Search Results forHelsinki
Top five saunas in Helsinki, Finland
Eetu Ahanen / Allas Sea Pool Sauna culture is an integral part of Finnish life, with 3.3 million saunas in a country of 5.5 million people, showcasing its deep-rooted significance. In Helsinki, saunas offer more than just warmth—they provide relaxation, social interaction, and a glimpse into everyday Finnish life. Whether you’re after luxury or tradition, the capital offers a variety of must-visit saunas, many conveniently located near the city center. Here’s a list of must-visit saunas in the Finnish capital for your next trip. Allas Sea Pool Allas Sea Pool, near Helsinki's Market Square, features year-round outdoor pools, including a heated pool and a seawater pool for a Baltic Sea dip. With separate saunas for men, women, and mixed groups, visitors can enjoy stunning archipelago views. In summer, it also transforms into a concert venue and offers dining at its three restaurants, including a rooftop option. For a magical experience, visit after dark in winter to enjoy the lights, steam, and harbor views. Entry Fee: 18–22€ Löyly Löyly, located on Helsinki’s southern waterfront, is a stunning architectural sauna designed by Ville Hara and Anu Puustinen. This mixed-gender sauna requires swimwear, with separate changing rooms for men and women. Visitors can unwind with panoramic views of the Baltic Sea, and the outdoor terrace is perfect for enjoying a drink or snack on sunny days. A fun fact is that one of Löyly’s co-owners is actor Jasper Pääkkönen, known for his roles in ‘Vikings’ and ‘BlacKkKlansman’! Entry Fee: 25€ Lonna Just a short 10-minute ferry ride from Helsinki’s Market Square, Lonna offers a peaceful retreat in the archipelago, featuring a wood-burning, mixed-gender sauna for an authentic Finnish experience. After your sauna session, cool off with a dip in the sea and relax on the terrace, taking in stunning views. Open from May to September, Lonna welcomes all with Finnish hospitality, offering a laid-back atmosphere, organic local delicacies, and beautiful sunsets. Dogs are also welcome on the island's cafes and restaurant terraces, making it a perfect getaway for everyone. Entry Fee: 20€ Sompasauna For a truly unique and communal experience, visit Sompasauna in Mustikkamaa. This self-service sauna, run entirely by volunteers, is free and open to all. Guests heat the stove and fetch water themselves, offering an authentic taste of Finnish communal life. Built by the people, for the people, Sompasauna has a history of resilience - it’s been dismantled several times, yet always rebuilt. This laid-back sauna, where visitors can freely move between the heat and the nearby shore, has earned its reputation as Finland’s “most public sauna.” Entry Fee: Free Kotiharju Sauna One of the oldest saunas in Finland, Kotiharju Sauna, located in the Kallio district, has been in operation since 1928. It was originally built for residents of downtown apartments that lacked bathrooms. The sauna's wood-burning stove provides a gentle yet effective heat, and it’s common to see visitors cooling off outside, wrapped in towels, no matter how cold the weather. Popular among locals, it’s also a great spot for groups of friends to relax together before heading out for the evening. Entry Fee: 16€ Whether you're after a luxurious retreat or a more communal experience, Helsinki’s diverse sauna scene caters to all tastes. With Finnair’s direct flights from New Delhi to Helsinki, discovering Helsinki’s rich local traditions is easier than ever. These saunas offer an authentic glimpse into Finnish culture, making them must-visit spots on your next trip.
