Finland is one of the most popular venues for the visitors, tourists, and travelers. At the same time it is also one of the expensive venues to select. However, learning about the price ranges of $ 105-$ 233 we thought it could be our abode during the visit to Helsinki.
The room was noisy and it was not only the noise from the neighbor but also from around the reception that was creating problem for us. An extra bed was also erected in the room that did not cater to our requests. However, the silver lining was the extremely friendly and accommodating staff in the hotel including the manager. An immediate replacement room that was much more suitable and quieter was arranged for us.
Location wise also the Hotelzone hotel gives the client several benefits. Despite not being exactly at the center of the city, it is at a walk-able distance of about ten minutes from the center of the city. We also traveled from the airport to the hotel. Hence it is not possible for me to say about the availability of public transport. However, on reaching the hotel we were also informed that regular public transport in Finland is also available for getting to the hotel.
Next morning when we got up after a good night sleep thanks to the change of room by the hotel management, breakfast that was served was perfectly nice though there were not many variations. You will not get many variations in the Australian hotels either. Hotel also made arrangements for our matka in as well as around the city. Initial prices quoted were higher but after a little negotiation we were able to strike a perfectly reasonable deal.
Our program included sightseeing as well as going around some more places beyond the peripherals of the city during our matka or travel as it is called in the Finnish language. Sightseeing is one of the major attractions in the city of Helsinki. Conducted tour covered most parts of the city including the historical center, City Hall, Presidential Palace, Finlandi Hall, Opera House, and the Parliament Building. The vehicle makes a stop on request at Sibelius Monument and if possible at Temppeliaukio Church in the rock.
One of the best things for matka (or travel as it is expressed in the language of Finland) in the city is that once we stepped out of the hotel, we found that trams are available for going anywhere in the city. Frequency of the tram service is particularly good. Services start early in the morning and continue till 2-3 A.M, a feature we cannot think of in our cities like Mumbai, Calcutta, Delhi, or Chennai.
Overall the hotel is good though one cannot expect much towards designs. Good thing about the hotel is that on our second visit we did not face any of the problems that we encountered the first time.
Reception in the hotel is quite friendly and it allows early check in. We reached there by 8 A.M. However, one thing that is missing is the complimentary buffet breakfast when you check in early. It could be one of the features of Rovaniemi but not here. Room windows have also be retained just like the prison cell. Even though a prison, it is a likable one.