Blue Wings Excellance issue September 2016 by Finnair_BlueWings

EXCELLENCE ISSUE TRENDS, DESTINATIONS AND INSIGHTS FOR TRAVELLERS

FINLAND’S EDUCATION

REVOLUTION

TREK IN EUROPE’S

SEPTEMBER 2016

Your own personal copy

LAST WILDERNESS BEST BARS

IN BEIJING

Rioja revisited

FINLAND

Flagship Store Pohjoisesplanadi 25-27

Shop Kasarmikatu 27

Pop Up Shop Helsinki Airport, Terminal 2 Gate 32

www.marjakurki.com

EDITORIAL BY PEKKA VAURAMO CEO OF FINNAIR WWW.FINNAIR.COM

SANOMA MEDIA FINLAND HEAD OFFICE

CONTENT DESIGNER Amanda Soila VISUAL DESIGNER Sirpa Ärmänen SUB-EDITOR Shelly Nyqvist VISUAL ASSISTANT Iris Mark ENGLISH EDITING Silja Kudel REPROGRAPHICS Faktor Oy ON THE COVER Iñigo Aragon and Pablo Lopez Navarro by Mikael Axelsson BEHIND THIS ISSUE Daniel Allen, Piia Arnould, Mikael Axelson, Tim Bird, Kati Heikinheimo, Laura Iisalo, Tiina Kälkäinen, Pasi Kemmo, Silja Kudel, Mirva Lempiäinen, James O’Sullivan, Ville Palonen, Laura Palotie, Katja Pantzar, Anu Piippo, Micha van Dinthe, and Fran Weaver SUBMISSIONS bluewings@headofficefinland.fi BLUE WINGS ONLINE www.issuu.com/headofficefinland EDITORIAL OFFICES Porkkalankatu 20 A, 00180 Helsinki, Finland, Postal address P.O.Box 100, 00040 Sanoma, Finland, tel. +358 9 1201, firstname.lastname@headofficefinland.fi ADVERTISING SALES Media Assistant Sirkka Pulkkinen tel. +358 9 120 5921 PUBLISHER Sanoma Media Finland PRINTED BY Punamusta, Joensuu, Finland 2016 PAPER UPM Valor 61g Cover paper Stora Enso LumiArt 200g CIRCULATION 60,000 ISSN-0358-7703

Pekka Vauramo

Be dazzled by one of Helsinki’s newest waterfront public saunas Löyly, an architectural gem which also houses a café, bar, and restaurant. loylyhelsinki.fi/en

Sample a StopOver Finland tour of the capital Helsinki or points further afield. finlandtours.fi LAURI ROTKO

CUSTOMER FEEDBACK www.finnair.com/feedback or by mail: Customer Relations, SL/403, FI-01053 FINNAIR. www.finnair.com, www.finnair.fi www.finnairgroup.com

With Helsinki Airport just half an hour away from the city centre, stopover travellers will be able to enjoy the relaxed vibe of Finland’s capital with its seaside atmosphere, design district, cosy cafés, and unique restaurants and hotels. Nature is never far away in Finland, so why not spend a day cruising through the Finnish Archipelago or exploring one of Finland’s many national parks? For travellers searching for something truly unforgettable, experiencing the mystical landscapes and northern lights of Finnish Lapland is a must. I welcome you to explore the treasures Finland has to offer!

3 x Helsinki

LAURA IISALO

FINNAIR HEAD OFFICE Tietotie 9 A, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, 1053 Finnair, Finland, tel. +358 (0)9 818 81, Postal address: P. O. Box 15, 01053 Finnair, Finland

ave you ever flown to an airport for a connecting flight and wished that you’d have more time to visit the city? It’s happened to me quite a few times, which is why I’m particularly excited about our new stopover initiative. Finnair has teamed up with Visit Finland to launch StopOver Finland, meaning that customers can now stop in Finland on their way to or from their destination. The stopover in Helsinki is free on most journeys and can be for up to five days. Various tour packages, including accommodation and activities that range from a night in Helsinki to a multi-day trek in Lapland are also available for purchase.

LAURA IISALO

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Arja Suominen arja.suominen@finnair.com

Two in one

Check out TRE, a new flagship store for Finnish design in the heart of Helsinki on Mikonkatu. worldoftre.com

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

RIMOWA ELECTRONIC TAG

THE FIRST DIGITAL CHECK-IN SOLUTION FOR YOUR LUGGAGE.

The future of convenient travelling: RIMOWA Electronic Tag. Check in your luggage with your smartphone wherever you are and drop it off within seconds. Find out more at: www.rimowa-electronictag.com

RIMOWA Store in Finland: Helsinki Pohjoisesplanadi 25

IN THIS ISSUE

EXCELLENCE 2016 30

DESTINATION RIOJA’S WINETASTIC PROVINCE This Spanish region is making waves with wine

DESTINATION TOP 5 COCKTAIL BARS IN BEIJING Where to sip libations in Beijing’s hippest venues

LIFESTYLE THE ART OF EDUCATION

Finland overhauls its classrooms with experiential learning

DESTINATION EUROPE’S LAST WILDERNESS Rioja has become one of Spain’s top wine destinations.

Trek through Lapland to Santa’s playground in Korvatunturi

DESTINATION SCOTLAND’S ROUTE 66

The NC500 sets the scene for a spectacular coastal road trip

DESTINATION NAGASAKI HIGHLIGHTS

History leads the way to peace in this Japanese harbour city

Leaders learn to zone into their brains for a clearer mind

Finnish classrooms go creative.

Lapland offers enchanting scenery in the autumn.

LIFESTYLE SKY-HIGH FASHION

Three Finnish brands enhance shopping on the Finnair A350

TAKEOFF STARTERS

Finnish design flagship.............. 11

NEWS

Camping in style............................12

TECH

E-bikes power your pedal........ 14

FASHION

Stand-out accessories............... 16

FOOD AND DRINK

Helsinki’s gin renaissance ........ 18

40 50 60 64 68

BUSINESS MINDFUL MATTERS

WORLD

What’s on around the globe... 22

FINLAND

Get to know Helsinki..................24

TRAVEL TRENDS

Authenticity in the Balkans.....26

IN THE AIR WITH

Teachers on the road................. 28

DESTINATIONS

Fortress island of Örö................ 29

FAMILY

Magical nightlights ......................20 SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

IN THIS ISSUE

60 64

Scotland’s NC500 encompasses dramatic scenery.

Paola Suhonen is best known for her fashion line IvanaHelsinki.

Matcha tea and confectionery from a temple in Nagasaki.

REGULARS

Travel Moment............................................ 8

Alexander Stubb.....................................48 Marja Makarow........................................62 Finland in figures.................................... 98

FLY FINNAIR

Tips for takeoff........................................ 80 Inflight wellbeing.................................... 81 Entertainment.......................................... 82 Shopping..................................................... 83 Sustainability............................................. 84 Border crossings..................................... 85 Helsinki Airport ....................................... 86 Maps and destinations......................... 88 Fleet.............................................................. 92 Finnair Plus................................................ 94 6 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Singapore p. 8 Helsinki, p. 11, 25 Örö, p. 29 Rioja, p. 30

Beijing, p. 38 Lapland, p. 50 Scotland, p. 60 Nagasaki, p. 64

Check this month’s plusshop offers on page 97

TRAVEL MOMENT BY PASI KEMMO

DUSK TILL DAWN AS DARKNESS FALLS, Singapore’s Robertson Quay transforms from an oasis of calm into the city’s centre of nightlife. Robertson Quay is one of the three biggest wharfs at the mouth of the Singapore River. With its mix of international restaurants, bars, hotels, shop-

SIN

ly dai ies e. fl r r po nai Fin Singa om .c to air finn

8 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

ping malls, and art houses it attracts tourists and locals alike every evening. And as is typical in Singapore, the menu is varied – with restaurants serving up everything from Mexican tapas and Belgian classics to Italian pastas, Korean BBQ, and local seafood.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

NUKU HYVIN TÄSTÄ LÄHTIEN. TÄYSIN UUDISTUNUT JENSENMALLISTO NYT ESITTELYSSÄ!

Jo vuodesta 1947 lähtien, Jensen on kehittänyt vuoteiden ominaisuuksia käyttämällä aina uusimpia menetelmiä ja kaikkein moderneimpia materiaaleja. Optimaaliseen nukkumismukavuuteen pyrkiminen on tuottanut myös innovaatioita – kuten entistäkin paremman ja myötäilevämmän Jensen Aloy 2.0 -jousitusjärjestelmän. Kuvan Nordic Seamless on ainutlaatuinen runkopatjavuode. Siinä on kaksi erillistä runkoa, mutta yhtenäinen joustinpatja ja verhoilu, jolloin nukkujien väliin ei jää rakoja eikä reunoja. Hyvää yötä, www.vepsalainen.com

TAKEOFF

NEWS / TECH/ FASHION / FOOD AND DRINK / FAMILY / WORLD / DESTINATION / FINLAND

DESIGN

TRE is a crowd TEXT AND PHOTO BY LAURA IISALO

SINCE HELSINKI’S Design Forum closed its doors two years ago, there hasn’t been a similar design destination in town – until now. TRE, the long-awaited newcomer, is a concept store packed with furniture, clothing, accessories, homeware, plants, and more. Many items are sourced locally and there’s a story behind each product. “We want our customers to know what they are buying and who made it,” says Tanja Sipilä, one of the three founders. Sustainability is at the top of her list, but she is just as keen to provide an inspiring experience. Tucked at the back of the store is Cargo Coffee and Vegetarian Food, which serves healthy lunches, smoothies, cakes, and coffee. For Sipilä, TRE is a culmination of 15 years working in design yet it almost seems too good to be true: “I still can’t quite believe we made it.” TRE, Mikonkatu 6 worldoftre.com

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

TAKEOFF NEWS COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY MIRVA LEMPIÄINEN

The new Aurora Dome glamping tents are located next to Lake Torassieppi in Muonio, Finnish Lapland.

WORLD OF BENEFITS Make the most of your Finnair Plus points. You can use your points for a variety of services from Finnair and partners. Read more about the renewed programme on pages 94-96.

Knock three times

Prohibition ended more than 80 years ago in the US and Northern Europe, but hidden bars have never gone out of fashion. The speakeasy witnessed a renaissance about five years ago, with old-time bars popping up in clandestine locations in growing numbers worldwide.

Go glamping

Tasty Helsinki

“Glamping is much more than camping,” says Hanna-Mari Talvensaari, sales and marketing manager at Harriniva, which offers accommodation in iglooshaped tents (called Aurora Domes) with a transparent wall for observing the Northern Lights. Guests sleep in real beds amid husky- and reindeer-themed decor. “You can be in the middle of nowhere yet you don’t have to crawl into a sleeping bag. You can enjoy living in the lap of nature, yet you have services nearby,” says Talvensaari. In response to huge demand, two more Aurora Domes will be added this winter. “Our international visitors are looking for a wilderness experience with a dash of luxury. Glamping combines nature and luxury living,” says Talvensaari. harriniva.fi

Helsinki Food Book (Cozy Publishing) is a new Englishlanguage cooking guide inviting readers on a tour of Nordic cuisine. Finnish kitchen wizzes Teresa Välimäki and Johanna Lindholm offer fresh, tasty, and simple recipes for all four seasons with an emphasis on fish, berries, and seasonal vegetables. Accompanied by portraits of Helsinki, the book makes a delish souvenir. dreamcozy.com/books/food

12 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

FOUR SEASONS

CAMPING OFFERS a unique feeling of unity with nature. Yet if you’ve ever slept in a tent, you’ll also know the downsides: the deflating air mattress, lack of access to proper toilets, and rain dripping through the thin fabric. Back in 2013 a report by American Camper revealed that camping was in decline. But while camping is down, glamping is up. Combining snoozing in a tent with hotel-level amenities, glamourous camping has wide appeal: according to Google’s Digital Garage online data and training service, Google searches for ‘glamping’ are up by 118 per cent from last year. Last winter the Lapland-based Finnish tourism operator Harriniva Hotels and Safaris became the first glamping provider in Northern Europe with its two Aurora Dome tents.

LONDON One recent addition is the dimly lit Dr Kluger’s Olde Towne Tavern in London. Opened last spring, it is located at the Canary Wharf Crossrail Place, inside the Breakfast Club restaurant. After sneaking down the red corridor lit with vintage lights, be sure to remove your tie: they’re banned.

SEOUL Another newcomer is Charles H., a lounge tucked in the basement of the new Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul, South Korea. Opened last autumn, the bar’s entrance is hidden underneath a staircase. Inside you will find a dark room with lush velvet and gold trimmings – plus a Korean-inspired international cocktail menu. KOTKA And it is not just big cities reviving the speakeasy: The small Finnish seaside town of Kotka will open its own secret bar this month in the historic Kotkan Klubi, which reopens on September 17 after a two-year hiatus. The new speakeasy will have an old-school vibe and play music solely from vinyl records.

Manhattanin

paras

deli Delhin parhaat

manhattanit

Platinum-kortinhaltijana saat käyttöösi henkilökohtaisen assistentin. Concierge-palvelumme hoitaa järjestelyt ja varaukset missä tahansa liikutkin. americanexpress.fi/platinumcard

TAKEOFF TECH

FREQUENT FINNAIR FLYER? Tap your way through your journey with the Finnair mobile app. The app can be used to check in, select seats, and view schedules, transfer airport information, and terminal maps.

WRITTEN AND COMPILED BY JAMES O’SULLIVAN

TRAVEL GADGETRY

Harrison Bikes evokes the past as it looks to the open road ahead.

1. Scrooge

Ensuring that shared costs are easily tracked and debts settled with friends, this Finnish app helps everyone to stay in the loop. scrooge.cc

TRENDING

Electric bikes gather speed THERE ARE MANY reasons that people are increasingly getting about by e-bike. Whether it be environmental-friendliness, ease of long-range travel, or feeling the wind on their face without working up a sweat, demand for electric propulsion on Finnish streets is growing rapidly. Inspired by board tracker motorcycles from the 1910s and 1920s, Helsinki e-bike producer Harrison Bikes adds another significant pull factor to the mix: simply looking great. But, when company founder Harri Honkanen first began tinkering on an electric solution for his daily commute to work in 2009, his fellow motorcycle enthusiasts at their workshop were less than convinced. “The other guys there were mainly working on their Harley-Davidsons, but I had an e-bike,” Honkanen recalls with a smile. “It was a little bit funny in the beginning, but they are not laughing anymore.” Certainly not. Alongside a growing number of local customers, interest in these robust and stylish e-bikes has come from as far as the UK, Germany, and the US. 14 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Mind you, it is not all about the vintage look. Each charge of the high tech lithium battery powers the brushless electric motor between 50 to 100 kilometres. Bikers also have the choice between using the power-on-demand throttle or old-fashioned pedal power, as they move through five gears. Now, as the company begins to gear up, plans are afoot to open shops in Europe’s main biking cities. “We are in the process of re-inventing ourselves, going from single, unique handmade bikes to small scale series manufacturing and optional customisation,” says Harrison’s managing director Santtu Ahonen. “We still will be making the best and coolest e-bikes on the block, built to last forever and beyond.” harrison.fi

Power to your pedal

The electric fun in Finland doesn’t stop with Harrison Bikes – Helkama, Madison, and Boostbike are some of the local companies that also have their own brand of e-bikes.

2. Blinkers

Be seen and understood on your bike thanks to these detachable turn signals, brake lights, and safety perimeter-projecting lasers, powered by a USB chargeable battery. blinkers.io

3. Modobag Touted as the “world’s first motorised, rideable luggage,” this carry-on option guarantees to give your journey a little extra zip. modobag.com

Tärkeintä mitä voit pakata mukaasi?

Mielestämme se on hymysi.

Jordan Clean Fresh -sähköhammasharja tarjoaa tähän uudenlaisen mahdollisuuden – matkakumppanin, jonka akku kestää jopa kuukauden* yhdellä latauksella. Ja mikä parasta, sisäisen litium-akun ansiosta harjausteho ei vähene ajan kuluessa, vaan tarkat ja hellävaraiset SoftClean™-harjakset puhdistavat täysin kierroksin matkan loppuun asti. USB-laturilla lataat harjan kätevästi kannettavasta tietokoneestasi tai muusta kannettavasta virtalähteestä. Tutustu kauniin hymysi takaavaan matkakumppaniin osoitteessa wilfa.fi/jordan. *120 minuuttia harjaamista

100 PÄIVÄN TYYTYVÄISYYSTAKUU

TAKEOFF FASHION

FASHION ONBOARD Finnair partners with top Finnish designers. So keep an eye out for all the great fashion deals onboard Finnair’s A350 aircraft via the Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal.

TEXT BY BLUE WINGS TEAM PHOTO BY JUHA SALMINEN

1 3

5 ACCESSORIES

Don’t be a wallflower

This September we love rich, earthy colours and want accessories with a funky twist. These Finnish beauties will stand out in any crowd. 1. Flower Power cocktail ring in pink €59 lindatoye.fi 2. Köngäs stainless steel bracelet by Kari Huhtamo €450 uniondesign.fi

16 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

3. Kalevala Koru swirl silver necklace €59 finnairplusshop.com 4. Oma elk leather pouch, wine €139 loviacollection.com

5. Polydora silver earrings by Anu Kaartinen, 19mm, €155 au3.fi 6. Mimosa trifold wallet, navy/aqua €145 lumiaccessories.com 7. Arctic Glow lip oil by Lumene, 2 colours, €12.90 lumene.com

YOU WILL NOT FIND A MORE LUXURIOUS BED IN THIS WORLD

We were already making beds when Henry Ford was still playing with pine cone cows. Hästens beds are the most luxurious in the world, handcrafted in Sweden from natural materials to this day. Hästens beds provide a uniquely weightless sleeping experience. Come and try our beds today and you could soon wake up in the bed of your dreams.

HÄSTENS STORE HELSINKI, Mannerheimintie 8, tel. +358 20 780 1370, hastens.com

TAKEOFF FOOD & DRINK

CHEERS Did you know you can pre-order wines from the Finnair shop? finnairshop.com

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY ANU PIIPPO AMANDA SOILA

Helsinki Distilling Company offers tours and tastings in the Abattoir district.

Gin gin!

IF GIN is your sin, look forward to naughty times if you’re visiting Helsinki. Helsinki Distilling Company (HDCO) – makers of internationally acclaimed gin and new-make whisky – will open a new distillery bar in the trendy Abattoir (Teurastamo) district in Helsinki this autumn. Wanting more than just a small tasting room connected to the distillery, HDCO drew inspiration from watering holes such as the famous Shanty in Brooklyn, New York. “The working title is ‘the best distillery bar in the world,’” says Kai Kilpinen, one of HDCO’s three founders. “We’ll sell more than just our own products. It

Bright whites France is home to some of the world’s most popular quality whites, many of which hail from Alsace, Chablis, and the Loire Valley.

will be a full-service bar with whisky and gin samples from practically all over the world,” says Kilpinen. Along with an impressive bar with a ceiling height of six metres, HDCO will offer regular tours as well as a dedicated room for tasting and training. Kilpinen, a trained historian, is excited about hosting lectures on premises situated in a listed building. “From now on, it will also be easier to conduct small product testing and get direct feedback from our customers,” he says enthusiastically.