Make your Helsinki layover, a time to remember
Helsinki Airport invites travellers to make the most of their layover by exploring the vibrant Finnish capital. Whether you have 6, 12, or 24 hours, Helsinki offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every interest. From the city's rich design heritage and authentic Finnish cuisine to traditional saunas and the legendary metal music scene, there’s something for everyone. With Finnair’s direct flights from New Delhi to Helsinki, discover how to turn your brief layover into a memorable mini adventure by following this comprehensive guide. Helsinki in 6 hours For those with a six-hour layover, begin your journey at the Helsinki Design Museum, a short 30-minute trip from the airport. Nestled in the Helsinki Design District, the museum showcases an extensive collection of Finnish and Scandinavian design, including works by Alvar Aalto. Open from 11 am, admission is €20 for adults and €12 for pensioners and students. After immersing yourself in design heritage, enjoy a meal at the historic Restaurant Savoy, designed by Aino and Alvar Aalto, just six minutes away. The Finnish-French menu, featuring seasonal local ingredients, is served in a beautifully restored 1937 interior. Post-lunch, explore the Helsinki Design District's boutiques and cafes, and visit iconic stores like Marimekko, Lumi Accessories, Lumoan, and Lapuan Kankurit for unique souvenirs. If time permits, stop by the Helsinki City Museum. Conclude your visit with a short walk back to the train station for a smooth return to Helsinki Airport. Helsinki in 12 hours With a 12-hour layover, delve deeper into Finland's art scene. After following the six-hour guide, head to the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM), featuring over 9,000 public artworks and rotating modern exhibitions. Admission is €18, and the museum is closed on Mondays. Next, visit the Ateneum Art Museum, home to masterpieces by Van Gogh, Le Corbusier, and Munch. Open from 10 am, tickets cost €20. Unwind Finnish-style at Allas Sea Pool, a waterside sauna complex with heated pools and stunning Baltic Sea views. Ticket prices range from €18-€22. After a refreshing sauna session, enjoy a meal at Allas Café or Seagrill restaurant, offering Nordic cuisine and scenic vistas. From Allas Sea Pool, it's a short walk or tram ride back to Helsinki Central Station for your return to the airport. Helsinki in 24 hours For a 24-hour layover, extend your exploration with activities from both the six and 12-hour guides. Experience the legendary heavy metal scene at Tavastia, one of Europe's oldest rock clubs. After a night of music, rest at a nearby accommodation. Start your morning at Cafe Ekberg, a historic patisserie dating back to 1852, renowned for its exquisite pastries and buffet breakfast. Join the free walking tour from Esplanadi Park at 11 am to learn about Helsinki's culture and history. Afterward, head back to the airport, ensuring you allow at least two hours before departure.
Finnair reveals new Schengen Lounge in Helsinki
Finnair has revealed its new Schengen Lounge in Helsinki Airport, designed to bring unparalleled comfort and convenience to customers. Set to open on 9 July 2024, the new lounge has been crafted based on customer feedback and inspired by Finnair’s Nordic design language and comforting colour scheme. It follows the same palette and design introduced to the airline’s non-Schengen lounges, first unveiled at Helsinki Airport in 2019. The new lounge's design, led by Studio Joanna Laajisto, captures the essence of the Nordics with wooden textures, soft forms, and warm colours. Adding a touch of local craftsmanship to the setting, the furniture has also been sourced from renowned Nordic designers, such as Artek, Nikari, and Gubi. With seating for up to 440 customers, the newly designed Schengen lounge is set to leave customers feeling runway ready, with unparalleled views of Helsinki Airport. Based on customer feedback, the lounge will also feature an exclusive Platinum Corner for Finnair Plus Platinum and Platinum Lumo members to enjoy. Ole Orvér, Finnair Chief Commercial Officer, said: "We are delighted to announce the opening of our new Schengen lounge, providing even more space and comfort before take-off. “Responding to the feedback from Finnair Plus tier members, the lounge also features an exclusive Finnair Platinum Corner for Finnair Plus Platinum and Platinum Lumo members to enjoy.” Meri Järvinen, Finnair Head of Airport Customer Experience, said: “With increased space, the new Finnair Lounge comfortably accommodates up to 440 guests, ensuring a relaxed experience and seamless service for everyone. “Different spaces within the lounge are tailored to various needs: dining, working, resting and spending time with your travel companions.” Business Class Classic and Flex ticket holders, as well as Finnair Plus Gold members can enjoy complimentary access to the new lounge. Finnair Plus Platinum and Platinum Lumo members can also benefit from exclusive access to the Platinum Corner. Lounge access can also be purchased by all customers, via Manage Booking or through the Finnair app. Based in the Schengen area of Helsinki Airport, customers travelling with Finnair on the majority of flights across Europe will benefit from the new lounge, including when connecting in Helsinki from the UK and travelling onwards to Finnish Lapland and the wider Nordic and Baltic region. Customers flying directly to and from the UK and Ireland can also continue to enjoy access to Finnair’s Platinum Wing and Business Lounge in the non-Schengen area of Helsinki Airport.
