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Hiding in the lush greenery of Kumpulanmäki Park, Kumpulan maauimala stands as a beloved summertime destination for Helsinki residents and visitors alike. This iconic outdoor swimming pool, dating back to 1952, was originally built as a rehearsal pool for the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki. Today it offers a refreshing escape from the city streets, providing a vibrant hub for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Finnish summer weather. Summertime Oasis Kumpulan maauimala offers a variety of pools to cater to different swimming preferences. The main pool, measuring 25 meters long, is ideal for lap swimming and recreational swimming. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the shallower wading pool provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children and adults. Additionally, a diving pool with a jump tower allows thrill-seekers to test their diving skills and enjoy the thrill of jumping into the refreshing water. A Welcoming Atmosphere Beyond its pools, Kumpulan maauimala exu...

Every now and then I like to do a small staycation in Helsinki, especially if there's an interesting new hotel to try out.  Clarion Hotel Helsinki stands as a testament to modern Scandinavian design and hospitality. This stylish hotel offers a blend of comfort, elegance, and stunning panoramic views, making it an ideal choice for mid-budget travelers seeking a memorable experience. A Mid-Budget Haven with Stylish Amenities Clarion Hotel Helsinki caters to travelers seeking a refined yet somewhat affordable accommodation. The hotel's rooms are spacious, stylishly appointed, and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay whether you're traveling for business or pleasure. Exceptional Views from Higher Floors One of the highlights of Clarion Hotel Helsinki is the breathtaking panoramic views that can be enjoyed from the hotel's higher floors. Whether you're admiring the city skyline, the harbor, or the surrounding natural beauty, the views are truly bre...

Up for a unique sauna experience? You got it! In the scenic surroundings of Verkkosaari, Sompasauna stands as a testament to the Finnish love for sauna culture. This unique public sauna, run entirely by volunteers, offers a welcoming and authentic sauna experience that is unlike anything else in Helsinki. A History of Community and Tradition Sompasauna's origins can be traced back to the 2011, when the sauna was established as a community sauna for local residents. Over the years, the sauna has become a beloved institution, fostering a sense of community and preserving the traditional Finnish sauna culture. A Volunteer-Run Oasis of Wellness Today, Sompasauna is run entirely by volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to maintaining the sauna and creating a welcoming environment for visitors. This unique arrangement ensures that Sompasauna remains a truly community-oriented space, reflecting the spirit of Finnish sauna culture. Everyone is expected to participate upon visiting...

Allas Sea Pool is a unique outdoor swimming pool and sauna complex located in the heart of Helsinki, Finland. It is open all year round, and it offers visitors a chance to swim in a heated pool or in the sea, as well as to experience traditional Finnish saunas. The warm pool The warm pool at Allas Sea Pool is maintained at a temperature of 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) all year round. This makes it a popular destination for swimmers of all ages, even in the winter. The pool is also a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city skyline. The sea water pool The sea water pool at Allas Sea Pool is filled with fresh seawater from the Gulf of Finland. The water temperature varies depending on the season, but it is typically around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer and 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) in the winter. The sea water pool is a popular destination for swimmers who want to experience the benefits of swimming in cold water. Cold ...

Ok everyone, it's hidden gem time! When I need some time for myself and a moment of relaxation, Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall is my destination. Join me! Yrjönkatu swimming hall will undergo an extensive renovation at the end of 2023 and is supposed to be ready for guests again in 2026. Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall is a historic and beautiful swimming hall located in the Kamppi district of Helsinki. The swimming hall was built in 1928, and it is the oldest swimming hall in Finland. The swimming hall is known for its stunningly beautiful architecture and its serene atmosphere. Architecture The Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall was designed by the Finnish architect Yrjö Lindegren. The swimming hall is built in the Neoclassical style, and it features a large swimming pool, a sauna, and a shower hall. The swimming pool is the most impressive feature of the swimming hall. The pool is surrounded by marble columns and statues. The pool is also lit by natural light from the skylights in the ceiling. Atmosphere...

