#Archipelago of Turku

[jukkapohjola]

From photojpohjola

[anakaterina]

[nordickies]

Sorry if this is a stupid question, but could you tell us more about Åland? 😅 What even is it? Is it a country, a state/province, or something else? (sorry, I have never heard of it before joining the Hetalia fandom)

I love your art, and I would love to see more of your OCs in the future!😊

Hello, anon! Don't worry, that's not a stupid question at all! I'm willing to bet most people are in the same situation as you, so I'd love to help out.

Åland Islands are an autonomous and demilitarised region of Finland. This self-governing region is made up of over 6,700 islands; only of which 65 are inhabited.  In addition, there are around 20,000 smaller islands and skerries! The biggest island on the archipelago, and where 90% of the population lives, is Fasta Åland; which is only 45 km long and 55 km wide. The Åland Islands are connected to mainland Finland via the Finnish archipelago and its island clusters. But Åland's easternmost point is only 40 km away from mainland Sweden. The capital, Mariehamn, is located at an almost exact midpoint between Turku and Stockholm.

Up until the 19th century, roads were sparse, in bad shape, and thus practically useless in Nordic countries. The fastest way to transport resources, people, and information was by waterways. Thus, Åland acted as a vital connection between Sweden and Finland, especially when those two countries used to be one massive kingdom. Over the centuries, the islands developed a unique identity, shaped by the isolating harsh nature and influences from both the West and East.

Even though Åland is part of Finland, its only officially recognized language is Swedish. Since 1921, The Åland islands have had special privileges provided by the hembygdsrätt, which roughly translates to "home regional right." Simply put, a person is required to obtain this right before it's possible for them to own property on the island, vote in the local elections, or run a business - having Finnish citizenship is not enough. These rights were created to protect Ålandic identity during a time when Sweden and Finland fought over who the islands should belong to.

To be granted hembygdsrätt, certain conditions must be met; you must have Finnish citizenship, have satisfactory Swedish language skills, be registered in the Åland islands, and have lived in Åland for at least 5 years. Alternatively, if one of the parents has this right, it is also inherited by their child. However, you can also lose hembygdsrätt if you lose Finnish citizenship or live outside of Åland for more than 5 years.

Due to its location in the middle of the Baltic Sea, Åland has always been critical, and powers in the area have wanted to control it; it has been occupied by Swedes, Finns, Danes, Germans, Russians, French, and the English. This geopolitical importance is a reason why the islands have been demilitarized since the 1850s after the events of the Crimean War. Also, while Finland is a military conscription country, Ålandic men (with hembygdsrätt) are exempted from this duty.

Åland is not a sovereign country, but it has self-governing rights and its own government. Åland joined the Nordic Council in 1970 and has two representatives in it. Åland also held a separate referendum, and in 1995, it joined the EU at the same time with Sweden and Finland. Åland has a special status in the European Union, as it's considered a "third territory," meaning it's not part of the EU's value-added tax (VAT) or excise duty area.

Ålanders have a strong and separate national identity, even though they have a Finnish passport and speak Swedish as their native language. However, the separatist movement barely exists nowadays, and Ålanders generally don't see a reason to change the status quo. All the granted special laws and privileges by Finnish and international law are perhaps more helpful and prospering to this tiny island than seeking full independence.

As of December 2019, in a survey conducted by Åland Gallup, 78% of island residents supported Åland continuing to be a self-governing region of Finland. It has been a trend in gallups for decades at this point. Being part of Sweden was the least popular option, only getting 4% support, and becoming a fully integrated part of Finland got 5% of the support. 9% of respondents would support the full independence of Åland. In a survey by the Statistics and Research Institute of Åland (ÅSUB, 2008), 90% of the respondents stated that they were Ålandic and 60% felt that they were "completely Ålandic." On the other hand, only a quarter of the respondents considered themselves "completely Finnish," and one-fifth considered themselves "Swedish at some level." The option "European" was more popular than "Finnish," "Swedish," or "Finnish-Swedish". In the ÅSUB 2018 survey, most responders also felt a higher sense of belonging to "Nordic countries" than they did to "Finland" or "Sweden." Another interesting statistic: In Åland Gallup's May 2019 survey, 80.4% of Åland's residents said they would support Finland, and 19.6% said they'd support Sweden if Finland and Sweden were facing each other in an ice hockey match.