New Finnair Lounge on the Schengen side of Helsinki Airport
Finnair continues to invest in customer experience as the airline announces the opening of its brand-new Finnair Lounge on 9 July. Located on the Schengen side of Helsinki Airport, near gate 21, the lounge is designed to bring unparalleled comfort and convenience to travellers. "We are delighted to announce the opening of our new Schengen lounge, providing even more space and comfort before take-off. Responding to the feedback from Finnair Plus tier members, the lounge features also an exclusive Finnair Platinum Corner for Finnair Plus Platinum and Platinum Lumo members to enjoy," said Ole Orvér, Chief Commercial Officer at Finnair. The new Finnair Business Lounge can be accessed by Business Class Classic and Flex ticket holders, and Finnair Plus Gold members. Lounge access can also be purchased as a travel extra during ticket booking, via Manage booking, or through the Finnair app. “With increased space, the new Finnair Lounge comfortably accommodates up to 440 guests, which is about 150 seats more than the current lounge. Different spaces within the lounge are tailored to various needs: dining, working, resting and spending time with your travel companions,” said Meri Järvinen, Head of Airport Customer Experience. The lounge's design, led by Studio Joanna Laajisto, captures the essence of the Nordics: peaceful, natural, and inviting. Wooden textures, soft forms, and warm colors reflect the Finnish landscape's serenity. Furniture from renowned Nordic design brands, such as Artek, Nikari, and Gubi, adds a touch of local craftsmanship to the setting. The new lounge offers spectacular views of the runway and the airport gate area.
Exciting developments and novelties in Helsinki in 2024
People enjoying Lux Helsinki. Photo: Matti Pyykkö, Helsinki Partners Finland has been named the world’s happiest country for six years in a row. In Helsinki, this happiness is backed up by their goal of creating a sustainable and open city for everyone, where opportunities and experiences – like nature and the sea – are within everyone's reach. Lux Helsinki and the Tall Ship Races are free events that are once again bringing people together in 2024. The city's shoreline is being opened up even more, and a new theme playground invites children to discover the world of computers while playing – without smart devices. The novelties offered by Helsinki’s restaurants in turn draw their inspiration from the city's history and today's multiculturalism. Where art and science interact The theme of the Lux Helsinki light festival in 2024 is “science from art”. The popular event attracts locals and visitors to enjoy the light art and share their insights and art experiences. This year’s programme comprises 21 installations in different parts of the city that can be experienced in any order between 5pm and 10pm from Wednesday to Sunday, 3–7 January 2024. Helsinki Cathedral has become an almost iconic and highly anticipated Lux Helsinki attraction each year. This time, a unique 360-degree experience will be created in Senate Square, where the façades of the surrounding buildings will be the backdrop for up to three different light installations. The approximately 20-minute show will feature the installations Symmetry by Janne Ahola, Northern Touch by Katariina Souri, and Helix by Weltraumgrafik, each of which will be performed in turn. “Art is often and at its best an exploration, just like science. Both offer insights and discoveries to the openminded seeker, and you can never be sure what the expedition will uncover,” explains Juha Rouhikoski, Artistic Director of Lux Helsinki. Helsinki believes strongly that new ideas and phenomena are created when different thoughts and people interact. Aalto University was created specifically as this kind of permanent meeting place where science and art experts can together create new innovations. Next autumn, Aalto University wants to invite everyone to see what they are all about. On 3 September 2024, Aalto’s new Marsio building will officially open, providing an arena for dialogue between researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and the public, as well as state-of-the-art digital technologies for teaching and research. Marsio will offer a place for radical creativity, experimentation and new thinking, just like its role model Aino Marsio-Aalto, and its exhibition area will bring to life the university’s wide impact through science, art, tech and business. Illustration of the computer-themed playground designed by Linda Liukas. Building a more sustainable and fun city Helsinki is a rapidly growing and developing