Italian ja Suomen kulttuurien erot

Kulttuurituottaja Belinda Nieminen                                                                      Viestinnän kurssi

Olen toisen vuoden kulttuurituotannon opiskelija Humanistisesta ammattikorkeakoulusta ja olen työni vuoksi asunut kolmasosan vuodesta Italiassa, Milanossa viimeiset neljä vuotta. Italia on lähellä sydäntäni, ei vain pelkästään sen takia, että siellä on parempi sää kuin Suomessa ja koska siellä valmistetaan maistuvia pasta-annoksia, vaan myös siksi, että saan päivittäin todistaa mitä hauskempia tilanteita paikallisten kanssa. Vaikka me suomalaiset ja italialaiset olemme molemmat kotoisin Euroopasta, on pakko myöntää, että Pohjolan ja etelän asukkien välillä on eroa kuin yöllä ja päivällä. Millaisia kulttuurieroja välillämme sitten onkaan?

 

Duomo di Milano

Viestintä

Viestintä on ihmisten välistä kommunikaatiota, joka tapahtuu lähettäjältä vastaanottajalle. Tyypillinen viestintätilanne tapahtuu Suomessa yleensä niin, että vähäsanainen suomalainen varovaisesti vilkaisee vastaantulevaa tuttuaan sanaakaan sanomatta – ehkä ystävän tullessa vastaan sanoo varovaisen hei. Suomalaiset eivät harrasta smalltalkia tuntemattomien kanssa, koska mitäpä sitä aikaa ja energiaa tuhlaamaan vieraisiin ihmisiin. Italiassa taas sanotaan ciao eli terve jokaiselle vastaantulevalle tutulle, puolitutulle, naapurille ja jopa heidän sukulaisille tai ihan tuntemattomille ihmisille, esimerkiksi lenkkipoluilla ja asuinyhtiöissä. Italialaiset pitävät puhumisesta ja jos suomalainen on heidän seurassaan pitkään hiljaa, tulee joku todennäköisesti kysyneeksi ”Tutto bene?” eli ”Onko kaikki hyvin?”

Mitä tulee tervehtimiseen, suomalaisen matkustajan on hyvä varautua poskisuudelmiin (baci) kättelemisen sijaan. Niitä harrastetaan tervehtiessä ystäviä, sukulaisia tai uusia tuttavuuksia – ja myös lähtiessä. Muiskauttelu voi tuntua jännittävältä kosketusaroille suomalaisille, mutta kyllä siihen lopulta tottuu.

Vuorovaikutus

Vuorovaikutus on toimintaa, jossa ihmiset yhdessä tuottavat, jakavat ja tulkitsevat merkityksiä (Gerlander & Poutiainen 2009, 82). Italialaiset pitävät vuorovaikuttamisesta – ehkä vähän liikaakin. Heillä on tapana nimittäin tulla hyvinkin lähelle ja jakaa kosketuksia herkästi. Ei ole epätyypillistä italialaisille esimerkiksi seistä lähellä tuntemattomia ihmisiä vaikkapa kassajonossa, vinkata silmää puolivahingossa tai tulla yllätysvierailulle kotiin. Suomalainen pelästyisi vastaavanlaisissa tilanteissa nopeasti ja tuntisi olonsa epämukavaksi, sillä onhan oman tilan ja yksityisyyden kunnioittaminen kaikista tärkeintä!

Käsiliikkeet hallussa

Italialaisilla on myös tapana puhua kovaan ääneen, jopa aggressiivisesti ja runsaasti käsillä elehtien – joskus vaikuttaen siltä, että osapuolilla on pahempikin väittely meneillään. Yleensä kyseessä on kuitenkin vain normaali keskustelu italialaisten välillä. Suomalaiset tuntuvat kummallisen rauhallisilta ja hiljaisilta sen jälkeen, kun on viettänyt aikaa italialaisten kanssa.

