Completed in 1976, Hotel Mesikämmen is an architectural masterpiece that rises impressively on the border between forest and water in Ähtäri. The hotel was designed by architect brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, known for the Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki, Finland. Part of the building has been quarried directly into the rock, creating a unique connection with the surrounding nature. The building’s long, horizontal shape and wooden balconies blend harmoniously into the pine forest and nearby Hankavesi lake landscape. The rock wall visible in the interior brings nature into the hotel’s atmosphere – as if you were stepping into the middle of Finnish nature. Watch the excellent video I shot of Hotel Mesikämmen in autumn 2024 and be inspired! –
Hotel Mesikämmen in Ähtäri, Finland
What makes Hotel Mesikämmen so special?
Nature-respecting architecture – The hotel is built into the rock and surrounding terrain. 101 lake view rooms – with private balconies, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and allergy-friendly options are also available. Family and child-friendly – Extra beds, a playroom, and accessible and allergy-friendly rooms are available.
Services and activities
Well-being and relaxation: In the hotel’s neighbor is a swimming hall with indoor swimming pool and saunas, and then there is as a gym, and access to the lake and nature trails. Leisure: Restaurant, lounge bar, bowling alley (8 lanes), billiards and nightclub Äx-klubi with live music nights. Outdoor activities: In the nearby area there is a tennis court, paddle tennis, an 18-hole golf course, and jogging and cross-country skiing trails start directly from the hotel yard.
Location and nearby attractions
Address: Karhunkierros 149, 63700 Ähtäri Ähtäri Zoo is right next door – you can buy tickets at the hotel and use them to enter several times during the day. Hankavesi waterfront views and walking distance from Ähtäri Zoo train station (~1 km). Location: Ähtäri city center ~7 km, golf course ~2 km, Tuurin Veljekset Keskinen shopping center ~25 km.
Hotel Mesikämmen in Ähtäri, Finland
Why and when should you visit Hotel Mesikämmen?
Architecture meets nature – The hotel is a rare combination of natural design in the Finnish landscape. Suitable for families – A zoo, bowling alley and swimming pool make a holiday enjoyable for children. Year-round – Spa, sports facilities and nature experiences make the place attractive in both summer and winter.
I loved staying in this hotel, in the surrounding nature and filming this video.
The early summer sun peeked through the clouds onto the terrace of the NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa restaurant, right along Mannerheimintie. I had just listened to, among others, the Spanish Ambassador to Finland talk about Spanish tapas and had enjoyed tasting a few, when it was time for dessert – something both traditional and beloved: Crema Catalana. Served in a simple white dish with a wooden disposable spoon, the dessert turned out to be far more than it appeared at first glance. It was, in fact, a journey into the heart of Catalonia.
The golden top of the tapa-style dessert was lightly caramelized, forming a delicate, crackling crust. Underneath, a silky custard was scented with lemon and cinnamon. Unlike French crème brûlée, which is topped with a thick layer of burnt sugar, Crema Catalana is traditionally caramelized with a hot iron, creating a glass-thin, fragile topping. Its roots date back to medieval times, making it one of Europe’s oldest known desserts.
This dessert, served on a Helsinki hotel terrace, was a beautiful representation of tradition – both in taste and presentation. The rustic feel of the wooden spoon brought to mind homemade kitchens and family recipes. The sugar cracked delicately, and the custard melted instantly on the tongue.
So if you have a sweet tooth and an interest in local culinary traditions, Crema Catalana is an essential treat to try in Catalonia – whether in a bustling tapas bar in Barcelona or on a quiet coastal terrace. I had never tasted it before, even though I had visited Barcelona twice. I mostly remember the feeling I left with: that truly good tapas bars felt almost hidden from public view, as I didn’t really encounter many during my visits.
Travel Tip: Where to Find Crema Catalana in Catalonia
Where: Widely available throughout Catalonia – especially in restaurants, tapas bars, and bakeries. In Barcelona, try historic establishments like Can Culleretes.
