AAA Northeast Fam Trip

 Please note that changes to the program are possible.

Sunday, June 4

Departure from JFK at 10:55pm by AY016 operated by Finnair

Monday, June 5

2:00pm Arrival to Helsinki Airport
Meet your host Ms. Asta Kekkonen, Visit Finland at the arrivals hall 
3:00pm Transfer to the Barö Hotel Archipelago in Inkoo
The Barö is an ecologically built, high-class archipelago hotel in the Barösund region of Inkoo, in the heart of the world’s most magnificent archipelago. The diverse and unique archipelago of the Gulf of Finland, pure nature, the sea, old trees and local stories dating back to the Viking Age entices visitors from the very first moment.
4:00pm Check-in and free time 
4:15pm Evening Sauna and jacuzzi by the sea
The Barö sauna building is located right on the beach. The sauna can take 6-8 people at the same time. There is also a hot tub on the sauna terrace and you can go for a dip in the sea in summer or jump into the icy water in winter. On the sauna terrace you will also find a cosy room with a fireplace where you can enjoy small snacks and drinks. 
5:50pm Freetime and get ready for the dinner
7:30pm Welcoming dinner at restaurant the Berg
The restaurant menu changes seasonally. In our restaurant, we focus on classic Nordic cuisine with a modern twist, combining local ingredients with quality products from Nordic suppliers we know and trust. For us at The Berg, important values ​​are the purity of the ingredients, the season, the freshness and cooperation with the producers we know.
Overnight at the Barö hotel Archipelago

Tuesday, June 6

Breakfast at the hotel and check out
9:30am Lobby call 
Meet Mr. Timo Hakala, Head of International Sales, The Barö Hotel at the lobby
9:30am Departure to Fiskars Village
Transfer time approx. 40min
10:15am Arrival to Fiskars Village
Arriving at Fiskars is like stepping into another world, one where art, design and craft blossom from historic riverside buildings surrounded by grand ancient trees. The village, first developed as an ironworks in the mid-1600s, now has today a thriving community of craftspeople, entrepreneurs and artists who live in harmony with nature.
10:20am Guided walking tour at Fiskars Village
During a guided tour, a local guide will tell you about the history and traditions of the village, how you the key sights and provide you with a glimpse of Fiskars today as a village of artists, artisans and designers.
11:00am Coffee break in Hotel Torby
The owners of the high-class archipelago hotel The Barö are opening a new hotel in the former Cutlery Mill in Fiskars Village. The new hotel “The Torby” offers guests high quality and sustainable accommodation and experiences all year around. The new hotel is situated in the Old Cutlery Mill where Fiskars has manufactured cutlery and scissors during 19th and 20th century. The building is owned by Fiskars Group and will have 24 hotel rooms, five meeting spaces and a sauna. 
11:30am Free time for strolling and souvenir shopping in Fiskars Village's handicraft boutiques
12:30pm Departure to Turku by bus
Transfer time approx. 1,5h 

Welcome to Turku! 
Founded almost 800 hundred years ago, Turku is the oldest city and the former capital of Finland. As the self-proclaimed food capital of Finland, Turku is proud to justify such a prestigious title. Turku’s food culture is visible all year round. As well as amazing restaurants with talented chefs serving seasonal and locally sourced culinary experiences, there are lots of different food events organised in the city.

2:00pm Lunch at Restaurant Nooa by the riverside 
Meet your local host Mr. Joonas Äkäslompolo from Visit Turku Archipelago (+358 44 901 9688) at the restaurant.
3:00pm Short walk to Kakola Hill
Local guide Ms. Anu Salminen will meet us after Funicular ride up to the hill and she will tell more about the story of Kakola Hill.
3:30pm Beer tasting at Kakola Brewery
An oasis of beer in the middle of Turku. Discover the summer’s hottest terrace as well as the coolest beers at the KBC Taproom in Kakolanmäki. At the Kakola Brewing Company’s own bar and diner, guests can enjoy a wide selection of 16-tap beers, natural wines and large KBC Pizzas. Come for the cosy yet elegant atmosphere and enjoy the night until the early hours.
4:10pm Transfer to Sokos Hotel Seurahuone and check in
Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone is an elegant and lively boutique hotel in the centre of Turku. A classic that's full of surprises, brought from the 1920s into the modern age. The work of interior designer Jaakko Puro as well as the vibrant 1920s can be seen throughout our hotel. 