Ruoka

Italialaiset ovat hyvin ylpeitä keittiöstään – niin ylpeitä nimittäin, että heidän mielestänsä se on maailman paras. Italialaiset myös rakastavat syömistä, tai no, ei niin syömistä, mutta sosiaalisten menojen liittämistä ruoan ja juoman äärelle. Aamupala ei ole kuitenkaan niin tärkeä juttu, ehkä pieni biscottino eli pikkukeksi ja espressokahvi päivän käynnistämiseksi. Italialaiset lounastavat sen sijaan usein yhdessä vähintään pitkän tunnin viinilasin äärellä työkavereidensa kanssa, lähtevät aperitiiville eli drinkeille ja snackseille seitsemältä ja sen jälkeen vielä dinnerille yhdeksältä. Yhtäkkiä ruoan ja juoman äärellä onkin kulunut koko ilta ja keskustelulle ei tule loppua, koska ruoan äärellä on puhuttu monta tuntia päivän kuulumisia, uusia juoruja sekä mitä sitä seuraavana päivänä tapahtuu. Näitä aperitiiveja ja dinnereitä tapahtuu kaiken lisäksi monta kertaa viikossa päivästä riippumatta. Tämähän on suomalaisen kauhistus, koska ruokahan kuuluu syödä hiljaa, yksin ja mahdollisimman nopeasti, jonka jälkeen käydään ehkä puolen tunnin keskustelu ja sitten onkin aika lähteä tekemään jo omia iltajuttuja.

Onko pakko olla muiden kanssa?

Italialaiset eivät syö yksin – jos menet ravintolaan istumaan yksin, tulee tarjoilija todennäköisesti kysymään, onko kaikki hyvin tai alkaa hän juttelemaan sinulle niitä näitä varmistaen, ettet koe oloasi yksinäiseksi. Ai niin, äläkä tee sitä virhettä, että lähdet keskipäivällä kahvilaan toiveissasi opiskella tai tehdä töitä siellä omassa hiljaisuudessa etänä – ei sellaista hiljaista kahvilaa ole olemassa siihen aikaan eikä kyllä muutenkaan.

Un cappuccino, per favore!

Muistathan myös, että cappuccinoa ei saa juoda lounasajan jälkeen eikä kahvia missään nimessä ottaa pöytään samaan aikaan ruoan kanssa. Todennäköisesti saat vain kummastuneita katseita tai tyhmän turistin leiman. Äläkä missään nimessä sano coffee halutessasi suomalaisten suosimaa suodatinkahvia, koska italialaisille kahvi tarkoittaa vahvaa espressoshottia. Voit sanoa caffè americano mikäli vesilitku miellyttää espresson sijaan.

Ajan käsite

Aina myöhässä

Täsmällisenä suomalaisena on ollut hyvin vaikea sopeutua italialaisten käsitykseen ajasta. Jos tapaaminen on sovittu kuudelta illalla, on parempi, ettei koskaan saavu paikalle silloin ja vielä vähemmän minuutilleen ajoissa. Italialaiset tulevat paikalle todennäköisesti puoli tuntia myöhässä, miksei tunninkin tilanteesta riippuen. Saan usein odotella italialaisia ystäviäni ja näprätä puhelintani, koska he eivät ole koskaan ajoissa.

Voitteko olla vähän tehokkaampia?

Asiat tehdään verkkaisesti ja työssäni joudun usein pyörittelemään silmiäni, koska asioita ei vain yksinkertaisesti tehdä tehokkaasti ja järjestelmällisesti vaan aina vähän sinne päin. Jatkuvaan odotteluun ja epäjärjestelmällisyyteen on hyvä tottua tai muuten saa turhaan kiristellä hermojaan. Kaupan kassalla paikalliset Marcot ja Annalisat vaihtavat päivän kuulumisia kassatädin kanssa ja edellä odottava asiakas saa odottaa tovin pidempään, kun tuotteet liukuvat hihnalla hiljalleen eteenpäin. Kadulla edellä kävelevät laahustavat ja työpaikalla työtehtävät jäävät yhtäkkiä puolitiehen, koska pomo päättää vaihtaa työtehtäväsi kesken kaiken. Ei kannata odottaa asioiden hoituvan vauhdikkaasti ja järjestelmällisesti vaan vetää syvään henkeä ja laskea kymmeneen!

Kuka syö dinnerin yhdeksältä ja aloittaa bileet aamuyöllä?

No italialaiset tietysti! Italialaisilla on tapana venyttää päivää pitkälle iltaan. Illallinen alkaa yleensä vasta myöhään illalla yhdeksältä ja jos lähdetään juhlimaan klubille, bileet alkavat vasta noin yhden tai kahden aikaa yöllä ja jatkuvat aamuun asti. Suomalaisena sitä alkaa väsyttää helposti jo siihen aikaan, kun Italiassa juhlat alkavat. Toisaalta päivällisen syöminen viideltä suomalaiseen tapaan kuulostaa aika erikoiselta tavalta sen jälkeen, kun on tottunut etelän meininkiin.

