Finland and Helsinki

Finland

Finland is perhaps best known for its peacefulness and beautiful nature. Vast forests, a unique archipelago and thousands of lakes present a striking mixture of wooded hills and waters. In addition to its mystical northern nature, Finland is also a modern Nordic country with a high standard of living and advanced economy and technology.

Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a modern city with over half a million residents and is situated on the Baltic Sea. The archipelago that surrounds Helsinki with hundreds of tiny islands creates an idyllic environment for cruises, for example. Finland is a safe and reliable destination, easily accessible from all over the world. Helsinki is unique among Northern European cities. The lifestyle in the second-most northern capital city in the world is full of contrasts and activities in the form of hundreds of events and friendly people. Finnish design has also made the country’s capital city world famous. Everything is nearby – Helsinki is a pocket-sized metropolis that is ideal for visitors!

Airport

Around 120 international fl ights a day arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, which is situated 19 kilometres from the centre of Helsinki and can be reached by car in approximately 25 minutes. You can also take taxi, the Finnair airport bus or Bus 615 to the Central Railway Station. A taxi to city centre costs approximately 30 euros.

Climate

Helsinki’s climate is typical of its northerly situation. Its intermediate climate combines characteristics of both a maritime and a continental climate. The proximity of the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic creates cold weather, while the Gulf Stream brings in warmer air. Average daytime temperature in May in Helsinki is between 15 and 20 degrees of Celsius.

Time zone

Time in Finland is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The time difference between Eastern U.S. Standard Time and Finnish Standard Time is 7 hours. Daylight Saving Time (DST) is in effect during the summer as in the rest of the European Union. Finland is always one hour ahead of Central European Time (CET) and two hours ahead of time in the UK and Ireland.

Currency and credit cards

The Finnish currency unit is the euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, larger shops, and department stores. Visa Electron is also accepted in many shops and department stores.

Banks

Finnish banks are open on weekdays from 09.00 am to 16.30. ATMs for cash withdrawal are fairly widespread and marked by the sign OTTO.

Electricity network

The electric current in Finland is 220 V (230 V), 50 Hz. A two-pin plug system, familiar throughout Europe, isused. Adapters are available in airport shops.

Visas

Finland is a member of the European Union and a Schengen member state. Foreign nationals who need an entry visa are requested to apply for one at the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate. In countries where Finland does not have a mission, the embassy or consulate of another Schengen member state can represent Finland in visa matters. If you need an invitation letter for your visa application please contact secretariat. We will provide an invitation letter after registered and paid the conference fee.

For more information about Finland and Helsinki please visit www.visitfinland.com and www.visithelsinki.fi