IIW Circular n°2 FINAL

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Welcome to Helsinki
Finland Finland is a safe and smoothly functioning, reliable destination, easily accessible from all over the world.
Its geographical location between East and West makes it interesting as a conference venue, attracting
delegates from all over the world.
High educational standards have contributed to Finland’s emergence as a country of high technology. Finland
is well known for its mobile phones and boasts more Internet connections per capita than any other country.
Finland is today a world leader in various high-tech fields, and this expertise benefits society as a whole.
Finnish culture is often summarised as “sauna, sisu and Sibelius”.
The Finnish language itself acts as a boundary of sorts between East and West. Finnish belongs to neither the
Western Romance languages nor to the Eastern Slavic languages but is based on its own Fenno-Ugric heritage.
Naturally, the cultural influences of both East and West have left their mark on our language in the form of numerous
loan words, but despite the force of foreign trends and rulers the Finnish language remains very different.
Finnish sauna culture can be experienced anywhere from public saunas to swimming halls. This escapist
tradition so beloved by hardy Finns involves socialising, relaxing and usually swimming, either in the sea, a
lake or a swimming pool.
Helsinki Throughout its 450-year history, the maritime city of Helsinki has swung between the currents of Eastern and Western
influences. The lifestyle in the second most northern capital in the world is full of contrasts and fascinating
culture and traditions. Influences from both the East and West are visible in the city’s architecture, cuisene,
events, traditions and many other elements that are unique to the way of life in Helsinki.
Helsinki’s architecture is typified by Nordic minimalism and refinement, yet at the same time the styles
of different periods can be clearly seen. The contrasts between Eastern and Western influences are most
noticeable in the city’s two main cathedrals. The unostentatious Lutheran Helsinki Cathedral and the Byzantine
redbrick Uspenski Cathedral with its golden cupolas compete for attention within a stone’s throw of each
other. Eastern and Western influences can also be tasted in Helsinki’s cuisine.
Helsinki is one of the safest cities in Europe and friendly towards residents and visitors alike thanks to its cleanliness
and functional urban planning. Food hygiene and the quality of drinking water are of the highest order and are matched
by the city’s other essential services. Helsinki’s experience and expertise in hosting major events is world-class.
Both Helsinki and its residents have a personality and charm that are easy to get to know. The people are open
and uncomplicated, regardless of whether they are serving customers or enjoying their time off. The city is
open to new winds and trends, as demonstrated by the trendy and laid-back atmosphere. Studies have shown
that visitors truly appreciate Helsinki’s unique and multilingual residents.
Travel Helsinki serves as a bridge between the East and West, particularly in terms of travel. Helsinki-Vantaa
Airport offers direct flights not only to Europe and the USA but also to many Asian destinations.
The sea surrounds Helsinki from the South, East and West, making many other cities along the coast of the
Baltic Sea accessible by boat. There are several daily ferry connections to Stockholm and Tallinn and also train
connections to St. Petersburg and Moscow.
See also what possibilities Lapland can offer:
Helsinki Airport
Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport has been rated one of the world’s best airports. The airport is located 30
min. drive from Helsinki City Centre and is accessible by local buses (EUR 5/trip), Finnair City Bus (EUR 6,20) and
taxi (approximately EUR 50). The Finnair City Bus stops in front of the hotels Crowne Plaza and Scandic Park.
Passports and Visas
All foreign visitors entering Finland must have a valid passport. For detailed information about visas, please
contact your nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate, or consult the web site of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs
of Finland for a list of countries which require/do not require a visa:
(list of countries on sub page “Services”)
For invitation letters, please see the event website at
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
Each participant will get a free HSL public transportation ticket for 28 June – 3 July, 2015 from our Registration
desk at hotel Crowne Plaza. For more information, please see the event web site .
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