Muita havaintoja

Tulisia tunteita

Italiassa ollessa olen huomannut, että italialaiset ovat hyvin tunnerikkaita ihmisiä. Tunteita ei peitellä olivat ne sitten positiivisia tai negatiivisia ja ne näytetään vahvasti. Jos jostakin pidetään, se sanotaan kyllä ääneen – ja jos syntyy riita, sen kuulee kauas asti. Yleisesti italialaiset ovat aika iloisia ihmisiä ja he hymyilevät paljon – toisin kuin suomalaiset, jotka pelkäävät hymyn johtavan keskusteluun tuntemattoman ihmisen kanssa.

Yhdessä vai erikseen?

Italialaiset ovat myös yhteisöllisempiä kuin suomalaiset: usein isovanhempia ja muita sukulaisia tavataan paljon säännöllisemmin kuin suomalaisessa kulttuurissa. Yhteisöllistä toimintaa järjestetään paljon naapurustoissa ja naapurit toimivat monille turvaverkkoina, joilta voi kysyä vaikkapa puuttuvaa kahvipakettia keskellä päivää. Ystävät ja ihmissuhdeverkostot saavat ihan erilaisen merkityksen Italiassa, ja yksin oleminen ja yksinäisyys ovat kuin sairauksia, joita kenenkään ei pitäisi kokea. Suomessa taas omaa aikaa arvostetaan ja jopa vaalitaan pattereiden lataamiseksi. Italialaiset lataavat niitä muiden ihmisten seurassa!

Loppusanat

Italia on siis paikka, jossa puhetta ja sosiaalisia menoja riittää, cappuccinoa ei juoda keskipäivän jälkeen ja jossa hiljaisuutta sekä yksinoloa pidetään omituisena. Pohjolasta tuleva suomalainen onkin kuin vaalea kummajainen, jolle voi aluksi olla vaikea sopeutua Italian menoon ja poskisuudelmiin. Loppujen lopuksi suomalainenkin voi tottua tähän aurinkoiseen ja läheisyyttä korostavaan kulttuuriin, mikä yleensä vaatii vähän aikaa tai pari lasillista viiniä.

Kiitos, kun luit tämän postauksen – toivottavasti se antaa teille kaikille vähän näkökulmaa Suomen ja Italian kulttuurieroista. Kiitos ja näkemisiin!

Grazie e ci vediamo!

Lähteet

Gerlander, Maija ja Poutiainen, Saila 2009. Puhe sosiaalisena toiminta. Teoksessa Olli Aaltonen & Reijo Aulanko & Antti Iivonen & Anu Klippi & Martti Vainio (toim.).  Puhuva ihminen: puhetieteiden perusteet. Helsinki: Otava

Tips for traveling in South Korea

In our previous post "Where to visit in Seoul, South Korea?" we talked about the best places to visit in Seoul. In this post we give general tips and info about traveling in Korea.

1. Download Naver map in your phone! 

Google maps doesn't work in Korea properly so by using Naver map you can make sure you will find your way to the right place. It is better to copy paste the addresses in Korean letters to find the correct locations!

2. Get a T-money card!

It costs 2500-4000krw You can purchase this travel card anywhere in convenience stores like 7-Eleven, CU or GS25. After buying the card you can recharge money in it and travel more conveniently all around Seoul with travel card. T-money also works in Busan or when going to Everland by bus.  By T-money travel card you can transfer for free from metro to bus or vice versa within 30 minutes and the tickets are slightly cheaper as well.

3. In Korea you don't have to worry about pickpockets as much as in other countries

In Seoul you can easily leave your bag to reserve a seat in a cafe or leave your phone on a table while visiting the bathroom. Koreans are very reliable people and almost everywhere you can find CCTV so it is safe to walk alone even in the middle of the night without worrying about your safety too much. In more international areas like Itaewon it is better to pay more attention to your belongings.

4. Try these Korean foods

Korean barbecue 삼겹살, bulgogi 불고기, cold noodles 냉면, kimbab 김밥 kimchi jigae 김치찌개 or bibimbab! 비빔밥. Food in Korea is often very spicy so if you can't handle spicy food remember to tell the waiter to make the food less spicy! Don't forget to try some local soju 소주 (drink) as well!

5. Learn a few words of Korean!

That makes Korean people feel more comfortable, it is polite and often is a good conversation starter to make new local friends!

안녕하세요                 Annyeonghaseyo         =      Hello!
안녕히 계세요            Annyeonghi kyeseyo   =      Good bye (when you leave)
안녕히 가세요            Annyeonghi kaseyo     =      Good bye (when somebody leaves)
감사합니다                 Kamsahabnida             =      Thank you
저는 *name* 입니다 Jeoneun *name* imnida =   I am *name*
맛있어요                     Masisseoyo!                 =     It is delicious!
반갑습니다                 Bangabseumnida         =      Nice to meet you!

