JKo

Nearly 200 exoplanets have been found so far. They say that in due time we will find a planet with distinctly Earth-like qualities.

Though we won’t be able to tell at first, I envision there’ll be a planet that’s clean, tropical and luscious, a lost island rich in plantlife and rather funky looking animals. If anyone of us ever travels there, there’ll be a mix of expeditions and hippy colonies, efforts of exploitation and preservation. I bet diving is good there and ice fishing marvellous around the northern parts.

We may even see tourists from a nearby planet: “Oh yeah, we come here every year, lots to see.” “Really? You should see Earth one day, you’ll find it pretty familiar.”

I was here to see Springsteen in 2003. What a gorgeous stadium and the best audience I have ever seen! The sun shone, everyone sang, waved their hands and did their best to wreck the stadium (again) during Twist and Shout. And people kept listening during the quiet songs, too. Quite possibly the best Midsummer party I have ever been to.

I’ve been to Globen to camp in line for tickets in the freezing cold, I have sung and danced with the rest in concerts. I have left so happy after each visit. The Swedish concert audiences are excellent! The atmosphere is unbeatable. Looking forward to coming here again!

Compact but busting with attractions of all sorts, from the rides to aquarium, dolphins, planetarium, modern art museum…you name it. Don’t miss the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries with scenery across Tampere and the surrounding lakes.

Original Moomin illustrations by Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomin saga. It is located within the city library, which is worth seeing itself, too. A nice gift shop is right next to the Moominvalley.

Restored 1880’s stable yards have become a little community of gift shops and a cafe. Very nice hand-made gifts and chocolate, too!

The Pyynikki ridge was formed during the ice age 10 000 years ago from the ground rocks that the ice pushed into a heap. It remains the highest such ridge in the world. The tree-filled slopes are very popular among tourists and locals. I go jogging there myself! On top of the ridge there is an observation tower and an idyllic cafeteria. I recommend the doughnuts.