Turku's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Luxury of Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund!
Turku's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Luxury of Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund!
Turku's Hidden Gem: Unveiling the Unexpected Delights of Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund (My Messy, Honest Review)
Alright, folks, let's talk Turku and, more specifically, the Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund. I've just clawed my way out of there, and I'm still unpacking the experience – both literally and figuratively. Consider this less a polished travel brochure and more a slightly tipsy, post-sauna rant with some helpful info thrown in… because honestly, that’s how I roll.
(SEO & Metadata alert! Keywords: Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund, Turku, Finland, Hotel Review, Spa, Accessibility, Restaurants, Sauna, Wi-Fi, Luxury, Family-Friendly, Business Travel, Finland Travel, Best Hotels Turku)
First Impressions – The Good, The Slightly Confusing, and the "Wait, Did That Just Happen?" Moments.
Finding the Wiklund is easy peasy, right in the heart of Turku. It's grand, imposing, and screams "Nordic efficiency." Check-in? Smooth. Like, smooth. Contactless? Yep. Thank you, forward-thinking Finns! I zipped through the process, feeling smug about my pre-booked room.
But here’s where the messiness begins. After a long flight (and let's just say my luggage and I may have had a disagreement during the transfer) I was tired. I mean Tired. I dragged my sorry self to the elevators, expecting a swift ride. What I got instead was a bit of a game of elevator roulette. Multiple buttons, seemingly no rhyme or reason to the floor selection. I eventually stumbled into the right one, feeling like I’d just completed a cryptic puzzle. (My fault? Possibly. Still felt like a mild Nordic initiation.)
Accessibility – Bravo, Wiklund! (and a Few Minor Gripes)
Now, I'm acutely aware of needing things to be, you know, accessible. This is where the Wiklund truly shines. Wheelchair accessible? Absolutely. The hallways are wide, the elevators are user-friendly once you master them (ha!), and the rooms are clearly designed with accessibility in mind. Facilities for disabled guests seem to be a priority, which gets a huge thumbs up from me.
I didn't personally need any special assistance, but I did notice the careful thought put into the design. The fact that they included things like visual alarms and access to everything, including bathrooms with grab bars, is a fantastic start. The elevator was also a big help for my luggage.
However (and there's always a "however," isn't there?), while the hotel boasts car parking [on-site], it’s not super clearly marked for guests. I had a little wander before finding the right entrance. Small detail, but worth noting for anyone needing close proximity.
Rooms – Cozy, Comfortable, and Equipped for Anything (Except Maybe My Laundry)
My room? Air conditioning – check. Wi-Fi [free] – DOUBLE CHECK. (Seriously, the Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! is a lifesaver. I need to stay connected, people!) Air conditioning in public area? Again, YES! Internet access – wireless was spot on too. My room itself was clean, well-appointed, and had all the essentials. I’m talking bathrobes, slippers, a coffee/tea maker, the works. They've nailed the basics.
The extra long bed was a godsend for this tall travel blogger. They even had an ironing board, which I avoided like the plague, and the safe box was conveniently located. There was a desk big enough to work on, a reading light, and a mirror for…well, I'll leave that to your imagination. A fun, and definitely welcome surprise was a bottle of water, which really helped me take a break and relax! Also, it isn't a huge deal, but the window that opens helped a lot with fresh air.
The Sauna – Where I Found My Inner Viking (and Lost My Towel)
Ah, the sauna. This is where things got…interesting. Spa/sauna? Absolutely. They had separate sauna and steamroom facilities. The sauna, as you'd expect in Finland, was phenomenal. Stepping into the heat, letting the fragrant wood embrace you, and just…breathing…pure bliss. This is what Finland is all about!
My only slight (and rather embarrassing) incident was…losing my towel. I’m pretty sure I left it in the changing room. Luckily, the very friendly staff were on hand to help and make me feel less like a complete tourist buffoon. Remember to keep track of your towels, folks!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax – Beyond the Sauna
Beyond the sauna, the Wiklund really offers Things to do. They have a Fitness center, Gym/fitness, and even a pool with view, which I didn't personally have time to experience. There's a spa, of course, offering Body scrub, Body wrap, and Massage. Basically, if you want pampering, you'll find it here.
They even had a shrine, for the more spiritually inclined folk.
The proximity alone to the center of Turku, makes this a perfect place for all tourists.
Dining – From Buffet Bonanza to Late-Night Snacks (and Maybe a Few Regrets)
Food, glorious food! The Wiklund offers a dizzying array of Dining, drinking, and snacking options. They have a Breakfast [buffet] which is just a godsend after a long night! Asian breakfast is available, for those interested, and the Western breakfast is great too.
