Аландские острова

Åland is part of the Schengen Area, but not of the EU VAT union, so some items require customs clearance. If coming from abroad, pets need their passport and documented rabies and tapeworm treatment. Åland has ferry and air connections with the rest of Finland and with Sweden. Ferries call at Mariehamn, Eckerö or Långnäs, the last little but a ferry pier. Most ferries are cruise ships on their way between the two countries (see Baltic Sea ferries). In severe weather or ice conditions, ferries may occasionally omit their scheduled call at Åland or use a different Åland port. Affected passengers are normally provided with alternative arrangements. Ferries from Finland • Turku–Mariehamn/Långnäs – Viking Line and Tallink Silja sail from Turku to Mariehamn or Långnäs. Local bus route 1 serves the ferry terminals. Coaches and trains from Helsinki and Tampere connect with the ferries. …

Crime is rare and Åland is generally a safe destination. Ticks are common and can carry borreliosis (Lyme disease) and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Check your body for ticks after spending time in vegetation, and consider TBE vaccination if you expect significant exposure. Normal precautions apply when boating or travelling on sea ice. At shores close to the cruise ferry routes, the water will quickly rise when the ferry approaches, and then withdraw like before a tsunami – which will follow. Stay clear. Alcohol-related incidents occur on the cruise ferries, including sexual harassment. Do not go alone with strangers to private areas unless you are sure you can trust them (and do report any serious incidents, immediately if you can, they will be taken care of). The hospital in Mariehamn provides 24-hour emergency care. Medical services elsewhere are limited. …

Åland has a distinct identity shaped by its autonomy and Swedish-speaking culture. Many residents identify primarily as Ålanders (Swedish: ålänning) is generally appreciated. Don't call them Finns. <div class=