Helsinki - World Design Capital 2012
It might not be the first city to cross your mind when it comes to design and therefore many were surprised when Helsinki was elected as the World Design Capital 2012 a few years back. However, the Scandinavian coastal city has definitely earned its title and is slowly becoming a very popular destination among design lovers.
Helsinki hotels welcome design tourist with open arms and is embracing its new status of the design city.
The nature is strongly present in the daily life of Finns. This is reflected also in the design. Wood is used often, rooms are spacious and filled with natural light. The design in general can be described as modern and clean cut. Good examples of these are Kiasma, the museum of modern art and Musiikkitalo, and concert hall, both located in the centre of the city.
Although Helsinki is a relatively modern city, you can also have a look at a few gorgeous war-time buildings in the fort of Suomenlinna, just a 15-minute ferry ride away from the mainland. From the sea you will also have a very beautiful view on the monument of Helsinki – the dome. It has become the symbol of Helsinki and once you have seen at least a picture of this, you will understand. Or you could even stay in a hotel at the pier of Helsinki and have a view of the astonishing church right from your room window.
For those who really heart UG design, the Helsinki design district is definitely worth a visit. The district is spread out over various blocks between Punavuori and Kamppi right the centre of the city. Here you can find many adorable, fashionable little boutiques as well as fascinating galleries. And lets not forget the art on the streets when Helsinki is at its liveliest in the summer time.
There are couple design
hotels in Helsinki hotels you can stay in and if you want something quite different, you can stay in a recently opened wooden hotel at a cliff overseeing the whole city. Talking about a unique experience!
In case you are planning your first trip to Finland, it is best is to arrive with no expectations and with an open mind because Helsinki is quite different from all the other cities in the world. Despite of where you come from, the city will make an impression on you as a very calm and clean city where you can enjoy silence while sitting in a park in the middle of the city. Helsinki is the perfect destination for a week-end city break for design lovers as well as for those who want a break from a very hectic lifestyle.
Helsinki is expecting a lot of tourists in the summer of 2012, so remember to book your
accommodation in Helsinki well in time.
