Experience the Beuty Around You

It is interesting how much cooler it is in Scandinavia this time of year compared to other parts of Europe. While most of my peers back home are still are on vacation with their kids somewhere along the cost of the Mediterranean people in the north are full throttle back to business are usual. Kids are in school and people are already talking about what pieces from the fall fashion lines to add to their wardrobe. (Personally I would not mind to add a grey suit from Tiger of Sweden to mine).

Weather is just one of those things that influence things dramatically. The other day when I was going to Helsinki for a few days, I left my home in France at 6 am in the morning. The sun was just rising, sky was bright blue and one could just tell that it would be another beutiful 35 degree day. Arriving in Helsinki a few hours later I was welcomed by rain and 16 degrees. Wearing a well cut black jacket and a matching skirt I could not help but feel grateful that I had chosen a pink scarf as an accent that particular day.

Still, despite the crummy weather the trip was a hit. Not only did my meetings go well but Helsinki also happens to be one of those cities that has a great deal more to offer than one might think.

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After my first meeting I headed over to a small and very local coffee shop by one of the largest squares in Helsinki. And before entering I could not help but snap this photo of the fantastically grand church across the street. Resembling Milano’s Droumo or Barcelona’s la familja in size it was a fantastic sight. The square in itself has an interesting story as it is a memory from the Russian occupation of Finland

Later, as I was walking up Alexander Katu in the direction of my next meeting, I realized I had exactly one extra hour to spare. As I am still quite new to visiting Finland I decided to stop by the national museum of aft for a quick visit. Centrally located it features a permanent exhibit that showcases all of Finland’s most prominent painters.
Two more meetings and then it was time to head back to the Hotel. Personally I always prefer to stay at the SAS Radisson hotels when in Scandinavia. The design, the food and the predictable good service is I guess what draws me in. In Helsinki there are four choices of which I always opt for the SAS Radisson Plaza hotel. Its location, with walking distance to many interesting restaurants and shopping adds to the experience.

This particular night I had the energy to visit the gym and spending 30 minutes in the sauna I was ready to retire to my room.

The next morning I could not help but regret two things: First booking an 8 a clock meeting, second staying up late to do emails. The thing is that in Finland everything is one hour earlier due to the time difference. However, after two cups of coffee, granola and a berry smoothly everything felt a great deal better. Good hotel breakfast can simply be a lifesaver.