city, and its shoreline in particular is undergoing a major transformation now that industry moved out of the city centre. The iconic South Harbour will also get a new look when construction of the new wooden Stora Enso head office is completed in Katajanokanlaituri. The impressive building will also include a hotel, meeting and congress facilities, and a café and restaurant open to all. Designed by Anttinen Oiva Architects, the building has been created from solid wood building elements that store carbon dioxide. Building from pre-made building elements according to dimensions shortens construction time, reduces costs and improves the utilisation of raw materials. In 2024, an international architecture competition for a new museum of architecture and design will also be announced. The new museum will be built in a prime location behind the Old Market Hall by the South Harbour. The city's goal is to develop this area as a common maritime recreation place for everyone and to open up the shoreline even better for local residents and visitors. In autumn 2024, Helsinki will get the world's first computer-themed playground when the renovation of the Ruoholahti playground is completed. In the new playground, children will be able to discover the world of computers and programming while playing – without smart devices. The highlight of the playground will be its special themed play equipment, which has been designed and realised according to the ideas of author and illustrator Linda Liukas, who is known for her Hello Ruby books that teach programming. The renovation of the Ruoholahti playground is part of the 110th anniversary of Helsinki’s playgrounds. In the future, the city aims to implement more playgrounds with different themes. Kozeen Shiwan in his restaurant The Room, photos: Helmi Padatsu and Tuomas Lindgren Food made from the ingredients of happiness What makes Helsinki’s food culture unique are the high-quality, clean local ingredients, a creative approach and an Eastern influence that differs from the other Nordic countries, as well as new innovations and multiculturalism. In January, the forward-looking The Room opens with a menu that tells the life story of owner Kozeen Shiwan: a journey from Kurdistan through Turkey to Finland and a love for skateboarding, music, art and fashion. Shiwan has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in Finland and abroad, and the overall experience of the restaurant strives for its own star. In addition to its traditional stars, the Michelin Guide also awards green stars to restaurants that offer first-class environmentally friendly dining experiences. Helsinki has no less than three Green Star restaurants: Grön, Nolla and Natura. At the beginning of 2024, Cajsan Helmi will open in one of Finland’s oldest restaurant buildings. The original part of the classic Kaisaniemi restaurant was completed in 1839, and now the entire building has been wonderfully renovated while respecting its history. Hietaniemi Market Hall is another interesting attraction where you can enjoy food in a historical milieu. Today, it functions as a restaurant and café hall that offers atmospheric culinary voyages around the world: to the Philippines, Japan, France, Italy, the Middle East… The Tall Ships Races was last held in Helsinki in summer 2013. Photo: Lauri Rotko, Helsinki Partners Celebrating the seaside Helsinki has more than 130 kilometres of shoreline and more than 300 islands. In July 2024, almost 50 spectacular sailing ships will call on Helsinki, when the annual The Tall Ships Races returns to the Finnish capital from 4 to 7 July 2024. The event is expected to attract 500,000 visitors. The most spectacular ships will arrive from Poland, the largest of which is the nearly hundred-meter class A full-rigged ship Dar Mlodziez. All local residents and visitors are invited to enjoy the atmosphere and participate in the versatile and free-of-charge programme, which includes live music, panel discussions focused on the protection of the Baltic Sea, and interactive art among the public. The Tall Ships Races sailing event promotes the education and cooperation of young people regardless of nationality, cultural background, religion or social background. The City of Helsinki is sending one hundred young people between the ages of 15 and 25 to sail on the ships participating in the competition. The venue for the event will be the South Harbour, Market Square, Katajanokka, Kanavaranta and Pohjoisranta. MyHelsinki.fi, the official website of the city marketing company Helsinki Partners, is your local guide for discovering the most inspiring sights, events and novelties in Helsinki.