Frost that never melts MIVALLI DESIGN is a Finnish brand taking simplicity and elegance to a new level. Their glasses and candleholders come with a twist – think martini glasses with a square rim or a champagne glass with a frosted effect. The next step is to expand into interior design products. The Frosted Collection is a box of six glasses designed by Julia Salmivalli (approx. €59). mivallidesign.bellapuoti.com

18 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

WINE

hdco.fi JARNO SALMIVALLI

Domaine Franck Millet Sancerre The Loire region produces various whites, the most prestigious of which come from the Upper Loire. Sancerre is famous for its Sauvignon Blancs which pair particularly well with goat cheese, seafood, and dry fish. Sold in Alko stores in Finland. Origin: Sancerre, France Price: €18.89 Gewürztraminer Hugel The soil of Alsace is generous if you love fruity, reasonably priced white wines. And, if you love Asian food, an Alsatian Gewürztraminer is an excellent pairing with spicy meals, chicken and pork. Sold in Alko stores in Finland. Origin: Alsace, France Price: €18.98 Laroche Chablis The Chablis region is known for its dry whites with clear mineral and occasional floral notes. Chablis has traditionally been paired with seafood, particularly oysters, but it also adds a beautiful accent to chicken, pork, and dry fish. Available for preorder on Finnair flights. Origin: Chablis, France Price: €17.50

kia.fi

Ainutlaatuinen yhdistelmä. Hybridi. Crossover. CO2 alk. vain 88 g/km Mallisto alk. 27.990 €

Kia Niro - yhdistää kaksi maailmaa Vastuullisuus ei ole koskaan näyttänyt näin upealta. Uusi Kia Niro on mullistava hybridi, joka yhdistää uuden 1.6 GDI bensiinimoottorin, sähkömoottorin sekä automaattivaihteiston. Tämä tilava, tyylikäs ja polttoainetaloudellinen crossover antaa sinun keskittyä vain ajamisesta nauttimiseen.

Uusi Kia Niro -mallisto alk. autoveroton hinta 24.479,69 € + arvioitu autovero 3.510,31 € = kokonaishinta 27.990,00 €. Kokonaishintaan lisätään toimituskulut 600 €. Vapaa autoetu alk. 610 €/kk, käyttöetu alk. 445 €/kk. EU-yhd. kulutus 3,8–4,4 l/100 km, CO 2-päästöt 88–101 g/km. Kia-huolenpitosopimus alk. 30 €/kk (sopimusaika 36 kk, 10 tkm/vuosi). Kia-takuu 7 vuotta tai 150 000 km, kolme ensimmäistä vuotta ilman kilometrirajaa. Kia 24h tiepalvelu vuodeksi veloituksetta. Kuvan auto erikoisvarustein.

@kiamotorsfinland

TAKEOFF FAMILY

BABY BAGGAGE Regardless of travel class, an infant’s baggage allowance includes one piece of baggage weighing a maximum of 23 kg, as well as a folding stroller and safety seat.

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY KATJA PANTZAR GEORGE ATANASSOV

Eco styles for little people

Family-owned BABY WALLABY launched this summer with a range of practical and soft bed linens, blankets, and towels for newborns, babies, and small children. All of the textiles used are Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 Class 1 approved and certified, which means they contain no hazardous substances.

LeeLuu cuddly interactive nightlights help children sleep on their own.

Lighting the way to the land of nod WHAT HAPPENS when you take a young child with difficulties sleeping, four entrepreneurs, some textile sensors, and stuffed animals? The answer is LeeLuu interactive nightlights for kids, which are created in the shape of a cuddly stuffed animal embedded with textile sensors that respond to touch in order to light up or dim down. Slated for launch in December 2016, LeeLuu is the brainchild of the company’s four founders Hanna Markgren, Emmi Pouta, Heini Salovuori, and Lisa Gerkens, who met on an interactive textiles course at Helsinki’s Aalto University. “There is no product like this on the market,” says Gerkens. “As this is a relatively new area in interactive textiles, we’ve also developed our own technology,” she says. Research and development is done in Helsinki, with production being carried 20 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

out in Europe, predominantly nearby in the Baltics. “It’s important for us to be able to jump on a plane and work with the people who are making our products,” says Gerken. Available in a hedgehog, owl, and cat inspired by Nordic and East Asian illustration styles, the nightlights were codesigned by more than 100 children, who gave the team crucial feedback. “The children told us that the stuffed animals needed to be heavier and bigger than our initial prototypes, while their parents told us they needed to be easily washable – that’s non-negotiable for a product aimed at 3- to 9-year-olds,” says Gerkens. As of August, LeeLuu had raised 55,838 euros on crowdfunding platform Indiegogo and pre-sold more than 800 LeeLuus to over 500 backers in 31 countries. leeluu.fi

babywallaby.com

AAREKID, whose slogan is ‘a story in every garment,’ features cotton wear for babies and children emblazoned with lively prints that inspire the imagination – from forest scenes to mighty whales, owls, and other creatures. Aarekid uses high-quality materials and ecologically and ethically sustainable manufacturing processes.

aarrekid.fi

All of HÖÖ’s garments are made in Finland, which sets it apart from many Finnish companies that have moved production abroad in recent years. Their range of sustainable clothing for babies and children is known for its bright colours and long-lasting style. The name ‘höö’ comes from the expression babies and small children make in response to the world, which is full of wonder for them. hoodesign.fi

TAKEOFF WORLD

GET CULTURED Break away from everyday life and check out the leisure and entertainment offerings of Finnair Plus partners.

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY MIRVA LEMPIÄINEN DIETMAR PLATH

CALENDAR

September events SEPT 16–25

AMSTERDAM. The second annual Unseen Photo Festival presents unique photography in an unconventional, provocative way. The festival incorporates the fifth Unseen Photo Fair from September 23–25, which brings 54 international galleries to Amsterdam. unseenamsterdam.com

SEPT 21–22 SINGAPORE. The MICE industry (Meeting, Incentives, Conference, Exhibitions) organises a free conference with over 25 presentations. The MICE Asia Pacific Exhibition 2016 brings together event planners, exhibition organisers, travel agencies, and clients. miceasiaexhibition.com

HAMBURG

Up and away UNTIL NOV 5

German aviation photographer and publisher Dietmar Plath has photographed various Airbus aircrafts in about 120 countries around the world. Since July his photos have been on display at a free

open-air exhibition in Hamburg’s HafenCity, on Ueberseeboulevard. Plath’s extensive exhibit, ‘Up and Away,’ also features Finnair’s new Airbus A350. dietmarplath.de

ALL OVER EUROPE

European Mobility Week NEW YORK. Featuring 250 reds, whites, and rosés from around the globe, the Second Glass Wine Riot is two parts education and one part revolution. Launched in 2008, this tasting event includes some social media fun, a smart phone app, a DJ, and a photo booth.

SEPT 16–22 More than 430 European cities in 26 countries will take part in European Mobility Week promoting environmentally sustainable transportation alternatives. This year’s theme is ‘Smart and sustainable mobility – an investment for Europe’. The Finnish city of Jyväskylä will host lectures on electric biking and organise a car-free day on September 22.

my.wineriot.com

mobilityweek.eu

SEPT 23–24

22 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

KEVÄÄN PAR HAAT UUT UUS

TUOKSUT

UPEA UUDISTUN STI UT!

AY-JOHTAJA ANN SELIN “STRESSIPAIKAT OVAT TYÖN SUOLA” K KOR ORK KEIM EI M MAN MAN O I K EU OIKE UDE D EN P PRE RE S SIDE I D EN NTT T TI

Syysku u 2015 /9,90 /9,9 €

s as ripsiopa ripsiop PAU inen ihan täydell LI IN

KO SK

Numero

EL TOP 5 ”SUOhyvinMESTA O PUUTvointiTUU HA toimittaja MU lomat RAKEL UTOKSEENLU ” LIEKKI

HUHTIKUU

2016 / 10,90 €

dokumenttio ohjaaja

VIRPI S SUUTARI2016 / 110,90 € SINULLEKI JA N ”NÄEN ITSENI HOLLYWO OOD-HYMY OD-HYMY OD-HYMY? LAJITO OVERINI KEINOT KEINO KOOMIUUDET ISINAT K KAUNISTAA KA KAUN UNISTA OLENT TOINA” PuHA HAMPAI HAMPAITA navii MP MPAI ni TA TOUK TOUKOKUU UK

Suu KE EVÄÄN 146 paraNsta idUeaa!MERO KE 345

LATTATUKAN “PORNOTAU TA STANI TAUS STANI EI OLEPELASTAJA ESTÄN ESTÄNYT ST STÄN YT T KÄTEVÄT T MINUA NU NUA uuden ajan menestyjät TEKEMÄST ST &Ä HIUS-NSTÄ ELASTINE YHTÄÄNSUIHKEET MITÄÄN” T HEDBERG

MUOrTiI

Syyskuu

€ KESÄ-HEINÄKUU 2016 / 10,90

2015

HUHTIKUU 2016

SAMI ”PITÄÄ SAADA KUNNON KORVAUS SIITÄ, MITÄ TEKEE”

TOUKOKUU 2016

SÄN

& 70

-luku M EI K K SY K SY N IT R EN DIT

IHAN A 78 en 7 Unelmi TY YL I LOMAPIDÄ VÄRISI NousevA AURINGOSS at nuor PARHAAT et HIUSSUOJAT muotisuunnittelija n & AURINKOEM MELIE VOITEET

PO LI M UOTIT IKOT IK UERGIN V IS SA BJÖRNBE

SYRJITÄ IHANA ELÄMÄ E ÄNKÖTKOJA TYÖE KAUKOMAT SINUA LÄMÄSS & KULINAR RISMIA Ä? naiselliset helmat ministä maksiin uusi keveä bisnesmuoti parhaat bikinit ja sandaalit

PIN KKI SYK SYN ON MIE S PUK VÄR I EUT UU KLA SSIK OIH TRE NDI IN KÄS AFG

AAN ITAK HUONON LUK SUS KI NAA HIUSPÄIVÄN ÄIVSILMMIOT ÄIVÄN PELASTAJ PELASTAJA STAJA::ILLE ST vaatteet, v korutPÄIVITETT k & laukut Y Pipsa Hur & ne täydelliset TUPEERAU mer Sinta aurinkolasit Antt a

i Holm a Sinn Muotiper e Eeg he J.W. And Arela erson

anniEN TÄYDELLIN TÄ TÄYD ELLINEN hautala MINILOMA ilman PALMASSA meikkiä

Elegantti ja itsevarma. Nokkela, seikkailunhaluinen ja särmikäs. Käytä runsaalla kädellä, levitä paksu kerros, älä säästele. Gloria.fi/ihastu

TAKEOFF FINLAND

FEEL FINNAIR Finnair has 46,400+ Instagram followers! Tag @FeelFinnair or #FeelFinnair to share your photos.

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY LAURA IISALO VISIT FINLAND

September events

Discovering Helsinki’s forests is easy with the new urban nature map.

UNTIL SEPT 25 THE STILL/LIFE exhibition celebrates the extensive career of Tapio Wirkkala. Siida Museum in the heart of the Finnish Sámi area provides a fitting venue for the work of this artist who drew inspiration from Lapland.

DISCOVERY

Mapping Helsinki’s treasures Three new maps and publications are offered free of charge to travellers looking to explore new sides of the Finnish capital.

24 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

PLACES TO BE You Are Here is a new magazine published every four months by Kämp Collection Hotels featuring the finest local events, design, and art in the capital. Highlights of the September issue include past and present artists exhibiting in Helsinki later this year: Yayoi Kusama, Amedeo Modigliani, and Niki de Saint Phalle. kampcollectionhotels.com

JUKKA ARO

URBAN NATURE Helsinki is a naturelover’s dream come true, offering a rich array of forests, islands, and wildlife within easy reach by public transport – if you know where to go. To show the way, Visit Helsinki has launched a new map of the best urban destinations for hiking, biking, and exploring. Published in six languages (Finnish, English, Japanese, German, Russian, Chinese), it also explains the Finnish concept of ‘everyman’s right’ (the right to roam freely in the countryside) and offers seasonal tips for making the most of the great outdoors. The illustrated map can be picked up at the Helsinki Tourist Information office at Pohjoisesplanadi 19. visithelsinki.fi

DESIGN CITY Over 200 events make up Helsinki Design Week, the biggest design festival in the Nordic region. The programme runs from September 1 to 11, filling the city’s streets, museums, and shops with compelling design happenings. It’s easy to take part as there is a specially created brochure available in selected restaurants, coffee shops, and stores, providing listings as well as designer interviews and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks. helsinkidesignweek.com

UNTIL SEPT 4 MAGIC BOX is an exhibition marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Finnish artist Rut Bryk. Also featured is ‘Mosaics of the Mind,’ an installation by Bryk’s daughter, the contemporary artist Maaria Wirkkala. After Espoo the exhibition moves on to the Oulu Museum of Art in October. emma.museum

OCT 8

VANTAA MARATHON is Finland’s second biggest marathon. It’s held annually in Vantaa when autumn is at its most colourful. Located near Helsinki Airport, the route of the marathon starts and ends at Tikkurila Sports Park. vantaamaraton.fi Events subject to change.

attractive employers 2016

KONE

— Pioneer at the forefront of technology IKUE VALOVIRTA, WHO WORKS IN KONE’S COMMUNICATIONS TEAM, HAS ALREADY BEEN WITH THE COMPANY FOR NINE YEARS. A NATIVE OF OSAKA, JAPAN, IKUE FOUND HER WAY TO KONE WHEN SHE NOTICED A JOB POSTING FOR A PERSON WITH INTERNET SERVICE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTISE TO WORK IN THE IT DEPARTMENT.

“I

wanted to work with digital communication matters in a global corporation”, she says. The flat hierarchy at KONE, which Valovirta believes to be a very Finnish phenomenon, is impressive for many Japanese people. Experts are trusted and new tasks come your way when you do your job well. For example, transferring from the IT department to Communications happened practically through an invite, after she had successfully handled a year and a half long project to launch the company’s website to more than 30 countries. “It’s also good that KONE is doing well financially and this enables investment in development”, Valovirta states. Teppo Voutilainen, in turn, works as a director for the recently established New Services and Solutions unit. He came to KONE from McKinsey in 2010 and initially worked in strategy development. In 2012 he relocated to China to run product strategy and marketing for the subsidiary GiantKONE, and he returned to Finland at the end of last year. “In China I learned how customer oriented everyone is. The weeks are planned around the most important customer projects and the timeline from decision to execution is very short. In the best case scenario an elevator can be delivered to the customer within 15 days from the order”, he says. Voutilainen explains that KONE’s business is driven by positive megatrends. KONE is present in growth areas and where there is a need to ensure the smooth flow of people. What makes it more meaningful is the fact that you don’t look at things from only one point of view, you can work across business units. In a company that is more than a hundred years old, the New Solutions and Services unit is a place where you can see the evolution of cities and people. The pace of technological development is so intense that KONE utilizes selected technology partners in various areas. “It is inspiring to see how our partners are bringing new ideas and how they can enhance living conditions or business operations. One good example is a mobile application which allows guests to register in the lobby of an office building, then orders an elevator that takes them straight to the correct floor, and notifies the host of the guests’ arrival. The culture of innovation at KONE is not limited only to Voutilainen’s unit, this mind-set is shown throughout the organization. “Our teams have the ambition to take things forward”, he concludes. ● PRODUCED BY CALCUS.COM

KONE’s strong innovation culture brings Teppo Voutilainen and Ikue Valovirta together, even though they work in different departments.

TRAVEL TRENDS

BUZZWORD OF THE MOMENT: Experiential leave – Time spent out of the office in a new country where you do your job while immersing yourself in a new destination.

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY KATJA PANTZAR ILLUSTRATION BY ISTOCK

Where will you travel next? For those in search of authenticity, one of Europe’s last unspoiled cultures features Alpine mountains and a Mediterranean coastline dotted with crumbling structures from the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman empires largely undisturbed by mass tourism. Albania is one of the 11 lesser-known destinations tipped for a surge in tourism over the next ten years by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC): “When Albania emerged from the shadow of Communism in 1992, the country was completely unprepared for tourists. Twenty years on, the rugged Albanian Alps, remote castles, and untouched coastline are now a staple on the European travel circuit.” Next door to Greece, Albania shares borders with Balkan neighbours Montenegro, Kosovo, and Macedonia and has not yet – despite the WTTC’s prediction – become a standard stop on the travel circuit. It’s still a relatively well-kept secret. “Albania has turned from the ‘North Korea of Europe’ to a very hospitable and 26 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

in many ways positively exciting place – like in the whole Balkans, there are still opportunities to detect something truly authentic – from the traditional way of life in the mountain villages to the young modern mix of the capital city Tirana,” says Kirsi Hyvaerinen, a sustainable tourism development expert with Austriaheadquartered PRÁTTO Consulting. Hyvaerinen, who has lived in Montenegro since 2006, says the whole region perched on the Adriatic coast – Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, and Slovenia – offers so much more than simply sun and sea. “We have a growing competitiveness and diversity for nature-based experiences: hiking, biking, adventure – the National Parks and their surroundings are just breath-taking. There are cultural and culinary trips with further special interest tours such as birdwatching, herbs and biodiversity, rural tourism, professional and semi-professional sports tourism, as well as services for the whole MICE (meetings, incentives, congresses, and events) sector,” says Hyvaerinen.

Top 3 Montenegro experiences

“Cycling along the backcountry roads or the national ‘Top Trails’ – No. 4 called ‘Endless Landscapes’ is just great – especially in late June when the mountain peaks are still sugar-coated with snow, and the landscapes around are wildly blooming – and it’s still shoulder season.” pedalaj.me/en

“Exploring the area of the National Park Skadar Lake and Cetinje, the old Royal Capital and following the ethno-gastric routes according to guides such as ethnogastro-balkan. net.”

“Hiking along the Bjelasica and Komovi mountains, and staying overnight at or near a real katun, a traditional mountain pasture.

-Kirsi Hyvaerinen, a sustainable tourism development expert

FED UP OF THINNING HAIR?

Oxford-rooted hair regimen can boost your self-conﬁdence Seasonal hair loss isn’t a myth, and for many people it’s a real problem. Around this time of year, a greater proportion of hair follicles will enter the telogen, or resting, phase of its life cycle, leading to increased levels of hair loss. To address the problem of thinning hair or a receding hairline, Dr Thomas Whitfield and the Oxford Biolabs team of scientists developed the naturally-based, scientifically-tested TRX2 Molecular Food Supplement for Hair. BW: Dr Whitfield, what gave you the inspiration to begin developing a solution for hair loss? TW: The idea of creating TRX2 hit me when I was in Oxford, researching the process of hair loss. I better understood the causes and effects and, ultimately, the urgency of the issue for many – I’ve always wanted to find a solution for people who have a genuine need. BW: What is the general mechanism of your flagship product? TW: Unlike some products, TRX2 has a credible scientific background and an essential formula that helps to stimulate potassium

ion channels in hair follicles. We’ve only used naturally-based ingredients in the formulation ensuring there are no harmful side-effects to our regimen. Moreover, three of the key ingredients in TRX2 – selenium, zinc, and biotin – are officially recognised by the European Commission as contributing to the maintenance of normal, healthy hair. BW: Is TRX2 perceived well and favoured by consumers? TW: Yes, we’re proud of our products, because they are easy-to- use and suitable for men and women of all ages. They are sourced and manufactured in the European Union, from where we ship worldwide, and have been sold in more than 100 countries. BW: Is TRX2 efficient on its own? TW: Yes, it is efficient on its own. And additionally, we have recently introduced an advanced TRX2 topical range of foam and lotion to complement our TRX2 capsules. We are working on a shampoo, conditioner and thickening cream as a further support line.

INTRODUCTORY OFFER Order via www.tiny.cc/TRX2-Finn and use the coupon code Finn to receive 5% discount.

+44 800 808 52 51

IN THE AIR WITH EERO ROPO

POINTS THAT DO GOOD Did you know that you can donate Finnair Plus points to help your favourite charity organisation? Go to finnairplusshop.com to learn which charities you can support.

TEXT BY LAURA PALOTIE PHOTO BY EERO ROPO

Siti Hajar and Suci Aulia Zahman, pictured with Eero Ropo, are writing a joint master’s thesis on the role of narration in language education.

Classroom know-how goes global Finland’s high-quality primary school education has become a cultural export. Eero Ropo from the University of Tampere shares the wisdom. “I lead the University of Tampere’s master’s degree programme in education in Aceh, Indonesia. Many of the children taught by our students are orphans of the 2004 tsunami, and attend schools run by local foundation Sukma. E-learning comprises a portion of the curriculum for our 30 university students, but our instructors spend a week out of every month in Aceh. Next spring the candidates will travel to Finland for hands-on observation and research. 28 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Although many of our students aren’t fluent in English or familiar with research methods emphasised in European universities, I’ve been impressed with how fully they’ve thrown themselves into their studies – and how much they expect of us instructors. I frankly haven’t encountered students like this anywhere else. By the end of 2016 I’ll have travelled to Indonesia via Singapore three times. I’ve found that the best way to adapt to the local time zone is to sleep for the

majority of the plane ride. I’m also a hobbyist pilot, so I like to keep track of our route when I’m not snoozing. I tend to over-fill my suitcase when I travel. I especially find that there isn’t much time for reading the books I’ve brought. If I have a free moment I prefer to sit in a traditional local café and people-watch. Observing the baristas showcase the high coffee pour is akin to watching pizza chefs spin dough in Italy. Indonesian coffee is fantastic, so I always bring some back home.”

TAKEOFF DESTINATION

DISCOVER FINLAND If you are interested in booking a flight and tour simultaneously, go to finnair.com/stopover. Finnair allows stopovers of up to five days.

TEXT BY FRAN WEAVER PHOTOS BY TIM BIRD

Örö welcomes visitors after being closed to civilians for more than a century.

Well-preserved military relics can be discovered in strategic spots around the island.

Örö lies in the centre of the Finnish Archipelago, surrounded by countless beautiful islands.

SHORT BREAK

An island reborn THE ISLAND OF ÖRÖ has undergone a dramatic transformation from a military outpost to a thriving centre for nature tourism in the heart of Finland’s unique Archipelago National Park. Örö was off limits for a century while its fortifications, completed by Tsarist Russia in 1917 – just before Finland gained independence – were used and adapted by Finnish coastal defence forces. But since 2015, visitors arriving in its sheltered harbour have been able to come ashore and discover facilities including a café, a seaside sauna, rentable cottages, a restaurant, and a comfortable hotel. “Last summer we welcomed 24,000 visitors during the first few months the island was open, and this year we hope for even more,” says Esko Sorakunnas, who has planned the revitalising of Örö for Parks & Wildlife Finland. “Fortunately Örö is big enough that there are always peaceful places to experience – and plenty to see for anyone interested in nature or history.” Inviting trails head off from the lovingly restored wooden buildings near the harbour through Örö’s leafy woodlands, flowery

heaths, and sandy shores. Two cobbled military lanes running through the island were nicknamed “The Long Tedium” and “The Short Tedium” by weary soldiers on marching drill, but today’s walkers invariably find them delightful. Bold visitors can also explore many abandoned bunkers and trenches, and check the firing lines of disused coastal artillery guns including a huge Russian-built cannon used by Finnish troops to repel a Soviet attack in 1941. Viewpoints around the island look out over splendid island-dotted seascapes, offering good chances of spotting seabirds, seals, and magnificent white-tailed eagles. “Our experts have recorded almost 200 bird species on the island, and an amazing 1,654 butterfly species,” adds Sorakunnas.

Paths formerly used by patrolling soldiers are now tramped by peaceable ramblers. Rich wildlife includes many seabirds and shore birds.

Örö is a popular port of call for pleasure boaters, but the island can also be reached by scheduled boat services and taxi boats from Kasnäs, 180 kilometres west of Helsinki by road. visitoro.fi

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

DESTINATION RIOJA

RIOJAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S second wave D A M s to flie ly. r i ai na Fin drid d m a .co M air finn

Casa Josephine in Sorzano is more than just another bed and breakfast, the five-room property combines accommodation with retail and interior design. 30 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

After its heyday in the mid-1990s, renowned northern Spanish wine region Rioja was overshadowed by other upcoming wine districts. No longer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rioja has emerged as a hot and dynamic destination. TEXT BY MICHA VAN DINTHER PHOTOS BY MIKAEL AXELSSON

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Partners Iñigo Aragon and Pablo Lopez Navarro run a lifestyle brand that evolves around a renovated 19th-century townhouse in Rioja, as well as their residence and office in Madrid.

Each room in the townhouse has a different look and feel.

32 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

ome 15 years ago, Rioja went through its initial phase of reinvention, when a couple of leading wineries realised that a new approach was needed in order for the region to rid itself of its stuffy reputation. Starchitects such as Zaha Hadid and Santiago Calatrava were commissioned to repackage historical wineries into striking, futuristic visions. These buildings soon graced the pages of glossy magazines around the world. “Then followed an upsurge of more personal businesses with fresher ideas – and smaller budgets,” says upscale tourism professional Pablo Lopez Navarro. It was in connection with this second wave of creativity that Madrid-based Lopez Navarro and his life and business partner Iñigo Aragon bought a townhouse in the Riojan village of Sorzano. “We chose Rioja because of its potential for young creative projects. It is a wealthy region with great resources, world-class wineries, and restaurants situated in beautiful surroundings,” says Lopez Navarro. Housing several projects under a joint roof, Casa Josephine soon became a physical manifestation of their common vision to create a lifestyle brand. The cosy and casual bed and breakfast also doubles as an interior design studio and shop, with an online store connected to it. The productive duo is currently working on a line of homeware and several interior design projects, and is about to open a new office in Madrid. “But as soon as we have a minute to sit and relax, we open up a bottle of Rioja to get the good ideas flowing,” says Lopez Navarro, with a laugh. “And a second bottle for the even greater ones.” casajosephine.com

The wooden staircase connects three floors.

Winemaker Telmo Rodríguez captures and bottles the soul of the Rioja region.

OTHER RIOJA HOTSPOTS TO VISIT

WHERE TO DRINK CVNE Short for Compañia Vinícola del Norte de España, CVNE has been located in the heart of the wine district Haro since 1879. In 2005, the old winery buildings were revamped, yet retaining some of the original architecture, created by the architecture practice of the legendary Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. Barrio de la Estación, Haro cvne.com

BODEGAS RODA Partially dug out of the rock is Roda, a Haro winery founded in 1987. The modern tasting room is the place to start exploring (try the Tempranillo, which is a speciality) before heading down into the underground cellars in the hillside. Avda Vizcaya 5, Haro roda.es

BACK TO THE FUTURE “We are very lucky because, in a country where so much is forgotten, there is much to rediscover,” says Telmo Rodríguez, a celebrated wine maker with nine different Spanish sites. “Spain offers one of the most complex biodiversities in the world. This is an amazing opportunity for wine lovers.” Having grown up with parents who spent all their lives restoring an ancient wine estate located in the Basque country, a young Rodríguez was deeply impressed by the viticulture of the Middle Ages. As an adult, it was the idea of restoring forgotten places that were important in the past that brought him and long-term mate and business partner Pablo Eguzkiza to Rioja to set up their own company Compañía de Vinos in 1992. After acquiring 15 hectares of traditional bush vine vineyards in the village of Lanciego, a vision was formed to return to the ancient viticultural practices of the 18th

We chose Rioja because of its potential for young creative projects. It is a wealthy region with great resources.

R. LOPÉZ DE HEREDIA One of the oldest wineries in Haro has found a way to juxtapose heritage and innovation in a striking way. The futuristic tasting room was created by the late Zaha Hadid and is a must-visit. Avda de Vizcaya 3, Haro lopezdeheredia.com

WHERE TO EAT ECHAURREN A culinary jewel that goes back for five generations, Echaurren mirrors the life and career of Marisa Sánchez, owner and chef, through its traditional cuisine. Her son, Francis Paniego, runs the modern El Portal addition, and the property also offers accommodation. C. Padre José García 19, Ezcaray echaurren.com

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

WHERE TO EAT

The dramatic landscape harbours a range of microclimates and soil types, yielding a wine that is distinct for the region.

LA TAVINA La Tavina is a tapas bar where the wines hold the same high standard as the food. The bottles featured in the extensive wine list, with most wines sold by the glass, are displayed in the wall-to-ceiling shelves that cover several of the surrounding walls. Calle del Laurel 2, Logroño latavina.com

FINCA DE LOS ARANDINOS A cool gastro-infused countryside hotel near Logroño mainly constructed of concrete and glass. The Tierra restaurant, which merges tradition and innovation, is the star of the show with chef Diego Rodriguez at its helm. Ctra LR 137, Entrena

Natural materials are used throughout the winery.

fincadelosarandinos.com

WHERE TO STAY HOTEL VIURA An eye-catching design hotel set in the tiny village of Villabuena de Álava. The Lego-like, block-piled structure, designed by local practice mup-arq, is impossible to miss. Herreria Kalea, Villabuena de Álava hotelviura.com

MARQUÉS DE RISCAL Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Marqués de Riscal property is possibly La Rioja’s most well-recognised hotel and winery. The winery produces more than three million bottles of red wine a year and can sometimes be overrun with tourists. Torrea 1, Elciego marquesderiscal.com

CALLE MAYOR A small urban property with no more than 12 rooms, the hotel overlooks the historic city centre of Logroño. We love the modern additions in the décor, which go really well with the original details in the former 16thcentury palace. Calle del Margués de San Nicolás 71, Logroño hotelcallemayor.com

34 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

century, associating a particular wine to a specific village. “We believe that the talent of a wine is based on the talent of a place. It is our job to find those talented places, and to work out how to pass on the taste of them,” notes Rodríguez. Through Rodríguez’s search for the soul of the region, he produces five wines at the Rioja estate. Contrary to some of the other local wineries investment in rather brash architecture, Rodríguez’s approach is a humbler one. “Nice buildings don’t give good taste to wine. We wanted a building made with natural materials that respected the landscape as much as possible,” he says. telmorodriguez.com MODERN TERROIR COOKING Riojan chef Francis Paniego’s CV is an impressive one. His creative and ground-breaking cuisine at Echaurren el Portal earned him his first Michelin star in 2005, the very first star in all of Rioja. Eight years later, he celebrated the arrival of his second star.

Chefs and husband and wife Francis Paniego and Luisa Barrachina are shaking up Riojan cuisine.

He was also asked to head the kitchen at Marqués de Riscal, an ultramodern winery designed by architect Frank Gehry. In 2015, Paniego was named “chef of the future,” following in the footsteps of well-known Spanish chefs Albert Adrià, Elena Arzak, and Martín Berasategui, who all have been appointed the title in previous years. Considering the above, it may not come as a surprise that Paniego is perceived as the spearhead of new Rioja cuisine. What may surprise is Paniego’s subsequent move – the creation of Tondaluna, a casual and affordable gastro bar in the heart of Logroño. “Tondeluna is a very personal venture,” explains Paniego. “It was created together with my wife Luisa [Barrachina, the 1999 Bidasoa Awardee for best young chef under 35], and the fact that it is a joint effort gives me inner peace.

Tondeluna faces the Espolón park in Logroño.

We rely fully on local produce and what each season has to offer.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Gastro bar Tondeluna brings together tradition and innovation in the form of tapas served at communal tables.

She has always been by my side during the hardest times.” The minimalist gastro bar, featuring a striped wood-panelled wall and six communal blond-wood tables, is designed to encourage interaction between diners and chefs. Merging tradition and innovation, the focal point of the varied menu are tapas prepared in a simple and healthy fashion. Paniego describes the local cuisine as elegant, yet jam-packed with flavours. “Rioja is paradise, a beautiful place blessed by God. Besides being one of the world’s most important wine regions, the best vegetables are grown here. We rely fully on local produce and what each season has to offer. But make sure not to miss out on the Rioja peppers with eggs,” he says. l tondeluna.com 36 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

BEHIND THE SCENES

Micha van Dinther With no less than 30 relocations under his belt, creative director and writer Micha van Dinther is no stranger to exploring new destinations. His previous work has been featured in magazines such as Wallpaper*, Dwell, Frame, and Plaza. For the Rioja article, he got to immerse himself in some of the things he likes best – to eat, drink, and be merry.

Mikael Axelsson

Mikael Axelsson is a former paleontologist and DJ turned professional photographer. He specialises in interiors and portraits and is based in Stockholm. Axelsson travels extensively to wherever there’s an interesting subject.

Material Flow How optimizes mill’s internal logistics

ORIGINATING FROM KAUHAJOKI, PESMEL IS ESPECIALLY A PAPER, PULP AND METAL INDUSTRY SOLUTIONS PROVIDER WHICH COMPETITIVENESS IS BASED ON CUTTING EDGE INNOVATIONS, STRONG ENGINEERING KNOWLEDGE AND THE ABILITY TO LISTEN TO THE CUSTOMER.

esmel Oy designs and produces unique, automated material handling, packaging and storing systems to their customers. Developed by the company’s engineers, the brilliant Material Flow How concept enables best practices to the customer’s mill operations. “The brilliancy lies in the fact that the solutions we’ve developed are very flexible and scalable”, says CEO Tony Leikas. Flexibility means that the solutions from Pesmel can also be brought into existing, old factory buildings to improve efficiency and save costs. Acting as the core of the concept TransRoll® and TransBale high bay storages buffer, sort and handle semi-finished products between production processes or take care of dispatching operations at the mill. “The length, width and height of both storages can be freely selected based on the space available”, Leikas says. The customer can estimate the rationality and profitability of the planned investment beforehand with the help of Pesmel Oy’s 3D simulation models. “The customer knows in advance what they get because the simulation is made with real production and system data”, Leikas states. Thanks to strong engineering know-how Pesmel is able to provide all necessary equipment, machinery and systems to enhance internal logistics of their customers. When the whole system is from one provider all the parts work together seamlessly. With the Material Flow How concept the customer also gets an industrial internet application, the Flow Care software which informs for example when the equipment needs maintenance and servicing. The software also points out possible bottlenecks of the production, hence improving operations. ● Pesmel Oy has provided paper and pulp industry solutions to Äänekoski’s new bio-product factory amongst others, CEO Tony Leikas says. PRODUCED BY CALCUS.COM

TOP5 K E P

ly dai s e i r fl ing. nai j Fin o Bei om t .c air finn

Beijing libations

HIT THE ROOF For those in the mood to party, Migas is the place to start. Sitting on the top floor of Nali Patio, a bastion of Beijing’s fine dining and drinking scene, the allure of this rooftop bar and lounge never seems to fade. There are DJs most nights – the dancing kicks off late and finishes in the wee hours – while drinks are reasonably priced. Decor is influenced by Salvador Dali, with giant ovoid seats and giant red neon forks. “The views from the roof are great, and when it’s too cold, simply head inside to the bar downstairs,” advises regular Lexy Liu. Migas Nali Patio 6F 81 Sanlitun North Road, Chaoyang District +86(0)10 5208 6061 migasbj.com

38 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Sipping an expertly mixed negroni in the hippest of Beijing bars, it’s hard to believe how far nightlife in the Chinese capital has come over the last decade. From rarefied rooftop retreats to Chicago-style cocktail lounges, here are some of the best venues for a drink, or two.

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY DANIEL ALLEN

MASTER MIXOLOGY Less of a drinking establishment than a hip watering hole, Bottle, Boot & Cigar (typically shortened to BBC) is the brainchild of American Douglas Williams, who clearly knows his liquor. Shelves are packed with hard-to-find blends, syrups, and tinctures, with exotic bitters created inhouse. Situated a stone’s throw from Sanlitun, BBC can be hard to find, but is still packed at weekends. Cuban cigars are also available, as are professional shoeshines, and straight-razor shaves in the back room. Bottle, Boot & Cigar 168 Taipingzhuang Nanli Chaoyang District +86(0)1 8614057407

VIEW TO A THRILL Atop (330 metres) the third tower of the China World Trade Centre, views from Atmosphere’s huge windows extend all the way to the Forbidden City and beyond. Pulling in a slightly older, refined crowd, this is the perfect spot to wind down or enjoy a romantic, pre-dinner drink. The decor is understated, with plush sofas, soft lighting, live music, and a well-polished bar. Drinks may be on the expensive side, but it’s hard to find a more extensive range in Beijing, with some of the cocktails truly spectacular. Atmosphere 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie China World Trade Centre Chaoyang District

SOPHISTICATED SPEAKEASY One of Beijing’s bars of the moment, Janes & Hooch nestles in the heart of Sanlitun’s gentrified factory district. Labelled “a modern speakeasy, minus the posh,” this place is generally packed with a Chinese and international clientele, who line up along the lengthy bar or kick back on the more communal second floor to the sound of jazz and blues. The darkened interior is Chicago-style retro, with soft candlelight dancing off the walls and polished cement floors. Served up by bow-tied bartenders, drinks are pricey, beautiful, and expertly mixed. The Chicago Fizz and Mister Hemingway win rave reviews. Janes & Hooch, 4 Gongti Bei Lu, Chaoyang District janeshooch.com

RETRO RETREAT As its name suggests, concealed revelry is the order of the day at Hidden House: a recently-opened speakeasy hidden behind an art store and accessed via a sliding antique bookshelf. Those who gain entry to this pint-sized bar rarely want to leave. Entering Hidden House it’s hard not to look over your shoulder for Eliot Ness, with a low wooden bar and an array of backlit bottles enhancing the jazzy, Prohibition-era feel. “Our emphasis is on friendly, personal service,” says owner Ming Lu, who often pops in to oversee mixology. “We talk to our patrons and create drinks to suit their profile. If the creation is good, we name it after them.” Hidden House, 39 Xindong Lu Chaoyang District +86(0)1 084185718

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Learning for

life

Finnish schools are undergoing their biggest transformation since the 1970s. Blue Wings goes behind the scenes to find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the new student-centric curriculum. TEXT BY ANU PIIPPO PHOTOS BY PIIA ARNOULD

40 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

This is what a modern classroom looks like. The Beatbox provided by Martela is Mandi Tainoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice when she works on her Olympic project at the English School in Helsinki.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Sofia Peltonen, Mandi Tainio, and Saba Nadew present their ideas on a project to teacher Marja Kokko.

