Helsinki

The Sibelius Monument.






We are having a two day stop over in Helsinki.   It is cold here, especially after being on a Greek island.  The temperature was was 6 this morning and maximum of 11.   In spite of some complications with accommodation and lost luggage, we are having an enjoyable time here.

Helsinki Cathedral.

Senate Square is considered the heart of Helsinki.  It is a lovely wide open square.

Havis Amanda fountain.

Those are seals spouting water.  Not often you see those as part of a fountain.

Today was the first day of the herring season and the herring market celebrations started in Market Square.  These fishermen are selling their wares straight from the back of a boat.

The stalls where the various fish are cooked and eaten by the Helksinki-ites.

Two ladies enjoying my favourite, salmon soup.

Art Nouveau or Jugend architecture flourished in Helsinki at the turn of the twentieth century.  We were told on our Hop on Hop off tours that there are more Art Nouveau buildings in Helsinki than anywhere else in the world.

This modern style of architecture is more favoured by the rich owners along the waterfront where the concept of light and air being let into one's dwelling is the vogue.

This sight of a lady travelling on the train with her cat was a wonderful one.  I wish Australians were more accepting of animals on public transport, restaurants and shops.