Freetime

6:40pm Lobby call 
Transfer to Restaurant Kakolanruusu
People come to Kakolanruusu, the rose of Kakola, for a drink or two, to have lunch and dinner, to spend time with family or to have a business meeting. Make discoveries from our wine cellar’s treasure list, or enjoy the beats played by a DJ at our lounge bar by the fireplace. With a classic cocktail in your hand, of course. Enjoy a hurry free lunch, or come and experience Kakola’s Feast and enjoy amazing shared dishes served one after another.The new level restaurant experience is just one funicular trip away.
7:00pm Dinner at Restaurant Kakolanruusu
People come to Kakolanruusu, the rose of Kakola, for a drink or two, to have lunch and dinner, to spend time with family or to have a business meeting. Make discoveries from our wine cellar’s treasure list, or enjoy the beats played by a DJ at our lounge bar by the fireplace. With a classic cocktail in your hand, of course. Enjoy a hurry free lunch, or come and experience Kakola’s Feast and enjoy amazing shared dishes served one after another.The new level restaurant experience is just one funicular trip away.
9.15pm Transfer back to hotel 

Wednesday, June 7

Breakfast at the hotel
9:0am Lobby call 
Meet your local host Mr. Joonas Äkäslompolo from Visit Turku Archipelago (+358 44 901 9688).
Short walk by the Aurajoki riverside boulevard to Turku Market Hall
9:15amVisit at The Turku Market Hall with local delicacies tasting
The Turku Market Hall was opened to public in the centre of Turku in 1896 and it is the second oldest in Finland. The hall is designed by achitect and professor Gustaf Nyström and the roof structure and the wooden parts of the shops along the corridors are original. The shops in the market hall range from the oldest ones in Turku to brand new. They offer a wide selection of delicacies, but also the building itself is worth visiting. It is a gem of Finnish building tradition and in the highest protection class as a highly valuable cultural historical site.
9:45am Short walk to Cafe Qwensel
Cafe Qwensel is found at the heart of Turku in a unique 18th century setting. The selection includes traditional pastries made on site, as well as the wonderful Afternoon Tea. Products are made without additives, reflecting the traditions of local food.
10:00am Afternoon Tea at Cafe Qwensel
10:45am Guided walking tour by the Aurajoki River and historical sites
12:00pm Lunch at Restaurant Oobu
The archipelago is back in town. Restaurant OOBU serves fresh archipelago dishes in the middle of Turku, in the traditional Bassi house. Fish, lamb and vegetables in various forms, honouring traditions, while making use of the newest kitchen know-how. Goodies that nourish the soul as well as the body.
1:10pm Transfer to Finnish Design Shop
1:30pm Introduction of Finnish Design Shop's showroom
Located in Finnish Design Shop's logistics centre, our showroom houses changing exhibitions highlighting curated design gems from the online store's selection. Right now, we're showcasing an array of beautiful bedroom and accessories - why not pop in for some decor inspiration if you happen to be in Turku, Finland!
2:30pm Transfer to Turku Castle
3:00pm Guided Tour at Turku Castle
Turku Castle is a more than 700 year old historical monument. It has stood guard over the river Aura estuary since the 1280’s. Its granite stone walls hold within them the history of Finland, Sweden and the other Nordic countries. Hear fascinating stories about the castle's history. The tour will go through the medieval part of the Castle. During the guided tour you will hear about everyday life, celebrations, war and love within the Castle walls.
4:10pm Transfer back to Sokos Hotel Seurahuone