6. Have some cash with you!

Even though almost everywhere in South Korea you can pay by card, it is good to have some cash with you because many local vendors sell some street food which you can't buy by card. Also there are some small fashion stores where by paying by cash you get a cheaper price for the products.

7. Try a photo booth

In South Korea it is easy to find photo booths in every corner with only 5000krw! It is a fun way to make memories with your loved ones and you can wear some funny accessories and choose the theme for your pictures. At the end of the photo booth the machine will print you the pictures!

8. In Korea you pay at the cafes first and in the restaurants it depends on the place.

Generally speaking you always pay your coffee and cake while ordering. In restaurants it is case by case: Sometimes you pay the meal when you order it and sometimes after you are done with eating. Tipping is not necessary in Korea.

9. Tap water is safe to drink...

...but most people don't do it because it doesn't taste good.

10. Don't be surprised if your new Korean friends are too busy to meet you...

...because many of them do long working days until late evenings. Try to catch up on the weekends or during their spare time!

Where to visit in Seoul, South Korea?

Many people go to Japan, Tokyo when they travel to Asia. But have you ever thought about visiting South Korea, the country where K-pop and Samsung come from? If not, take a look of this post and let us introduce you Seoul 서울, South Korea's top city to visit and let us tell why it should be your next destination!

Seoul during cherry blossoms

Seoul is the capital of South Korea with the population of 9,7 million. It is located in the northern part of South Korea and the nearest international airport is Incheon airport 인천국제공항 . This city is a large city full of life and action which will never stop even during the night. You can find hundreds of different restaurants, cafes, bars, fashion stores, game halls, karaoke rooms, temples and anything you can imagine. Only the sky is the limit for this city! If you want to get a feeling of Asian New York, Seoul is the place!

How to get to Seoul city center from airport?

From Incheon airport it is easy either to take Airport Railroad Express (9500krw express/all stops 4500krw), Seoul Metropolitan subway (4250krw) or Airport bus (9000krw) to the city.

Where to visit in Seoul?

 

1. Gangnam-gu: Gangnam, Sinsa, Apgujeon Rodeo, Cheonnam 강남구

Gangnam-gu is a business area with more pricey stores and restaurants, trendy cafes and offices. Here you can also find the famous Gangnam statue, Ceox shopping mall and a city temple Bongeunsa at Samseong-dong, K-star road from Apgujeong Rodeo station and the famous shopping street Garosu-gil or "Green street" at Sinsa-dong. Why not to also pay a visit to the Han river park and have a lovely picnic with your family or friends watching the sunset?

A picture from Gangnam

2. Yeonnam-dong: Hongdae/Hongkik university 홍대

A youth area with local fashion stores, more affordable local restaurants, many bars, clubs and pubs around. Many young Korean artists gather here to perform their dance or music performances. You can go to game hall, have some Korean barbecue, spend a few hours in Karaoke or just walk on the streets of Hongdae in the evening. There is also a famous Thursday Party pub, where many foreign people gather to meet new people. If you go out from exit 3 of Hongdae station you will find a park to chill and many great cafes surrounding the walkway. 

Hongdae

3. Yongsan-gu: Itaewon 이태원

Itaewon is known to be the area where most foreigners reside. Here you can find a lot of foreigners spending their weekend at the rooftop bars and restaurants. There are foreign marts for imported products, Turkish, American, Italian Japanese and Mexican restaurants and so on. You can also bargain a cheap luggage or go to the small famous bar street called Haebangcheon 해방촌 to watch sports match, have a fancy glass of wine or have one of the best pizzas in town at Bonny's Pizza Pub. If you want to see the city view, hike up to Namsan mountain to the famous N Seoul Tower/Namsan tower! 서울타워

N Seoul Tower Itaewon

4. Myeong-dong 명동

Myeong-dong is a heaven for skincare lovers. Here you find all the Korean cosmetic stores lined up next to each other. At the times the workers lure you in the store and give you free sheet masks or cosmetic samples while visiting the stores — sometimes you don't even have to buy the products to get those free sheet masks! There are also great Korean restaurants, a movie theater and walking towards north you end up to the stream called Cheonggyecheon 청계천. It's a popular spot to get some new Instagram material by the water! If you are interested in animals they also have a Meerkat cafe in Myeong-dong where you can meet the real meerkats and other animals like wallabies!

Meerkat cafe, Myeong-dong

5. Insa-dong 인사동

Insa-dong is a popular area for traditional Korean art, handcrafts, clothes and tea houses. You will find the stores names only written in Korean letters here. You can try one of the best green teas here in Osulloc tea store or buy some beautiful Korean traditional accessories as a souvenir!