F Robin Ilola and Peter Kilo prefer to read away from their traditional desks. 42 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

or thousands of years, the Valyrians were the best in the world at almost everything. And then they weren’t.” These lines from the TV series Game of Thrones refer to the ruined city of Valyria – but could almost apply to Finnish schools based on the results of the OECD’s latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) tests, which rank school systems worldwide every three years. After standing at or near the top of the world rankings since testing began, Finland dropped in the most recent 2012 results, though it was still the best-performing European country. Unlike Valyria, the Finnish school system is not in crisis. It is however seeking new ideas to meet the needs of a quickly-changing world. Indeed, the redesign of schools has begun. Fifth graders at the English School of Helsinki are beginning studies in a new type of classroom. Within a couple of weeks, the room has taken on a completely new look: the walls have been repainted and the old desks have been replaced by new moveable furniture. Instead of groups of desks, there are now five separate learning stations, from which students can usually choose freely. At the moment, the kids are working on an Olympic project. Some are crafting Olympic rings while others are editing videos that they shot earlier. Two children have taken over the easy chairs, moving screens in front to make it easier to practice a song written for the project. There’s no-one at the com-

WHAT IS THE “FINNISH SYSTEM”?

puter at the moment, but as usual there is full capacity at the Beatbox, a set of shelves that convert into a casual mini-auditorium. Teachers Marja Kokko and Mikko Kontto are simply keeping an eye on the situation and helping as needed. “I’ve realised that I have to be patient and wait until a student asks for help before intervening. If the work has been planned well and they’ve been given good instructions, they can solve the problems themselves,” says Kontto. Bringing about this kind of creative chaos actually requires a lot of planning. “Although the teacher may not seem to be doing anything, he or she is constantly watching the pupils, keeping an eye on when someone needs help or should be challenged to get more out of themselves,” Kokko adds. THINKING AND DOING Classrooms are now being overhauled with good reason. The most recent brain research suggests that human thinking does not take place solely in the brain. What people do with their bodies plays a role in how they learn and remember. A specialist in this field is Minna Huotilainen, brain researcher and research fellow at Uppsala University’s Swedish Collegium for Advanced Studies. “From the standpoint of the brain, small physical actions, tinkering and crafting are natural ways of learning. However many adults were accustomed to learning by just sitting still at school,” Huotilainen says. The new model is not intended to turn the classroom into an amusement park. The aim is to give every stu-

Peter Kilo looks on when Luka Mansikka and Luca Elshout fine-tune their project, an animation on fair play.

Teachers who hold academic degrees? Short school days? No standardised testing? No homework at all? Unfortunately, everything you hear about education in Finland is not true. Finnish children do get some homework – some more, some less – as their teachers work very independently. Tests and exams exist, too, but there is no compulsory national testing for students until the end of voluntary upper-secondary school (National Matriculation Exam). However, most of what you hear is true. The vast majority of Finnish children are educated in the public comprehensive school system, and the teaching targets are set by the national curriculum. Within this framework, teaching is highly independent. There are no inspection boards visiting schools to monitor their performance or results. While teachers have a great deal of autonomy, they all have been trained at universities and have access to professional development. Unlike in many countries, teaching has always been seen as a prestigious profession in Finland. As a result, only about one out of every ten applicants is accepted to study to become a teacher each year.

The most recent brain research suggests that human thinking does not take place solely in the brain.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Juhana Kokkonen, Peter Kilo, Matias Häkkinen, and Makar Garanin make use of their mobile devices.

dent an opportunity to learn in ways that are natural for him or her, including those who are motorically active. For many of these, being forced to remain seated at a desk can be miserable. “In the future, learning will be more doing and the classroom a space for doing. So it’s important that classrooms are more adaptable,” says Huotilainen. Above all, it is important to forget the old division between the mental and the physical. “The divide between thinking and doing is an old one, but it’s unfounded. Think about the village blacksmith’s work in the old days, for instance. A large part of the work was what we now call information work – planning and designing, while only part of it was physical work,” notes Huotilainen. The new classrooms are also intended to have a more appealing look than the old rows of desks. That’s significant, too, says Huotilainen. “The classroom can now be arranged so that the teacher and students are comfortable. The way in which a pupil perceives his or her learning environment plays a role in how they start learning,” she says. The new learning environments of course have their challenges, too. There is noise, which is often otherwise a problem at schools, as it adds to students’ cognitive burden and undermines learning. Adjusting to constant change is not easy for everyone, either. On the other hand, learning to cope with change must be taught along with other skills. Schools can support learning through doing in other ways besides renovating classrooms, too. One is teaching concepts as parts of broader phenomena rather than maintaining strict boundaries between subjects. Huotilainen also speaks of the importance of the arts and skill subjects. 44 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Ayda Biltekin updates her project’s status on the whiteboard.

WHAT IS PISA?

PISA (The Programme for International Student Assessment) is an international survey conducted by OECD which aims to evaluate education systems worldwide by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-yearold students. The survey is held every three years, and so far about 65 countries or economies have participated. There are also other international comparisons in education, for example TIMMS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study), ICCS (IEA International Civic and Citizenship Study), and the data provided by UNESCO and the EU.

“There’s plenty of research indicating that music and exercise in particular improve learning skills such as memory, observation and concentration,” she says.

Nihan Suleiman and teacher Mikko Kontto exchange thoughts during the lesson.

Heta Salonen and Heta Peltonen hide behind a movable felt room divider.

ENTHUSIASTIC LEARNING The English School’s 5A and 5B classes spent a few weeks in their new shared classroom before the summer. The experiences of these 11- and 12-year-olds are a valuable resource in planning the next school year. The room is also serving as a pilot for the school’s future, as it faces a move into a new building. “Now when we’re still in this phase of initial enthusiasm, new things like the Beatbox are of course fascinating. It seems however that most pupils prefer to work in groups of 2 to 4. There are also those who prefer to study quietly by themselves,” Kontto says. Two fifth graders, Julia Dietz of 5A and Dylan Riihelä O’Kane of 5B, opt for group tables. During this class, Dietz is creating a comic strip about the Rio Olympic mascot, while Riihelä O’Kane is making a video about football’s Fair Play Regulations. Asked why he chose a group workspace, O’Kane replies: “When you’re there, you can ask others for help or give other people advice or just talk.” Dietz says it’s important to be able to choose where to work. “The tables on wheels are the best, because you can move with them,” she says. Neither can think of how the classroom could be further improved. They consider it normal that 5A and 5B hold some classes together. And noise – well, it was noisy in their old classrooms, too. Their teachers are also more than satisfied with the new arrangement. Kontto points out that the environment in and of itself doesn’t guarantee anything. “I strongly believe that enthusiasm and motivation lead to better learning. It’s a different question as to whether that learning is directly reflected in better test scores. Test results always depend on what’s being tested and how,” Kontto says. SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW The classroom redesign is part of a broader ongoing change. This autumn, Finnish comprehensive schools and upper secondary schools are adopting a new national core curriculum, which will guide teaching at the grassroots level for the next decade. The curSEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Alex Lohman and Samu Tuominen assess their task with teacher Marja Kokko.

WORLDWIDE SUCCESS

This year Pasi Sahlberg, former teacher and author of the award-winning book Finnish Lessons, won the $100,000 Lego Prize, while fellow Finn Maarit Rossi was among the finalists for the million-dollar Global Teacher Prize 2016. Rossi and an American colleague developed the Paths to Math digital teaching materials. Meanwhile Henna Anunti was a finalist in the EU-funded Learning Scenario competition for a learning concept based on tracking the seasons with mobile devices.

riculum provides a general direction, this time urging schools to create innovative learning environments, for instance. Huotilainen, who has served as a professor at the University of Helsinki and the National Institute for Health and Welfare, summarises the new curriculum principles in two general categories. “One major thing is learning by doing and the associated learning of broader phenomena. The other one is bringing digitalisation more prominently into schools,” she says. Finnish schools will not change dramatically though. Many of the ideas now being stressed are ones that many teachers have used before – even as far back as the 1970s, points out University of Helsinki docent Jari Salminen, who has researched the history of Finnish education. 46 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

“One could say that with the new curriculum, teachers are now being given permission to do what many of them have already been doing,” says Salminen. One of those who have tried out ideas in practice is Maarit Korhonen, who alongside her work as a classroom teacher has spoken and written widely about the need for change in schools. She also has words of reassurance for teachers and municipalities struggling with meagre budgets. Changing the learning environment is not necessarily expensive: Her own classroom was overhauled in a day at no cost after the children’s enthusiasm carried over to their parents. “The most important thing to think about is what kind of environment you’d want your own child to spend his or her own school day,” she says. Korhonen, honoured as Classroom Teacher of the Year 2016 has encountered a wide array of learners over the decades. She has observed how finding one’s own way of learning can give a child wings. But Korhonen emphasises that you cannot always succeed. “We can then together consider why things have gone the way they have, and acknowledge that at least we tried this or that idea,” she says. REFORM, COMPROMISE, VISION The much-praised Finnish school system is a result of an earlier sweeping reform. The redesign of comprehensive schools in the 1970s guaranteed all children nine years of free basic education and the same

Saba Nadew and Mandi Taino have settled in at the Beatbox and work on a project.

opportunities for further studies, regardless of family background or place of residence. In an article for the American magazine The Atlantic, New York-based Finnish journalist Anu Partanen points out that “the goal of the programme that Finland instituted, resulting in so much success today, was never excellence. It was equity.” This succeeded so well that the ostensible American dream of equal opportunity for all has been best realised in Finland, Denmark, and Norway, argues Miles Corak, professor of economics at the University of Ottawa and formerly at Harvard. In these countries, there’s significantly more chance of rising to a higher socio-economic class than in the US. As Corak sees it, Finland has succeeded in this through its egalitarian education system. Schools have always been a compromise between various interest groups. The new millennium has brought new challenges to Finland, as elsewhere. What Korhonen finds most important in the new curriculum is the concept that each student has the right to find his or her own strengths and passions. To support that, she is calling on the state to articulate a clearer vision of where the school system is heading. Huotilainen agrees. “I want the vision to include an idea of where everyone’s passion leads. As far as I can see, the only answer is this: making a living while benefitting others and society. The feeling of being useful is important to us humans,” she says. Moving from vision to practice is often a long journey. Professor of education Hannu Simola offers

TREATS IN NEW CURRICULUM The national core curriculum which guides Finnish schools is renewed roughly once in a decade. The latest curriculum took effect in August this year. The local school-level curricula are based on the national curriculum. The new curriculum, known as “OPS,” introduces certain phenomena that have not been in general use in Finnish schools. From now on, all children will learn how to code and use new technology. Teachers are encouraged to create new kinds of learning environments both in and outside schools. One of the key words in the new curriculum is phenomenon-based learning. In this approach, a classroom observes a real-life phenomenon and analyses it through an interdisciplinary approach. The focus of the Finnish media and the general public has been on the interdisciplinary aspect of this approach, as teaching in Finland has traditionally been subject-based. However, for students this approach also involves other new aspects such as project planning and self-assessment.

teachers these guidelines based on a quote from his book Koulutusihmeen paradoksit: “Love change, withstand chaos, develop yourself, and push your boundaries – and do all of this in collaboration with others.” These guidelines might have helped Valyria, too. l Also interviewed for this article were Petri Vuorinen, principal of the English School, and Matti Mäenpää, sales director of Martela, which supplies modular school furniture to improve learning environments.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Anu Piippo

is a Helsinki-based writer with university degrees in journalism, education, and English. This is the first time these three fields meshed into a single piece of work.

Piia Arnould is a Helsinki-based photographer who has fond memories of her childhood spent in a small local school with no more than 35 students. SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

EUROPEAN VOICES BY ALEXANDER STUBB

Are humans reaching their expiry date?

rom time to time I have a mindcyborg engineering (which combines organic blowing experience. Reading Yuval and non-organic parts), and engineering of inorNoah Harari’s Sapiens: A Brief ganic life. All of which raise a host of ethical, History of Humankind was one of political, and ideological issues. them. Today we can use biological engineering to Harari paints an interesting pic- grow an ear on the body of a mouse and transture about the future of Homo sapiens and asks fer it to a human. Should we transform living a very important question: How long will we lineages and recreate dinosaurs by mapping the actually exist? genome of ancient mammoths? Possible, but A professor of history, questionable. But what if Harari argues that three this research would help HARARI ASKS A VERY important revolutions shaped us to prolong human life, the course of history and IMPORTANT QUESTION: curing all diseases and affected humans and other aniupgrading our cognitive HOW LONG WILL WE mals: the Cognitive Revolution and emotional abilities? ACTUALLY EXIST? (70,000 years ago), the AgriculLet’s take it one step tural Revolution (12,000 further to cyborg engiyears ago), and the neering. An amputated Scientific Revolution (started 500 arm is replaced by a bionic arm, which takes years ago). orders directly from the brain. Great! But what Human beings, be they about bionic insects which are used to spy and Neanderthals, Homo sapiens, eavesdrop on secret conversations? or others, were not always the And finally, how about engineering commasters of the earth. Bigger, pletely inorganic beings? What if a computer faster, and stronger animals could create an entirely new digital mind with ruled nature. Slowly, during the a sense of self, consciousness, and memory? Cognitive Revolution, humans Would it be a person? What if you deleted it? began to cooperate in larger Would you be charged with murder? numbers than other animals. Hariri argues that the pace of technological Without believing in common development will soon lead to the replacement myths – religion, rules, or sociof humans by “completely different beings who eties – this would not have been possess not only different physiques, but also possible. very different cognitive and emotional worlds.” Modern Homo sapiens have It is disconcerting to think that we, the Homo existed for 70,000 years, a relatively sapiens, will no longer exist. short amount of time. What next? Before losing all hope, however, we should This is where the mind-blowing remember that what seems to be just around part starts. Throughout history the corner does not always materialise. After all, we have been subject to the same the nuclear age did not destroy the world and a physical forces, chemical reacflight to the moon has not resulted in us all livtions, and natural selection proing on Mars. l cesses that govern living beings. But this is no longer the case. Alexander Stubb is the former Prime The replacement of natural Minister of Finland and has been a regular Blue selection by intelligent design Wings columnist since 2005. could happen in any of three twitter.com/alexstubb ways: biological engineering,

48 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

SO MUCH SPACE THAT THE PERSON

BESIDE YOU COULD BE AT A DIFFERENT LATITUDE The incredible new Finnair Airbus A350, with a wider cabin and more spacious luggage racks. Finnair is Europe’s first airline to fly the new Airbus A350 XWB. Experience a new sense of flying at A350.finnair.com

Finnair ﬂies to all major cities in Asia and over 60 destinations in Europe.

DESTINATION LAPLAND

THE SECRET GARDEN

OF SANTA Korvatunturi is a famous fell in Lapland best known as the home of Father Christmas. An autumn trek to this remote, mysterious place is a riot of fiery colours. TEXT AND PHOTOS VILLE PALONEN

50 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Camping on top of a hill called Korvatunturinmurusta, some two kilometres from the peak of Korvatunturi fell. SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Reindeer husbandry is an important local industry and grazing is permitted throughout Urho Kekkonen National Park.

’ve been trekking alone for three weeks,” says Ali Leiniö. “I prefer hiking at my own pace, without having to hurry.” Leiniö, a 38-year-old nurse from Tampere, is one of the countless outdoors-loving Finns who travel to Lapland every September. Autumn is the peak tourist season, and with good reason: all the leaves and shrubs turn bright red and yellow (called ruska in Finnish), and the cold nights keep away the swarms of mosquitoes and gnats that madden hikers during the summer months. As the nights grow cooler, lucky trekkers might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. REMEMBER KEKKONEN? We’re sitting by a campfire at Vieriharju wilderness hut in the south-east corner of Urho Kekkonen National Park. The second biggest national park in Finland and also one of the most popular, it draws an estimated 300,000 hikers and skiers annually. Many are day trippers, but Leiniö has been a hardcore trekker for the past ten years. “Week-long treks started to feel a bit too short, so this time I wanted to test myself and came for almost a month,” Leiniö says. “This park is large enough for longer journeys. I’ve covered more than 300 kilometres.” When it comes to wilderness, Urho Kekkonen National Park has plenty of it to explore. This uninhabited area covers 2,550 square kilometres, an area twice the size of Hong Kong or three times Madeira.

52 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Urho Kekkonen National Park is the second biggest national park in Finland as well as one of the most popular, drawing close to 300,000 visitors annually.

The open highlands in the northern part near Saariselkä Resort are most popular among visitors thanks to good services and easy access. The south-east part, however, is more remote. Also known as the Eastern Wilderness (Itäkaira in Finnish), this corner of the park is covered with thicklymossed spruce and pine forests and vast peatlands that are nearly impossible to traverse. Local wildlife features 130 bird species – including the golden eagle, the park’s official emblem – and 21 different mammals together with the brown bear, the wolf, the wolverine, and the lynx. These large predators are rarely encountered by hikers, however. The national park has every service a hiker could ask for: well-marked trails, dozens of kilometres of duckboards, 37 open and reservable wilderness huts,

A note for visitors to this tiny log cabin on the west peak: On vacation, Sincerely Father Christmas.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

L V I

ies ir fl es a n c Fin servi y l lo. dai Iva to r.com ai finn

24 lean-to shelters, 130 fireplaces with firewood, 85 dry toilets, and even seven saunas. Everything (except a dozen pre-bookable huts) is completely free of charge. Hikers are free to roam anywhere they choose and camp basically anywhere they wish. Open fires are restricted in certain parts of the park, but designated campfire sites are plentiful and camping stoves can be used anywhere. Water in small streams is generally safe to drink. Founded in 1983, Urho Kekkonen National Park is named after the legendary statesman Urho Kaleva Kekkonen, president of Finland for 25 years between 1956 and 1981. Renowned for maintaining warm relations with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, Kekkonen is also remembered for his passion for the great outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Kekkonen enjoys near-mythical status in many surviving anecdotes, but the national park bearing his name boasts something far more mysterious: it is the real home of Santa Claus. HOME OF FATHER CHRISTMAS Americans have a misconception: Father Christmas doesn’t live in the North Pole. And you won’t find the 54 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

real Santa in Rovaniemi either, though thousands of British and Japanese tourists visit Santa Claus Village in this Arctic town every year. The real home of Father Christmas is Korvatunturi fell, as revealed in a children’s programme on Finnish national radio in 1927. Today every Finn – big or small, naughty or nice – knows it’s the true location of his secret workshop, where elves make toys and other gifts. This seldom-visited, isolated fell sits on the border between Finland and Russia. To get there, one has to trek across uninhabited wilderness – a feat performed by less than 200 hikers annually, only 10 to 20 of them from abroad. When I caught my first glimpse of Korvatunturi a few of years ago from the nearby fell of Naltiotunturi, its sharp peak looked exactly as remote and mysterious as I had imagined as a child. But when I learned that it’s possible – and not actually difficult at all – to hike there, I knew I’d take a closer look one day. THE SILVER PRINCESS In the morning, just before leaving Vieriharju wilderness hut, I check the guest book. There’s an entry from a couple of days earlier: “I’m hiking through autumn colours. Today is the beginning of my third

Above top: the view of Korvatunturi's highest peak (468m) through which lies the Finnish-Russian border. Above left: Sirkka Ikonen, whose nickname is Princess of the Eastern Wilderness, has been hiking here for 40 years. Above right: Ali Leiniö enjoys a campfire by the Vieriharju wilderness hut.