I could go on about the Ålandic history and what makes its identity unique, but let this be a quick introduction to this place! Feel free to ask more if you're interested. I could have simply answered it's not a country, but I think that would leave out a lot of important context. Maybe this also explains why I think Åland should have a separate personification from Finland. I hope this helps even a little bit!

[wise-journey]

Welcome to Turku

Immerse yourself in a city bursting with rich culture, delectable gastronomy, and thrilling adventures. , a city promising an unforgettable experience to every wanderer who graces its cobblestone streets.

When to Embark on Your Turku Adventure

The best time to experience Turku in all its glory is during the pleasant months of summer (June to August). Revel in festivals, outdoor events, and incredibly long daylight hours.

Getting to Turku

Turku is accessible by both air and rail. Turku Airport caters to domestic and international flights, while a picturesque train ride from Helsinki offers beautiful views of the Finnish countryside.

Where To Stay in Turku

From charming boutique hotels to affordable chain accommodations, Turku houses a plethora of options for every traveler's budget and preference. For a more unique experience, consider one of the city's heart-centered guesthouses.

The Cultural Mosaic of Turku

Begin your cultural journey with a visit to Turku Castle, a 13th-century fortress. Participate in guided tours, admire the stunning architecture, and delve into its rich history. Don't miss the Turku Cathedral, an iconic symbol of the city.

Gastronomy in Turku

The city is a culinary haven, boasting restaurants that highlight authentic Finnish flavors and innovative cuisine. Try the local specialty, Turun Sinappi (Turku mustard), for a distinctive kick to your meal.

Activities and Adventure in Turku

Adventure seekers will relish the myriad of activities from kayaking down the Aura River to spending a day at the popular Moomin World theme park. Explore the vibrant archipelago surrounding Turku by hopping on a ferry or joining a guided boat tour.

Nightlife in Turku

As dusk falls, Turku's nightlife scene comes alive with live music performances, cozy pubs, and trendy clubs that cater to various tastes.

Transportation in Turku

With an efficient public transportation system covering buses and trams, exploring the city is a breeze. Or, rent a bicycle to navigate the bike-friendly streets of Turku at your own pace.

Shopping in Turku

From trendy boutiques to traditional markets, shopping in Turku offers a variety of choices. Visit the city center for a larger shopping experience or stroll the charming streets of the Old Town for unique Finnish designs.

Tips and Money in Turku

- Language: Finnish is the official language, but English is widely spoken. - Currency: Credit cards are accepted, but carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. - Getting Around: Take advantage of free city maps from the tourist information desk.

Conclusion

Whether you're a history aficionado, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, Turku offers an immersive experience that will leave you wanting to return. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to the hidden gem of Finland, Turku. Read the full article

[torillatavataan]

On Wednesday 28 September 1994, cruiseferry MS Estonia sank to the Baltic Sea, taking with her 852 of her 989 passengers and crew

The sinking was one of the worst maritime disasters of the 20th century. It is one of the deadliest peacetime sinkings of a European ship, after the RMS Titanic in 1912 and the RMS Empress of Ireland in 1914, and the deadliest peacetime shipwreck to have occurred in European waters. The disaster had a major impact on ferry safety, leading to changes in safety regulations as well as in life-raft design.

Estonia departed from Tallinn, Estonia, slightly behind schedule at 19:15 on 27 September and had been expected in Stockholm, Sweden, the next morning at about 09:00. She was carrying 803 passengers and 186 crew.

According to the final disaster report, the weather was rough. Esa Mäkelä, the captain of Silja Europa who was appointed on-scene commander for the subsequent rescue effort, described the weather as “normally bad”, or like a typical autumn storm in the Baltic Sea. All scheduled passenger ferries were at sea, something not unusual for this weather in the Baltic Sea.

