Hands Across the Ocean

I have a new friend. According to my blog-stats, as of yesterday, I have a single reader in Finland. And whatismore, they spent a whole 4mins. 13secs on my blog.

So. Whilst my man circulates with the Ferrero Rocher, let's all take a moment to meet my new Scandinavian chum.

Ok. He/she hails from a small town called Kerava. Here's a picture of it.

Lovely. It looks a little bit like Stockport, doesn't it. According to the wikipedia, it is located in a province of Southern Finland and is part of the Uusimaa region. The municipality has a population of 33,107 and covers an area of 30.86 km², of which 0.11 km² is -gasp!-water. Meanwhile, the population density of Kerava is 1,019.87 inhabitants per km².

Now, I know what you're all thinking. Sounds too good to be true doesn't it. Well, wait till you hear what the offical blurb has to say:

"Welcome to our modern and verdant town, which can boast more pedestrian-cycle paths than any other town in Finland. Kerava is part of the greater metropolitan area, about 30 kilometres to the north from Helsinki. Travelling to Kerava by land, sea or air is quick and easy. Everything here is conveniently close at hand, so if you wish you can easily dash from one place to another by bike. We have space enough for a centre that forms a nucleus reminiscent of larger towns, yet still have verdant parks and residential areas with lush gardens and paths. Kerava has gained international recognition for the layout of its centre, the pedestrian shopping street, the pedestrian-cycle path network, as well as for the floral arrangements in its parks.Opportunities for hobbies are almost boundless. The town is home to a flourishing and varied cultural life. There is a feeling here that the joy of doing your own thing is no less important than guest stars. Concerts and different events draw people during the summertime to the Aurinkomäki park in the centre of town."

Well, I have to tell you my Finnish friend that that all sounds rather delightful. On behalf of the embassy I'd like to thank you for coming here to tell us all about your wonderful home. I do hope our knackered trains, lousy food, resentful public servants and anti-social drinking won't put you off visiting when the recession hits us.

To Finlandia! (Have the orchestra play some Sibelius, would you...)