Freetime

05:40pm Lobby call
Meet your local host Mr. Joonas Äkäslompolo from Visit Turku Archipelago at the lobby
Transfer to steamship Ukkopekka
6:00pm Dinner Cruise with Steamship Ukkopekka
During the summer evenings, steamship Ukkopekka sails from Turku to the fascinating island of Loistokari. There is everything you need for a wonderful evening: delicious dinner inspired by the Finnish archipelago with barbecue specialties, along with live music and dancing on the pier. The ship is filled with an unforgettable atmosphere and happy people! After arriving at the island, you will be served a dinner buffet. A summer night in the Finnish archipelago would not be complete without a barbecue!
10:00pm Transfer back to hotel

Thursday, June 8

Breakfast at the hotel
07:20am Lobby call and check out
Meet your local hosts Mr. Joonas Äkäslompolo, Visit Turku Archipelago and Mr. Benjamin Donner, Visit Pargas at the lobby
07:30am Departure to Archipelago
Transfer time approx. one hour

Welcome to Pargas! 
The archipelago city of Pargas is a piece of paradise. It is a made up of various large islands, including Iniö, Houtskär, Korpo, Nagu and Pargas, all of which are authentic places to visit. Each island has its own unique atmosphere and special characteristics. All the islands are accessible through the year, with services also available during winter. The Archipelago Trail and Small Archipelago Trail can be circumnavigated in its entirety between 13 May and 4 September 2022.

08:45am Ferry to Pargas - Nagu Island
Nagu is a charming and lively archipelago community, there lives about 1500 inhabitants all year round but during the summer this number increases a lot because of all the summer guests that come to Nagu. Nagu consists of two main islands, Storlandet and Lillandet, and of the unique archipelago with its 3000 islands, islets and skerries.
09:15am Visit at Nagu Village Centre & Beach Boulevard
10:30am Tackork Gård & Marina - small bites and activities
11:20am Ferry crossing to Korpo Island
Korpo, an idyllic, cultural island in the middle of the archipelago is the perfect base for daytrips. Both the outer archipelago and larger neighbouring islands are easily reached on the frequent ferry services, or just send time exploring Korpo by car or bike. Korpo itself has a large variety of services on offer.
11:50am Barefoot Art Path walking path
The Barefoot Art Path is an exhibition that focuses on environmental and site-specific art. It invites the public to take part of the unique nature of the archipelago and experience contemporary art that has been created to interact with the environment. Every year the exhibition explores the human – nature relationship and the impact of nature on us. 
1:00pm Lunch at Hotel Nestor's Back Pocket Restaurant 
2:45pm Departure from the Islands
Going back to mainland by ferries and bus transfer to city of Naantali

Welcome to Naantali! 
The historical town is a unique combination of culture, beautiful architecture, fascinating sights and delicious spots for foodies and lively events. The beautiful Finnish archipelago is just around the corner and the famous archipelago trails travel through Naantali. Naantali is also the official hometown of the Moominworld.

5:00pm Arrival to Naantali Spa Hotel and check-in
Couples, business travellers and families with children alike will enjoy the classy seaside setting of Naantali Spa. The Spa Hotel has everything you need for your holiday: restaurants, a bakery & café, a beauty salon, a hair salon, a gym, children’s play world and the heart of the Spa, the atmospheric sauna and pool paradise. 
6:00pm Spa treatments at the Naantali Spa 
Slip into a bathrobe, step to the poolside and enjoy spa life. Relaxing massage is waiting for you after a long day. Aromatic, pain-relieving or tissue-warming ingredients may be added to the oils or lotions. Also, enjoy the warm steam of a traditional Finnish sauna or sit in a relaxing aroma steam room.
8:15pm Lobby call 
Meet your host Ms. Eerika Rinne, Hotel Director of Naantali Spa Hotel (+358 44 55 66 261) at the reception
Transfer to Naantali harbour
8:30pm Dinner at Restaurant Snickari 
Snickari is located in a historic wooden building in Naantali old town. From the veranda and terrace you can enjoy the beautiful sea view while having drinks, lunch or dinner.
10:45pm Transfer back to Hotel Naantali & Spa 