TREKKER’S GUIDE TO KORVATUNTURI HOW TO GET THERE Urho Kekkonen National Park lies in the eastern part of Lapland. The closest airports are Ivalo, Rovaniemi, and Kuusamo, where Finnair flies daily. The most popular part of the national park is the northern Saariselkä area, which can be reached by bus from Rovaniemi and Ivalo. Korvatunturi fell is located in the southeast corner of the park. The easiest way to get there is by (rental) car via Savukoski.

WILDERNESS HUTS Urho Kekkonen National Park has 37 wilderness huts maintained by the Finnish forestry services where anybody can overnight for free. Wilderness huts are equipped with wood stoves, gas stoves, and bunk beds. Seven even have a sauna. During peak seasons (Easter, September) huts may get crowded, so hikers should always carry their own tent or tarp just in case.

kemihaara.fi

nationalparks.fi

WHAT TO TAKE

WHERE TO TREK

BORDER PERMIT

In addition to overnight gear, pack a camping stove, knife, matches, first aid kit, and waterproofs. Crocs come in handy if you need to wade across a stream. Although paths are clearly marked, always carry a proper map and compass. Earplugs are essential in case someone's snoring at a wilderness hut. A light towel is also useful if you visit a sauna after a day's hike.

For gorgeous autumn colours, the best time to visit is September. The busiest hiking paths are in the Saariselkä area, especially around Lake Luirojärvi and Sokosti, the highest fell in the park (718 metres). There is also a popular 40-kilometre trekking route around the River Nuortti. The return trip from Kemihaara is about 50 kilometres and takes 3 to 4 days. Motor-sled day trips from Kemihaara to Korvatunturi are organised in winter.

Visitors need a special permit from the Finnish Border Guard to enter the border zone between Finland and Russia. The permit (rajavyöhykelupa in Finnish) is free. Online applications are processed within a few days. In the border zone, visitors are required to stay on the well-marked five-kilometre path. The border runs directly through the highest peak. Visitors have access only to the west peak about one and a half kilometres away.

outdoors.fi

suomi.fi

FISHING CHECKLIST The River Nuortti on the southeast rim of Urho Kekkonen National Park is an easy trekking destination and popular angling spot. Trout and grayling populate this clear river that runs through a canyon-like valley. Graylings are plentiful enough to be eaten, but the trout are rare and endangered: responsible anglers

practice catch and release fishing. The fishing season ends September 11 when trout are protected for the spawning season. Fishing permits (€10/day) may be purchased at the Korvatunturi Information Centre in Savukoski. savukosket.fi/kosket

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Autumn is the peak tourist season, and with good reason: all the leaves and shrubs turn bright red and yellow.

Korvatunturi rises above the valley in a shape resembling a gigantic ear — hence its name korva which is “ear” in Finnish.

week. Sirkka, Princess of the Eastern Wilderness.” The Princess in question is Sirkka Ikonen, a 77-year-old retired nurse, who came up with the nickname decades ago when she was walking across the colourful brush, which reminded her of a red carpet and made her feel like a royal. I actually met the Princess three years ago. We climbed to the top of Naltiotunturi fell and visited this very same wilderness hut, one of her favourites. The Princess explained how she came to this remote corner of Lapland in 1975 and fell in love at first sight. “I love this land,” she wrote in a wilderness hut guest book during her first visit. “I will return. I will come for two weeks and wander with the sun and winds, without a watch.” The Princess has returned countless times over the past 40 years, usually trekking 2 to 3 weeks at a time, preferably alone. Instead of taking pictures, she records her experiences by writing poetic reports in guest books, which has made her nothing short of a celebrity among hik56 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

One of the long duckboards over marshland on the way to Korvatunturi

ers: once she was even woken up from her sleeping bag by an autograph hunter. THE GIANT’S EAR The path leading to Korvatunturi is well-marked. The sun is shining and my backpack – stuffed with sleeping bag, mattress, tent, extra clothes, camping stove, food, and of course a few extra kilos of camera gear – feels surprisingly light. I cross dry boreal forest and walk the wooden duckboards stretching across a wet aapa bog. September has been warmer than usual, but the trees and brush are finally staging their annual fireworks display, especially in clearings. Though I have trekked everywhere from the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and the Himalayas to the rainforests of Borneo, Lapland never ceases to amaze me. Unlike Nepal, there are no tea houses or porters – here you have to carry everything you need – but there is freedom to roam. In the backwoods of Lapland you can go anywhere and everywhere. After a ten-kilometre hike I fill my water bottles with crystal-clear spring water from a narrow stream. I then begin climbing a hill with the daunting-to-pronounce name of Korvatunturinmurusta. The path becomes difficult as it takes me across a boulder field (rakka in Finnish), but after climbing a bit higher I finally catch my first glimpse of my goal. Korvatunturi rises above the forest-covered valley in a shape resembling a gigantic ear – hence its name: korva is ‘ear’ in Finnish. On top of the hill I find a campfire spot, wood shack, and dry toilet. I pitch my tent in the middle of

the boulder field, set up camp and cook dinner. The only sound is the howling of the wind. HORROR STORIES Early next morning I wake up to clear skies. After a breakfast of oatmeal and freshly picked blueberries, I feel ready to conquer the mystery fell. After a short walk I come across a string of warning signs. I have entered the border zone between Finland and Russia, but I have a special permit to enter. Applying online was easy: I simply explained that I wanted to see where Santa lives. Rare Exports, a Finnish movie released in 2010, offers quite a sinister version of the Korvatunturi legend. According to the film, Santa Claus was a demonlike creature that loved to whip naughty children until there was nothing left but bones. The Sámi people of Lapland imprisoned him inside the fell – essentially a man-made tomb – but in the movie, the ancient demon is accidentally released, transforming Christmas into an action-packed bloodbath. SINCERELY, SANTA After hiking another hour I reach a chain-link reindeer fence. I close the wooden gate behind me and hurry the last few hundred metres to the top. Hikers

are not allowed to visit the main 486-metre peak because it lies right on the border, but views from the 411-metre west peak are rewarding enough. A 360-degree panorama opens up from a cliff next to the border guard’s watch tower. The wilderness looks spectacular in its autumn colours, but the vast emptiness also feels slightly intimidating: there’s not a soul in sight. Disappointingly, neither is Santa, nor even a glimpse of his elves. After shooting dozens of pictures I escape the cool wind in a tiny log cabin to eat my packed lunch. On the wall hang a red hat, a fake beard and a hand-written note saying: “On vacation. Sincerely, Father Christmas.”l

BEHIND THE SCENES

Ville Palonen has been writing and photographing travel features about mountain trekking in Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Patagonia, and Borneo. This wasn't his first visit to Lapland and it won’t be his last!

FINE JEWELLERY BY TINA TILLANDER HANDMADE BY THE BEST FINNISH GOLDSMITHS SOLD EXCLUSIVELY AT KLUUVIKATU 1, HELSINKI TEL +358 9 686 0980, TILLANDER .COM

be privilegedċ be oneċ Introducing new oneworld benefitsċ Finnair Plus Platinum and Gold members both now enjoy additional baggage allowances on all oneworld airlines ġ and their baggage also receives priority handling from aircraft to carouselċ Learn more at oneworldċcom/benefits

member of

be connected Welcome to oneworldČ an alliance of the worldĚs leading airlines committed to providing the highest level of service and convenience across more than āČĀĀĀ destinations worldwideċ Whenever Finnair canĚt take you to your final destinationČ we encourage you to travel with our oneworld partner airlinesċ Enjoy an array of special privileges and rewards ģ which include earning and redeeming Finnair Plus points on all oneworld airlines andČ for Finnair Plus Platinum and Gold membersČ access to more than ćĆĀ premium airport loungesċ

oneworld alliance members

be recognised As a oneworld travellerČ satisfaction awaits you around the globeċ Your Finnair Plus status is recognised across all member airlinesċ And you are entitled to a range of benefitsČ which are provided according to the following oneworld tier levelsČ no matter which cabin class you are flying inč

*Access to preferred or preġreserved seating is in accordance with the individual policy of the oneworld member airline operating the flightċ First and business class checkġin desks and lounges are not available at all airportsċ Fast track is not available at all airportsċ Priority baggage handling is not available on flights operated by British Airwaysċ Extra baggage allowance benefits differ for Sapphire and Emerald level membersċ oneworld benefits are available only to passengers on scheduled flights that are both marketed and operated by a oneworld member airline (marketed means that there must be a oneworld member airlineĚs flight number on your ticket)ċ airberlinČ American AirlinesČ British AirwaysČ Cathay PacificČ FinnairČ IberiaČ Japan AirlinesČ LATAM AirlinesČ Malaysia AirlinesČ QantasČ Qatar AirwaysČ Royal JordanianČ SĈ AirlinesČ SriLankan Airlines and oneworld are trademarks of their respective companiesċ LATAM Airlines (Paraguay) is currently not a part of oneworldċ Some limitations and exceptions may applyċ For more informationČ visit wwwċoneworldċcom/benefitsċ

be global Roundġtheġworld travel is easyČ flexible and affordable with oneworld Explorerċ Fares are based on the number of continents you visit or pass throughČ and class of travelċ Select your routeČ plan your stopoversČ even adjust your itineraryċ oneworld Explorer means ultimate flexibility and valueċ

To bookČ or to discover more multiġcontinent and singleġcontinent optionsČ visit wwwċoneworldċcom/flights

DESTINATION SCOTLAND

I D E

to ies ee fl r thr nai Fin urgh ek. b we in Ed es a om tim nair.c fin

Deserted roads and snow-capped peaks are a hallmark of the NC500â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west coast section. 60 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

HIT THE ROAD IN

Scotland TEXT AND PHOTOS BY DANIEL ALLEN

cotland now has its own answer to America’s Route 66. The “NC500” – or North Coast 500 – was launched in the summer of 2015. Attracting growing numbers of cyclists, hikers, bikers, and drivers, it has already been ranked as one of the world’s most spectacular coastal road trips. Forming a 500-mile (800-kilometre) loop, the NC500 encompasses some of Britain’s wildest and most dramatic scenery. Starting and finishing in the city of Inverness (three hours by train from Edinburgh),

the venture is designed to open up the far north of Scotland to tourism. From deserted sandy beaches, ruined castles, and snow-clad peaks to rare wildlife, beautifully sited hotels, and fine local cuisine, the NC500 route is studded with iconic highlights. Take anything from a long weekend to a couple of weeks to explore this little slice of Scottish heaven. l northcoast500.com Inverness car hire: arnoldclarkrental.com

RIDING THE RAILS

ROSSLYN CHAPEL (ESKBANK STATION) Take a bus or taxi from the station to this mysterious 15th-century chapel, made famous by Dan Brown’s 2003 novel (and subsequent Tom Hanks thiller), the Da Vinci Code. rosslynchapel.com

ABBOTSFORD HOUSE (TWEEDBANK STATION) Take a taxi or shuttle bus from the station to this historic country house, former home of historical novelist and poet, Sir Walter Scott. Both picturesque and whimsical, it also boasts lovely gardens.

The NC500 isn’t Scotland’s only new visitor experience. Opened in September last year, the Borders Railway is the longest domestic railway to be constructed in Britain for over 100 years. It now transports passengers on a 55-minute, 50-kilometre journey across the bucolic heartland of southern Scotland, making a great one-day attraction for visitors to Edinburgh. Starting at Edinburgh’s Waverley station, the nine-stop Borders route makes a stop at the reopened Eskbank station and ends at Tweedbank, a new station just outside the small town of Melrose.

scottsabbotsford.com

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

EUROPEAN VOICES BY MARJA MAKAROW

Identifying excellence

hen Portugal won the with a deep understanding of diverse sci2016 European football entific domains. championship, the result But moving on from excellence to relwas clear: 1-0. Measurevance, innovations that make the world a better place often arise from unexpected ing sports excellence is simple, as symbolfindings. More than 100 years ago, Albert ised by the Olympic motto – citius, altius, Einstein wrote the theory of optics, on the fortius (“faster, higher, stronger”). Other basis of which scientists embarked on labaccomplishments such as artistic impresoratory experiments half a century later. sion in figure skating are more complicated to evaluate objectively, as the assess- Today this innovation – laser beams – is used in countless applications from wirement is influenced by a judge’s experience, less communication and neuro-surgery to taste, and even integrity. tailoring steel plates in shipbuilding. The excellence of an artwork is ultiScientists who actively drive the pracmately judged by the general public. tical application Avant-garde artists of their findings are ahead of the RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE are true acceleracurve, and someIN A TRAVEL DESTINATION IS tors of innovatimes their genius tion. Immunolois only understood LIKE JUDGING AN ARTWORK gist Sirpa Jalkanen by later generaOR IDENTIFYING AN from Finland’s tions. Think of Turku University Vincent van INNOVATION. recently received Gogh, who an EU Prize for never sold Women Innovators for her achievements a painting in his lifetime – and in technologies preventing inflammations then think of the prices his art fetches today. I w onder whether and the spread of cancer. Bio-engineer I am ready for the music of Frances Arnold from the California Instithe contemporary Finnish tute of Technology received the 2016 Milcomposer Kaija Saariaho. I will lennium Technology Prize for the discovwatch her opera L’ Amour de ery of a method for creating new enzymes Loin together with 60 million for industry use to replace technologies spectators worldwide when the using non-renewable raw materials and Metropolitan Opera transmits toxic chemicals. it live in cinemas in December. Recognising excellence in a travel desHow is excellence in science tination is a lot like judging an artwork or identified? Past performance identifying an innovation: to make enrichis assessed by comparing the ing discoveries – be they in culture, art, researcher’s published work architecture, nature, or lifestyle – travelto pre-existing science in the lers, too, need to keep an open mind. l field. Research is rated as excellent when it yields new knowlProfessor MARJA MAKAROW is director of edge. Anticipating the value of Biocenter Finland and the former vice president research yet to be done is much of the Academy of Finland, the Finnish more difficult. My experience Research Council. She is also former chief is that the radically new ideas of executive of the European Science Foundation young scientists can only be judged and vice rector of the University of Helsinki. by panels of wise, visionary researchers 62 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

THE TASTIEST TREATS

FROM FINLAND IN A RESTAURANT FLYING AT 900 KM/H The incredible new Finnair Airbus A350, with a menu inspired by fresh Nordic flavours. Finnair is Europe’s first airline to fly the new Airbus A350 XWB. Experience a new sense of flying at A350.finnair.com

Finnair ﬂies to all major cities in Asia and over 60 destinations in Europe.

DESTINATION NAGASAKI

The Peace Statue Memorial in Nagasakiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peace Park

K U F

to ies imes fl r t nai ee Fin a thr g the k . rin uo du ason Fuk eek e s a w mer om .c sum nnair fi

A MEMORABLE

MINI-BREAK 64 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Nestled in coastal hills on the southern island of Kyushu, the Japanese harbour city of Nagasaki exudes an easy-going spirit, unfettered by its complex and traumatic history. TEXT AND PHOTOS BY TIM BIRD

ithin easy reach of enchanting castles, broiling volcanoes, majestic cypress forests, manicured tea plantations, and healing onsen baths, Nagasaki’s metropolis, home to nearly half a million, is a compact base for exploring Kyushu’s northwest corner. From the early 7th century, and despite the efforts of Shogun rulers to keep them at bay and keep Japan closed to the outside world, traders from the Netherlands and Portugal made attempts to forge links here. Modern Nagasaki wears these influences plainly, and Catholic church spires rise

close to a bustling Chinatown, overlooked by colonial-style villas. The city’s name, of course, along with that of Hiroshima, is evocative of the first and only aggressive use of atomic weapons. Humbling, affecting reference is made at memorials and museums to that catastrophic morning in August 1945 when the second of two atomic bombs, nicknamed Fat Man, was dispensed by an American plane on the city. They couldn’t possibly forget the scale and impact of the event, but Nagasaki’s people are admirably forward-looking and proud of how their history has culminated in a contemporary cosmopolitan spirit.

ECHOES OF MADAM BUTTERFLY Nagasaki was the setting of Puccini’s opera Madam Butterfly and statues of the composer as well as singer Tamaki Miura are in the hilltop Glover Garden, perched above the city and a good place to get your bearings. The landscaped garden, reached by a funicular lift and navigated by a series of escalators, was home to the 19th-century Scottish merchant Thomas Blake Glover. Founder of the Kirin beer brand, Glover also played a part in establishing the Nagasaki shipyard that evolved into the vast Mitsubishi Corporation. The view from the verandas and terraces of the western-style bungalows, where Japanese girls pose for selfies in period costumes, spreads across the harbour to the cruise liners under construction at the modern-day shipyard. glover-garden.jp/foreign/english.html

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT

Castella sponge cake and green tea at the Chidiwa store Message of peace: bomb survivor Inosuke Hayasaki

Dejima, the historic Dutch trading post. 66 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

A short walk away from Glover Garden, you’ll pass the 19th-century wooden Gothic Oura Catholic Church at the top of a steep stairway. The church was dedicated to 26 Japanese martyrs, executed for their faith in an era when Christianity was still forbidden. Opportunities to sample a local specialty in the form of the Castella sponge cake abound around the small square at the bottom of the steps. It seems a little odd that in the land of light and delicate foodstuffs a western recipe of sugar, flour, eggs, and honey, introduced by the Portuguese in the 17th century, should be so relished. But this is almost certainly Nagasaki’s most iconic food item and snapped up in brightly coloured boxes by locals and tourists, Japanese and foreign. Drop in to the Chidiwa Nagasaki Kastella store near the Oura Church steps to taste an array of different flavours – strawberry, chocolate, green tea, and lemon are favourites. japanesecooking101.com/kasutera MESSAGES OF PEACE

“I thought the world was exploding,” remembers Nagasaki atomic bomb survivor Inosuke Hayasaki. “I can remember it as if it were yesterday. But now we welcome everyone here. I want to send a message of peace, that’s the lesson we’ve learned.” Nagasaki was not meant to be the target for the American ‘Fat Man’ atomic bomb on August 9, 1945. That dubious honour was to be awarded to Kokura further north, but cloud and smoke from previous bombing missions obscured the view, so Nagasaki and its naval shipyard drew the atomic short straw. Hayasaki, now in his mid-80s, can be found almost daily in the Peace Park close to the ground zero memorial, recounting his experiences to school groups and tourists. Visit the nearby museum of the Atomic Bomb first for the sobering in-depth story of this world-shattering event. japan-guide.com/e/e4400.html AN ISLAND OF TRADE Dejima, in the entrance to Nagasaki’s harbour, was built as an artificial island in the 17th century to house Portuguese residents. When the Portuguese were given their marching orders, the Dutch – the only Europeans permitted to stay in the country – moved in. Dejima became a trading base for the Dutch East India Company, a practical solution to the Japanese demand for keeping foreign influences at bay. Dejima is no longer an island but the Dutch trading post, with its warehouses, houses, gardens, entrances, and walls, has been rebuilt as an attractive museum area. nagasakidejima.jp/en/

Brilliant decorations at the Lantern Festival

Fermented green Matcha tea at Kofukuji Temple

Seafood and noodle soup at the Red Lantern restaurant

The Spectacles Bridge crosses the Nakashima River

NOODLE SOUP AT THE RED LANTERN

GREEN TEA IN THE KOFUKUJI TEMPLE

Nagasaki’s Chinese community is well integrated with the local Japanese these days, but Chinatown retains a distinct identity, concentrated on the streets and alleys radiating around a canal leading off the Nakashima River. Chinese traders settled in what was then a strictly segregated part of the city from the 15th to 19th centuries, attracted by Nagasaki’s status as the only Japanese port open to foreign trade. Now a bustling web of steaming street food stands, cloaked in mouth-watering aromas, Shinchi Chinatown is the focus for the annual Nagasaki Lantern Festival that continues for a couple of weeks after the Chinese New Year. Dragon dance and ethnic music shows vie for attention with lanterns and illuminated installations in a riot of sound and colour. To sample Nagasaki’s Chinese culinary heritage, head down to the Red Lantern on the waterfront in the Dejima district for a lunch of seafood and noodle Champon soup. japan-guide.com/e/e4404.html

Cross Magani-baji or ‘Spectacles Bridge’, so named for its twin arch structure and one of a chain of old stone crossings that span the Nakashima River, and head up to the Shokakuji district to pass through the red gateway of the Sofukuji Temple. This denotes the top end of Teramachi or Temple Town, marked with a dozen Buddhist temples; a comfortable and colourful walk from end to end. The oldest of these is Kofukuji Temple, built in 1620 and designated as a National Treasure. Take a stroll around the landscaped gardens at the back of the temple complex and find the Priest’s apartments. For a donation to the upkeep of the temple, the Priest will welcome you in to sample a bowl of thick and frothy fermented green Matcha tea and a confectionery. Matcha, made from specially nurtured green tea powder, contains concentrated levels of antioxidants and figures in traditional tea ceremonies. l japan-guide.com/e/e4401.html SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

68 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

THE UPGRADED LEADER Making wise decisions in an unpredictable world is one of the hardest tasks any leader has to face. According to experts, this ability can be improved in many ways.

