The Fascinating Baltic Countries

Recently I had the opportunity to sail on the beautiful “Regal Princess”, doing the Baltic Sea itinerary. The ship, activities and ports were amazing.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – Venice of the North, Copenhagen was founded during the 12th century, A very charming city with 500 year old gabled houses, several beautiful castles and palaces. Best of all, wander thru “Tivoli Gardens, one of Europe’s most celebrated pleasure gardens. Denmark is one of the most safest countries in the world.

OSLO, NORWAY – Beautiful, clean, sophisticated, yet cozy charming, with a blend of 19th-20th century buildings, woodcarvings, bright frescoes and wide avenues dotted with public squares and parks. Oslo is surrounded by hills and lakes which makes this city a paradise for winter and summer sports. Don’t miss the Vigeland Sculpture Park with over 200 human life-cycle sculptures.

BERLIN, GERMANY – We took the train from Warnemunde Port to the city of Berlin. The countryside was beautiful. Berlin highlights include restored Reichstag Building with its magnificent glass dome, Brandenburg Gate, Cold War hot spots, Checkpoint Charlie/Berlin Wall, plus the Jewish Museum, Holocaust Memorial and Sachserhausen Concentration Camp . Berlin is very metropolitan with many cultural and night life activities, malls and great restaurants.

TALLIN, ESTONIA – What a pleasant surprise! Tallin has the best preserved medieval city in Europe (1154 AD), and unchanged for 600 years with a living museum spiral churches and medieval architecture. The walled “Old Town” is a maze of cobblestone streets with historic buildings, charming cafes and the stately gothic town hall. Don’t miss fantastic “Old Town” for strolling, shopping or eating in one of their classic cafes. One of UNESCO’S World Heritage Sites, Talllin is known for its well-preserved gothic structures. In 1991 Estonia declared its independence from the Soviet Union. Today Talliln is the modern capital city of Estonia and boosts a booming computer industry, café culture and sophisticated boutiques.

ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – Window of the West, St. Petersburg is a picturesque thriving metropolis steeped in culture and Russian architecture. St. Petersburg is younger than New York City. Many highlights not to miss is the Hermitage Museum with over three million artworks; Peterhof and Catherine Palace; Peter & Paul Fortress; several cathedrals; and of course the spectacular ballet.

HELSINKI, FINLAND – Tucked between Sweden and Russia, these two powerhouse nations had quite an influence over Finland’s largest city. Finland gained its indepen-dence in 1917. Helsinki is a vibrant beautiful city of graceful neoclassical buildings, striking modern architecture and spacious boulevards dotted with squares and parks – a picture postcard-perfect enchanting capital city. You’ll see families, adults and children zipping around in Jopo bikes and gearless bicycles to work, or riding thru many of the beautiful parks. Relax and enjoy this beautiful city.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – One of the most beautiful capital cities in the world! Stockholm consists of 14 islands sparkling on the blue waters of Lake Malaren and the Baltic Sea, connected by bays, channels and inlets. Brimming with world-class museums, stunning architecture, fairy tale castles and natural scenery, Stockholm is so endlessly captivating. To witness all of its watery splendor, a canal cruise should be at the top of your must-do list. Next, a tour of the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe with over 600 rooms and several museums, and don’t forget to watch the amazing changing of the guard. Don’t miss Old Town, where Stockholm began seven centuries ago. As you wander the winding cobblestone streets, you’ll savor the romantic atmosphere and sense of antiquity in buildings dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Another don’t miss, is the Vasa Museum – it was built to house the 226-foot long war-ship that sank on its maiden voyage in the middle of Stockholm waterway. The Vasa warship lay on the harbor floor for over 330 years before being discovered. The ship has been perfectly preserved with over 12,000 artifacts recovered in this amazing museum. Stockholm is one of the world’s most beautiful, clean and orderly cities.

All in all – The Baltic is a world of breathtaking scenery, culture, traditions, palaces and exciting landmarks. This exciting cruise experience will never be forgotten!

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer!