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FAMtrip Happy in Helsinki – An inspiring discovery tour through Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa
At the invitation of the convention bureau of the Helsinki region, took part in an inspiring four-day FAMtrip. Together with international colleagues, she explored the three largest cities in the region: Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa. The program was packed with professional visits, local experiences and culinary highlights.
Vantaa – Warm welcome and chocolate delight
The Clarion Hotel Helsinki Airport was my first stop. Modern, stylish and surprisingly cozy – and within five minutes of picking up my luggage I was already in my room. The largest meeting room stood out with impressive AV technology, and the hotel carries the Sustainable Travel Finland label.
Then followed a fun visit to the Fazer Visitor Center, where you are immersed in the world of Finland’s most famous chocolate. The highlight? The last ten minutes of the tour, where you can taste all the chocolate snacks to your heart’s content – a dream for a chocolate fan like me.
Dinner at Restaurant Kuninkaan Lohet, by the Vantaankoski river, was authentic and atmospheric. The modern demonstration of the kantele added an extra cultural touch to the evening.
Helsinki – Congress venues and sunset at sea
In Helsinki I visited three impressive congress venues: Messukeskus, Finlandia Hall and Musiikkitalo. Especially the rehearsal of the organist in Musiikkitalo – listened to from the ventilation room and the control room – was a unique experience.
After a panoramic view over the city, we were able to network with local partners, which is certainly interesting for future projects. We ended the evening with a boat trip to Restaurant NJK, where we enjoyed a delicious meal at sunset. Around midnight there was still a golden glow on the horizon – magical.
Espoo – Adventure, nature and a Finnish finale
After a walk through the city and a stop at the library, Senate Square and the market (where we tasted some sweet peas), we had lunch at the new Hotel Pier 4. Then followed a rib boat adventure at 90 km/h through the archipelago – adrenaline and views guaranteed.
We ended the day with dinner at Lucy in the Sky, a rooftop restaurant with a spectacular view. And as is customary in Finland: the evening ended in the sauna, with a drink in hand.
On Sunday we headed into nature, towards Nuuksio National Park. Dressed in blue rain ponchos, we picked blueberries, learned about edible plants and made rope. In a tipi we enjoyed fresh salmon and pancakes by the campfire – a perfect ending to a memorable trip.
Would you like to know more about the locations or get inspiration for your next event in Finland? Feel free to contact me – I’m happy to share my experiences!