The country of Finland is unique in the world because of it's beauty and and a myriad of activities in all seasons of the year. Two-thirds of Finland is covered in forest and about a tenth by water. But most of us think of snow and ice. In the far north, the sun does not set of ten weeks during the "White Nights" of summer, while in winter it does not rise above the horizon for eight weeks. The accomodations are a wide variety of igloos, hostels, cheap hotels and luxurious resorts. Transportation out of the cities is suppled by snowmobiles, reindeer sleighs, dog sleds and snow coaches. These all vary in price because Finland is the only Nordic country which has the Euro, so the American dollar doesn't fare very well in the exchange department but nevertheless the costs for your transportation, depending on your choice, range from $5 to $300. Most people choose the speedy snowmobiles which pull wagons of tourists into the mountains and smaller towns for activities. It was only after the collapse of the USSR, that Finland became an independent country. Known for the origins of Santa Claus, many towns celebrate the jolly old gentleman, both in summer and winter. In the summer, visitors can rent waterside cottages which can range from rustic to lavish starting at $200 a night. Watching the aurora borealis from the safety of a warm fur in a dog sled is truly one of the greatest of thrills in Finland. Every type of skiing and more goes on for months. There is a popular demad for the ski resorts renowned for their well groomed slopes and patient instrutors. Food abounds everywhere and is reasonably priced. In the summer, there are numerous music festivals, quirky museums and celebrations and the locals are friendly and helpful. Not to be outdone by the rest of the world, Finland is a technological marvel, home of Nokia and many other computer applications. There is great fun for everyone and magical memories.