Ruissalo: Nature's Sanctuary in Turku

• HelloMoi
  [moy]
• GoodbyeNäkemiin
  [nah-keh-meen]
• YesKyllä
  [kuh-lah]
• NoEi
  [ay]
• Please/You're welcomeOle hyvä
  [oh-leh huu-vaa]
• Thank youKiitos
  [kee-tohs]
• Excuse me/SorryAnteeksi
  [ahn-tehk-see]
• How are you?Mitä kuuluu?
  [mee-tah koo-loo]
• Fine. And you?Hyvää. Entä sinä?
  [huu-vaa. en-taa see-nah]
• Do you speak English?Puhutko englantia?
  [poo-hoot-koh eng-lahn-tee-ah]
• I don't understandEn ymmärrä
  [ayn uum-ar-ah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaisinko nähdä ruokalistan, kiitos
  [sai-sin-koh neh-dah roo-kah-lis-tahn, kee-tohs]
• I don't eat meatEn syö lihaa
  [ayn syuh lee-hah]
• Cheers!Kippis!
  [kip-pis]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHaluan maksaa, kiitos
  [hah-lu-ahn mahk-sah, kee-tohs]

• Help!Apua!
  [ah-poo-ah]
• Go away!Mene pois!
  [meh-neh poys]
• Call the Police!Soita poliisille!
  [soy-tah poh-lee-see-leh]
• Call a doctor!Soita lääkärille!
  [soy-tah laah-kah-ree-leh]
• I'm lostOlen eksyksissä
  [oh-len ek-suhk-sis-sah]
• I'm illOlen sairas
  [oh-len sahy-rahs]

• I'd like to buy...Haluan ostaa...
  [hah-lu-ahn os-tah]
• I'm just lookingKatson vain
  [kaht-sohn vain]
• How much is it?Paljonko se maksaa?
  [pahl-yon-koh seh mahk-sah]
• That's too expensiveSe on liian kallis
  [seh ohn lee-ahn kahl-lis]
• Can you lower the price?Voitko laskea hintaa?
  [voyt-koh lahs-eh-ka hin-tah]

• What time is it?Paljonko kello on?
  [pahl-yon-koh kehl-lo ohn]
• It's one o'clockKello on yksi
  [keh-lo ohn uuk-see]
• Half past (10)Puoli (10)
  [poo-oh-lee (10)]
• MorningAamu
  [ah-moo]
• AfternoonIltapäivä
  [eel-tah-pai-vah]
• EveningIlta
  [eel-tah]
• YesterdayEilen
  [ay-len]
• TodayTänään
  [ta-naan]
• TomorrowHuomenna
  [hoo-mon-nen-nah]
• 1Yksi
  [uuk-see]
• 2Kaksi
  [kahk-see]
• 3Kolme
  [kohl-meh]
• 4Neljä
  [nel-yah]
• 5Viisi
  [vee-see]
• 6Kuusi
  [koo-see]
• 7Seitsemän
  [site-seh-man]
• 8Kahdeksan
  [kah-dehk-sahn]
• 9Yhdeksän
  [uh-dehk-sahn]
• 10Kymmenen
  [kuum-meh-nen]

• Where's a/the...?Missä on...
  [mis-sah ohn]
• What's the address?Mikä on osoite?
  [mee-kah ohn oh-soy-teh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Voitko näyttää minulle (kartalta)?
  [voyt-koh nayt-taah min-oo-leh (kar-tahl-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Milloin on seuraava (bussi)?
  [mil-loin ohn seu-rah-ah-vah (bus-see)]
• A ticket (to ....)Lippu (....)
  [lip-poo]

Ruissalo, an island located just off the coast of Turku, has a history intertwined with nature and early human activity. The island was first inhabited during the Stone Age, with remnants of ancient settlements discovered in various archaeological digs. Its lush forests, rare flora, and picturesque coastal views made it an ideal location for early communities, who relied on fishing and gathering for sustenance.

In the 19th century, Ruissalo transformed into a popular leisure destination for the residents of Turku. Wealthy families constructed summer villas along the coastline, drawn by the island's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This period saw the rise of a vibrant social scene, with cultural events and gatherings celebrating the arts, music, and literature. Many of these villas still stand today, adding to the area's historical charm.

Established in 1881, the Ruissalo Botanical Garden has served as a center for botanical research and education. The garden showcases a diverse array of plant species, including many that are rare or endangered. It has played a significant role in promoting conservation and enhancing public awareness of Finland's unique flora. The botanical garden is a testament to Ruissalo's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

During World War II, Ruissalo's strategic location made it crucial for military operations. The Finnish Defense Forces utilized the island for training and other military purposes. The remnants of this period can still be seen in the form of old fortifications and military structures that dot the landscape, reflecting the island's importance during a tumultuous time in Finnish history.

In recent years, Ruissalo has embraced eco-tourism and cultural events, attracting visitors interested in its natural beauty and historical significance. The island hosts various festivals, art exhibitions, and outdoor activities that celebrate Finnish culture and promote environmental awareness. This revival of interest in Ruissalo highlights the balance between preserving its rich history and adapting to contemporary tourism trends.

Ruissalo is easily accessible from Turku's city center. You can take bus number 8 from the Turku Market Square (Kauppatori) directly to Ruissalo. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, cycling is a popular option, as there are dedicated bike paths leading to Ruissalo, and the scenic ride takes around 20-30 minutes.

Ruissalo is best explored on foot or by bicycle due to its natural beauty and numerous trails. Bicycles can be rented from local shops in Turku. Public transport is limited within Ruissalo, so if you rely on buses, make sure to check the current schedules. Taxis are available, but they may not be as frequent in this area.

Ruissalo is generally a safe neighbourhood for tourists, but standard safety precautions should be observed. Avoid isolated areas at night, particularly near the forested sections. While crime rates are low, it's wise to stay vigilant against petty theft, especially in crowded areas like parks during events.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in Finland. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Turku, and pharmacies are also present in Ruissalo for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Don't wear overly formal attire, as Ruissalo has a casual vibe. Religion: Do respect private properties and nature reserves. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile; a nod or wave is often appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local seafood dishes and enjoy picnics in the parks. Don't leave litter in natural areas; always dispose of waste properly.

To experience Ruissalo like a local, visit the botanical garden and enjoy the diverse flora. Take advantage of the numerous walking and biking trails. Engage with locals, especially in cafés and restaurants, where you can learn more about the area. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in local events during the summer, such as open-air concerts and markets.