6. Bukchon Hanok Village 북촌한옥마을

Bukchon Hanook Village is a must to visit when you are in Seoul. It is a neighborhood with traditional Korean houses, a beautiful view facing the mountains and some cafes. One of the best cafes in this area is called Onion Cafe and many times you have to line up to get in. They offer amazing pastries and you can sit down traditional way on the floor while sipping your afternoon coffee.

Bukchon Hanok Village

7. Gyeongbukgung palace 경복궁 

Near Bukchon Hanok village is Gyeongbukgung palace, which is a royal palace from the era of Joseon Dynasty. It is built in 1395 and it has a significant meaning in Korea's history. It is known as the largest palace in Seoul and the National Palace Museum is within the complex. The entrance fee for adults is only 3000krw to visit this beautiful historical attraction. You can also spend some time at the garden or rent a Hanbok — the traditional Korean outfit — to visit the palace with the touch of history on you.

Gyeongbukgung palace

The address of the palace: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

8. Seoul Forest 서울숲

Do you prefer a peaceful day in a park? Then Seoul Forest is the place for you. This park is one of the biggest city parks in Seoul. Nearby the park there are streets where you can find bakeries to buy some picnic snacks as well as some great restaurant! There is an amazing burger restaurant called Bas Burger quite near from the subway station. Their fries and chips are so crispy that it is hard to resist them!

Bas Burger, Seoul Forest

9. Bukhansan mountain 북한산

Are you more of an active person and you want some challenge in your holidays? Prepare your backpack, a couple of bottles of water, some snacks and head towards Bukhansan mountain in the morning. It is the highest mountain in Seoul with the height of 836 meters. The peak Baegundae can be reached in three to four hours depending on your physical condition. The view is spectacular and I recommend to go there when there is less pollution in the air to get the best sight. It is a popular hiking attraction and you will see a lot of Korean ahjummas and ahjussis (older Korean aunts and uncles) hiking with their professional hiking equipment. Don't worry, you will do as well as them with just normal sports wear! Just avoid going to the mountain in the evening or rainy days because it can be dangerous and slippery that time.

A view from Bukhansan mountain.

 

10. Everland 에버랜드

This theme park is definitely a must if you go to Korea! Everland is not located exactly in Seoul but it is just one hour by bus from there. You will find speedy rollercoasters, Ferris wheel, water slide, a zoo, French garden, game halls and many other interesting things in this amusement park. If you are not afraid of heights or speed, you must try the craziest ride at the rollercoaster T Express!

Everland with the T-Express rollercoaster behind.

The address: South Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Yongin-si, Cheoin-gu, Pogog-eup, Everland-ro, 199

Do you need some more tips about visiting Seoul, Korea? Check out our new post "Tips for visiting Seoul, South Korea!"

Top 5 cafes in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the cities where you can find hundreds of cafes with high quality coffee, sunny terraces and good customer service. In Barcelona the bartenders make you feel welcomed and always treat their customers with a smile on their face. Here are Top 5 cafes to visit in Barcelona!

1. Hoffman A La Seca

Hoffman A La Seca is a small cafe terrace in the lobby of El Born's La Seca–Espai Brossa theatre. It's known for its tasty croissants. They also offer other great pastries along with great hot chocolate! It's located at a narrow alley of the streets of Barcelona not far from the Park de la Ciutadella.

The address: Carrer dels Flassaders, 40, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

2. ARTiSA Barcelona

This cafe is located by La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street in Barcelona. They say they have one of the best churros in ARTiSA - no wonder because they were sold out when we got there. However, their other sweets are as great and this lovely cafe was a perfect spot to stop by while exploring the streets of Barcelona.

The address: Carrer de Colom, 2, 08002 Barcelona, Spain

3. Alsur Café & Backdoor bar

Alsur is one of the great cafes, lunch places and bars at the same time. They have delicious lunch options along with tasty cakes. They also offer a coffee + cake set with very reasonable price in the early afternoon! The interior reminds of the bars from 80's with their blue lighting and neon signs.

The address: Carrer de la Ribera, 18, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

4. Molinet Cafè Antic

One of the greatest hidden cafes in Barcelona and no wonder - the service here was super friendly! The waiter even served us an extra drink free of charge. Molinet Cafè Antic is a small cozy cafe in the El Poble-Sec district which greets you in with their warm lights and interior design (like from an old film!) It seemed pretty busy here and they have just a few seats so I recommend to go there during weekdays rather than a weekend. Their brunch menu has great avocado toasts and bagels so Molinet Café Antic is definitely a place for grabbing lunch!

