Helsinki by Train
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A very early start this morning and out TV made sure we knew it was 4.30am. Too early for breakfast at our hotel, so
we were provided a boxed breakfast to enjoin the train. No waiting at the station and soon we were off on our long journey to
Helsinki. A great experience as the train was very comfortable and even had a play area for children on one of the cars. A
dining area was available and we settled to see the countryside flying by.
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After a great trip, having time for us all to chat and revisit some of the fabulous places we had seen, it was time
to leave the train for a 2 hour coach tour of Helsinki. The weather was cool and lots of snow about so nothing unusual there, but the snow covered
streets just added to the city we have just come to. On our drive we passed the Sibelius Monument in the Park that looked spectacular. It was dedicated
to Jean Sibellius, a Finnish Composer, but was a little controversial as it looked like it represented Organ pipes. Quite spectacular however. Another
highllight was the Helsinki Cathedral, a Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church with an imposing facade and a green dome. Another interesting statue
was dedicated to Aleksanteri 11, known as the Liberator, in 1894 when Finland was a Russian grand duchy.
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Then, after a long but fabulous day, we arrived at our Holiday Inn Hotel in the city for the next 2 nights. It was centrally located and
right next door to the Central Train Station and very convenient as the Bus Station in the forecourt had transport regularly going to the Airport.
The Museums and shops and malls were very close by and it was an excellent location.
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