And what's going on in Helsinki? (2/5)

Sunday, December 3rd, 2023

I haven't slept so well in a long time.

My alarm went off a little early so I could make it to my Airbnb in time. I left my bed wistfully, enjoyed the perfectly heated shower again and then my anticipation started again.

Because I was finally in Helsinki and I couldn't wait to finally go out and see the snow!

(No, my hotel room didn't have any windows, but it did have this cute lion cat on the bed)

Quickly packed the seven things, handed in the hotel card and looked for the train to the main station.

Searched - found - bought a ticket - got on - arrived. Perfect. And now?

Please find the tram. Oook, admittedly: that wasn't easy. (At least not for a village kid like me, whose state doesn't even have trams.)

When, out of desperation, I decided to walk the 30 minutes so as not to lose any more time, I suddenly found myself standing in front of the real tram.

Tadaa, got in – got out – arrived. Walked the last few meters to the apartment and was happy as hell.

My host was already expecting me (yes, I was late). We were really happy that it finally worked out and he showed me the apartment.

The apartment was bigger than I thought and offered me everything I needed to have a good time for the next few days.

It turned out that it was his own apartment and he would be staying with his parents for the time being.

He said goodbye with the words “mi casa es su casa” and the urgent note that no matter what happens, I can contact you 24/7.

Noted.

First things first: coffee first

Well, two coffees, after all I was still tired. Now it could start. Where? No plan, but I'm not far from the water, so I'll go for a walk to the water and find something to eat at some point.

Those who have a sense of direction experience less.

At least that's what I try to tell myself when I'm walking pointlessly and aimlessly in one direction.

At least I got to know a port in Helsinki in the industrial area. At times I wasn't entirely sure whether it was allowed to stay here as a tourist. I definitely passed some “Restricted Area” warning signs.

To be on the safe side, I didn't take any photos here.

Ok, later from a safe distance, I dared to do one of a boat:

From there I accidentally made it towards the Center Design District.

My destination: Christmas market or the Ateljeebar. Here you should have the best view of the city.

Shortly before the Google Maps destination Ateljeebar, I decided to walk towards the Christmas-lit city center to look around a bit.

It looked like a Christmas market. Afterwards I would sit in the bar - that was the plan.

When I arrived at the Christmas lights, several police cars drove past me and I heard loud slogans (which of course I didn't understand.)

Check, 1st Finnish demo found!

So back to the search for the Ateljeebar. According to Google, I was there - then I walked past, then I would have to go around the house and do everything at the same time. I actually didn't find it.

By now I really wanted to reach my goal because I was pretty cold and getting hangry. I wanted to eat something really warm, spicy and warm my hands. Finnish fish soup would be great.

I decided to visit the next good looking restaurant that popped up nearby.

Chinese it is.

Hot tea and the number 39.

Of course I read through what was served with number 39, but I forgot about it immediately after ordering.