Luxury Nordic Hospitality beckons as The Hotel Maria in Helsinki opens with 117 keys
The heart of Helsinki welcomes a new chapter in luxury Nordic hospitality with the opening of The Hotel Maria on December 15. Proudly joining Preferred Hotels & Resorts' prestigious Legend Collection, this urban sanctuary seamlessly melds contemporary elegance with the echoes of its storied past in the city’s historic Kruununhaka district. Featuring 117 rooms, including 38 lavish suites, two restaurants, a grand ballroom, serene chapel, state-of-the-art spa, and a destination boutique showcasing jewellery of Faberge and esteemed Finnish designers, The Hotel Maria is without a doubt one of the most anticipated launches of 2023 and the year ahead. Nestled in a country consistently celebrated as the world's happiest, The Hotel Maria invites guests to immerse themselves in the captivating essence of the region. With bespoke experiences and wellness at its core, The Hotel Maria serves as an ideal starting point to discover the best of the Nordics or as a home base to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Finland’s capital city. As the first hotel in the Nordics to offer a Wellness Concierge, The Hotel Maria offers highly personalised programs including specially tailored jet lag treatments and nutrition programmes, a weekly Run Club, in-suite spa treatments, Spa Suites with private saunas or steam rooms and large soaking tubs, together taking the mind-body experience to the next level. "The Hotel Maria’s commitment to being the premier hotel experience in the Nordics and Helsinki's first true five-star destination reflects the evolution of luxury in the Nordics," said The Hotel Maria Founder Samppa Lajunen, a former three-time Olympic gold medalist and renowned real estate developer. "Our journey parallels that of our namesake, Grand Duchess Maria Feodorovna, a renowned and beloved royal figure who sought peace of mind in Finland during challenging times and served as a great unifier beyond borders. We aspire to provide the same tranquility and sanctuary to all who grace our doors, offering our guests a taste of the pure and natural beauty of Finland, leaving them renewed and inspired." Classic Finnish Charm Meets American Luxury The Hotel Maria is a collection of four architecturally and historically prominent buildings dating back to 1885, protected by The Finnish Heritage Agency. The design concept gracefully balances stately, historic architecture with refined modern furnishings, elevating the definition of modern luxury in Helsinki. With interiors by Head Designer Jana Sasko and Puroplan, one of Finland’s leading interior design firms, The Hotel Maria strikingly blends Finnish culture with American style and extra spacious standards. Many of the site’s original features are celebrated throughout the design, with traditional ornate wall and ceiling details dressed in fresh shades of white and neutral, creating a cohesive and timeless backdrop for the overall aesthetic. Into this crisp envelope, the design layers an array of supple textures, accented with natural woods and hand-forged metals, all crowned with an eclectic, extensive collection of contemporary lighting. The Ultimate Setting for Elevated Stays The Hotel Maria offers a variety of accommodation options, including more suites than any other hotel in Helsinki and guest rooms that provide double the space of typical Finnish hotels, with an average size exceeding 460 square feet. Room features include large "American-style" beds, state-of-the-art technology, and spacious spa-like marble bathrooms, most with extra-large soaking tubs, electric fireplaces bath televisions, and 19 suites are equipped with their own private traditional Finnish saunas or steam rooms as well. Guests can choose from three categories of thoughtfully designed guestrooms and a wide selection of suites, including tranquil Spa Suites, some which span two floors and feature saunas or steam rooms. A collection of 14 signature suites provides the ultimate indulgent retreat. The Maria Signature Suite (753-926 sq ft) boasts a chic and inviting living area ideal for entertaining, while the The Penthouse Suite (947 sq ft) wows with floor-to-ceiling windows, a premium kitchen and dining table ideal for in-suite private dining or a private chef experience. Undoubtedly the pinnacle of luxury and arguably the best suite in Finland, The Maria Imperial Suite (1,722 sq ft) provides a first-class experience with a private butler, two in-suite soaking