FINLAND

Arguably one of the most expensive countries in Europe, but that said it still offers a warm welcome to tourists who are looking for a more unusual weekend break.

Finland offers excellent winter sports, health spas, fine sailing and of course there's the fishing. But visitors will also be surprised if they take the time to discover the countries history. The country has some outstanding castles, beautiful monasteries and many excellent museums.

Normally the best time to visit is the summer months. For me one of the biggest reasons to visit then is not the warmer weather with all of its advantages but the "Midnight Sun", an atmospheric condition similar to the Northern Lights.

Worldmark's range of services include:-

Due to our extensive overseas network we are able to offer any client a full range of services. These can be purchased individually or as part of a package.

* Discounted fares with British Airways.
* Discounted hotels.
* Private car transfers.
* Sightseeing & Guided Tours
* Rail & Air tickets
* Chauffeur & Car Hire

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Helsinki

Not only the capital of Finland but it is the centre of everything that is Finnish. It is a misleading capital city; there is no towering skyline, and a bustling market square. Dominating this city is the main town square, which retains an "old world" character with its delightful 19th century architecture. During the summer months the city is busy with tourists exploring the cities green parks and waterways or simply just sitting outside at any one of the numerous open air bars and restaurants.

Also popular with many tourists and only a short ferry ride away is Suomenilinna Island. Here visitors can take a leisurely stroll around one of the many museums or visit the ruins of the once powerful fortress.

The social scene in Helsinki is vibrant and bustling but it is also expensive. There are numerous bars and clubs to pass away the hours in, which offer a variety of brews and ales. There are over 30 galleries & museums and sights to keep the culture buffs happy making Helsinki an excellent and unusual destination for a weekend break.

We can offer discounted rates at the following hotels:-

Sokos Helsinki Hotel,Radisson SAS,Radisson SAS Royal,Scandic Grandmarina,Scandic Marski,Palace Hotel.

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Other destination suggestions:-

Olavinlinna Castle

Sitting in the beautiful Savonlinna Lakes district is this popular castle. The castle dates back to 1475 and it offers visitors a chance to walk around 2 excellent museums, which allow you look back through time and get a taste of this countries history. The only down side is that you are not allowed to visit the castle without a guide making self-exploration impossible.

Turku

Is a large bustling city and is the countries oldest city & former capital. Parts of this city date back to the 18th century. Two of Turku's main attractions are Turku Cathedral & Turku Castle, with the latter dating back to 1280.

Aland

Consisting of over 6000 islands and connected to the Finnish mainland by regular ferries with inter-island ferries offering a free service to onward islands. The islands are home to the impressive Kastelholm Castle and the Bomarsund Fortress ruins.

Lemmenjoki National Park

Is the country's biggest national park, although it can be difficult to reach. The area offers stunning scenery, the Ravadaskongas waterfall, excellent trekking.

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Travel Warning / Information

Finland shares with the rest of the world, including the UK, a risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks. However, the vast majority of visits to Finland are trouble-free. You should maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness; as in the U.K. Crime levels remain relatively low.

This information is current as of 13/5/05 we recommend that travellers contact the FCO Travel Advice Unit: 0870 606 0290 for up to date information.

Health Information

The local health system is generally good though, as with the NHS, there are occasional problems over access to or speed of treatment. You should ensure that you take with you a completed E111 form, available free of charge from most post offices, which entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Finnish citizens. We strongly recommend that you also take out comprehensive travel insurance.

We recommend that all visitors check with their local G.P prior to their departure for all up to date information.

U.K nationals do not require a visa to enter Finland.

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Worldmark Travel
1st Floor, The Arena
24 Southwark Bridge Road
London SE1 9HF

Tel 020 7 922 0670 Fax 020 7 401 2545
E-Mail Worldmark.uk@hrgworldwide.com

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