Skip to main content

Why You Need to Visit Finland in 2017

Finland isn’t often on the radar for most American travelers, and that’s a shame. The country is easily among the most beautiful in all of Europe, and arguably, the world. With pristine natural scenery, impossibly friendly people, one of the world’s most forward-thinking design scenes, and plenty of Centennial-related activities planned to celebrate it all this year, here are four reasons why you should visit the country in 2017.

Trek All 40 National Parks

Repovesi national park in Finland
Repovesi National Park in Finland Image used with permission by copyright holder

Finland is an incredible — and oft underrated destination — for adventure travelers. The country is celebrating its 100th-year of Independence this year with the inauguration of its 40th national park. For a country that’s smaller than California, that’s a staggering commitment to the outdoors. It’s no surprise, however, when you consider the country is home to virtually every type of terrain on the planet including pristine forests, lakes, archipelagos, and peat lands. Plus, plenty of wild rapids and rift valleys add additional interest for kayakers, rafters, hikers, and backpackers. What’s more: Finland boasts the third cleanest air on earth, so there’s no reason not to get outdoors.

Recommended Videos

Witness the Northern Lights

northern lights finland
Image used with permission by copyright holder

We’ve written plenty about the Northern Lights, and Finland is one of the world’s best places to spot them.  The combination of crystal clear skies, near-zero light pollution, and the country’s high northern latitude means the Aurora Borealis are visible approximately 200 nights every year. Several new hotels are even opening in Finnish Lapland — ground zero for the country’s Aurora-spotting — to celebrate the Centennial.

Visit Santa Claus’ Hometown

santa claus town Rovaniemi finland
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re the sort of man who still unabashedly enjoys treehouses and “food” fights, you’ll be happy to know that Santa Claus is very real and he calls Finland home. Even better: you can meet him (go with us on this one …). While you’re Aurora-spotting in Lapland, head to the charming town of Rovaniemi. The town has a rich, fascinating history in its own right, but today, it’s widely known as the modern, self-proclaimed, “official” home of Santa Claus. We’re not quite sure how that moniker is determined, but who are we to argue?

Explore Fine Finnish Design

Arabia Finnish Designs
Arabia/Facebook Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re not a design nerd, you’re probably blissfully unaware of the effect that Finnish design has had and continues to have on our world. Many of the world’s most recognizable design brands, designers, and product designs call Finland home. In 2017, the country will be celebrating this history with numerous events and festivals to celebrate classic Finnish brands like Arabia, Iittala, and Marimekko.

Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
You’ll soon need a visa to visit this incredible country
Be sure to add getting a visa into your travel plans for this country
Panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Mike Swigunski via Unsplash

When you want to experience it all, Brazil delivers in every way. Take in the views of Rio de Janeiro, with its mix of mountains and cityscapes. Sample flavorful, satisfying cuisine like Vatapá stew, containing shrimp, ground peanuts, coconut milk, and herbs. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Atlantic Forest contains nearly 900 bird species.

Read more
You need this new limited edition Rimowa luggage collection in your closet
The Hammerschlag collection from Rimowa is a throwback nod to a 1966 piece
The Rimowa Hammerschlag collection.

When traveling, you don't want to throw your stuff in a duffel bag and call it a day. You want luggage that will keep your items organized while adding a quiet sophistication to your look. German company Rimowa is the luggage brand to trust your travels to. Rimowa has been in the luxury business for over 100 years, but you won't have to wait that long to check out their new Hammerschlag collection.
Rimowa blends old and new
We love it when a brand takes a vintage piece and modernizes it. The Rimowa Hammerschlag line combines elements old and new without skimping on the craftsmanship the brand is known for.
Behind-the-scenes details

Originally called Gortz & Morszeck, after the two men who started things in 1898, Rimowa was forced to switch production to aluminum-only luggage when the factory burned down in the 1930s, wiping out the other materials. Now, the signature aluminum grooves are a sleek companion for your trip.
The vintage features
What makes the Hammerschlag collection unique is its homage to the 1966 archival piece. It starts with the handle, which might be leather, but the look and design are based on the classic metal version. Rimowa takes things back even further, with each of the limited cases given a Cognac leather tag with an 1898 stamp as a nod to the origins of the company and the city of Cologne, Germany, where Rimowa still keeps headquarters.
The Rimowa Hammerschlag collection
The Hammerschlag collection consists of the Hand-Carry Case, a standard-size suitcase, and the Cabin, your rolling luggage piece.

Read more
Why you need to take a cold shower after a flight
Here are the benefits of cold showers after a flight
a gigantic showerhead

Traveling by air doesn't come without its physical tolls. Hours spent in a pressurized cabin with limited movement and dry hydration levels can negatively impact our skin and immune system in ways we don't immediately notice. One of the simplest yet surprisingly effective ways to counteract these effects is by taking a cold shower after a flight. While it might not be the most appealing thing in the world to do after a flight, the cold exposure might just be worth it. Let's explore how this simple act can be a game-changer for frequent flyers.
Benefits of cold showers after a flight

Revitalizing the skin
One of the most notable changes that you may have experienced after air travel is how harsh it can be to the skin. The low humidity levels in airplane cabins can harm the natural moisture barrier on your skin and lead to dehydration or even breakouts. A cold shower can work wonders in this scenario.

Read more