The address: Carrer d'Elkano, 69, 08004 Barcelona, Spain

5. Manso's Cafe

This cafe is for all the Scandinavian lovers because in this Swedish cafe you can find authentic Swedish pastries like kanerbullar (cinnamon buns) or semla (cardamom-spiced wheat bun with cream and almost paste). They also have some tasty cakes and Swedish cookies. Have a cup of coffee, a Swedish pastry and take a seat at their sunny terrace to enjoy the afternoon!

The address: Carrer de Manso, 1, 08015 Barcelona, Spain

What else to do than visit great cafes in Barcelona? What is your favourite cafe in Barcelona and what makes it special? Check out our post TOP 10 Best Places to Visit in Barcelona!

TOP 10 Best Places to Visit in Barcelona

Barcelona is the largest city and the capital of Catalonia which is an autonomous community of Catalonia. It is located at the northeastern Spain and holds the population of 1.6 million people.

Barcelona is known for the friendly people, great food, the seaside and beautiful architecture. It is visited yearly by millions of tourists – which is not surprising by looking at how amazing the city is. Here are Top 10 hot spots for visitors in Barcelona.

1. La Sagrada Familia

This Roman Catholic basilica is one of the greatest masterpieces by the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. The construction of La Sagrada Familia started on 19 March 1882 and yet is still unfinished after all these decades. The style of the Basilica is mix of Gothic and Art Nouveau.

The address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain

La Sagrada Familia

2. Arc de Triomf

Like the Arc the Triomphe in Paris, it is must to pay a visit to Barcelona’s own arch of triumph built by the architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas. The Neo-Mudéjar style master piece doesn’t leave you cold with its warm outer appearance. It was originally built as an entrance for 1888 Barcelona World Fair. Located near the Parc de la Ciutadella you can have a peaceful picnic after taking couple of pictures by this beautiful historical gate!

The address: Passeig de Lluís Companys, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Arc de Triunfo

3. Parc de la Ciutadella

This park is one of the best places to relax and enjoy Barcelona in more peaceful way. Here you can have a picnic, meet friends, admire the park’s lake, visit the Barcelona Zoo or just come to see the park’s  famous fountain. The park was created in 1877 and is open all year.

The address: Passeig de Picasso, 21, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Parc de la Ciutadella

4. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

This fountain is by the National Art of Museum of Catalonia. You can also find The Four Columns by Josep Puig i Cadafalc here. It is a beautiful spot of taking pictures with the view of the city or just admire the fountain light show. If you have more energy you can hike all the way up to the peak of Montjuïc from the fountain!

The address: Plaça de Carles Buïgas, 1, 08038 Barcelona, Spain

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

5. La Barceloneta

A trip to Barcelona is not completed without visiting La Barceloneta beach. It is the main beach of Barcelona where people gather to enjoy a beach day, jogging, playing volleyball or surfing. The beach area has a plenty of restaurants and cafes with local seafood or Catalonian style tapas to try. One famous tapas restaurant around the beach area is La Cova Fumada where you can try heavenly sardines and their famous garlic toast! After a meal just dip in the fresh sea water or relax at the beach.

La Barceloneta

6. Parc del Laberint d'Horta

Have you ever been to a real labyrinth? If not, Park of the Labyrinth of Horta is the best chance to do it! The entrance is just couple of euros and the labyrinth is in this beautiful romantic garden located in the northern part of Barcelona, in the Municipality of Horta-Guinardó.

The address: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

Park of the Labyrinth of Horta

7. Park Güell

This park is composed with architectural buildings and beautiful gardens. You can find the beautiful buildings designed by the architect Antoni Gaudi who designed the famous church La Sagrada Familia. It is UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Barcelona. You can also find Gaudi's home in Park Güell!

The address: 08024 Barcelona, Spain

Park Güell

8. Picasso Museum Barcelona

Pablo Picasso is one of the most famous Spanish painters and artists in the world. If you are an art lover Picasso museum is definitely one of the places to visit during your stay in Barcelona! The museum contains over 4000 paintings and tells the story of Picasso's life and career. Also, the museum has free admission on Thursdays 6pm to 9.30pm and the first Sunday of every month from 9 am to 7 pm.

The address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Espanja

9. The mountain of Tibidabo & Sagrat Cor Church 

Just a couple of hours hike up to northern part of Barcelona and you can reach the top of the mountain Tibidabo. There you can find Sagrat Cor Church/Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which is a Roman Catholic Church from 1952. On top of the Basilica stands a famous Jesus sculpture. This magical mountain looks like from a Disney movie and there is nothing more beautiful than the sunset from the peak.

