The Palm Beach vibe can be distilled into two words: Lilly Pulitzer. For 66 years, the brand’s iconic prints and pastel colors have set the tone for the island’s barefoot sophistication. Though Mira Fain is an expert at honing this beachy motif as executive vice president of design and development for Lilly Pulitzer, she hails from a notably chillier part of the world: Finland. When not soaking up the Palm Beaches’ sun, Fain travels to Helsinki, the country’s capital, three to four times per year. “Finland is an enticing mix of traditional and modern elements, and there is a great respect for nature and the environment,” says Fain. “The Finns are known to be hospitable and honest, and to value punctuality and practicality.”
When to Go: Each season provides a different kind of experience and charm. Summer is lively, with 24/7 daylight. In the winter, you may enjoy recharging in the snow and hibernating in the darkness—and maybe catch the northern lights.
Morning Routine: Enjoy an authentic Nordic breakfast of fresh berries and warm Karelian pie (a rice porridge baked in a rye crust) with egg butter. Take a walk through the Market Square onto the waterfront trail alongside Helsinki.
Best Spots for Photo Ops: Helsinki Cathedral and Sibelius Monument
Most Authentic Accommodations: There are many great hotels in the city, offering something for everyone. One that has a more Northern feel with reindeer hides is Lapland Hotels Bulevardi, which has an authentic sauna experience.
Ride Hack: Buy a day ticket for the Helsinki trams that offer unlimited rides.
A Tourist Spot That Locals Love: Kaivopuisto, a 114-acre park in the center of Helsinki with beautiful views and walking paths.
Outdoor Adventure: Allas Sea Pool, a year-round facility in the center of Helsinki providing heated fresh- and seawater pools, wellness facilities, and restaurants.
Grand Fare: Michelin-starred Palace for a Nordic dining experience with views of the seascape.
Another Round: Original Gin Long Drink, which was created for the Helsinki Olympics in 1952.
Best Museums: Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, Ateneum, and The National Museum of Finland
Making the Most of Finland in the Summer and Winter:
In the summer, Finland has round-the-clock sunlight, or “Midnight Sun,” and everything comes to life. Fain enjoys spending as much time outside as possible enjoying the never-ending light. Mornings start with a long walk by the sea, followed by lunch of fresh fish and salad with local ingredients (enjoyed outdoors, of course). Finland is known for its modern design and craftsmanship. Fain loves exploring artist studios and galleries, and never misses a thrift store. Early evenings are spent with friends and family leading to late dinners by the water, or an evening on a boat.
In the winter, as a contrast to summer months, there is no to little sunlight. However, Finns usually experience a beautiful winter wonderland with lots of snow. The winter sport opportunities around the country are endless. Fain heads for the cross-country skiing trails or north to Lapland to downhill ski, enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride, or a Husky safari and admire the Northern Lights. Fain finishes an active winter day with a home-cooked meal, featuring warm bread, cheese, and cloudberry jam, a sauna, and relaxing by the fireplace.
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