tubs, a steam room, library, two living areas, and a grand dining room with seating for up to 10, ideal for entertaining friends or hosting meetings. The Maria Spa The Hotel Maria is committed to holistic wellbeing, exemplified by the on-site spa, Maria Spa. It features a large coed Finnish sauna, a uniquely designed steam room, cold and warm water plunge pools, Jacuzzi, and a greenery-filled fully enclosed atrium sanctuary with Spa Bar. Indulgent signature skin and body treatments, such as the Luminizer Massage, Arctic Healing with Maria and Nordic Vitality Facial, take place in four treatment rooms with luxury products from the exclusive Biologique Recherche range. The Maria Spa is opening in December 2023 and the wellness options will expand further in June 2024 by the opening of The Wellness Club, which will offer a design forward fitness space with best-in-class equipment and unique training programs for guests and locals alike. Personalised Services In addition to standard luxury hotel services such as valet parking and concierge assistance, The Hotel Maria offers private butler services, dog and babysitting, personal shoppers, and an Experience Manager dedicated to curating and delivering bespoke luxury adventures throughout Finland. The hotel's prime location allows easy exploration of Helsinki's landmark attractions, while exclusive partnerships with high-end hotels and resorts in Lapland and the Lake District offer once-in-a-lifetime stays with views of the magical Northern Lights and the stunning lake region, making Finland’s most treasured experiences within relatively easy reach. Sophisticated Culinary Experiences Leading the hotel's food and beverage offerings is its signature restaurant, Lilja, helmed by Head Chef Ville Rainio. With extensive culinary experience from acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, including the world-renowned Noma in Copenhagen, voted as the World’s Best Restaurant, Chef Ville takes diners on a gastronomic journey inspired by the traditions of French cuisine. Lilja's seasonal menu showcases the finest produce from Finland and regions nearby, featuring sumptuous signature dishes where seasons are the focal point for creativity. Lilja exclusively uses wild-caught fish and has its own buoy in Aland, where seaweed is cultivated and collected for the kitchen’s needs, among other 100% organic local producers, such as Rolling Cheese from Töölö, Helsinki Meijeri's cheeses and yoghurt produced in Viikki, churned butter from Mouhujärvi, Finnish Dry Aged beef and exclusively sourced reindeer meat from the Poromoision reindeer farm in Sodankylä. For more intimate dining, there is Lilja's elegant private dining room, Valley, with seating for up to 12, or guests can enjoy the full Lilja menu in the comfort of their rooms. Culinary delights also await at the brasserie style Garden Terrace, an inviting space adorned with lush greenery, hanging lanterns, and plush Chesterfield sofas, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea or savor dishes from an elevated all-day dining menu inspired by classic international and Nordic cuisine, while Bar Maria is a chic lounge inspired by the Arctic, specialising in Champagne (many by the glass) and caviar, providing a refined setting for extravagant afternoons with the enchanting backdrop of snow white chandeliers casting a soft glow over the grand piano. Every moment here is about celebrating life’s finest pleasures. Sustainability The hotel is dedicated to minimising environmental impact and embracing social responsibility. It features energy-efficient lighting, cutting-edge indoor climate control, and renewable energy sources, creating an eco-conscious haven. Recycling programmes and partnerships with local artisans contribute to a sustainable future. Transparent practices, continuous improvement, and guest engagement drive this exceptional sustainable journey at The Hotel Maria. Green Key Certification is expected in 2024. Coming Soon The final stage of The Hotel Maria’s opening will take place in June 2024 with the completion of the Liisankatu 8A and Maneesikatu side buildings, doubling room availability. Liisankatu is home to the grand Maria Ballroom and the adjacent Lily room, an intimate dining and meeting space for four, while Maneesikatu will invigorate guests 24 hours a day with The Maria Wellness Club and Wellness Studio. Rates start at € 452 (EUR) / £390 including taxes and breakfast for two. For more information and reservations, please visit www.hotelmaria.fi.