The first sign of trouble aboard Estonia was when a metallic bang was heard, presumably caused by a heavy wave hitting the bow doors around 01:00, when the ship was on the outskirts of the Turku archipelago, but an inspection—limited to checking the indicator lights for the ramp and visor—showed no problems. Over the next 10 minutes, similar noises were reported by passengers and other crew. At about 01:15, the visor is believed to have separated and torn open the loading ramp behind it. The ship immediately took on a heavy starboard list (initially around 15 degrees, but by 01:30, the ship had rolled 60 degrees and by 01:50 the list was 90 degrees) as water flooded into the vehicle deck.  Estonia was turned to port and slowed before her four engines cut out completely.

The vessel’s rapid list and the flooding prevented many people in the cabins from ascending to the boat deck, as water not only flooded the vessel via the car deck, but also through windows in cabins as well as the massive windows along deck 6. The windows gave way to the powerful waves as the ship listed and the sea reached the upper decks. Survivors reported that water flowed down from ceiling panels, stairwells and along corridors from decks that were not yet under water.

A mayday was communicated by the ship’s crew at 01:22, but did not follow international formats. Estonia directed a call to Silja Europa and only after making contact with her did the radio operator utter the word “Mayday”. The radio operator on Silja Europa, chief mate Teijo Seppelin, replied in English: “Estonia, are you calling Mayday?” After that, the voice of third mate Andres Tammes took over on Estonia and the conversation shifted to Finnish.

Full 30 minute recording of communications with English subtitles here. Four languages are used, mainly Swedish and Finnish.

Tammes was able to provide some details about their situation but, due to a loss of power, he could not give their position, which delayed rescue operations somewhat. Tammes would later die in the sinking. Some minutes later, power returned (or somebody on the bridge managed to lower him or herself to the starboard side of the bridge to check the marine GPS, which will display the ship's position even in blackout conditions), and the Estonia was able to radio its position to Silja Europa and Mariella. The ship disappeared from the radar screens of other ships at around 01:50, and sank in international waters, about 22 nmi (41 km) on bearing 157° from Utö island, Finland, to a depth of 74 to 85 m (245 to 280 ft) of water.

Mariella, the first of five ferries to reach the scene of the accident, arrived at 02:12. A full-scale emergency was only declared at 02:30. Mariella winched open liferafts into the sea onto which 13 people on Estonia’s rafts successfully transferred, and reported the location of other rafts to Swedish and Finnish rescue helicopters, the first of which arrived at 03:05. The former took survivors to shore, while the latter—Finnish border guard helicopters Super Puma OH-HVG and Agusta Bell 412 OH-HVD—chose the riskier option of landing on the ferries. The pilot of OH-HVG stated that landing on the ferries was the most difficult part of the whole rescue operation; despite that, this single helicopter rescued 44 people, more than all the ferries. MS Isabella saved 16 survivors with its rescue slide.

Rescue efforts on Utö island

Of the 989 on board, 138 were rescued, one of whom died later in hospital. Ships rescued 34 and helicopters 104; the ferries played a much smaller part than the planners had intended because it was too dangerous to launch their man-overboard (MOB) boats or lifeboats.

Estonia’s life-raft. Many died as cold water poured into the rafts or as they capsized.

In total, 94 bodies were recovered: 93 within 33 days of the accident, and the last victim was found 18 months later. By the time the rescue helicopters arrived, around a third of those who escaped from the Estonia had died by drowning and hypothermia, as the water temperature was 10–11°C (50–52°F). Most victims were Swedish and Estonian nationals.

Recovered bodies to be moved from Utö to Turku on 29 September 1994

The survivors of the shipwreck were mostly young males with strong constitutions. Seven over 55 years of age survived and there were no survivors under age 12. About 650 people were still inside the ship when it sank. The commission estimated that up to 310 passengers reached the outer decks, 160 of whom boarded the life-rafts or lifeboats.

