Sara Naveed experienced an extraordinary opportunity: a writer’s residency at the Saari Residence in Mynämäki, Southwest Finland. Naveed was among the first writers from Pakistan to be honoured with this prestigious opportunity. And she decided to make the most of it by travelling both the neighbouring and some far-flung cities and countries to give us a distilled flavour of her stay.
The residency programme is awarded by Saari Residence, a haven for artists from around the world, is supported by the Kone Foundation and provides a serene environment for creative minds to flourish. Nestled in the tranquil Finnish countryside, the Saari Residence offers a peaceful retreat where artists and researchers can immerse themselves in their work. The residence’s philosophy is deeply rooted in ecological, social, and psychological sustainability, embracing principles of slowness, insight, and transformation. My nearly two-week stay at this idyllic location allowed me to focus on my writing project, which centered on crafting short stories set in Pakistan. One narrative explored the challenging theme of domestic abuse within a typical Pakistani household.
During my residency, I had the pleasure of exploring the surrounding areas. Mynämäki, a charming village, offered a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, while Saaren Kartano, where the residence was located, had fewer attractions, save for a delightful Thai restaurant.
Exploring Turku: A taste of Finnish urban life
On alternate days, I ventured to Turku, one of Finland’s largest cities, for a richer urban experience. A short bus ride took me from Mynämäki to Turku, where I delighted in discovering landmarks such as Turku Castle and the vibrant city centre. Turku also offered a variety of halal restaurants, which made my dining experiences more enjoyable. I took the opportunity to indulge in some shopping, further enriching my visit.
The Finnish summer weather was a pleasant surprise, with each day presenting a mix of rain, sunshine, clouds, and even a chill, all within a single day.
Helsinki: The capital’s charms
As my residency ended, I travelled by bus to Helsinki, the capital city. The journey of two hours led me to a city enveloped in natural beauty and tranquility. Helsinki’s green spaces and low population density contribute to its peaceful ambience.
In Helsinki, I explored a diverse array of attractions starting from the Vuosaari Beach that provided a relaxing escape, a ferry ride to Suomenlinna Island offering a glimpse into Finland’s maritime history, the Oodi Library, Finland’s largest public library, and the Sky Room in Clarion Hotel, known for its panoramic city views. I wandered through the old city, vibrant city centre, and visited significant landmarks such as the Cathedral Church and Uspenski Cathedral. During my three-day stay, I tried a range of cuisines, including Turkish, Nepalese, and Indian.
Tallinn: A glimpse into Estonia’s past
While in Helsinki, I seized the chance to take a ferry to Tallinn, Estonia. The two-hour journey each way was well worth it. Tallinn, though compact, is rich in history and culture. Its walled, cobblestoned Old Town is home to quaint cafes and shops. I explored notable sites such as the Tallinn Town Hall, Viru Gates, Viru Square, and the Viru Keskus shopping mall. Rahva Raamat, located within Viru Keskus, is Estonia’s largest bookstore and was honoured as the best bookstore in the world by the London Book Fair in 2022.
Copenhagen: A family reunion and Danish delights
The final leg of my Scandinavian adventure took me to Copenhagen, where I visited family. The one-hour and fifteen-minute flight from Helsinki took me to this vibrant city.
In Copenhagen, I explored Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. The colourful buildings of Nyhavn, or “New Harbour,” provided a picturesque backdrop, reflecting the city’s maritime heritage. I also visited the Opera House, Amalienborg Palace (the residence of the Danish Royal Family), and the iconic Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale.
Strøget, Copenhagen’s largest shopping area, offered ample retail therapy, while the Frederiksberg neighbourhood, Amager Strandpark beach, and a city cruise tour showcased the city’s diverse offerings. Another major highlight was the bicycle tour across the city. I rounded off my exploration with visits to the Black Diamond (the royal library) and Field’s, Denmark’s largest shopping centre.
My travels through Finland, Estonia, and Denmark were a blend of cultural discovery, creative inspiration, and personal connection, making this summer an unforgettable kaledioscope for me.