TEXT BY KATI HEIKINHEIMO ILLUSTRATION BY TIINA KÄLKÄINEN

olatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous: This is the environment (VUCA for short, a term borrowed from military jargon) most business leaders must operate in today. The flood of factors to be played against each other is likely to push anyone into reactive mode – which is far from the ideal state for smart decision-making. Whereas it is rarely possible to change our outer circumstances, there is much that can be done to alter our ability to manoeuvre in the face of complexity.

TRAINING THE MIND Mindfulness techniques have become mainstream at workplaces around the world – so much is obvious from a glance at business publications such as Forbes and Harvard Business Review or the programme of any leading business summit. According to Leena Pennanen, international mindfulness pioneer and founder of Finland’s Centre for Mindfulness, many corporate giants have well-established and effective mindfulness programmes. These include SAP, Intel, Google, General Mills, and Goldman Sachs.

Usually the adoption of extensive group-wide programmes stems from positive personal experiences among the organisation’s leadership. An increasing number of managers have incorporated stillness breaks into their daily routine. Regular mindfulness meditation actually changes the brain’s physiology, allowing for what Pennanen calls a greater “space to lead.” Through practice, clarity of thought can override the reactive mode and thus lead to a better ability to analyse complex situations, solve conflicts, and make balanced decisions. It also builds emotional intelligence (EI), which allows the manager to hear others without getting caught up in personal reactions. Not to mention the health benefits. “To cite a corporate-level example, the American health insurance company Aetna achieved impressive results with a mindfulness programme for employees. The participants reported an average 28 per cent reduction in their stress levels, a 20 per cent improvement in sleep quality, and a 19 per cent reduction in pain,” says Pennanen. In addition, the employees improved their efficiency, gaining an average of 62 minutes a week in SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

3 STEPS FOR A CLEARER MIND 1. BE OPEN Does meditation sound way too hippie? Is it unthinkable to use your precious work time sitting idle, let alone to encourage employees to do so? Despite vast research on the benefits, there are managers that are sceptical towards these methods, says mindfulness trainer Leena Pennanen. “We could just as well refer to it as training one’s focusing skills and improving decision-making – which mindfulness really is about,” says Pennanen. 2. SLEEP ENOUGH Sleep deprivation is one of the most significant health risks in the modern world, says Aki Hintsa. On the short term, cognitive abilities decrease significantly; long-term risks include chronic diseases and weaker immunity. According to Hintsa, all adults need about 8.5 hours of sleep: the assumption that some people need less sleep is a myth. Compromising this need results in lower intellectual capacity. 3. OWN YOUR LIFE It makes no sense to live out someone else’s dreams and targets – yet many of us do. Take some time to answer the questions Hintsa asks all his clients: Do you know who you are? Do you know what you want? Are you in control of your own life?

productivity, which Aetna estimates is equivalent to $3,000 (2,700 euros) per employee per year. VALUABLE LIVING Taking short pauses even during the most hectic workdays is one of the methods recommended to clients by former Formula One physician and wellness expert Aki Hintsa. He advocates stillness breaks, exercise, and a healthy diet as powerful tools for reaching ambitious targets in a highly demanding environment. But, for a long-lasting solution, one must look much deeper. “Do you know who you are?” This is the first question Hintsa asks his clients, who mainly consist of top managers and world-class athletes. During his years working as a missionary doctor in Africa, he developed a model of holistic wellbeing, linking an individual’s core values to their level of happiness, performance, and success. As recounted in his book The Core, many highly successful overachievers have surprising difficulty answering this question. 70 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

“In my experience, about 80 per cent of top managers feel they need to wear a mask that they can only take off at home. They rely on mannerisms that don’t necessary reflect their inner values,” Hintsa explains over the phone from Geneva, Switzerland, where his clinic is located. The mask is a form of protection, but it can turn against its wearer: “There’s a great risk of ending up burned out behind the mask, because it hides us from ourselves as well,” he says. Losing touch with our identity easily results in a life where other people’s demands and targets start dictating our actions and priorities. Even the most basic needs such as sleep, rest and social interaction can ultimately be neglected. Our ability to maintain a sufficient level of what Hintsa calls “mental energy” grows weaker. “When mental energy is low, we go into survival mode. It becomes very hard to focus. When it comes to top executives, this typically means they might approve proposals presented by their subordinates without having the capacity to question or contribute,” Hintsa says. Staying in touch with our core identity and what really motivates us is a topic also explored by philosopher and author Frank Martela. A popular speaker, researcher, and corporate consultant, he has propagated the notion of inner motivation, the dynamo that leads to both action and happiness. In his Handbook of Inner Motivation, Martela argues that not all life goals are equal – intrinsic objectives strengthen our wellbeing, extrinsic objectives do not. “The prior include aspirations such as good relationships, helping others, and personal development. The latter are targets such as wealth and fame. Research shows that – even for purely selfish reasons! – it is wiser to strive for intrinsic objectives, since they bring most happiness,” he says.

Both Hintsa and Martela emphasise that success and top performance are inherently narrow life goals – but they are the likely outcome or pleasant side effect of hard work that is fuelled by passion. They must also be kept in balance with other areas of life. ROOM FOR THOUGHT If it is challenging just to keep your own head clear enough in the VUCA world, how can you steer teams or whole organisations and help them make good decisions? “Just let them,” says Martela. His vision of a successful organisation is based on empowerment. “Employees are the best experts on what they work with. They are also best placed to spot hidden signals and respond to changes in the operating environment. An authoritarian management system disregards these facts and aims to think and decide on behalf of the employees,” says Martela. A hierarchy based on status instead of functionality does not encourage agility. Martela urges managers to ask themselves: Why do I lead? Is it to decide (power) or spar and enable (empower)? Making employees responsible for their own decisions means giving away managerial control. It also requires the ability to tolerate errors, which will unavoidably occur. However, delegating gives managers crucially important “space to lead,” allowing them to focus on what they do best.

Answers to big questions such as “Who am I?” and “Why do I want to lead others?” can feel impossible to find in the midst of the everyday mayhem, so it helps to start small. A ten-minute stillness break will help to hone your concentration skills – and, ideally, reveal your true source of motivation. l For short mindfulness exercises to try out during your flight, see page 81.

LUT eMBA [ Yksilöllinen valinta ] Vaihtoehtoiset teemaopinnot alkamassa Innovaatiojohtaminen 25/11/2016 alkaen Lahdessa Hankintojen johtaminen 3/2017 alkaen Lahdessa Tietojohtaminen 3/2017 alkaen Lahdessa Teemaopinnot valittavana myös erillisinä asiantuntijaohjelmina.

LISÄTIETOJA:

LUT Täydennyskoulutus

Asiakkuuspäällikkö Sari Valkeapää sari.valkeapaa@lut.fi

lut.fi/mba

Rohkeat ajattelevat toisin. Ole yksi meistä.

FASHIONATING

FINNS Meet the mad talent bubbling behind three top Finnish labels now available through Finnair’s A350 Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal. TEXT BY SILJA KUDEL

Fashion onboard The designs of Paola Suhonen, Makia and Minna Parikka are now available through the Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal on Finnair’s A350 aircraft.

72 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Beautifully odd: hotel interiors are Paola Suhonen’s latest foray as a designer.

ROCKING VAGABOND In her whimsical frock and long platinum locks, Paola Suhonen is like a walking advertisement for her label, IvanaHelsinki. Sipping coffee and fondly patting the drum-kit in her airy Helsinki studio (yes, she plays), she describes herself as a “hobo girl with a poet’s soul and a rock ‘n’ roll heart.” A Scandinavian version of Twin Peaks – that’s IvanaHelsinki. “It has a romantic vintage look, yet with an odd edge either in the print or silhouette,” says Suhonen. But to describe IvanaHelsinki as ‘just’ a fashion label would be an injustice. It is Suhonen’s “personal playground” – a platform for diverse projects ranging from art films to home textiles. “I’ve never considered myself a fashion designer, but an artist who needs many creative outlets. Fashion was an obvious choice, as our family ran a jeans factory,” notes Suhonen. She recently sought fresh inspiration during an “extended five-year road trip” studying filmmaking in New York and Los Angeles, returning to Finland in 2013. “I love Americana, but it feels great to be back home,” Suhonen adds.

IVANAHELSINKI • Founded 1998 by Paola and her sister Pirjo Suhonen • The only Scandinavian women’s label to show both at New York Fashion Week and in the official Paris Fashion week calendar • Collaborator with top brands including Coca Cola, Uniqlo, Top Shop, Angry Birds, Swarovski, Canon, Google, and Amnesty shop.ivanahelsinki.com

SUHONEN’S HELSINKI • “Kalvik’s sandy beach is a hidden gem in eastern Helsinki: perfect for nature walks.” • “The Love & Anarchy indie film festival is a great way to kick off autumn in the city.” • “HSS Boathouse is an island restaurant with a classic vintage feel.”

ROAD TRIPPER Her latest collection, ‘As Time Passes By’, has a Gothic darkness inspired by a visit to her grandmother’s abandoned house in eastern Finland. “Grandma’s bathrobe was still hanging there. It felt like time had stopped – a bit creepy,” she says. As of autumn, IvanaHelsinki will be launching three new items per week, varying from videos to potholders. Suhonen adds, “The industry is changing because of the internet. People constantly want something new. We wanted flexibility, so we decided to give up the standard two collections a year.” Suhonen is currently busy redesigning the interiors of Sokos Presidentti Hotel and preparing her first solo exhibition opening at Kunsthalle Helsinki in December. It will showcase “pure art, not fashion”: photos, paintings, the feature film 7 Heaven Love Ways, and a documentary – eight years in the making – about the world’s oldest adult entertainer, Nina Hartley. “The show’s working title is Road Tripping. All my work is a visual diary of my adventures on the road, telling stories about things that touch me,” says Suhonen. SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

Put bounce in your step: Minna Parikka’s shoes are loved by playful women who aren’t afraid to show personality in the way they dress.

MINNA PARIKKA LTD. • Footwear label founded in 2005 • Parikka’s designs are stocked in 25 countries by top fashion retailers including Selfridges, Harrods, Galeries Lafayette Beijing, 10 Corso Como Seoul, Harvey Nichols UK, Kuwait & HK, I.T., and Isetan minnaparikka.com/en/

PARIKKA’S HELSINKI

• “Lake Kuusijärvi is a great yearround swimming spot. I love winter swimming.” • “Hietalahti market hall has been done up beautifully with new food stalls. Try the pulled oats – a great vegetarian option with a chewy texture.” • “I can’t wait to bounce under disco balls at the new Rush Trampoline Park for adults.”

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE Supermodel Cara Delevingne is crazy about them. Style blogger Susie Bubble squealed with delight when she laid eyes on them. Taylor Swift, Kylie Jenner, and countless other celebrity style mavens are hopping-mad fans. Bunny sneakers are the latest Instagram sensation from Minna Parikka, a Helsinki-based designer who launched her eponymous footwear label in 2005. Ten years later she hit the mother lode after the UK press and bloggers picked up the iconic Bunny as an ‘it’ item. Parikka’s trainers with long rabbit ears have a delicious naughty ‘n’ nice vibe. Bunny ears are often associated with Playboy Playmates, yet these playful trainers are made for bold women on the move: a feminist statement, perhaps? “You choose the message. There’s also an allusion to Alice in Wonderland falling down the rabbit hole. It all started as an innocent reference to a bunny hiding in a shoe, but I like the hint of naughtiness,” says Parikka. When asked to describe her style, she replies: “totally bonkers” in a crisp British accent – a souvenir 74 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

from her years studying shoe design in the UK. In a career now spanning more than a decade, Parikka has moved on from ultra-feminine heels to wearable flats, constantly pushing fashion boundaries with her outrageous motifs, prints, and colours. “Life is too short to take style too seriously,” she says. GLAMMING IT Many of Parikka’s loveable designs look like they could be sized down for toddlers – which in fact inspired the launch of the Mini collection last December. “A lot of people were asking for kids’ shoes, so it was a natural move. My style is so girly that it translates beautifully into children’s shoes. And they’re selling like hotcakes,” she says, beaming. If playful by design, Minna Parikka footwear is seriously sustainable. It is manufactured by small family-owned workshops in Alicante, Spain, using allEuropean textiles and leather sourced as a by-product of the meat industry. The new autumn collection, ‘A Kind of Magic’, promises “glam with an edge”. “Expect a lot of sparkle,” grins Parikka.

OTTO HELKAMA

“Our typical customer is in his thirties and is coming to terms with adult life and appreciates the benefits of simple Nordic design,” says Joni Malmi.

DOCKYARD DEBONAIR Sixteen years ago, Joni Malmi sat brainstorming with two friends on a small island outside Helsinki. The streetwear of the time was impossible to identify with: flashy, over-the-top, alien. “We decided to do something about it. Our career paths eventually led separate ways, but I continued to pursue the idea with our head designer, Jesse Hyväri,” says Malmi. The result was Makia Clothing, a brand that says ‘no’ to throwaway fashion, combining classic looks, Nordic quality, and advanced technical features. “We try to offer people approachable fashion that looks good season after season – clothing you can mix and match with your own style and feel good about,” he says. ROUGH AROUND THE EDGES ‘Down-to-earth’ describes both the brand and the Makia office, housed in a red-brick building that once served as a locker room in Helsinki’s dockyards. “The vibe perfectly matches our brand – a little rough around the edges,” says Malmi. Though better-known as a men’s label, Makia’s nofrills sensibility has struck a chord with a growing tribe of female fans. “Women have liked our designs since we started the men’s line – the women’s collection is basically an adaptation. It’s going strong and we’ll continue to expand,” notes Malmi. The core collection carries over from one season to the next, with new items added seasonally to keep things fresh and relevant. Makia’s latest conquest, footwear, was a response to a market gap for sharplooking casual walking shoes.

“We started out with only a few models and demand grew quickly. Now we have 13 different styles and colours for next season,” says Malmi, adding “It’s been fascinating to watch a small company grow into global success story – you know, the American way. It takes time to establish a brand starting from scratch, so we’ve been happy to receive awesome feedback and notice an increase in demand outside Finland.” l

MAKIA CLOTHING • Finnish fashion label founded in 2001 by partners Jesse Hyväri (Head Designer), Joni Malmi (Brand Director), and Totti Nyberg (CCO) • Stocked in 300 stores in more than 20 countries makiaclothing.com

MALMI’S HELSINKI

• “You can find pristine forests and lakes only a stone’s throw from Helsinki in Nuuksio National Park.” • “The newly opened Löyly design sauna is right next to our office in south Helsinki.” • “Eat and explore history on Lonna Island, easily accessible from the harbour marketplace by ferry.”

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FINNAIR NEWS

@ YOUR SERVICE Have a question about your Finnair flight? Send a tweet to @FinnairHelps, the official Finnair customer service account.

COMPILED BY THE BLUE WINGS TEAM

ONBOARD

Fresh new autumn flavours

Chef Sasu Laukkonen has created the “Winter” menu for Finnair’s Business Class.

PACKAGE HOLIDAYS

THE NEWEST Finnair Signature Menu by award-winning chef Sasu L aukkonen debuts in Business Class on long-haul flights departing from Helsinki as of September 28th. Laukkonen, who created his first Signature Menu for Finnair earlier this year, is the much-lauded chef and creator of several restaurants including Helsinki’s Chef & Sommelier, which has been awarded a Michelin star every year since 2014. The “Winter” menu begins with an amuse-bouche of beef rillette with cucumber and mustard, an appetizer of confit of duck, roasted beetroot and apple mayonnaise, followed by Jerusalem artichoke soup with horseradish and smoked rainbow trout. Mains feature baked cod with kale and roasted almonds, or gently smoked lamb neck with root vegetable purée and porcini mushroom sauce. The menu is accompanied by Finnair’s award-winning selection of wines and spirits. Organic Jymy ice cream made in Finland is served for dessert to finish off the gourmet meal. finnair.com

TOP SELLERS

3 most-sold cosmetics onboard

Bioeffect EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) skin protein The ultra-popular serum from Iceland contains Nobel prize-winning Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) that signals skin cells to accelerate their renewal so that skin becomes firmer and more radiant. (€129)

Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Refining Moisture Complex

This classic Elizabeth Arden moisturising formula is rich, emollient, and protective, providing an occlusive barrier to prevent moisture loss. (€19.50)

Under the Italian sun FINNAIR’S Aurinkomatkat (Suntours) package tour operator offers Finland’s largest selection of Italian destinations with Pesaro, Rimini, Taormina, Naxos, Cattolica on the roster well into October. Letojanni in Sicily, Aurinkomatkat’s newest destination, offers a taste of authentic Italian village life complete with trattorias and fine dining along with kilometres of long sandy beaches. aurinkomatkat.fi

76 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Moroccanoil Treatment Hair Oil infused with argan oil

For all hair types, this Travel Retail Exclusive works as a conditioning, styling and finishing tool. (€24.50) finnair.com

SYKETTÄ YLÖS TAI KEHON JA MIELEN HARMONIAA Viihdy suosikkiurheilulajisi parissa, lataa akkuja spa-hotelleissa ja keskity rentoutumiseen ja virkistymiseen. Tutustu uuteen Hyvään oloon -lomakokoelmaan aurinkomatkat.ﬁ/lomakokoelmat

FINNAIR NEWS

MORE TIME TO DECIDE Try Finnair’s new Hold My Booking option. Your flight price is guaranteed for up to 72 hours. Go to finnair.com for more information.

COMPILED BY THE BLUE WINGS TEAM

Airport news

Airport updates

AS FINNAIR’S HUB continues upgrades to accommodate 20 million passengers by 2020, it’s hassle-free business as usual at Helsinki Airport — complete with a range of new services.

Finavia, the Finnish airport operator, is offering Chinesespeaking service guides in both the Schengen and non-Schengen areas of the Airport to help passengers through to the end of the year.

