I convinced Charlie to come along with me to Tampere, Finland-- to experience the city where I lived in 2007. I was asked to present my research at a PhD Seminar for the University of Tampere Higher Education Group and we decided to make it an entire day trip. Woohoo, back to my old stomping grounds!
Our alarm clock woke us up dark and early at 6 a.m. to catch the 7:22 a.m. train. We were about to experience an EPIC day in Finland:Arrive Tampere at 8:50 a.m. and drop the computer bags in train station lockers (only 3 euro to lock your bags for 24 hours.)
Walk through city center (which was still dark at 9 a.m.).
Hike up through the forest and blowing wet snow to the Pynniki observation tower.
Eat the delicious (and famous) munkki (Finnish doughnut)...and then climb the tower for a fantastic panoramic view of Tampere all dressed up in white (snow, baby!)
Walk back to town center and visit the Kauppahalli, the Market Hall.
Enjoy the cutest Christmas market, Joulutori, with glögi wine and Finnish handicrafts (hand-knit socks, gloves, and roasted chestnuts.
Eat lunch at my favorite restaurant in Tampere...Go Pal--vegetarian Indian buffet!
2 p.m. present, present, present...my research.
5 p.m. yoga with the fabulous Paula at Om Yoga.
Get hot and sweaty at the Rauhaniemen sauna.
Swim in the COLD water lake (woohoo! Charlie's first time), drink coconut water, and eat granola bars.Eat Italian food at Napoli's.
Chill out...and catch 10:09 p.m. train back to Jyvaskyla.
Wow, what a day of adventure, excellent food, intellectual stimulation, and great company!
1 comments:
Charlie looks like he REALLY enjoyed the cold water. Sounds like a really great day with sightseeing, presenting, and eating food. Yoga and sauna an added delight. You probably were a great guide.
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