The official investigation report indicated that the locks on the bow door had failed from the strain of the waves and the door had separated from the rest of the vessel, pulling the ramp behind it ajar. The bow visor and ramp had been torn off at points that would not trigger an “open” or “unlatched” warning on the bridge, as is the case in normal operation or failure of the latches. The bridge was also situated too far back on the ferry for the visor to be seen from there.

The first metallic bang was believed to have been the sound of the visor’s lower locking mechanism failing, and that the subsequent noises would have been from the visor “flapping” against the hull as the other locks failed, before tearing free and exposing the bow ramp.  The subsequent failure of the bow ramp allowed water into the vehicle deck, which was identified as the main cause of the capsizing and sinking.

Estonia’s bow visor in Hanko (Finland) on 19 November 1994

Conspiracy theories exist about the cause of the sinking. Theories revolve around deliberate sabotage, smuggling of military hardware (later confirmed by the Swedish government, but allegedly not on the night of the disaster), and alleged sightings of military vehicles and crew members among the survivors that were later confirmed dead, as well as the general rapid rate of sinking (less than an hour). The decision to not recover any bodies, cover the wreck with concrete (this idea was abandoned), and prohibit citizens from even approaching the wreck have added fuel to the theories. Some survivors and loved ones of the victims support the conspiracy theories.

A previously unreported 4-metre hole on the hull was discovered in 2020 by a documentary crew, prompting the reopening of the investigation.

Wikipedia Photos from this MTV article and this Ilta-Sanomat article detailing the stories of the 137 survivors

[crazy-fruit]

The skerry archipelago between Åland and Turku.

[gautammander]

The Top 8 things to do in Finland that you should not miss

Finland, nestled in Northern Europe, offers a wealth of experiences that capture the imagination and heart of every traveler. From the mystical dance of the Northern Lights in Lapland to the vibrant urban culture of Helsinki, there are countless things to do that should not be missed. Finland is renowned for its pristine natural landscapes, including vast forests, thousands of lakes, and a coastline dotted with picturesque islands. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Finland has something for everyone. Visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, crossing the Arctic Circle, and experiencing the magic of Finnish Lapland are must-do activities, especially for families and winter enthusiasts.

Helsinki's Design District showcases Finland's creativity and design prowess, while traditional Finnish saunas offer a serene retreat in both urban and rural settings. Exploring the Archipelago Sea by cruise or discovering the rugged beauty of Finnish national parks through hiking are perfect for nature lovers. Immersing yourself in Sami culture in Inari or joining in the Midsummer festivities, where the sun never fully sets, provide unique cultural experiences. Finland's blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and warm hospitality ensures that every visit is filled with unforgettable moments and a deep appreciation for this enchanting Nordic country.

Here are some things to do in Finland that you should not miss.

1. The Northern Lights Observing in Lapland:

It is a necessity to see the Northern Lights when visiting Finland, particularly in Lapland. The sky is alive with glittering red, purple, and green hues between September and March. Rovaniemi and Inari are the best locations to witness this natural phenomenon because of their clear, dark nights, which accentuate the enchanted show.

2. Taking a trip to Santa Claus Village:

Santa Claus Village, which is close to Rovaniemi, is a wonderful destination for families and lovers of all things Christmas. Discover Santa's official post office, go beyond the Arctic Circle, and meet Santa Claus himself. All year long, it's a great experience, enhanced by winter activities such as husky safaris and reindeer sleigh rides.

3. Discovering the Design District of Helsinki:

Finland's best design is on display at Helsinki's Design District, a creative hotspot. Explore galleries, boutiques, and cafes in areas like as Punavuori and Kallio. Don't miss the Temppeliaukio Church, a striking copper-domed church carved out of rock, and the Design Museum.

4. Using a Sauna:

Saunas constitute a fundamental aspect of Finnish culture, and it is important to partake in a genuine sauna session. Take a trip to one of Helsinki's urban sauna facilities or sample a classic wood-fired sauna by a lake. Even in the bitterly cold winter months, take a pleasant swim to cool off after working up a sweat.