Friday, June 9

Breakfast at the hotel and check out 
08:15am Lobby call
Meet your host Mr. Joonas Äkäslompolo from Visit Turku Archipelago and Ms. Tarja Rautiainen from Visit Naantali at the reception 
08:30am Transfer to Tammisto Gard
08:45am Visit to Tammisto Gard and Restaurant Kuulas 
The story of Kuulas began over 100 years ago when the main building, the yellow farmhouse, was built in Tammisto and apple trees were planted in the garden. A gorgeus south-facing terrace overlooking the garden was built in 2021 and was originally meant to serve delicious food to guests and visitors in the summer months. However, the laid-back atmosphere and simple yet delicious food proved to be a big hit in summer 2021 already, so from autumn 2022 we’ve been open periodically.
10:00am Transfer to Helsinki
Transfer time approx. 2h

Welcome to Helsinki!
Awarded with ‘City of Design’ status by Unesco, Helsinki is a modern city that offers functional design, unique gastronomy and maritime appeal. The capital of Finland is filled with lively events all year round, but the peaceful archipelago and green forests are only a stone’s throw away and can be easily reached by the efficient public transportation system.   

12:00pm Arrival to Scandic Grand Central
Meet your local host Ms. Aino Mellais from Helsinki Partners at the lobby. Drop off our luggage to the reception and a short walk to restaurant Kappeli
12:15pm Short walk to restaurant Kappeli
12:30pm Lunch at restaurant Kappeli
Kappeli was built in 1867 in the middle of Esplanadi, in the heart of Helsinki. It was the place to be – and the place to be seen. It started out as a place where people came together, and it has stayed that way ever since. Kappeli witnessed the Golden Age of Finnish Art. Art that still adorns our walls.

Freetime 

3:00pm Check in to Hotel Scandic Grand Central
 A unique hotel offering first-class experiences in the best location in the centre of Helsinki. The decor of timeless elegance and the classic style of the beautiful Art Nouveau building, combined with the hotel’s relaxed atmosphere, guarantee a pleasant stay.
4:30pm Lobby call
4:45pm Welcome to Helsinki Presentation
Ms. Aino Mellais, Senior Advisor for Travel Trade will give you an introduction to Helsinki that includes accommodations, sustainable services, USPs of the city and more.
5:15pm Helsinki Hidden Gems Tour
Meet your guide, Kathrin Deter, +358442390556, who will take you on a walking tour through parts of the city that tourists don’t often venture out to. The walking tour will end near to restaurant Savotta.
7:30pm Dinner at Savotta
Savotta is a Finnish restaurant which offers genuine Finnish food and atmosphere, just off the Senate Square in the heart of Helsinki. The name Savotta means a logging site. Therefore the interior decoration and dishes has got inspiration of the Finnish forests and thousands of lakes, with a dash of Finnish nostalgy from the past decades and logging traditions. Savotta’s kitchen cherishes the Finnish food tradition. We use only Finnish ingredients from the pristine forests and lakes and from carefully selected small suppliers.
9:30pm Short walk back to Hotel Scandic Grand Central