The address: Ctra. de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo, 111, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

10. La Rambla + Gothic Quarter

La Rambla is the most notable pedestrian street of Barcelona. It is 1.2km street between the neighborhoods Gothic Quarter and El Raval. You can walk all the way from the Plaça de Catalunya (a famous square) to the harbor from here and grab a cup of coffee or stop by at the Maritime museum of Barcelona. Gothic Quarter, which is part of the Ciutat Vella district, is in the center of the old town of Barcelona. The area consists plenty of  historical buildings, cafes, bars restaurants and small stores. It's absolutely Instagram worthy area and one of the best places to visit in Barcelona to admire Gothic-style architecture or just to spend a day between historical buildings.

Pont del Bisbe built in 1928, Gothic Quarter

As you can see, Barcelona is combination of beautiful architecture, history, landscapes, nature and art. It's a city which has something to offer for everybody and with being relatively warm the whole year it's a perfect place for holidays despite of the season. What is your favorite place from our TOP 10 picks of Barcelona? Leave a comment below!

Picasso Museum Barcelona

Pablo Picasso is one of the most prestigious painters in the world. He was born in Málaga, Spain 25th of October in 1881. His work consists nearly all the art styles from 20th century starting from realism all the way to cubism. We visited the Picasso Museum in Barcelona to see some of his great pieces of art.

At the beginning of his career, Picasso painted a lot of realistic and detailed paintings. Let's see some of his art work.

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Pablo Picasso, Premiére Communion, 1896

 

You can find a lot pencil sketches from the artist in Picasso Museum

 

Pablo's famous painting The maids of Honor was inspired by Diego Velázquez’s masterpiece Las Meninas. He painted it when he lived in the South of France, Cannes, in his studio where only a few visitors were allowed to come.

Pablo Picasso, The Maids of Honor, 1957

 

Another version of Pablo Picasso's, Las Meninas Velazquez 1957

 

Pablo was talented in using different painting techniques. The way he combined color and brushes varies from paintings to paintings.

 

La Nana, "The Dwarf", Pablo Picasso 1966

 

The Picasso Museum is a great way to learn about Picasso's art, life and career as an artist. He wasn't only a talented in painting but also talented in sculpture, ceramics and illustration. His artwork consists 147,800 pieces all together.

The Picasso Museum has free entrance on Thursdays from 6pm to 9.30pm.

and the first Sunday of every month from 9 am to 7 pm.

The address is: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Espanja

 

What is your favourite museum in Spain and what makes it special?

Espoo Cathedral from the Air: Medieval Stone Church in Finland | Espoon tuomiokirkko | Esbo domkyrka

Espoo Cathedral from the Air – Medieval Stone Church in Finland. Select the image to watch the video on YouTube.

 

Experience Espoo Cathedral from above in this peaceful drone video filmed in Espoo, Finland. Known in Finnish as Espoon tuomiokirkko and in Swedish as Esbo domkyrka, the cathedral is one of the most remarkable medieval stone churches in Finland.

The oldest parts of Espoo Cathedral date back to the late 15th century, with construction traditionally linked to the years 1485–1490. Designed by an unknown medieval master, the church remains an important landmark of Finnish medieval architecture and one of Espoo’s most historically valuable buildings. The aerial views highlight the cathedral’s stone structure, surrounding churchyard, and autumn colors of southern Finland.

This drone video combines medieval architecture, Finnish history, and beautiful autumn scenery. The soundtrack features Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, Finale, adding a timeless classical atmosphere to the views of Espoo Cathedral.

Suomeksi:
Espoon tuomiokirkko ilmasta kuvattuna drone-videolla. Espoon tuomiokirkko on keskiaikainen kivikirkko Espoossa ja yksi kaupungin tärkeimmistä historiallisista maamerkeistä. Syksyn värit, vanha kivikirkko ja klassinen musiikki luovat rauhallisen näkymän suomalaiseen kulttuurimaisemaan.

På svenska:
Esbo domkyrka sedd från luften i en drönarvideo. Den medeltida stenkyrkan är ett av Esbos viktigaste historiska landmärken och en betydelsefull del av Finlands medeltida kyrkoarkitektur.

Lapinlahti at Night: Migratory Birds Leaving Finland | Art Photography

 

A summer night view from Lapinlahti, Helsinki, where migratory birds gather before leaving Finland. Lapinlahti Hospital adds a historic backdrop to the scene.

 

 

A quiet summer night in Lapinlahti, Helsinki, turns into a poetic moment as migratory birds move through the darkening sky. In the photograph, the birds appear above the historic landscape of Lapinlahti, where nature, architecture, and memory meet in one atmospheric scene.

