106 P&O CRUISES 2016
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There must be something in the air, or perhaps it’s in the
water. Whatever their secret, there’s certainly something
about fairy-tale cities in the Baltic that keeps visitors
returning time and again.
Effervescent, enlightening,
enriching. Become besotted
with the Baltic!
Regularly featuring near the top of those “Best place to live in the world” lists, the cities of
the Baltic are amongst the cleanest, and greenest in Europe. Here you’ll find enchanting
medieval architecture, twisting cobblestone lanes, tree-lined canals and parks just perfect
for a stroll. With so many cities built on interconnecting waterways and knitted together by
hundreds of bridges, it seems there are many aspiring claimants to the title of the “Venice
of the North”. If you’ve experienced the real thing, you might like to see how the Baltic
pretenders to the crown compare! Perhaps they should just be recognised on their own
merits; as a series of enchanting cities that together make for an unforgettable holiday.
To maximise your enjoyment of the Baltic States, just remember to adhere to the strict
rules of local custom, such as Helsinki’s mandatory coffee breaks. (Now there’s a rule that
could catch on.) Fortunately, the Coffee Enforcement Police remain underworked, as café
culture is big business in the Baltic. You’re never short of a picturesque medieval square
or cosy coffee shop in which to sit and watch the world go by over a strong brew and
generous slice of cake.
The summer months are a great time to visit the Baltic and enjoy the long hours of
daylight, or even the famous “White Nights” of Russia. That means plenty of time to
explore those legendary imperial palaces, visit the boutique-filled city-centres, or even
enjoy a spot of sunbathing, which in St Petersburg is often done standing up to ensure an
even tan. Just watch the locals to see how it’s done.
St Petersburg, Church of the Resurrection
Baltic
