|
|
 |
|
The Best Buys
Clothing & Textiles: There's everything from cottons and linens (often in stunning modern fashions such as those by Marimekko) to warm stoles and shawls. Collectors also seek out ryijy rugs and raanu wall hangings. Many of these goods are displayed and sold at shops along the Esplanade in Helsinki.
Glass & Ceramics: Finland offers a wide variety of stunning designs, ranging from practical everyday items at moderate prices to one-of-a-kind objects designed by well-known Finnish artisans. The best-known factory names (and the best quality) to look for are Arabia for china, or Nuutajarvi, Iittala, and Riihimaki for glass. Their products are displayed in shops throughout the country. Showrooms for both Arabia and Iittala are on the Esplanade in Helsinki. Many Finnish glass factories can be visited; contact local tourist offices for further information.
Jewelry: Although Finland is not often associated with jewelry making, it has some rare items for sale -- especially from the Kalevala series based on centuries-old Finnish ornaments. Modern designers working in gold or silver produce many bold and innovative pieces of jewelry, sometimes as settings for Finnish semiprecious stones or combined wood and silver. Lapponia jewelry -- sold all over the country -- is one example.
Wines & Spirits: Vodka and liqueurs made from local berries are popular, especially the rare cloudberry, the Arctic bramble, and the cranberry. Alcohol is sold at retail through the outlets of Alko, the State Alcohol Company.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
|
|