5.Traveling around the Archipelago:

Take a trip to the Archipelago Sea to see thousands of islands and Finland's stunning coastline. These cruises, which leave from Turku or Helsinki, provide beautiful scenery, visits to quaint islands like Åland, and chances for outdoor sports like kayaking and historic lighthouse tours.

6. Trekking in the National Parks of Finland:

Finland has many national parks that are ideal for hikers, as well as unspoiled wilderness. See the untamed grandeur of Lemmenjoki National Park and go gold panning, or trek the Karhunkierros Trail in Oulanka National Park to witness breathtaking river views and thunderous rapids.

7. Inari's Sami Culture:

The indigenous Sami people gather in Inari, which serves as a cultural center and provides information about their customs and history. Take a reindeer sleigh ride to see their nomadic way of life, explore the Sámi Cultural Centre Sajos, and learn about Sami culture at the Siida Museum.

8. Summertime Celebrations:

Finland's largest summer event, Midsummer, is celebrated in late June. Participate in customary activities with the locals, such as dancing around the maypole, sauna bathing, and bonfires. Discover the enchanted environment of northern Finland during the snowy nights, when the sun hardly sets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Finland offers a treasure trove of experiences that leave a lasting impression on visitors. Whether you're captivated by the dance of the Northern Lights in Lapland, enchanted by the magic of Santa Claus Village, or exploring Helsinki's vibrant Design District, Finland promises adventures for all. The country's natural beauty from its tranquil lakes and forests to its breathtaking archipelagos provides endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. For those planning a visit, checking Finland visa requirements is essential to ensuring a smooth journey. Once in Finland, indulging in the sauna culture, hiking through national parks, and immersing oneself in Sami traditions in Inari provide cultural insights and unforgettable memories. Celebrating Midsummer under the midnight sun adds a touch of magic to the Finnish experience, offering a glimpse into local traditions and festivities. Finland's charm lies in its ability to blend modernity with nature, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and pristine wilderness. Whether you're drawn to its cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, or simply seeking tranquility amidst nature, Finland welcomes visitors with open arms and promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder. Discover why Finland is a must-visit destination that captures the hearts of travelers from around the world.

[gokitetour]

The best cities you must visit in Finland

Discover Finland, where vibrant cities blend seamlessly with unspoiled natural landscapes. From the cosmopolitan charm of Helsinki to the tranquility of its countless lakes and forests, Finland offers a unique blend of modernity and wilderness. Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in Lapland or unwind in a traditional sauna. With its innovative design, culinary delights like smoked salmon and reindeer dishes, and warm, welcoming locals, Finland promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Scandinavian beauty and culture.

Here are some of the best cities you should consider visiting in Finland:

Helsinki:

The capital city and cultural hub of Finland, Helsinki blends modern urban life with historical charm. Must-see attractions include the Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and the contemporary design district.

Turku:

Finland's oldest city, located on the southwest coast. Turku boasts a medieval castle, a vibrant riverfront, and a rich cultural scene with museums and galleries.

Tampere:

Known as the "Manchester of Finland," Tampere is a dynamic city located between two large lakes. Visit the Moomin Museum, enjoy the Sauna Capital of the World experience, and explore the vibrant food and craft beer scene.

Rovaniemi:

Located in Lapland, Rovaniemi is famous as the official hometown of Santa Claus. It's a gateway to the Arctic Circle with unique attractions like Santa Claus Village and opportunities for northern lights viewing and husky safaris.

Oulu:

Situated on the Gulf of Bothnia in northern Finland, Oulu is a technology-driven city known for its architecture, culture, and outdoor activities. The Oulu Cathedral and Nallikari Beach are popular attractions.

Porvoo:

A picturesque town with well-preserved wooden houses and cobblestone streets, Porvoo offers a glimpse into Finland's past. Don't miss the charming Old Town and the red shorehouses along the river.