Origin by Ocean Academy unveiled at Slush Helsinki
In an announcement at the world’s largest venture capital event Slush, Mari Granström, the founder of Origin by Ocean, launched Origin by Ocean Academy. This new educational initiative, based in the Finnish Archipelago, is dedicated to deepening understanding and connection with the marine world, empowering individuals and communities for ocean conservation. Hands-on oceanic learning in the Finnish archipelago The Academy offers an immersive learning journey by the Baltic Sea, blending expert-led insights into marine ecosystems with physical sensory learning on-site. Mari Granström, in her inspiring address at Slush, emphasised, "At Origin by Ocean, we believe in the transformative power of feeling, understanding, and connecting with the marine world firsthand. The Academy is our platform to share this profound experience with the world." A deep dive into marine knowledge, guided by experts Led by esteemed marine biologist Ari Ruuskanen, the Academy's curriculum dives into the oceans' complex ecosystems, covering their physical, chemical, and biological and ecological characteristics. Participants will delve into the oceans' ancient history, understand their current state, and explore future possibilities. "Our oceans are not just bodies of water; they are complex, living systems with a rich history and a critical role in our planet's future," said Ari Ruuskanen. Fostering a community of ocean savers Aligning with Origin by Ocean's mission, the Academy aims not just to educate but to activate. The Academy encourages a broad spectrum of participants, who hold the Baltic Sea dear to their hearts to turn the challenges of eutrophication into sustainable economic opportunities. This can include islanders, seaweed farmers, media professionals, and interested citizens in general, to explore sustainable solutions for eutrophication and other environmental challenges. "Our seas need guardians, and we are here to foster them. Every individual has the power to make a difference. Our goal is to equip them with the knowledge and tools to do so," added Granström. A milestone in Origin by Ocean's journey The launch of the Academy marks a significant milestone in Origin by Ocean's journey. With its innovative algae-based products, the company has already made strides in transforming harmful algae into valuable resources. The Academy is a natural extension of this mission, aiming to spread knowledge and foster a community of ocean advocates and changemakers. Program details and application process The Academy's program promises a dynamic mix of face-to-face sessions, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities. Enrollment opens in January 2024, with a three-week application period and an orientation meeting to outline the journey ahead. Participants will have access to an interactive learning environment, including lecture notes and materials, focusing on experiential learning over theoretical descriptions. Granström adds: "This is more than learning; it's igniting curiosity. Curiosity fuels deeper research, research unveils new opportunities, and opportunities drive economies towards thriving, positive feedback loops." Join the oceanic journey Origin by Ocean invites you to be part of this exciting journey in marine education and conservation. As noted by Ari Ruuskanen: "The ocean's story is humanity's story – vast, alive, and interwoven with our future."
Scandic to rebrand hotel in central Helsinki
Scandic Hotels has signed a long-term agreement with landlord Exilion to extend the agreement and rebrand the Holiday Inn City Centre in downtown Helsinki. Since acquiring Restel in 2017, Scandic has operated the hotel under a lease agreement with Exilion and a franchise agreement with IHG. From 2025, the hotel will be operated under the Scandic brand. Today, Holiday Inn City Centre has 174 rooms and a strategically advantageous location next to Helsinki Central Station. As part of the extension agreement, the landlord has undertaken to completely renovate the hotel. Renovation work is expected to begin in September 2024 and will include investments in the facade and interiors as well as sustainability-related upgrades to reduce energy consumption and operating costs and improve the guest experience. By extending our agreement and rebranding Holiday Inn City Centre as a Scandic hotel, we will continue to optimize our hotel portfolio in major Finnish cities. Helsinki is an important market that attracts both domestic and international travelers. It’s fantastic to be able to further strengthen Scandic’s hotel offering in Helsinki, says Laura Tarkka, Head of Scandic Hotels in Finland. The strategic location of the hotel in close proximity to other Scandic hotels helps meet the growing demand in the leisure segment in Helsinki. During the renovation, shared spaces and restaurant areas will be adapted to optimize hotel operations which will lead to economies of scale. The hotel rooms will be furnished according to Room Collection, Scandic’s own-design room concept. They will be designed with circularity in mind and many elements of the furnishings will be environmentally certified or made of recycled materials. I am extremely pleased that we are now renewing and upgrading our hotel offering in the heart of Helsinki together with Scandic. The hotel is perfectly situated for tourists who want to visit our capital. During the renovation, we will renew all surfaces and bathrooms and make important sustainability-related investments to achieve an even higher environmental rating for the property, says Ari Talja, CEO of Exilion. The landlord plans to recertify the property according to LEED standard. The new hotel will also be recertified by the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, the official ecolabel of the Nordic countries. Holiday Inn City Centre is already part of Scandic’s hotel portfolio, and Scandic currently operates 20 hotels with a total of 5,116 rooms in Helsinki.
