Countries #76, 77 and 78

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Well, I've 'done' Finland, Aland Island and Sweden now, bringing the all time total visited to 78. Helsinki was absolutely 'Baltic', if you'll excuse the use of the word as an adjective. Nothing can prepare you for the sheer shocking blast of cold air as it freezes your nostrils when walking out of the airport entrance into -26 deg C!
The Finnair bus from the airport to the railway station is cheap and quick (~5.50 euros - 30 minutes).
If you want to go to the ferry terminals at the harbour a taxi from the railway station is also cheap (~7 Euros).
The ferry trip from Helsinki to Stockholm on MV Gabriella was also cheap and was a real booze cruise. The fare for me was only about 150 euros for a double cabin and included all food. I was part of a group so prices will vary. The cabins and all facilities were comparible with a modern Med cruise ship; dancing, beer, magician, beer, gambling, beer, really great fun!

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