Helsinki, the Host City

Despite its northerly location, Helsinki is extremely easy to reach ‐ by air, rail or sea. Helsinki is a rapidly developing international metropolis, but it has managed to maintain a human face and a unique connection with its natural surroundings. At just over half a million people in the city proper, Helsinki represents the optimal mix of a large metropolis and an intimate town. Its modest size becomes a dedicated asset, offering social and cultural diversity
together with friendly, secure intimacy.

Helsinki is an ideal setting for international meetings, conferences and events. It is large enough to provide all the services that a major congress may require, yet small enough to make delegates and their families feel at home during their stay. The city is known for its well‐organised public transport system, which makes it easy to get around. Studies have shown that Helsinki is also one of the safest and cleanest cities in Europe.

Helsinki is a city of contrasts, where the four seasons provide the pace of life with rhythm. The daytime temperatures in May/June are generally from +18o C to +25 o C, and there are around 20 hours of daylight. In the northernmost part of the country, the sun stays over the horizon even longer. Congress delegates will have a great opportunity to enjoy the luminous summer nights that are typical for Finland at this time of year.

The proximity of the sea and a lovely archipelago, the many well‐kept parks, museums and art galleries, the colourful Market Square as well as the numerous shops and restaurants make Helsinki a pleasant destination for congress delegates. The architecture, culture, and gastronomy of the city reflect its historical ties to both the East and the West. The surrounding countryside is within easy reach and offers ample opportunities for excursions and for
relaxation in privacy. Only very rarely is a vibrant capital city so rich with unique natural environments.