Scandic strengthens position in Helsinki with two new hotels
Scandic Hotels has signed a long-term lease agreement with landlord Projekti GH Oy for two hotels with a total of 459 rooms in the unique Garden Helsinki, a multi-functional event arena in Helsinki, Finland. The agreement includes one Scandic Go hotel with 232 rooms and a 227-room Scandic hotel that are expected to open in 2028. The new hotels will be established in one of Scandic’s key destinations where the company sees growing demand from both corporate and leisure travelers. When the two hotels open, Scandic will be the exclusive hotel operator at Garden Helsinki, one of Finland's largest urban development projects that is emerging two kilometers from the heart of the capital. Garden Helsinki will be a unique multi-functional mega event arena in the Töölö district and a destination for sports, entertainment, restaurants, office space and apartments. With proximity to the city center and many attractions in the surrounding area, there is growing demand for hotel nights all year round from both business and leisure travelers. "We have a high level of activity at Scandic and we’re continuing to strengthen our position in attractive key destinations where we see great potential. The Helsinki region is expected to generate about 5 million hotel nights from 2026, which is why establishing these two hotels is an important milestone in our growth strategy. It’s also exciting to present our first Scandic Go, Scandic’s brand in the fast-growing economy segment, in the Finnish market", says Jens Mathiesen, President & CEO of Scandic Hotels Group. Garden Helsinki will be a destination for indoor entertainment and is expected to host world-class domestic and international events. The hotels will be integrated into Garden Helsinki and located in the same building, which will lead to substantial economies of scale. Scandic Go will offer space-efficient hotel rooms with smart storage solutions at a good price. The Scandic hotel will primarily offer double and family rooms as well as meeting facilities for up to 250 people and a highly-efficient bar and restaurant area. "I’m really looking forward to opening the Scandic and Scandic Go hotels at Garden Helsinki together with Projekti GH Oy and my colleagues here in Finland. The hotels are an important addition to the Töölö district and the new event arena. And as the exclusive hotel operator at Garden Helsinki, Scandic will offer two hotels with a total of 459 rooms under one roof for all guests, regardless of whether they’re looking for a full-service experience or a stay focused on discovering the city or attending an event in the area", says Laura Tarkka, Head of Scandic Hotels in Finland. The new hotels will be environmentally certified by the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, the official ecolabel of the Nordic countries. The landlord will build the hotels with sustainability in focus and the properties will be certified according to LEED or BREEAM, internationally recognized environmental certification systems. Garden Helsinki’s vision is an ultimate customer experience. Understanding the event and travel industry as well as the customers of today is something that Scandic will contribute to this project and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Scandic team as well as the Finesco team for their great support and collaboration during the process, says Timo Everi, Chairman of the Projekti GH Oy.
The Hotel Maria Helsinki aims to offer the best hotel experience in the Nordics
The Hotel Maria, a luxurious new hotel in Helsinki, will open in December 2023 as a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Legend Collection. The hotel will be the brand’s first Legend hotel in Finland. Among The Hotel Maria’s most distinguishing features are the spacious rooms, great number of suites, high-quality service experience, interior design concept, and its location in historic Helsinki, Kruununhaka, which reinforces the Urban Resort experience it offers. The hotel's interior design is elegant and lavish, with furniture, lighting, and design details from American luxury furniture specialist RH. “The Hotel Maria’s 38 suites will significantly increase the overall number of hotel suites on offer in Helsinki. All 117 rooms are twice the average size of what we’re used to in Finland. We’ve invested in the spa experience of the rooms by adding saunas, steam rooms, or bathtubs to their bathrooms. All the rooms are impressive, and the sense of space is maximized by a ceiling height of up to four meters. And the old arched windows and spirit of the building's history are something quite unique” says Katriina Moksi, the General Manager of The Hotel Maria. In addition to its rooms and suites, The Hotel Maria will pamper its guests with à la Carte restaurant Lilja, the all-day restaurant Garden Terrace, two bars, spa & wellness section, a gym, banquet and event spaces, a shop, a chapel and a magnificent outdoor area with terraces. The official website and the room reservation system of The Hotel Maria have been opened, and reservations are now welcome from 15.12.2023 onwards, when the prestigious The Hotel Maria will open its doors to the guests and visitors. More information: sales@hotelmaria.fi The Hotel Maria in Kruununhaka, Helsinki, offers a new alternative and service experience for guests who appreciate Nordic hospitality and a more refined luxury hotel stay. The hotel will open its doors on December 15, 2023 at Mariankatu 23, 00170 Helsinki. www.hotelmaria.fi
No companies found matching your search.
Return To HomeNo Event found matching your search.
Return To Home