and world-class services.

Even so, it’s still only a 15-minute cab ride between downtown and wild nature, where you’ll feel you’re the only person on Earth.

Iceland is the ideal place for taking a break and setting foot on a European outpost with an exciting, lively, and ancient – but living culture all of its own. You’ll feel at home – free to walk around, shop, admire, explore. It’s a place you could go on discovering forever.