Co-creating the customer service experience IN ORDER TO better understand its customers, Finnair is hosting a new online community together with Finnair Plus members and InterQuest, an expert in digital customer experience. “The goal is to better understand our customers, provide relevant and timely insights for developing products and services, and drive a customer-centric design

culture at Finnair,” says Taru Annala, Finnair’s Manager of Customer Research. Finnair Plus members in four language groups – Finnish, Swedish, English, and simplified Chinese – participate in a range of activities that enable them to make their voices and opinions heard and directly affect the development of the airline’s services with Finnair staff. F ind us on Facebook Badge

TWEET OF THIS MONTH

@Finnair #A350 from Silicon Valley to #slush2016 in Helsinki. Direct flight to Slush: SFO–HEL–SFO Nov 28–Dec 2 twitter.com/Finnair

A new soundscape trial over the summer months in Terminal 2 has been testing the benefits of creating a calm atmosphere in areas such as security control, which can be a source of anxiety for some travellers. A welldesigned soundscape can increase people’s wellbeing.

Taxiway renovations are on track to finish this October, providing even smoother journeys for passengers arriving and departing from the Airport.

C MYK / .ai

FEELFINNAIR ON INSTAGRAM

A new generation of crew. fannycharlottas #graduation #feelfinnair instagram.com/feelfinnair

78 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

online in issuu.com

Finnair is an official partner of the Olympic Committee and Team Finland and continues their work together postRio 2016. facebook.com/finnair

Read Blue wings online at issuu.com

issuu.com/headofficefinland

FLY FINNAIR

Your complete guide to travelling with us

WELCOME ABOARD We want you to enjoy your flight. This guide contains all the information you need for stress-free travelling. We have even included tips for inflight wellbeing and entertainment. So sit back, relax and enjoy your travel experience.

In this guide 80 81 82 83 84 85 88 92 94 98

TIPS FOR TAKEOFF INFLIGHT WELLBEING ENTERTAINMENT SHOPPING SUSTAINABILITY HELSINKI AIRPORT MAPS FLEET FINNAIR PLUS FINLAND IN FIGURES

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FLY FINNAIR TIPS FOR TAKEOFF

FINNAIR

TRAVEL TIPS

in a nutshell

KATI IHAMÄKI Finnair’s Director Corporate Sustainability

Established in 1923, Finnair is one of the world’s oldest operating airlines.

“To ensure that all Finnair passengers have a pleasant flight, we ask that you notify us of a disability or need for assistance when booking your ticket. If you already have made the reservation then please contact Finnair’s service number in Finland (+358 9 818 0800) or message Finnair via our social media channels. Also, wheelchairs and mobility aids are always allowed onboard a Finnair flight at no extra cost — provided that you let us know latest 48 hours before departure. If you have further questions, Finnair’s customer service staff are always happy to assist and guide passengers!”

Finnair’s route network includes 17 destinations in Asia, 3 in North America and some 74 in Europe. In 2015, Finnair carried 10.3 million passengers. More than 1.6 million passengers fly between Asia and Helsinki each year.

SAFETY

IN YOUR POCKET THE FINNAIR MOBILE APP is available for iOS and Android devices. The app provides up-to-the-minute flight information and e-boarding pass storage. Check-in on your mobile to avoid the queues, upgrade your travel class, and view Finnair Plus point balances. Simply log in with your Finnair Plus member ID. Go to finnair.com to learn more and see all the features.

80 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

SAFER JOURNEY SAFETY INFORMATION is presented by the cabin crew at the start of each flight. This information is also listed on the safety instruction card in your seat pocket. Safety belts must remain fastened when the “Fasten safety belt” sign is on. For safety reasons we recommend keeping them fastened even when the sign has been switched off. Handheld devices can be used throughout the flight (including takeoff and landing) in airplane-mode. Laptops and larger devices must be stowed away during takeoff and landing, but can be used when the “Fasten safety belt” sign has been switched off.

FLY FINNAIR INFLIGHT WELLBEING

FOOD AND DRINK

EAT WELL

Business class passengers on long-haul flights can enjoy Signature menus prepared by chefs from top restaurants. The menus offer passengers a taste of Nordic flavours.

Foods to fuel on European flights FANCY A SNACK ONBOARD? Then take a look at the Sky Bistro menu card in your seat pocket. For a small fee, you can choose from a tasty selection of food and beverages. Try our new cucumber drink – it will keep you hydrated during the flight! Coffee, tea, water, and Finnair’s signature blueberry juice are always served free of charge on all Finnair flights.

WELLBEING

MINDFULNESS

INFLIGHT EXERCISES

Sit back and relax

These moves keep you fit while flying. Hold each movement for a few seconds and repeat five times per side.

Mindfulness instructor Aleksi Litovaara's exercises will help you feel calm and rested during your flight.

BE AWARE: The basic idea of mindfulness is that you have arrived. The aircraft is already taking you where you need to be so just sit back and relax. Watch, listen, and feel your present environment.

CIRCLES

LIFT

RAISE

LOWER

Lift one foot and draw circles with your toes. Reverse direction.

Lift one knee up and then lower your foot back down to the floor.

Keep heels on the floor and lift your toes upwards, then release.

Keep toes on the floor and lift your heels upwards, then release.

TACKLE ANXIETY: If you experience nervousness or restlessness, try holding an object in your hand. It will help bring your attention to that simple physical sensation instead of getting caught up in your own thoughts.

3 SHRUG

NOD

ROTATE

TURN

Lift your shoulders up towards your ears and release.

Lower your chin slowly towards your chest and lift back up again.

Gently rotate your head from side to side. Keep your shoulders relaxed.

Slowly lower your left ear to your left shoulder and then back up again.

THINK POSITIVE: This is a good moment to choose nice words towards yourself and other passengers — if only in your mind. You can also ask yourself: what do I need right now? It may well be reading a book or getting some rest instead of working on your computer. aleksilitovaara.com

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FLY FINNAIR ENTERTAINMENT

BE ENTERTAINED AND CONNECTED

WHAT’S PLAYING

Experience the Nordic Sky entertainment system and the Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal onboard Finnair A350 XWB aircraft.

ON SCREEN

THE NORDIC SKY inflight entertainment system is available onboard Finnair A350 flights. Not only will it keep you entertained with a wide range of movies and TV series, it also helps you stay up to date on what’s happening during your flight, from when dinner is served to updated arrival information. With the Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal, you can enjoy a host of fantastic services via your own mobile device. You can use the portal free of charge to access finnair.com and Finnair services such as destination information, customer care, and pre-order shopping. Speaking of shopping, Finnair and Finnish designer Minna Parikka have teamed up. You can now purchase Minna Parikka’s iconic shoes from the shoe shop during your flight via the Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal. Here’s how to get started: 1. Turn your device to flight mode and enable Wi-Fi. 2. Join the Wi-Fi network “Nordic Sky”. 3. Open the browser of your choice. 4. Start exploring.

Want to know more about your destination? Nordic Sky offers travel tips to make your landing even easier.

PICK OF THE MONTH Kids

THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE An island populated by birds is visited by green piggies. It’s up to three outcasts to figure out what the pigs are up to.

82 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Latest films and TV series

MOVIE THE NICE GUYS. A mismatched pair of private eyes investigate the apparent suicide of an adult movie star in 1970s Los Angeles. MOVIE THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY. After growing up poor in India, Srinivasa earns admittance to Cambridge University during WWI, where he excels at mathematics. MOVIE ME BEFORE YOU. Louisa Clark takes a caretaker job where she helps Will Traynor, a wealthy young banker who has become wheelchair bound. TV SERIES LAST MAN ON EARTH. Almost 2 years after a virus wiped out most of the human race, Phil Miller only wishes for some company. TV SERIES YOU’RE THE WORST. This sitcom centres on two toxic, self-destructive people who fall in love and attempt a relationship.

RADIO SOUNDS OF CHINA. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the beautiful sounds of China.

PLUG IN!

Most Airbus A340 aircraft and all Airbus A330 aircraft are equipped with an electricity socket, which you will find under your seat. On the Airbus A350 aircraft, you will find a USB port located in the seatback monitor in Economy class and directly from the seat in Business class.

FLY FINNAIR INFLIGHT SHOPPING

BACK TO SCHOOL AND WORK

BOBBI BROWN LONG-WEAR GEL EYELINER DUO FINNAIR Available in pre-order EXCLUSIVE shopping catalogue €37

LIMITED

Check out our wide range of global and Finnish brands in the pre-order shopping catalogue! Pssst: The Nordic Sky Wi-Fi portal onboard the A350 gives you direct access to pre-order shopping.

MADE IN FINLAND

Pre-Order

CITY PRICE

PRE-ORDER before your next flight STOCK

-60%

-50%

CITY PRICE

-40%

FINNAIR CARRIES a wide selection of cosmetics, fragrances, gift items, confectionary, and jewellery, all of which can be purchased before your flight. On most Intercontinental flights and flights to and from destinations outside the EU, wine and spirits are available for purchase. You also earn Finnair Plus points with every purchase.

LAROCHE CHABLIS, ST. MARTIN, AOP FINNAIR Available in pre-order EXCLUSIVE shopping catalogue €17.50

LIMITED

STOCK

FINNAIR

EXCLUSIVE

LIMITED

STOCK

MADE IN FINLAND

CITY PRICE

-60%

Pre-Order

CITY PRICE

-50%

MADE IN FINLAND

CITY PRICE

-60%

-50%

IVANAHELSINKI SUNGLASSES Available in pre-order shopping catalogue €77

CITY PRICE

-40%

PRE-ORDER

IVANAHELSINKI MOOMIN PURSE Available in pre-order shopping catalogue €32

for stress-free shopping Ordering in advance is always a good idea. You can save up to 60 per cent compared to city prices. There’s no minimum order and your purchase will be waiting at your seat on your next flight! www.finnairshop.com

FINNAIR

EXCLUSIVE

MADE IN FINLAND

SEPTEMBER 2016 Pre-Order

BLUE WINGS

FLY FINNAIR SUSTAINABILITY

FINNAIR

BETTER PLANET A few examples of Finnair’s societal involvement in action: THE UNITED NATIONS Global Compact is a corporate responsibility initiative aiming to make human rights, fair labour standards, environmental responsibility, and anti-corruption core parts of the participating companies’ operations. Finnair has been a member since 2013. The airline also signed the United Nations Women’s Empowerment Principles in 2011.

FINNAIR has received 6 of 13 forthcoming Airbus A350 aircraft, which cut back on fuel consumption and emissions by 25 per cent.

A SWAN SONG FOR “OLGA” THIS SUMMER Finnair bid farewell to its oldest A340 aircraft, affectionately nicknamed “Olga,” which joined the fleet in 2006. At more than 99,000 hours in the sky and 21 years of age, Olga reached an industry-recommended status for retirement and dismantling. Preparing for the hand-off of an ageing aircraft takes several months of work: the process includes a full final maintenance, and the consolidation of all documentation pertaining to the aircraft’s service and operating history. The dismantling process itself, handled by a New Mexico-based com-

WORK WITH US

DO GOOD Finnair makes it even easier to donate to charity. Passengers can now make a donation to UNICEF Finland when they book their flights on the Finnair website. Donations are possible in sums of five, ten, or twenty euros. Finnair also collaborates with many other environmental and humanitarian organisations.

84 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

pany, follows the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association’s (AFRA) guidelines. The goal is for at least 95 per cent of the aircraft’s weight to be recycled or reused. Among the most valuable reusable components are engines, landing gears and auxiliary power units, while cabin linings and insulation materials often make up a non-recyclable five per cent. It’s very likely that some of the parts of this aircraft make their way back into our fleet,” says Heidi Heikkilä, head of Fleet Management Projects at Finnair.

FINNAIR was one of the first airlines in the world to receive an IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification; this environmental management system is a set of processes and practices that enable an airline to reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency.

THE AIRLINE supports the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) goal of zero emissions trading scheme. Finnair is dedicated to reducing its carbon dioxide emission revenue as much as 20 per cent per tonne-kilometre from 2009 to 2017. Another ambitious goal is to reduce the total amount of de-icing fluids by 40 per cent from 2006 to the end of 2016.

afraassociation.org

Members of Finnair Plus can onate points to the following d charities at finnairplusshop.com: • The Finnish Association for Nature Conservation • The Association of Friends of the University Children’s Hospitals • The Cancer Society of Finland • The Finnish Red Cross • UNICEF Finland • The Baltic Sea Action Group • Hope • WAU ry

FINNAIR CONDUCTS an annual employee well-being survey, participates in campaigns promoting equal opportunities at the workplace, and places a strong focus on occupational safety and continuous training.

IN 2015 FINNAIR joined the Climate Leadership Council, an initiative bringing together leading Finnish businesses to combat climate change and foster business eco-technologies. The airline is also included on the CDP’s (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project) 2015 Nordic Disclosure Leadership Index (CDLI), which comprises organisations that have scored within the top 10 per cent in the region in their efforts to disclose carbon emissions and energy data.

FLY FINNAIR HELSINKI AIRPORT

HAPPY LANDINGS Arriving and departing Helsinki Airport

PASSENGERS at Helsinki Airport can use the 30 automated border control gates. Fifteen of these are located in the departure hall. The Finnish Border Guard’s automated border control helps serve growing passenger volumes at Helsinki Airport. EU, EEA, Japanese, and Swiss nationals with biometric passports can take advantage of the automated border control gates. Other foreign nationals, who are exempt from the visa requirement and hold a biometric passport, may also use the automated border control upon departure. This service is available for Australian, Canadian, Japanese, New Zealand, South Korean, and U.S. citizens. The automated border control is monitored by a border guard ensuring secure border crossings. Please note that passengers travelling with an infant, baggage trolley or wheelchair must use the manual border control lane.

AUTOMATED BORDER CONTROL Place your passport with the info page face down on the reader. Please wait while your passport is being read for biographical and biometric data. When the scan is complete, the gate will open. ヘルシンキ・ヴァンター空港シェンゲンエリアでは、入出国審査の際に自動化ゲートをご利用頂けます。対象となるのはICパスポートをお持ちのお客様です。

대한민국 전자여권을 소지한 승객께서는 유럽에서 한국으로 입국 시, 헬싱키 공항에서 자동출국심사 서비스를 이용 하실 수 있습니다.

① パスポートの顔写真ページを読み取ります。該当ページを読み取り機の上に置いて下さい。個人情報と生体認証データを読み取ります。

우선, 전자여권의 사진 페이지를 인식장치에 올려주시기를 바랍니다. 이 과정에서 여권정보가 시스템에 자동 인식됩니다.

② ゲートが開いたら中に入り、右を向いて下さい。パスポートの顔写真と照合します。バックパック・帽子・眼鏡などは外して下さい。足跡マークの上に立って画面を正面からまっすぐに見て下さい。 ③ 二番目のゲートが開いたら、入国審査官のカウンターにお進み下さい。パスポートを確認した後、入国または出国スタンプを押印致します。シェンゲンエリア居住許可証をお持ちの方は、入国審査官にご提示下さい。

finnair.com/jp

첫 번째 게이트가 열리면 안으로 들어가 오른쪽에 위치한 카메라로 안면인증을 거치게 됩니다. 이후 마지막 게이트에서 출입국관리 직원의 출국확인도장을 받으시면 됩니다. 보다 간편하고 빠른 본 자동시스템의 많은 이용 바랍니다. 대한민국 전자여권은? 2008년 8월 25일 이후 발급된 여권으로 표지 하단부에 전자칩과 안테나가 내장 되어 있는 여권입니다.

finnair.com/kr

Enter through the gate and turn right. Please remove your backpack if you’re wearing one and stand on the footprints on the floor. Remove your glasses and hat. Stand still and look directly at the screen keeping your face visible. The camera will compare your facial image with the biometric feature scanned from your passport. Wait until the second gate opens. The border check for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals is completed when the gate opens. Other foreign nationals must move towards the border guard, who will check your entry stamp and mark your passport with an exit stamp.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FLY FINNAIR HELSINKI AIRPORT

WELCOME TO HELSINKI AIRPORT HOW TO TRANSFER Check your gate and departure time on the airport monitors. All Finnair and Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), formerly Flybe Finland, departures are located in the same terminal. If you do not have a boarding pass for your connecting flight, please contact the transfer service desk. Most passengers transferring from non-EU countries to EU countries must go through security and passport control. Please note that liquids are restricted in carry-on baggage. If your baggage has not been checked through to your final destination, collect it from the baggage claim area and go to check-in and security control. AUTOMATED BORDER CHECKS are available to passengers with biometric passports. The service is available for Australian, Canadian, EEA, EU, Japanese, New Zealand, South Korean, Swiss, and U.S. citizens. See more information on page 85.

34 35

SHOP

32a

31a-e 30

31x 31

Security control

SHOP

Border control

SHOP

NON-SCHENGEN AREA

Bo con

TRANSFER SERVICE 3

2ND FLOOR 36

FINNAIR LOUNGE FINNAIR PREMIUM LOUNGE BUS GATES

NONSCHENGEN TRANSFER AREA

Border control

2ND FLOOR

37a-d

GROUND FLOOR

FINNAIR TRANSFER SERVICE desks in Helsinki Airport T2 terminal are ready to help you with any inquiries related to your connection flights. TRANSFER SERVICE

BUS CONNECTION The Finnair City Bus to the Helsinki Railway Station leaves from Terminal 2 every 20 minutes, stopping also at Terminal 1. Travel time is about 30 minutes. Price: €6.30

CHECKING IN Checking in to your Finnair flight is easy. You can save time by checking in at a self-service stand at the airport, online 36 hours before departure or by text message.

TRAIN CONNECTION The Ring Rail Line connects Helsinki Airport to downtown Helsinki. There is direct access from the corridor between T1 and T2 terminals to the train station by two lifts and three escalators.

FLIGHT DISRUPTIONS In case a flight is delayed or cancelled, Finnair will make every effort to keep you updated. Please make sure that you have provided Finnair with your email address and phone number.

86 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

SHOP

SERVICES AND FACILITIES SHOP SHOPPING Receive special offers for airport services when you show your Finnair Plus card. You will recognise our partners by the Finnair Plus symbol. Helsinki Airport features more than 30 shops and boutiques and various restaurants and cafés.

WIRELESS INTERNET is available free of charge. An eService Bar is located across from gate 21. CHILDREN Children’s playrooms offer videos, microwave ovens and baby care facilities. NON-SMOKING Smoking at Helsinki Airport is prohibited outside of designated smoking rooms.

SHOP

FLY FINNAIR HELSINKI AIRPORT WALKING TIME GATE 24–30: 7 MIN

T2 29

LOST AND FOUND Restaurant & Deli Fly Inn

26 SHOP

SCHENGEN AREA

SHOP

GATE AREA

Security check

25 TRANSFER SERVICE 2

SHOP

23 SHOP

FINNAIR LOUNGE

Security

order ntrol

CHECK-IN 240–270

SHOP

FINNAIR check CHECK-IN/ SERVICE DESKS 201–232

GROCERY

INQUIRIES Lentäjäntie 1 (next to T2, street level) Open Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00 and Sat 09:00–15:00 Tel 0600 41006 (1,97€/min + local network charge)

3RD FLOOR

PHARMACY TOURIST INFO

1ST FLOOR

SHOP

19 18 17 16

TRANSFER SERVICE 1

CHECK-IN 101–114

GROUND FLOOR

Security check

BAGGAGE STORAGE

13 LOUNGE GUESTS IN the Finnair Lounge near gate 22 can now expereince the N eurosonic divan. The leather recliner is designed to improve physical and mental wellbeing through a low-frequency vibration that helps to ward off insomnia, stress, and headaches. The Finnair Lounge is located in the Schengen area of Helsinki Airport and is open daily from 5:30 am to midnight. Access is free of charge for Finnair Business Class customers and Finnair Plus Platinum and Gold members and oneworld Emerald and Sapphire cardholders.