Saturday, June 10

Breakfast at the hotel
10:15am Lobby call
Meet your local host Ms. Aino Mellais, Helsinki Partners at the lobby
10:30 Short walk to Market Square
11:00am Ferry to Vallisaari Island
Meet Ylva: (tel.+358 50 505 1884), from FRS Finland who will join you on your way to Vallisaari.
11:20am Visit to Helsinki Biennial 2023
Meet your guide Kathrin Deter. Helsinki Biennial is an international art event that brings outstanding contemporary art to Vallisaari Island and locations around Helsinki. The second edition is curated by Joasia Krysa and takes place from 12 June to 17 September 2023. Helsinki Biennial 2023 will comprise exhibitions, a discursive and performative public programme, film screenings, publications, and an online programme. It will take place on Vallisaari Island, HAM Helsinki Art Museum and other venues and public places in the city. HAM Helsinki Art Museum is responsible for producing the biennial.
12:25pm Ferry back to Market Square
12:45pm Food Tour by Happy Guide Helsinki
Meet your host: Karri Korppi, +358 44 502 0066). Happy Guide Helsinki offers responsible travel design for Helsinki and its surroundings. With Happy Guide Helsinki you can experience the main attractions but also the real Helsinki along with its many secrets. Whether it is a happy walking tour, an entertaining bike ride, a tram sightseeing, an accessible tour, program for your stopover from Helsinki airport or a focus on a specific theme such as design, food, or sauna, they have it all for you! The tour will end back to hotel Scandic Grand Central.

3:00pm Free time

5:30pm Lobby call
Meet your local host Aino Mellais from Helsinki Partners at the reception
6:00pm Aperitifs at Hotel Torni American Bar 
Enjoy your afternoon strolling around Helsinki, why not buy some souvenirs from Stockmann or Fazer Chocolate Shop? Or how about a refreshing walk around Kaivopuisto Park and coffees at Café Ursula? Did you know The Finns consume an amazing 12 kilograms of coffee per capita annually, putting us at the top of the world, maybe that’s the secret of the happiness. MyHelsinki.fi – your local guide for the secrets of Helsinki  
7:15pm Walk to restaurant Yes Yes Yes 
7:30pm Dinner at Yes Yes Yes 
“Yes Yes Yes!” they said, when this classic corner of an ex-McDonald’s was up for grabs. They couldn’t stop themselves from realising a longtime dream – Opening a bustling bar & restaurant where food just happens to be vegetarian. They are super excited to invite you in and to create tasty moments as well as many magical memories.
9:30pm Walk to Hotel Scandic Grand Central
Overnight in Hotel Scandic Grand Central

Sunday, June 11

Breakfast at the hotel

Free time - Tips from your local guide
Enjoy your afternoon strolling around Helsinki, why not buy some souvenirs from Stockmann or Fazer Chocolate Shop? Or how about a refreshing walk around Kaivopuisto Park and coffees at Café Ursula? Did you know The Finns consume an amazing 12 kilograms of coffee per capita annually, putting us at the top of the world, maybe that’s the secret of the happiness. Here is some tips from MyHelsinki.fi – your local guide for the secrets of Helsinki: 

• Visit to Allas Sea Pool
  Not so far from the Market Square is the brand new Allas Sea Pool where you can take a swim in a sea pool and enjoy the heat of Finnish sauna - or simply enjoy the view of the city and the sea from the terrace!
• Grab some novelties 
  MyHelsinki offers a varied list of Helsinki made items, from cosmetics to chocolates and gin! Take a piece of Helsinki back home with you. 
• Enjoy quirky cafes that the locals love - check our recommendations
  Helsinki is packed with quirky cafés that are much loved by locals and visitors alike. Timo Santala shares his picks of the most interesting places in Helsinki to enjoy a coffee, each with its own unique style!
• See the main sights and attractions within walking distance
  If you are in Helsinki for the first time and you only have a couple of hours to spare, here are a few tips on how to spend your time: Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral, Market Square, Esplanade Park, Old Market Hall and the majestic Uspenski Cathedral. 
• Visit to Oodi, Helsinki Centreal Library
  Oodi is a library of a new era, a living and functional meeting place open for all.

12:00pm Lobby call and check out
12:15pm Lunch at restaurant Ateneum Bistro
Take a break in the atmospheric Ateneum Bistro! The restaurant-café offers seasons bistro styled dishes. In addition to lunch and à la carte dishes, the restaurant serves sweet and savoury delicacies to enjoy with coffee or tea.
2:00pm Transfer to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
5:20pm Departure from HEL to JFK at 17:20pm by AY015

Thank you for visiting Finland!