Price: Around €4–6, depending on the location.
Best season: Available all year, but especially popular on Saint Joseph’s Day (March 19th).
Dietary note: Contains milk and eggs – not suitable for vegans or those with dairy or egg allergies.
Insider tip: Ask if the dessert is casolana (homemade); the flavor is often far superior to industrial versions.
World Tapas Day on June 19th, 2025
While Spain is famous for its sunshine, historical towns, and rich culture, for many modern travelers, food is becoming the main reason to visit. The theme of the 2025 World Tapas Day event captures this perfectly: “The tapa says it all.” A small bite that connects people, tells stories, and represents Spanish culture in a single mouthful.
Tapas Connect People and Tell Stories
A tapa is a dish and a way of living, sharing, and experiencing togetherness. This simple yet meaningful small plate represents the Spanish lifestyle: food that brings people together, sparks conversation, and builds connection. It is a cultural gesture that speaks without words and leaves lasting impressions.
Finns Love Spain – And Its Cuisine
The numbers speak for themselves: 61% of Finns have already visited Spain, and over 600,000 return each year. One of the biggest draws is undoubtedly Spanish cuisine. In 2025, Spain is a global culinary powerhouse with 291 Michelin-starred restaurants and ranks as the world’s second-largest wine exporter.
Tapas – A Universal Language of Tradition
One unique feature of Spanish food culture is even found in the language: the verb “tapear” – meaning “to go for tapas” – exists only in Spanish. It’s a sign of how deeply rooted tapas culture is in the Spanish identity. And yet, tapas transcends language – it doesn’t need words, only a willingness to share a moment. Tapas is almost like a daily Instagram post, if you’ll allow me the comparison – short, memorable, and meant to be shared.
Finnish “Pikkupurtava” Meets Spanish Tapas
Finns are no strangers to the idea of small bites – pikkupurtava is a familiar concept. Though they come from different cultures, the experience is largely the same: eating in a social, relaxed, joyful setting. Tapas is also environmentally conscious – based on seasonal, local ingredients and meant for sharing. It is hospitality and sustainability at its best.
A Reason to Travel – Again and Again
Spain’s food culture – and especially tapas – gives travelers a perfect reason to return time and again. With over 263,000 restaurants and bars, Spain invites visitors to taste, explore, and immerse themselves in its culture one bite at a time.
Crema Catalana – a Spanish tapas dish
Crema Catalana – The Sweet Star of Spanish Tapas
Here’s a traditional Crema Catalana recipe – this delicious dessert is slightly similar to crème brûlée, but typically made without cream and flavored with citrus and cinnamon.
Crema Catalana – Traditional Spanish Recipe
(Serves 4–6)
Ingredients:
500 ml whole milk
1 cinnamon stick
Zest of 1 lemon (yellow part only)
4 egg yolks
100 g sugar
20 g cornstarch (Maizena)
Topping: brown or white sugar for caramelizing
Instructions:
1. Infuse the milk Heat milk with cinnamon and lemon zest until nearly boiling. Remove from heat, let steep for 10 minutes, then strain.
2. Whisk the base In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch into a pale, smooth mixture.
3. Combine and cook Slowly whisk the warm milk into the egg mixture. Return to the saucepan and heat gently, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens like custard. Don’t let it boil.
4. Cool down Pour into serving dishes. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours or overnight.
5. Caramelize Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top. Use a kitchen torch or broiler to caramelize until golden and crisp.
Serving Tip: Crema Catalana is served cold with a hot, crackling top – the perfect finish to a tapas evening or Spanish meal.