GATE AREA

2ND FLOOR

SHOP

1ST FLOOR SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FLY FINNAIR FLIGHTS WITHIN EUROPE KARTAT Great Circle Estimated FROM HELSINKI AMSTERDAM ALANYA/GAZIPASA ARRECIFE ATHENS BARCELONA BERGEN BERLIN BIARRITZ BILLUND BRUSSELS BUDAPEST CATANIA CHANIA COPENHAGEN CORFU DALAMAN DUBLIN DUBROVNIK DÜSSELDORF EDINBURGH EILAT EKATERINBURG FRANKFURT FUERTEVENTURA FUNCHAL GDANSK GENEVA GOTHENBURG HAMBURG HERAKLION IBIZA INNSBRUCK KAZAN KOS KRAKOW LAS PALMAS LISBON LJUBLJANA LONDON MADRID MALAGA MALTA MANCHESTER MENORCA MILAN MINSK MOSCOW MUNICH MYTILENE NAPLES NICE OSLO PALMA DE MALLORCA PAPHOS PARIS PISA PRAGUE PREVEZA

Distances km

Great Circle Estimated Distances Flight km Times

Flight Times

1525 02:35 2722 03:45 4518 05:55 2490 03:40 2632 03:55 1112 03:30 1123 02:00 2581 03:45 1060 01:50 1651 02:40 1481 02:20 2636 03:45 2756 03:50 895 01:40 2329 03:25 2639 03:40 2030 03:10 2027 03:00 1512 02:25 1717 02:40 3457 04:45 2098 03:05 1543 02:35 4578 06:05 4310 05:45 768 02:00 1994 03:00 785 01:25 1172 02:00 2777 03:55 2897 04:00 1701 02:35 1521 02:30 2620 03:45 1186 02:00 4700 06:10 3369 04:50 1713 02:40 1863 03:10 2950 04:25 3357 04:35 2822 04:15 1817 03:00 2688 04:05 1953 03:05 740 01:25 876 01:40 1577 02:30 1471 03:35 2283 03:25 2202 03:25 766 01:30 2777 04:00 2898 04:00 1900 03:05 2093 03:20 1322 02:10 2397 03:25

PULA REYKJAVIK RHODES RIGA RIMINI ROME SALZBURG SAMARA SANTORINI SKIATHOS SPLIT STOCKHOLM ST. PETERSBURG TALLINN TARTU TEL AVIV TENERIFE NORTE TENERIFE SUR VARNA VENICE VERONA VIENNA VILNIUS VISBY WARSAW ZAKYNTHOS ZÜRICH

1865 02:55 2429 3:50 2668 03:45 382 00:55 1993 03:00 2235 03:25 1592 02:30 1698 02:35 2660 03:40 2353 03:30 1956 02:55 400 01:00 301 01:00 101 00:30 245 00:50 3230 04:25 4691 06:10 4745 06:10 1911 02:55 1847 02:55 1903 02:55 1462 02:30 633 01:15 481 01:25 940 01:40 2526 03:55 1781 02:45

SCHEDULED DESTINATIONS LEISURE DESTINATIONS PARTNER-OPERATED CODE-SHARE OR MARKETING DESTINATIONS SEASONAL ROUTE EW SCHEDULED N SEASONAL ROUTE NEW SCHEDULED DESTINATION IN 2016

Atl Oc antic ean

TÄHÄN KARTTA

8 WINGS 2014 88BLUE BLUE WINGSDECEMBER SEPTEMBER 2016

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS New

FROM HELSINKI IVALO JOENSUU JYVÄSKYLÄ KAJAANI MARIEHAMN KEMI/TORNIO KITTILÄ KOKKOLA/PIETARSAARI KUOPIO KUUSAMO OULU ROVANIEMI TAMPERE TURKU VAASA

quay

931 01:35 360 01:00 235 00:50 464 01:20 282 00:55 609 01:35 823 01:25 391 01:10 335 01:00 667 01:15 514 01:05 697 01:20 143 00:35 150 00:35 348 00:55

Bay of B isca ya

Arct ic

Ocea n

FLY FINNAIR IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Nor weg ian S ea

Nort

h Sea

on-D

tov-

Ros

Heraklion

Medit erranea n Sea DECEMBER 2014BLUE BLUE WINGS89 8 SEPTEMBER 2016 WINGS

rctic

Arctic Ocean

FLY FINNAIR FLIGHTS INTERCONTINENTAL Circle Estimated KARTAT Great Distances Flight FROM HELSINKI

GREENLAND

Times

BANGKOK 7912 09:45 BEIJING 6325 07:55 CHICAGO 7139 09:15 CHONGQING 6736 08:40 DELHI 5229 06:50 DUBAI 4537 05:55 FUKUOKA 8060 09:30 GOA via Dubai 6739 10:15 GUANGZHOU 7693 09:30 HAVANNA 8718 12:05 HÔ CHI MINH CITY (Saigon) 8510 10:50 HONG KONG 7821 09:35 KRABI 8350 10:20 MIAMI 8342 11:10 NAGOYA 7780 09:40 NEW YORK 6626 08:45 OSAKA 7751 09:30 PHUKET 8312 10:05 PUERTO PLATA 8417 11:15 SEOUL 7050 08:40 SHANGHAI 7410 09:05 SINGAPORE 9272 11:30 TOKYO 7849 09:45 XIAN 6421 07:50

Atlantic Ocean

Havanna

FINNAIR PLUS members earn Plus points from travelling on any scheduled flight with a oneworld airline. The oneworld alliance flies to more than 1,000 destinations.

Pacific Ocean

Ocea n Atlantic Ocean

8 BLUE WINGS DECEMBER 2014

Arctic Ocean

FLY FINNAIR IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Agadir

Taiwan

Pacific Ocean

Indian Ocean

DECEMBER 2014 BLUE WINGS 8

FLY FINNAIR FLEET

AIRBUS A350-900 Number 6+ 13 on order Seating capacity 297 Length 66.8 m Wingspan 64.75 m Cruising speed 903 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 13,000 m AIRBUS A340-300 Number 2 Seating capacity 257 Length 63.6 m Wingspan 60.3 m Cruising speed 870 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 12,500 m AIRBUS A330-300 Number 8 Seating capacity 289/263 Length 63.6 m Wingspan 60.3 m Cruising speed 870 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 12,600 m AIRBUS A321 (ER) Number 11 Seating capacity 196–209 Length 44.5 m Wingspan 34.1 m Cruising speed 840 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 11,900 m AIRBUS A320 Number 10 Seating capacity 165 Length 37.6 m Wingspan 34.1 m Cruising speed 840 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 11,900 m AIRBUS A319 Number 9 Seating capacity 138 Length 33.8 m Wingspan 34.1 m Cruising speed 840 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 11,900 m EMBRAER 190 Operated by Norra Number 12 Seating capacity 100 Length 36.2 m Wingspan 28.7 m Cruising speed 850 km/h Maximum cruising altitude 12,300 m

92 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

FLY FINNAIR FLEET A350

IT’S HERE! AIRBUS A350 XWB – A NEW SENSE OF FLYING The most significant way to reduce your carbon footprint from flying is to fly with modern aircraft.

UP TO

Share your A350 experience:

reduction in:

CO2 emissions

Fuel burn

FEEL THE

XTRA SPACE 5.61 METRES WIDE CABIN

FUN FACT You can almost fit an A330 inside of an A350 XWB — the interior of the A350 is 221 inches across while the exterior of the A330 is 222 inches!

THERE IS no doubt that innovation and passenger comfort are at the forefront of design with the A350. Every part of the aircraft comes together to form an overall experience. In biology, this is referred to as emergence. Almost immediately my eye moved from the lighting that pays homage to the Northern Lights to the vast amount of space within the cabin. It was also noticeable how quiet the flight was. This is the future of flying. Jamie Nyqvist Film studies student, American University of Paris To share your Finnair A350 experience email: shelly.nyqvist@sanoma.com

FOLLOW THE STORY ▶a350.finnair.com ▶on Twitter #A350Finnair ▶on Instagram @feelfinnair

BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS and experience the next generation of flying. Finnair’s A350 XWB long-haul destinations include Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai; Seoul for summer 2016; and Singapore starting October 2016.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FINNAIR PLUS RENEWED FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM

JOIN NOW

A world of benefits for frequent flyers

THE FINNAIR PLUS PROGRAM allows you to earn both tier points and award points when travelling with Finnair or a oneworld airline and from services provided by Finnair Plus partners. As a Finnair Plus member you get instant access to valuable benefits including:

· A head start on special flight sales · Exclusive members prices on offers · Earn and use points on Finnair, oneworld, and partner airline flights · Earn and use points on numerous worldwide partner services

RENEWED FINNAIR PLUS With our latest changes, it’s easier to reach tier membership. You can also enjoy simpler ways of earning and using points for Finnair flights. Read more about the changes: finnair.com/plus

DID YOU KNOW? JOIN FOR FREE by filling in the Finnair Plus form attached to this magazine or online at finnair.com/plus

NEW WAYS TO USE POINTS AS A FINNAIR PLUS MEMBER you can use your Finnair Plus award points for additional Finnair services such as seat selection, meals, and extra baggage payments online. The number of points you pay depends on your flight and the chosen service. You can pay for additional services at the time you book your reservation, or later through the Manage Booking tab. finnair.com/plus

94 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

FINNAIR PLUS RENEWED FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM

FINNAIR PLUS MEMBERSHIP

FINNAIR PLUS TIERS AND BENEFITS JUNIOR Children aged 2–17 can join the Finnair Plus Junior program. The points earned can be spent on award flights as well as for fun reward items. BASIC · Flights awards · Additional baggage charges with points · Extra services for flights with points · Partner service purchases with points · Waiting list priority based on tier SILVER · One extra bag (max. 23 kg) free of charge · Finnair lounge access* · Priority Lane · 10% points bonus · 10% discount on F innair tax-free purchases outside of the EU * Chargeable from August 1, 2016

All tier benefits are valid on Finnair flights (AY operated and AY marketed)

GOLD · Special baggage free of charge · Travel class upgrades · Finnair and oneworld Business Class and Frequent Flyer lounge access + 1 guest · Priority Lane · 15% points bonus · 10% discount on Finnair tax-free purchases outside of the EU PLATINUM · Gold card giveaway · Special baggage free of charge · Travel class upgrades · Travel upgrades for family members · Finnair and oneworld Business and First Class and Frequent Flyer lounge access + 1 guest · Priority Lane · Points do not expire during tracking period · 25% points bonus · 10% discount on Finnair tax-free purchases outside of the EU

Remember to keep your Finnair Plus card with you at all times to make sure you don’t miss out on opportunities to earn points!

EQUIVALENT ONEWORLD TIERS Finnair Plus oneworld Basic --Silver Ruby Gold Sapphire Platinum Emerald

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FINNAIR PLUS NEWS THIS MONTH

TIPS FROM FINNAIR’S CUSTOMER LOYALTY TEAM Mika Keskiväli, CRM Solution Development Manager

LOUNGE ACCESS FOR FINNAIR PLUS MEMBERS FINNAIR PLUS Platinum and Gold members have

access to Finnair Lounges when travelling on Finnair flights regardless of travel class. Access for Finnair Plus Silver members is chargeable and must be purchased beforehand.

Finnair Plus Basic members also have access to the Finnair Lounge in Helsinki Airport during offpeak hours by purchasing access beforehand. See rules and read more finnairplusshop.com

PARTNER BENEFITS

USE POINTS FOR NEW CLOTHES

WATCH SHOWS WITH POINTS

ZALANDO is one of Europe’s biggest online shops with something for everyone: shoes, clothing, accessories, and sportswear. You can redeem a Zalando shopping code with your Finnair Plus points or with a combination of points and money.

VIAPLAY is the Nordics leading online service for TV series, movies, sports, and children’s programmes. You can redeem a shopping code with your Finnair Plus points which can be used for purchases on the Viaplay online shop. The award voucher is worth 27 euros and entitles you to a Viaplay shopping code.

finnairplusshop.com

96 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

1. GET A TASTE of the Finnair premium experience when holidng a Finnair Economy ticket: upgrade to Business class with a Finnair Plus travel class uprade. Prices start at 7,500 points! 2. RUN AND EARN extra Finnair Plus award points with the Finnair Plus and Suunto Be Active campaign. There’s no better way to keep fit. Plus you can earn points for your next travel class upgrade. finnair.com/beactive 3. PAMPER yourself with a restaurant voucher from the renewed Finnair PlusShop! Using your points is a great way to try out the gourmet cuisine around Helsinki. finnairplusshop.com

FINNAIR PLUS TOP PICKS THIS MONTH

USE YOUR POINTS WISELY FOR THIS SEASON’S BEST! NOW YOU CAN FIND Finnair gift cards, partner services, and award vouchers as well as Finnair PlusShop brands all under the same roof. To order, simply login using your frequent flyer number, place your order and pay with Finnair Plus points, money, or a combination of both. Shop for the always affordable 1,000 Point Special Offers and your Plus points can be worth hundreds of euros! finnairplusshop.com

TOP 5 PARTNER SERVICES THIS MONTH 1. REWARD NIGHT in Hotel Lilla Roberts Helsinki €106 + 5,000p 2. HELSINKI DAY SPA gift voucher €100 voucher €70 + 3,500p 3. MARIMEKKO stores in Finland gift voucher from €42 + 1,000p 4. NESTE OIL gift voucher from €39€ + 4,000p 5. TALLINK SILJA LINE cruise award voucher from €104 + 9,000p Gift vouchers can be redeemed with points or a combination of money and points.

1 ,000 POINTS SPECIAL OFFERS SOREL (MEN’S) MADSON WINGTIP BOOT €190 Member offer €145 + 1,000p

SOREL (WOMEN’S) MAJOR MAVERICK BOOT €199 Member offer €145 + 1,000p

MARSHALL WOBURN BLUETOOTH SPEAKER Two colour options €499 Member offer €399 + 1,000p

BALMUIR AVIGNON WOOL SCARF IN A GIFT BOX Several colour options, €149 Member offer €119 + 1,000p

SAMSONITE PRO-DLX LAPTOP BACKPACK L 16” €215 Member offer €149+ 1,000p

SEPTEMBER 2016

BLUE WINGS

FINLAND IN FIGURES

DID YOU KNOW? Over one-half of enterprises that adopted innovations between 2012 to 2014 report that they had adopted innovations with environmental benefits.

FINLAND

ECONOMIC STRUCTURE

IN FIGURES

Employed persons by industry, 2nd quarter 2016 (per cent of total)

AREA • 390,906 sq. kilometres, of which 9% is fresh water; land area is 303, 892 sq. kilometres. There are 188,000 lakes. 6% of the land is under cultivation. Forests (mainly pine and spruce) cover 68% of the country. GOVERNMENT • Sovereign parliamentary republic since 1917. • The president is elected ever y six years. The current president of Finland, Sauli Niinistö took office in March 2012. The 200 members of Parliament are elected for fouryear terms. • Finland has been a member of the European Union since January 1995. ECONOMY • GDP 2015: 207 billion euros, the annual change in volume 0.5% • Annual inflation rate as of February 2016: -0.1% • Currency: Euro

Construction and energy 8%

Miscellaneous services

13%

35%

Manufacturing

14% 4% Agriculture

10%

16%

Financial and business servces

Trade and hotel

Transport and communications

GDP

46%

Other manufactured goods

23%

Forest products

17%

Food prod. and textiles

14%

Nominal

Adjusted for Purchasing Power Standard

67.400 46.800 45.400 39.600 38.200 37.000 32.800 28.700

46.900 35.500 35.400 31.600 31.200 35.900 30.300 28.700

Foreign trade 2015 exports by products by activity: 53.829 MEUR (per cent of total) Forest industry products

21.5%

Other industries

19.5%

Chemical industry products

18.8%

Metals and metal products

14.7%

Machinery and equipment

13.5%

Electronics

12.1%

*preliminary

MONTHLY TEMPERATURES IN HELSINKI 2015

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Mean˚C -0.9 0.9 2.4 5.3 9.3 13.3 16.4 17.5 13.7 6.4 5.6 3.3 Max˚C 6.0 8.3 11.1 13.2 17.1 21.9 26.9 24.6 18.9 17.2 13.4 10.5 Min˚C -14.0 -7.2 -7.5 -1.1 1.2 6.8 10.3 9.6 6.0 -3.4 -4.2 -7.1

More information: finland.fi, goodnewsfromfinland.com, findicator.fi

98 BLUE WINGS SEPTEMBER 2016

Metal and engineering products

EXPORTS BY PRODUCTS

Gross domestic product per capita 2015* (EUR)

Norway Denmark Sweden UK Finland Germany France EU28

Manufacturing

Source: Statistics Finland

POPULATION • 5.5 million • Life expectanc y: men 78.2 and women 83.9 years • Average household size: 2.1 persons • L anguages: 89% speak Finnish; 5.3% Swedish; 1.3% Russian • Religion: 74% Lutheran; 1% Orthodox; 24% census register or unknown • 81% of the population aged 25 to 64 have completed upper secondary or tertiary education and 37% have university or other tertiary qualifications.

NAKKI. Vai yksi ensimmäisistä avaruusmatkailijoista?

c g

Pienikokoinen ruokamakkarahan se siinä.

Jos pitäisi äänestää maailmanhistorian menestyksekkäintä tuotetta, luonnollinen makkarankuori olisi yksi vahva ehdokas.

Kuorettomat nakit näkivät päivänvalon 1960-luvulla.

Hollantilainen professori Arnold van Huis tutkii parhaillaan innokkaasti mahdollisuutta tuottaa hyönteisistä proteiinia nakkeihin.

Nakit olivat ensimmäinen kuussa syöty ateria: Neil ja Buzz haukkasivat niitä kuun kamaralla vuonna 1969.

Monissa nakeissa on runsaasti nitriittejä. Siksi niitä ei suositella syötäväksi kuin kerran viikossa.

Tieteen nimissä kaikki on kiinnostavampaa. Tilaa omasi osoitteesta tiede.ﬁ

Nakkien syöntiennätystä johtaa Takeru Kobayashi vuoden 2014 suorituksellaan: 113 nakkia 10 minuutissa.

Ensimmäinen kaupallinen laboratoriosovellus naudan kantasoluista tulee todennäköisesti olemaan lihassolukko, jota käytetään – tähän kohtaan pientä rummunpäristystä – nakeissa.

Reverso Tribute Calendar watch Eduardo Novillo Astrada, polo Champion, Winner of the Argentine Triple Crown.

WAT C H E S & J E W E L L E RY Oy Osk. Lindroos Ab

Aleksanterinkatu 46, Helsinki +358-9-624188 Helsinki Airport Schengen, gate 27 +358-9-3540500 Helsinki Airport Non-Schengen, gate 33 +358-9-3540510 www.lindroos.fi