Day 6

Another wonderful breakfast! Dan left with Niklas, and Alan and I set out to explore the streets. I wanted to find a shop I had seen where they sell dollhouses and miniatures, but we never did find that. We enjoyed the sunlight, though!

We me Dan, Niklas, Miika, and Mieku for lunch at an Italian restaurant. Italian food here seems a lot more flavorful and authentic than in the US.

After lunch, we all walked past the train station to a place Niklas called "the mothers' meeting place". All it was, was the corner of a mall with a Wayne's Coffee in it where tons of moms and babies were hanging out. I decided to come back later (with the stroller) so we all walked back to the Torni.

The men went back to Sparklike, and Alan and I went back to "the mothers' meeting place". It wasn't really a place for an American like me to meet new people - everyone looked like they were there with friends - but I had a nice cup of Cafe Mocha.

Alan and I also toured the brand new mall, which I believe is called Simonkentta. It is HUGE and links right to the bus station. There is an underground tunnel connecting it to he Forum Mall.

Late in the afternoon, we met Dan, Niklas, and Miika up on the 13th floor of the Torni, which is a bar overlooking the entire city of Helsinki. We could see for miles in every direction. It was breathtaking. The Fins wanted to make sure I tried out the women's toilet, so I went. It boasts 3 large windows, so you can admire the view while you go!

Niklas made Dan and I reservations at the Serata, a small Italian eatery. It was so romantic! We had a small, candlelit table for 2, elevated in the display window of the restaurant. Alan got to sit in a high chair for his first time! (He had to be propped with a pillow, my sweatshirt, and the waiter's apron.) We enjoyed the lamb pasta and the friendly waiter very much.

Then we explored the Simonkentta Mall together. Dan bought a jacket since he forgot to bring one. We checked out the grocery store and then headed back to our hotel room.