Finally, watch the short video I made about the dishes from this year’s Tapas day in Helsinki –
London is a city best discovered in layers—its Roman roots, Tudor palaces, Victorian grandeur, and modern pulse all coexisting within a short stroll or a scenic bus ride. While the London Underground may be the fastest way to get around, nothing beats the experience of touring the city from the top level of a red double-decker bus. It is even more safer than tube, for example.From the iconic skyline of Westminster to the energetic bustle of Oxford Circus, riding one of London’s classic double-deckers offers a unique and affordable way to explore the capital. Here’s why and how to do it—and what to look for from your elevated perch.
Double-decker buses in central London
Exploring Oxford Street: London’s Iconic Shopping Artery Aboard the No. 7 Bus
Few urban experiences encapsulate the essence of London quite like a ride on one of its iconic red double-decker buses. The above image I took from the front seat of another bus, from an elevated vantage – capturing two Route 7 buses navigating Oxford Street, one of the most renowned shopping destinations in the world.
On a gray, wintry day typical of London, the red buses provide a striking contrast to the overcast sky and the subdued tones of the surrounding architecture. Route 7, connecting East Acton to Oxford Circus, passes through some of London’s most lively quarters. The bustling street, flanked by famous retailers like Stradivarius and John Lewis (both visible in the photo), pulses with shoppers and commuters. The trees are still leafless because it is late winter time in London.
Practical Travel Information
Location: Oxford Street, London W1D, United Kingdom Bus Route Featured: Route 7 (East Acton ↔ Oxford Circus) Transport Tip: The easiest way to explore Oxford Street is with a contactless payment card or an Oyster card. Hop-on-hop-off convenience makes this route ideal for casual sightseeing. Closest Tube Stations: Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Victoria, and Central lines), Bond Street (Central and Jubilee lines) Best Time to Visit: Weekdays before noon for smaller crowds; Christmas season for dazzling lights.
Oxford Circus in Motion: Urban Life at Its PeakStreet-Level at Oxford Street
Oxford Street in Motion: Urban Life at Its Peak
This image I took behind the red lights capturing the essence of Oxford Street at peak energy—a brilliant visual synthesis of movement, architecture, and human flow. We were standing once again at an intersection of Oxford Street.
The scene features a signature red double-decker bus, a white utility vehicle, and an Addison Lee cab weaving through heavy pedestrian footfall and complex traffic signals. Niketown London appears on the left, anchoring the image with its commanding neoclassical presence. On the right, the earthy tones of a turreted Edwardian building soften the cold geometry of the modern city.
The crowd density underscores Oxford Street’s role as a commercial and commuter artery—this is where fashionistas, office workers, tourists, and Londoners in transit collide. In this photo you can see how London manages chaos with order: red lights flash in every direction, yet everything seems to function in synchrony.
Tip for Visitors: For a less crowded photo opportunity, try early Sunday mornings or weekday mornings before 10 AM
Street-Level at Oxford Circus
In the second photo from the Oxford Street area I captured the kinetic energy of one of London’s busiest intersections. The Underground sign is prominently featured at the Oxford Street Tube station.
Across the street Niketown London reappears; the European flagship of Nike and a magnet for sneakerheads and sportswear fans from around the globe. The building’s neoclassical façade blends seamlessly with the grandeur of its neighboring structures, preserving the district’s early 20th-century charm while housing cutting-edge retail.
The pedestrian traffic is dense and dynamic, with people waiting at crossings, pouring up from the subway, and queueing for access to stores—an embodiment of London’s perpetual motion. The classic red-green pedestrian lights, the “Look Right” pavement markings, and a black Addison Lee taxi all anchor this scene in quintessentially British detail.
What Do the White Zigzag Lines and Road Markings in London Mean?
If you’ve walked or driven through London, you’ve probably noticed white zigzag lines painted near pedestrian crossings, or bold text on the asphalt saying LOOK RIGHT, BUS STOP, or KEEP CLEAR. These aren’t just decorative elements or quirky British habits—they’re critical parts of the city’s traffic management system, designed to keep both drivers and pedestrians safe. Here’s what these road markings mean, why they’re important, and how they help travelers navigate London more safely and confidently. –
1. White Zigzag Lines Near Crosswalks (Zebra Crossings)
What do they mean? These zigzag lines appear before and after zebra crossings and indicate a strict no parking or stopping zone. The goal is to ensure that drivers approaching a crossing can clearly see pedestrians waiting to cross.
