Hello Helsinki! Day 2

 

On our second day we did some of the free stuff Helsinki has to offer, which means standing in front of buildings and taking pictures: the Kamppi Chapel (Chapel of Silence), the Uspenski Cathedral, Senate Square.

Free stuff also means lots of walking - here we are at the water front or as Sam liked to call it, "the Canal Park of Helsinki."

We went to the Helsinki Museum (free) where we learned, once again, how important the sauna is to Finns.  Scott got to check out Helsinki during different historical periods, so he was happy.

We popped into the University of Helsinki library where Scott discovered that they have two of his books.  He then relaxed in one of their chairs feeling nice and smug, er, happy.

We also made our way to the Old Market Hall where they have inside and outside vendors.  It was like mushroom heaven for Scott, and salmon heaven for Sam.

Eventually we made our way to the Viking cruise ship to sail our way back to Stockholm.  Yes, we went on an overnight cruise.

Look at that excitement!  We opted to book a room with a window, but had to pay extra for the TV.  The window was key for me.  The fold down beds were actually really comfortable.

We spent most of our time on the top deck as we left Helskinki, and again at night.

We took advantage of the duty free shop.  Unlike all the 20-somethings buying alcohol, we bought a different vice, chocolate.  We also did the all-you-can-eat buffet for both dinner and breakfast.  It was great fun to watch old men just absolutely stuff themselves and fill their wine glasses to the rim.  Hysterical!

In the morning we got to enjoy what seemed like the never ending Stockholm archipelago, where we chased the other cruise line through all the islands.  We also got to enjoy teenager angst.  Sam is a trooper for hanging with us as much as she does, but there are times she lets us know how truly annoying we actually are.

All in all, a great two days in Helsinki!