The land of the midnight sun.
A land for all seasons, Finland, bordered by Sweden, Norway, Russia, and the Baltic Sea, has picturesque lakes, beaches, skiing slopes, saunas (a national ritual), national parks, archipelagos, and luxuriant forests. Besides good rail and air connections to important international cities, it has efficient taxis, buses, and trains. Taxis are on the expensive side, which makes driving a better idea in the summer, when the festivals begin. Some travelers rent bicycles or hike to feel and smell the verdant valleys and lush woods. The action is unlimited even in the winter. Though snow hotels and bedrooms may sound weird at first, it is an exhilarating experience in Lapland. The curious might seek out Utsjoki, where a summer "day" is two months' long, to experience the midnight sun. The colorful light spectacles known as the northern lights appear in north Finland sky many times every year. The unique wood-fired sauna, an essential part of Finnish hospitality, can be experienced all over the country.