Where are they used? You’ll see them next to zebra crossings—uncontrolled crosswalks with black-and-white stripes and often a flashing amber Belisha beacon.
Why does it matter? Parking or stopping within the zigzag area is illegal and can result in fines, especially as many crossings are monitored by traffic cameras.
2. LOOK RIGHT / LOOK LEFT
Why is it written on the street? In the UK, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road, which can be confusing for visitors from right-hand traffic countries. These instructions—painted at pedestrian crossings—help ensure people look the correct way before stepping out.
Where will you see it? Nearly everywhere in Central London with high foot traffic—especially around tourist hotspots like Oxford Street, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster.
Traveler tip: Even if the road says LOOK RIGHT, always check both directions—some streets are two-way or used by cyclists and buses going against traffic.
3. BUS STOP, KEEP CLEAR, SCHOOL
BUS STOP Indicates a designated bus stop area. No other vehicles are allowed to park or stop here, even briefly.
KEEP CLEAR Often found in front of driveways, intersections, or emergency service entrances. It means vehicles should never block that part of the road.
SCHOOL Marks a school zone—drivers should slow down, watch for children, and expect increased enforcement.
4. Why These Markings Matter to Travelers
Visual guidance even for those who don’t speak English fluently.
Enhanced safety in busy urban areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
Helps you avoid violations that could lead to fines or dangerous situations.
Traveler tip: If you’re exploring London by foot or bus, pay attention to these markings—they’re a local language that speaks directly to your safety and experience in the city.
Route 7 & 390: Excellent for exploring Oxford Street, Regent Street, Hyde Park, and Camden.
Why Ride a Double-Decker in London?
1. It is Scenic and immersive: The upper deck provides unmatched views of London’s landmarks and street life. From famous monuments to hidden architectural gems, you’ll see far more than you would underground or on foot.
2. It is budget-friendly sightseeing: A single bus fare costs just £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment—no matter the distance. You can also transfer between buses for free within an hour thanks to the Hopper fare.
3. It is Convenient and comprehensive: London’s bus network covers every corner of the city, often following scenic routes the Tube doesn’t. Many routes pass key attractions, neighborhoods, and shopping areas.
Top Routes for Tourists
While nearly any route can surprise you, several are especially scenic or useful for first-time visitors:
Route 11: From Liverpool Street to Fulham Town Hall, this line passes the Bank of England, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, and the Houses of Parliament.
Route 9: Historic sights from Aldwych through Hyde Park and Kensington.
Route 15: Features heritage Routemaster buses on part of the route (check availability).
Route 7 & 390: Excellent for exploring Oxford Street, Regent Street, Hyde Park, and Camden.
Practical Tips for the Best Experience
Board smartly: Enter through the front door, tap your card, and head upstairs quickly for the best seats—front row, top deck.
Travel off-peak: Try late mornings or early afternoons on weekdays to avoid rush hour and school crowds.
Use the app: Download the TfL Go app or use Google Maps with public transport mode to plan routes, check arrival times, and navigate changes.
Mind the curves: London’s narrow streets and tight corners mean you’ll feel every turn on the upper deck—hang on and enjoy the ride.
Stay alert at landmarks: Use bus stops or upcoming announcements to time your photos. Many buses announce the next stop and highlight nearby attractions.
Accessibility and Sustainability
Accessible travel: All modern London buses are step-free and equipped with designated areas for wheelchairs and strollers.
Green fleet: Many buses now run on electric or hydrogen power—like those seen on Route 7—supporting London’s ambitious emissions goals.