Vaasa:

Located on the west coast, Vaasa is known for its archipelago and outdoor activities. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kvarken Archipelago, enjoy the Wasalandia amusement park, and explore the museums and theaters.

Lahti:

Known for its winter sports and natural beauty, Lahti is a gateway to the Salpausselkä ridge area and the Päijänne National Park. The city hosts international ski competitions and offers excellent hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Conclusion

Finland, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, boasts some of the best cities you must visit. From the modern charm of Helsinki to the enchanting medieval streets of Turku, each city offers a unique experience. Whether you're captivated by the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi or exploring the lakes of Tampere, ensure your Finland visa is in order to fully enjoy these unforgettable destinations.

Read More:

south korea visa Egypt visa Norway visa Sweden visa Germany visa

[rasmasandra]

Traveling in Europe Finland

Turku on the Aura River A city in the North European country of Finland Finland is one of the lovely Scandinavian countries. Turkuis a lovely city to visit in Northern Europe. It is located on the southwest coast of Finland right on the shores of the famous Archipelago. Like other cities that lie on a river, Turku has the Aura River flowing through its city center. This is Finland’s most…

[beardedmrbean]

Major construction projects in Finland are drawing in domestic audiences on Monday.

Helsingin Sanomat's readers are especially interested in a story exploring Finland's tallest building, which will house cables when finished.

The world's largest cable manufacturer, Prysmian Group, is constructing Finland's tallest building in Kirkkonummi.

For just a little while longer, the title of Finland's tallest building belongs to Tampere's 168-meter Näsinneula observation tower. However, next year, the title will be claimed by this 185-meter cable manufacturing tower.

A maritime behemoth

A test run by the 'Icon of the Seas' attracted crowds in Turku on Sunday as it headed out for a sea trial in the archipelago, Iltalehti reports.

The Royal Caribbean's massive vessel is the world's largest cruise ship, able to accommodate some 5,600 passengers.

The ship is scheduled to be completed soon, after which it will leave the Meyer Turku shipyard and make its way to its home port in Miami. The cruise liner is set to start operations in the Caribbean next January.

Love it or hate it

Maaseudun tulevaisuus explores the science of samiakki, a traditional Finnish sweet treat, that's actually salty.

Salmiakki's salty flavour sets it apart from regular licorice, the agricultural paper said, explaining that this is why it's called salty licorice in English.

The Finnish word salmiakki comes from the Latin sal ammoniacius, which refers to ammonium chloride, the salt that gives the treat its distinctive flavour. Ammonium chloride is not ordinary table salt, which is sodium chloride. Finland generally imports the compound from Germany, where local food authorities label salmiakki as 'adult licorice' owing to its impact on blood pressure.

Often considered an acquired taste distinctive to Finland, producing the candy requires an ingredient that doesn't grow in Finland — licorice root, a plant thriving in much warmer climes than the far north.

[jukkapohjola]

Enjoying life with our S/y Xpequod yacht

An Albin Express racing boat. Today our day cruiser in the archipelago of Turku. A Day sailer that accelerates fast after every tack. It reaches easily 5 to 6 knots and in moderate breeze 7 knots. A fun small boat to sail in sheltered waters but you can trust Peter Norlins design even on an open sea. This boat carries the main sail in quite strong winds, you seldom need to reef the main, you just…

[anirobot]

Utö (Finland)-Wikipedia

Utö Lighthouse - Wikipedia

[nordnews]

Offering a vibrant food culture, cafe culture and unique products, the city is also a magical gateway to a wonderful and unique archipelago consisting of 40,000 island...

[mehanizem]

Villa Nagu — Turku archipelago

[lesbiankiliel]

took a walk on a road by my family's summer cottage and I gotta say, it's really picturesque here now that it's all green

(parainen, finland)

[canonskyrissian]

I've got all the locations now 🎉🎉🎉

- brescia, italy

- tunisia (somewhere in the desert)

- lagos, nigeria

- nancy, france

- basel, switzerland

- turku archipelago, finland

and 3/6 places I've been to at least once so I can make somewhat accurate descriptions xD