I checked out of the Hilton Helsinki Kalastajatorppa hotel that snowy morning after staying one night. The next hotel property at which I was to stay that night was located much closer to the city center of Helsinki; but I had time — so I decided to walk.
Walking One Snowy Morning in Helsinki
If I were to have walked straight from one hotel property to another, I would have needed 90 minutes or so — but there were a few sites at which I wanted to stop along the way. I also had time — no hurry or rush to get to where I wanted to go — so walking was the perfect choice for me.
That decision turned out to be a good one for me. I grabbed my belongings and was on my way.
The city was tranquil that morning — save for an occasional pedestrian and vehicle plying the streets.
With all of the available directional signs, finding my way around was easy.
Flakes of snow were falling, lightly and gently on that peaceful morning.
I found myself walking down a dirt road through the woods, crossing creeks and occasionally passing houses.
The poem The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost — how appropriate — came to my mind at this point for some unknown reason.
The scenery was absolutely picturesque and pristine…
…especially of this building situated on an inlet of the Gulf of Finland.
Creeks and streams abounded, interrupting the light white blanket of snow.
Everywhere I looked was a new serene scene — at times, with ponds upon which to ponder.
I took a double take when I saw this sign. Apparently, a Ronald McDonald house was nearby shortly before I reached a main boulevard known as Paciuksenkatu.
Summary
The morning was cold, snowy, grey and gloomy — and that was perfect for my walk. I felt calm and relaxed as I strolled, filled with curiosity and wonder; with thoughts to myself while at peace.
At times, Helsinki reminded me of the Seattle area; and I did not seem like I was in Europe at times. The pride of nature by inhabitants of the city is clear. At this point in my trip, I thought of how beautiful is Helsinki and wondered what the rest of Finland was like in terms of natural beauty…
All photographs ©2017 by Brian Cohen.
