A Travel Guide for Schengen Countries: Enigmatic Finland

Finland is an abode of nature. Its beauty spellbinds tourists, especially in winter when the entire country is enveloped in white snow. Known as 'the land of the thousand lakes' (actually over 1,80,000 and as many islands) with a large expanse of forests, it is the go-to place for nature and adventure lovers. And while you are there, you could meet the real Santa Claus too!

Why Visit Finland

Finland is one of the least polluted countries in the world. Reconnect with nature here, in its revitalizing air, pristine water bodies, vast forests, picturesque countryside and fast-paced urbanity; where summer is eternal and winter bewitching.

Get enchanted by the out-of-the-world northern lights, or join the amicable Finns in their convivial gatherings enjoying the golden midnight sun to the last drop. With the thousands of lakes spread in quaint surroundings, as if on a painter's canvas, the country is a sailor's paradise.

The enticing wilderness or nonchalant modernity, enthralling wintertime or the endlessness of summer, the thrill of outdoor activities or soul-touching tranquility - Finland is truly a magical paradox, one that ought not to be missed.

When to Visit

Finland takes on a different visage as the seasons change; this is one of the unique characteristics of the country. The best time to visit Finland therefore depends on what you wish to see:

• December-March: You will be guaranteed plenty of snow, Christmastime fun and the thrill of a host of winter sports. It is also when you can catch the northern lights. The normal winter temperatures range from -5°C to -15°C.
• April-May: Spring is short in Finland. You can catch the revival of nature in live action, with the rapidly melting snow and transforming landscape.
• June-August: You can look forward to long summer days (in Utsjoki, Lapland, the sun does not set at all for over two months) and merry events throughout the summer. The evening is forever young and people are warm. The normal summer temperatures are around 20°C to 22°C, though, it can get as high as 30°C.
• September-October: This is when the autumn leaves paint a pretty picture, and the weather is not too warm, nor too cold; there is no snow either.

May to September is the peak season in Finland. However, May and June (fewer crowds) in summer and February and March in winter (more daylight hours) would be the pleasantest time to visit the country.

Schengen Visa for Finland

Every tourist needs to possess a Schengen Visa to travel to Finland. Considered as a boon for tourists, the Schengen Pact is the result of cooperation between 26 European countries. These countries have eliminated individual visa requirements, thereby minimizing border control. The Pact ensures tourists and citizens enjoy hassle-free movement within the member countries on a common visa. Simply put, a Schengen Visa lets one travel to any member country without applying for multiple visas.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa

To apply for a Schengen Visa, one needs to download the Visa Application Form, which is easily available online. Submit the duly filled form along with valid documentation to the destination country's embassy in India. Remember, the form needs to be filled carefully stating the reason for your visit. It also needs to be supported with your recent financial statement. Also, availing the right travel insurance plan is mandatory for securing a visa approval for a Schengen country.

How to Travel

Getting to Finland
Finland has 27 airports, with 5 airports catering to international flight services, well connected to major parts of the world. You will most likely land in Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport, which is the primary gateway to Finland. If you are travelling from neighboring European countries, you can get to Finland by ferries too.

Getting Around Within Finland
Flights, trains and buses are the most convenient way of travelling within Finland. The public transportation system in Helsinki, the capital, is considered to be among the best in the world. But the country also offers a range of cool options to choose from – cruise ship, steamboat, reindeer-pulled sledge and cross-country skis. Biking and bicycling is also a great option. If you love to walk for short distances, take a stroll savoring its beautiful scenery.

Where to Stay

Finland offers a range of accommodation options to cater to every need. Holiday hotels are spread throughout this Nordic country. If you wish to be at close contact with nature, you can even choose camping sites. If you are of the adventurous kind, why not try igloo accommodation? Here is a list of top accommodation types worth checking out:

Things to Do

• Lapland You can experience the thrill of skiing in picture-perfect landscapes at the ski resorts in Finland. Lapland is a hot favorite with tourists, as it offers a multitude of ski resorts in one place - for everyone, right from beginners to expert skiers.
  Lapland is also famous for its national parks, and the one and only Santa Claus at Rovaniemi (the capital of Finnish Lapland). What's more, the northern lights appear almost 200 nights in a year in Lapland - that's every clear night of the year.
• Helsinki Helsinki is the major commercial and cultural hub of Finland. The vibrant seaside city has an interesting blend of serene and bustling attractions. It's laidback and active all at once.
  • National Museum of Finland, Helsinki Revisit the Finland's history at the National Museum of Helsinki; its exhibits include coins, forest products, weapons, and other archeological artifacts. Temporary exhibitions covering different themes such as religion, philosophy, world culture, etc. are held from time to time.
  • Suomenlinna - The Fortress Island Helsinki is an archipelago of about 330 islands, and offers the perfect location for memorable beach and camping trips. The most popular and beautiful of the islands is Suomenlinna island; it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Do not miss Pihlajasaari island either, when you are in Helsinki.
  • Alvar Aalto Buildings, Helsinki Renowned architect Alvar Aalto has designed many buildings in Helsinki. You can savor the sheer architectural brilliance in these buildings. Finlanda Hall, Paimio Sanatorium, Vyborg Library and Villa Mairea are some you simply cannot miss.
• Coast & Archipelago The world's largest archipelago, the coast region of Finland is dotted with historical cities, harbor towns and lighthouses, and national parks spanning across land and sea. Oulu and Åland Islands are the must-visits of this region.
• Winter Markets St. Thomas Markets are spread throughout Finland for a few days in December. You can shop till you drop for handicrafts, decorations and loads of other beautiful artifacts at these markets.

Do's & Don'ts in Finland

Finland is a very popular destination for tourists because it is a safe and hygienic country. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when you travel to Finland:

• Finland has extreme climates, which could cause conditions like hypothermia, frostbites or flu. Be prepared for the harsh winter with plenty of warm clothing and medication for common illnesses.
• Mosquitoes and bugs (ticks, horseflies) are a huge problem in Finland, especially in the summer months. Do carry necessary insect-repellants and medication, if you are allergic to them.
• Be wary of slippery roads when you are travelling by road, as snow and darkness together cause a difficult situation.
• Finland is home to a large population of a variety of deer species. They can gather on the road, especially in northern parts of the country and behave wildly. If you are travelling by car, or biking or cycling, be aware of deer frequented areas; keep a look out for warnings.

A trip to Finland can be truly magical with a comprehensive travel insurance plan.

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