Part of the roof of the former Lapinlahti Hospital is also visible in the image. The building gives the photograph a deeper historical layer: Lapinlahti Hospital was completed in 1841 and is known as Finland’s first hospital built for psychiatric care. It was designed by architect Carl Ludvig Engel, whose neoclassical architecture helped shape many of Helsinki’s most recognizable historical landmarks.

Today, the Lapinlahti area is remembered not only for its medical history but also for its peaceful seaside setting, old hospital buildings, and cultural atmosphere. The contrast between the silent roofline and the movement of birds creates a strong visual story: the past remains still, while nature continues its seasonal journey.

This art photograph captures more than a night view. It reflects the feeling of departure, history, and quiet beauty in Helsinki. The migratory birds leaving Finland bring motion to the scene, while the former Lapinlahti psychiatric hospital stands as a reminder of the city’s layered past.

Costa Pacifica from the Air: Cruise Ship Leaving Helsinki, Finland

Costa Pacifica Cruise Ship Leaving the Port of Helsinki, Finland – Drone Video.
Select the image to play the video on YouTube.

Costa Pacifica from the Air: Cruise Ship Leaving Helsinki, Finland

The Costa Pacifica cruise ship is seen leaving the Port of Helsinki, Finland, in this aerial drone video. From above, the vessel’s impressive size stands out against the open water and coastal scenery of Helsinki, offering a clear view of a modern cruise ship departing the Finnish capital.

Costa Pacifica is an Italian cruise ship built by Fincantieri and delivered in 2009. The ship is approximately 290.2 meters long, has a gross tonnage of 114,500 GRT, and includes 1,504 passenger cabins. Fincantieri describes Costa Pacifica as the first “music ship” in the Costa fleet, giving the vessel a distinctive identity among large European cruise ships.

The ship’s IMO number is 9378498, and it sails under the Italian flag. Vessel data sources list Costa Pacifica as a passenger cruise ship built in 2009, with a beam of about 35.5 meters and a deadweight of 10,000 tonnes.

This drone footage captures a calm maritime moment in Helsinki: a large cruise ship slowly moving away from the port, the city shoreline behind it, and the Baltic Sea opening ahead. The aerial perspective makes the departure feel both grand and peaceful, highlighting Helsinki’s role as an important cruise destination in Northern Europe.

A Little Girl in Quan Loi, Vietnam: A Photograph from the 1960s

A little girl from Quan Loi, Vietnam, photographed in the 1960s — a quiet memory from a place and time that have never been forgotten.

I took this picture about 53 years ago in 1960s, so this little girl would be a woman in her late fifties give or take a little. 

We landed in a beautiful place called Quan Loi Vietnam, Before Quan Loi became a big airstrip, and the short time I was there became good friends with her Grandparents. I have often wondered what happened to them. She and her sister were living with the Grandparents while their parents staid in the city to work.

If you have any information about her or her family and what happened to them, please contact us through the contact form. 

 

- James Smith 

A police-style car in Tallinn Old Town, Estonia — possibly inspired by a Soviet-era militia vehicle. Photographed near Henriks Kohvik / Henriks Cafe in 2019. 

Police Car in Tallinn, Estonia: Soviet-Era Militia Vehicle or Local Curiosity?

A day trip to Tallinn can turn into a small visual treasure hunt, especially when walking through the streets of the Old Town. This photograph was taken on 20 April 2019 during a Tallink day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn, followed by a relaxed walk through the city.

The scene shows a police-style car in Tallinn Old Town, Estonia. At first glance, it raises a question: is it a modern local curiosity, a display vehicle, or perhaps a car inspired by the old Soviet-era militia vehicles? Without verified details about the vehicle itself, it is better to leave the question open — and that uncertainty is part of the charm of the image.

Tallinn Old Town is one of Estonia’s most atmospheric places for a walking trip. Its historic centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Visit Tallinn describes the Old Town not only as a preserved historic treasure, but also as a living and constantly evolving part of the city.

The photograph also captures everyday street details that make travel images memorable: Henriks Kohvik / Henriks Cafe, a Protsess poster, old façades, and the layered feeling of Tallinn’s urban history. These small discoveries often say more about a destination than the most famous landmarks.

The trip itself was part of the classic Helsinki–Tallinn ferry route, one of the most convenient ways to visit Estonia from Finland. Tallink operates year-round sea connections on the Helsinki–Tallinn route, making Tallinn an easy destination for a short city break or a one-day walk through the Old Town.

This image is a reminder that travel photography does not always need a perfect postcard view. Sometimes the best travel memories come from a surprising detail on a side street — a car, a café sign, a poster, and a question that remains unanswered.