Now that we’re back from Helsinki, it sort of feels like we never left, but while we were there, we had a busy, fun time, filled with academic pomp, excellent meals, and sightseeing. My Flickr photoset tells the story best – my “suit in the morning, tux at night” day, the striking architecture, and the ceremonial processions we were a part of. In reading about the history of honorary degree ceremonies at the University, I was struck by the unchanging nature of the proceedings. Dr. Brown received his hat (doctors get hats, masters get laurel wreaths) at the same podium as you see in the 1950 photo, and we paraded up the same street past the same buildings to the same cathedral. I realize 55 years isn’t such a long time, but this tradition has been going on, in one way or another, for over 350 years, and it was wonderful to be a part of a world that valued academic accomplishments with such grace and honor.

Our stay at the at the Hotel K?mp was nothing if not superlative – we were in the furthest room on the highest floor, and slept on the comfiest bed with the fluffiest pillows, and ate what might very well have been the best meal I’ve ever eaten. Even if it was only for three nights, it was certainly memorable.

We had a little free time, which I spent at the Post Museum (Eero Saarinen’s father designed stamps) and Kiasma, the contemporary art museum (great visiting exhibition from the Moscow Museum of Outsider Art).

The main downtown area was easily navigable, though we didn’t get a chance to venture much beyond the area between the port and the rail station. I personally consumed either salmon or lamb (or both) at every meal, and could happily have gone on in such a manner – at least the salmon part – indefinitely.

The weather was terrific, the harbor cruise was charming and relaxing, and we found everyone very friendly and helpful. I’d love to go back sometime and make a Nordic odyssey of it.