Helsinki, Finland

One of the things I love about Finland is the clean, minimalistic design and overall organization. This grace and simplicity not only defines the architecture and decor, but even their transportation system as well.

Landing in the Helsinki-Vantaa airport, it was so easy to find the train and purchase a ticket for 5 euros to the city center. The kiosks are super user friendly, and there were several airport staff on the platform to assist with any inquiries. The city center is the last stop on the train, so you don't need to worry about missing the stop. I was also able to connect easily to the train's wifi in order to map my route to Hotel Finn.

Hotel Finn is close to everything - shopping, museums, and it's only a fifteen-minute walk to Senate Square and the harbor. Even though the reservation was under my aunt's name and she had been delayed due to inclement weather, the receptionist was so accommodating and still allowed me to check in and get settled in the room.

I had the remainder of the day to explore on my own until my aunt arrived the next day, so I headed to Senate Square, where the blue domed towers of the Helsinki Cathedral beckoned from across the city. The inside of the church is quite plain, with white walls and blue accents, though the exterior is pristine against the bright blue sky.

The waterfront is only a short walk from Senate Square and has so much to offer, including the President's House and parliamentary buildings standing sentry along the water. An outdoor market was set up where you could purchase fried vendace, a small whitefish that is a very popular Finnish dish. I highly recommend checking out Allas Sea Pool, where visitors can swim in fresh and salt-water pools or relax in the sauna. They have a large outdoor balcony overlooking the harbor and its the perfect place to chill in the beanbag chairs with a cocktail while the sun sets over Helsinki Harbor.

The next morning dawned sunny a beautiful, the perfect day to walk to breakfast at Deliberi, a cafe by the train station that serves pastries, yogurt parfaits and fresh squeezed orange juice. I had enough time before my aunt's arrival, so I indulged my love for history at the National Museum. I would advise budgeting at least an hour to explore the museum. Housed in what looks like a gothic church from centuries past (it was actually built in 1916), the museum covers several periods of Finland's history.

After spending the morning learning about the country I had been lucky enough to call home for the past eight months, I made a pitstop at Fazer cafe. Fazer is one of Finland's most popular chocolate companies, and this is a great spot to grab a coffee and a snack. Don't forget to pick up some chocolates for the loved ones back home!

With my aunt safely arrived in Helsinki, we explored different unique eateries in the city, from Naughty BRGR (a sassy burger joint with fun artwork, chill vibes and instagrammable pink mayo) to Story in Market Hall at the harbor (offers a lovely brunch menu in a beautiful, historic setting.) Next stop, catching a ferry to Estonia!