Living in Finland

The birthplace of many eminent designers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers, the "country of a thousand lakes" is rising in popularity among travelers. Living in Finland, an intimate encounter with the country and its people, centers on five themes. First, a chapter on landscape introduces Finland's feast of lakes, islets, birch forests, and prairies, and captures the character of Finnish cities - from Helsinki with its Art Nouveau architecture to the charming towns of Tampere, Turku, and Hanko. A chapter on interiors takes the reader inside several Finnish homes, which range from traditional wooden houses to the striking yet functional constructions designed by landmark twentieth-century architect Alvar Aalto. A third chapter on artisanal traditions explores artistic objects and styles that have been guarded through the years or reinvented by modern hands, including Marimekko textiles, glass Toikka birds, and lisaaki knives. A practical guide to Finland provides details on the most charming hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants, as well as the country's most treasured culinary specialties - caviar served with creme fraiche, plates piled high with crayfish, blueberries with milk in the summer, and more. This sumptuously illustrated text is essential reading for travelers and those interested in the rich artistic and aesthetic heritage of one of Europe's most exciting travel destinations. Finnish-Americans will rediscover the beauty and traditions of their ancestral home in this beautiful and comprehensive book.