When in Barcelona, most people go to Barceloneta for a beach day. Nothing wrong with that, but I sometimes wonder if they know about the beach paradise that lies just within a short train trip from Barcelona city center. Castelldefels is a charming coastal town located just south of Barcelona, Spain. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, its relaxed atmosphere, and its proximity to the city. History Castelldefels has a long and rich history. The town was first settled by the Romans in the 1st century AD. In the Middle Ages, Castelldefels was a popular pilgrimage destination. The town's church, Santa Maria de Castelldefels, was built in the 12th century and is one of the most important Romanesque churches in Catalonia. In the 19th century, Castelldefels became a popular summer destination for the wealthy residents of Barcelona. The town's first casino was built in 1874, and the town's first hotel was built in 1884. Today, Castelldefels is a popular coastal town for bo...

Montjuïc is a hilltop park in Barcelona that offers stunning views of the city. It is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Joan Miró Foundation, the Olympic Stadium, and the Montjuïc Castle. Getting to Montjuïc There are a few ways to get to Montjuïc. You can take the funicular to the Montjuïc station, or you can take the rather recently opened cable car. Some buses, including the hop-on-hop-off bus also stop at Montjuïc. You can also walk up the hill, which is a steep but rewarding climb. History of Montjuïc Montjuïc has a long and rich history. It was originally used as a military base, and it was the site of a number of battles, including the Battle of Montjuïc in 1714, which resulted in the defeat of the Catalans and the end of the Catalan War of Succession. In the 1920s, Montjuïc was transformed into a park and a cultural center. It was the site of the 1929 World's Fair, and it hosted the 1992 Summer Olympics. Montjuïc Castle The Montjuïc Castle is a 17th-ce...

Silfra is a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, Iceland. It is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Iceland, due to its clear water and unique geological setting. The water in Silfra is some of the clearest in the world, with visibility up to 100 meters (330 feet). This is due to the fact that the water is constantly filtered through the porous lava rock of the rift valley. The water temperature in Silfra is also very cold, ranging from 2 to 4 degrees Celsius (36 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit). Silfra is a popular snorkeling spot for both experienced and beginner snorkelers. The water is calm and there are no strong currents, making it a safe place to snorkel. A dry suit is required to snorkel in Silfra, as the water is very cold. The history of Silfra is fascinating. The fissure was formed as a result of the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The plates are moving apart at a rate of ab...

The Secret Lagoon (Geysirlaug) is Iceland's oldest geothermal pool, dating back to 1891. It is located in the small town of Flúðir, in the south of Iceland, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The pool is fed by natural hot springs, and the water temperature is a constant 38-40°C (100-104°F). The pool is surrounded by lava rocks and mountains, and the views of the surrounding countryside are stunning. In the past, the Secret Lagoon was used by the townspeople of Flúðir for swimming and bathing. However, it fell into disrepair in the 1940s after a new swimming pool was built in the town. In 2005, the Secret Lagoon was renovated and reopened to the public. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and is often described as a more affordable alternative to the Blue Lagoon. The Secret Lagoon is a great place to relax and soak in the warm, geothermal waters. The pool is also said to have health benefits, as the water is rich in minerals such as silica and sulfur...

If you have a day between exploring the sights in Golden Circle in Iceland, why not spend a day in Selfoss? Although mostly used as a base for visitors, Selfoss is a charming town offering an abundance of recreational activities and opportunities for relaxation. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a yoga lover, or simply craving delicious treats, Selfoss has you covered. Join us as we explore some of the top options to spend your free time in this wonderful town. 1. Selfoss Sundhöll – Swim and Unwind: Selfoss Sundhöll is a perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Dive into a world of ultimate relaxation in their serene warm outdoor pools. Refresh your mind and body as you take a leisurely swim or soak in the therapeutic properties of the rejuvenating geothermal waters. For those seeking some extra exercise, the onsite gym is fully equipped to cater to all fitness levels. 2. Yogasálir – Embrace the Art of Yoga: For yogis and yoginis seeking balance and ...