Just a short tram ride (No.4) from Helsinki’s center lies Tarvaspää, the enchanting studio home of Finland’s national painter, Akseli Gallen-Kallela. Blending art, nature, and architecture, this castle-like retreat overlooks Laajalahti Bay and offers a window into the artist’s creative world. Originally inspired by European studios and Finnish national romanticism, Tarvaspää stands as a total work of art—every beam, stone, and textile shaped by Gallen-Kallela’s hand. Once a family home, today it’s the Gallen-Kallela Museum, surrounded by nature trails and a charming café in the old Villa Linudd. A perfect day trip for culture lovers exploring Helsinki’s hidden treasures.
🎙️ Helsinki Calling: A Finnish Summer Story in Hanko
In this heartfelt episode, join me on a personal summer escape to Hanko, Finland’s southernmost gem. We were there to celebrate a family milestone, my brother-in-law's 70th birthday, but the experience turned into something much deeper. From sweet strawberry cake and quiet harbor walks to nets filled with freshly caught whitefish and a flounder still swimming beneath the dock, this story captures the essence of Finnish summer: simple, soulful, and unforgettable.
If you're dreaming of a Nordic getaway, Hanko deserves a spot on your list. Just under two hours from Helsinki, it offers timeless charm, maritime heritage, and moments that stay with you.
🎧 Tune in to feel the breeze, taste the sea, and discover why Hanko is more than just a destination; it’s a feeling.
Hotel breakfasts in Helsinki can cost up to €38, but are they worth it? In this episode, Sam-Erik exposes the hidden costs behind the buffet and reveals smarter, better-value alternatives just steps away. Don’t get caught in the breakfast trap—discover where the real Helsinki morning experience begins.
Midsummer Memories: A Celebration of Light and Nature
Sharing my memories from my childhood.
Midsummer in Finland is more than a celebration—it’s a sensory experience steeped in tradition, light, and connection with nature. June 21st marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, when the sun barely dips below the horizon and time seems to pause.
🎧 Welcome to "Crack, Sip, and Celebrate: Step into the World of Scandinavia’s Beloved Crayfish Feast!" 🎧
As the sun lingers in the Scandinavian sky, casting its golden hues over the Nordic landscape, a vibrant tradition bursts to life—as savory and rich as the summer itself. Picture this: tables adorned with whimsical crayfish-themed decorations, dill-infused brine wafting through the air, and the joyful clink of glasses filled with chilled Akavit. This is the crayfish party, or “Kräftskiva” in Swedish and “Rapujuhlat” in Finnish, a beloved cultural phenomenon that transforms the season into a jubilant feast.
From late July to August, these gatherings become a communal embrace of summer's bounties. The star of the celebration, the crayfish, is meticulously prepared and served with reverence. Diners don bibs and wield knives with precision, cracking shells and savoring the delicate meat amidst traditional songs and heartfelt toasts.
But it’s more than just a meal; it’s a festival of flavors and fellowship. Imagine starting with crayfish atop toast, followed by tart buckthorn sorbet, and culminating in a decadent pepper steak or hot-smoked salmon. The night ends with a sweet symphony of seasonal berries and vanilla ice cream.
Join us as we delve into this enchanting tradition, where every bite is a celebration, every sip a toast to summer, and every moment a cherished memory. 🌞🦞🎉. #foodie #crayfishparty #crayfishpartytradition
"Uncover Porvoo: Finland’s Best-Kept Secret with a Hollywood Twist"
Porvoo is a picturesque town with charming streets, riverside views, and incredible restaurants. It is only a short drive or bus ride from Helsinki. The Old Town is a living snapshot of the town's past, with historical landmarks and cobbled streets. The Porvoo Museum and Johan Ludvig Runenberg's home offer a glimpse into the region's heritage. The Haikko Manor Hotel located nearby Haikko village has a fascinating history, including being visited by the head of the Romanov family. The renowned painter Albert Edifeld's studio in Haiko Village showcases the beauty of Finnish culture. Porvoo is a must-visit destination for history buffs, foodies, and those seeking beauty and tranquility.
Ahoy, listeners! In this episode of "Sam-Erik Prive'," we embark on a journey through one of the most captivating maritime events of the year: The Tall Ships Races. Join us as we explore how this event brings the grandeur of old-world sailing into the modern era, fostering education, teamwork, and international camaraderie.
https://tallshipraceshelsinki2024.fi
From the chimes of Helsinki’s iconic Cathedral and Uspenski Cathedral honoring young sailors, to the bustling docks filled with fifty magnificent tall ships, we dive into the heart of this nautical festival. Hear firsthand accounts from young participants about their transformative experiences, and discover how The Tall Ships Races promotes unity beyond borders—irrespective of nationality, culture, or social standing.
Set against the scenic backdrops of port cities like Helsinki, Turku, Maarianhamina, Tallinn, Klaipeda, and Szczecin, this episode captures the vibrant energy and shared spirit of adventure that define this unique event. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or simply a lover of the sea, this episode offers a glimpse into the world of tall ships and the youthful enthusiasm that keeps this tradition alive.
Tune in and let the waves of The Tall Ships Races carry you away!
"Picture this - it's freezing outside, snowflakes are falling, the lake nearby is almost frozen, and yet, you see people, clad in swimsuits, ready to jump in. In Finland, this isn't an eccentric activity of a few daredevils, but a well-adopted hobby, known locally as avannon uinti (swimming in ice hole). An estimated 750,000 Finns are passionate about winter swimming, cherishing the icy plunge as an invigorating routine. But what makes dipping in icy water so popular? Let’s dive deeper."
During the recent 8th edition of the Mediterranean Tourism Forum, I joined one of the Think Tanks at the Forum. The topic was ¨ Sustainability ESG requirements for the hospitality sector¨. Around the roundtable discussion, I met Gayle Murphy with Global Green Events.
Here is what she had to say about her takeaways from the Forum.
I met Greger in a Facebook Group few years ago. We were both starting doing Live Streams with Live Streaming Pros. We had an exercise called LEDA, ¨ Live Every Day in April ¨ . Greger being a teacher and musician was comfortable doing live, me again a bit intimidated. We are sharing anecdotes and experiences how we met and also tips and tricks for the listeners how to start do in Live Streams on Social Media.
Put in your comments if you are doing Live Streaming, and how was the first time for you.
On the 21st of December, the Northern Hemisphere sank into its deepest point of darkness. Have no fear, it is only the longest night and the shortest day of the year. Us living in the north was basking in roughly hours of daylight. In the morning hours at 5:50 AM, the astronomical winter will begin. The event brings a plethora of customs, festivities and superstitions with it and evidence of the winter solstice’s observance can be seen in sites around the world, I am describing a bit about our family tradition of eating red bean soup
Had a chat about sharing life changing experience.
Either the listener will learn something from the advise, or learn something about themselves.
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