Northern European Experience 🇫🇮🇵🇱🇪🇺

01/12/18 04:38

June 2016: A Journey to Poland via Helsinki

In June 2016, I embarked on a memorable trip to Poland, with an exciting transfer in Helsinki, en route to Warsaw aboard a Finnair flight. It was my first proper encounter with Helsinki, and it left a lasting impression.

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is often celebrated for its unique blend of Nordic charm, modern design, and natural beauty. During my short visit, I was struck by the city’s serenity and organisation. Walking through the city centre, I admired the neoclassical architecture of Senate Square, including the majestic Helsinki Cathedral, which towers over the cityscape. The waterfront area was another highlight, with its fresh sea breeze and bustling Market Square, where locals and tourists mingle over fresh produce, crafts, and Finnish delicacies.

Helsinki’s connection to nature is remarkable. Even in the heart of the city, parks and green spaces abound, creating a sense of calm and balance. The city is also known for its innovative design culture, evident in its architecture, functional urban planning, and the famous Design District, where you can find everything from cutting-edge fashion to minimalist home decor. While I didn’t have time to explore as much as I wanted, Helsinki left me intrigued, and I promised myself I’d return to delve deeper into its charms.

Time in Poland

After arriving in Warsaw, I spent some time in the city, enjoying its vibrant atmosphere, before heading to Nowy Sącz to reconnect with Mum and enjoy the comforts of home. As always, being back in Nowy Sącz was rejuvenating—a chance to rest, reflect, and spend precious moments with family.

A Special Visit to Nagorzyce

One of the most poignant parts of this trip was a journey to Nagorzyce, where we visited the centre of Sister Małgorzata Chmielewska, an extraordinary woman whose work has touched countless lives. Sister Małgorzata is a renowned Polish nun, social activist, and leader of the Wspólnota Chleb Życia (Bread of Life Community). Her foundation focuses on supporting the most vulnerable, including the homeless, the elderly, single mothers, and refugees. The community provides housing, rehabilitation programmes, and opportunities for those in need to regain independence and dignity.

During the visit, Sister Małgorzata took time to discuss Tahir’s situation, offering advice and potential solutions for his longer-term safety and stability. Her wisdom and compassion were evident in every word, and her dedication to helping others was profoundly inspiring.

A Trip Rooted in Purpose and Discovery

This trip wasn’t just about reconnecting with family and enjoying the beauty of Poland—it was also about seeking support for Tahir’s future. The visit to Sister Małgorzata’s centre reinforced the importance of community and compassion in addressing complex challenges. Adding to the significance of the trip was the unexpected charm of Helsinki, where I got a brief but memorable glimpse into Finland’s unique way of life. It was a journey that blended family, purpose, and exploration, leaving me inspired and grateful.

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Northern European Experience 🇫🇮🇵🇱🇪🇺