The buffet in restaurant was impressive. The spread was vast, offering everything from traditional Finnish fare to international options. There's Coffee/tea in restaurant and a Snack bar, so you can have a quick bite. I may have indulged a little too much in the pastries. (Worth it, though.)
They have a Restaurants, a Bar, and the option for A la carte in restaurant, so there is a wide array of options.
I also made use of the Room service [24-hour] one bleary-eyed night when I couldn’t face venturing out – a godsend. The food was decent, even at 3 AM. I just wish I hadn't ordered the entire menu. They even have a Poolside bar, if you want to relax.
Cleanliness & Safety – Pandemic-Proofed? Absolutely
In these strange times, safety is paramount. The Wiklund gets full marks here. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, which make me feel safer. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Absolutely. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter? They've got it covered.
I noticed a real commitment to hygiene. The staff were all masked, and there was Hand sanitizer everywhere. They even have a Safe dining setup. I felt very safe, all around.
Services and Conveniences – Everything Under One Roof (Almost)
The Wiklund is a one-stop shop. The Concierge was incredibly helpful, the Doorman was welcoming, and the Elevator (eventually) worked like a charm. They had a Gift/souvenir shop, and the Convenience store was a lifesaver. A Car park [free of charge] is perfect too. The Luggage storage meant I could leave my suitcase without worrying about it.
They also have a Business facilities and a Meeting/banquet facilities. It has the option for Cashless payment service, and the staff are trained in safety protocol.
The hotel chain is an easy option, and well-known and loved throughout Finland.
Things to Consider Before You Book
- The Elevator Labyrinth: Be patient with those elevators.
- Towel Management: Seriously, keep track of your towels!
- The Price Tag: It's a premium hotel, so expect to pay a bit more. However, the quality justifies the cost.
- The sheer amount of options: You might feel overwhelmed making choices, but it is never a bad problem to have!
Overall: Final Verdict – A Solid Gold Star! (with a little bit of chaos thrown in)
The Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund is fantastic. It offers a luxurious experience, is incredibly accessible, and boasts a range of amenities that will keep you entertained and pampered. I found it an absolute pleasure.
Would I go back? Absolutely. I'm already plotting my return. Next time, I’ll make sure to pack an extra towel, though. And maybe a decoder ring for the elevators. Highly recommended!
Amritsar Bliss: Unforgettable Treebo Trip Paradise Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't your grandma's itinerary. This is a Wiklund Wanderer's guide, and we're gonna get messy. I'm talking emotional highs and lows, questionable food choices, and enough Finnish "sisu" to fuel a small, very determined, badger.
The Wiklund Wikkedly Wonderful – Turku Tango (and Tremendous Turmoil)
Day 1: Arrival and the Awkward Sauna Situation
14:00: Touchdown in Turku! (Hopefully. I swear, RyanAir and I have a complicated relationship, and by "complicated", I mean usually involving delays and me questioning all life choices). Finding the hotel was easy enough. I mean, it's HUGE and right in the middle of everything. The Wiklund itself is impressive, the lobby is very stylish, even though I'm pretty sure the person at the front desk was judging my travel wardrobe (mostly comfortable leggings. Don't judge).
14:30: Check-in and the "Room of Dreams (and Mild Panic)" My room? Fine. Standard. Clean. Functional. The view? Overlooking a busy street. Not precisely a Fjords-at-Dawn experience, but hey, free wifi. I'm happy.
16:00: Sauna Shenanigans (or, "Is This How You Finnish?") Okay, THIS was the crux of the whole trip. Wiklund boasts a sauna. A FINNISH sauna. This is, I'm told, practically a religious experience. I’d been reading up on it. Nude. Mixed genders, or separate. I was feeling brave, even after my flight delay. I was ready, I thought. I walked into this sauna, after having a quick shower and taking the hotel's towel for a dry-off. The room was really hot and dim, I'm taking in all this and try to get my bearings on the ritual, and this old grumpy-looking Finn stares at me. (Or maybe he wasn't grumpy, maybe that's just his resting face). He gestures impatiently. "In." he grunts, pointing to a bench. In? IN WHAT? INTO THE FURNACE? I awkwardly sat down, hoping I'm not doing something wrong. Then, the bucket of water and the ladle. Splash. The air turns to agony. It hit me… I was way on the other side of my comfort zone. I took a few more deep breathes and stayed quiet. After some time I was starting to feel good, but it also felt like I was being roasted alive. I had to get out. I did get out. I still don't know if I did it right. The experience, you have to try it at least once.
18:00: Dinner at the hotel restaurant, "Kuppila" Okay, after sauna, I'm STARVING. I waltz downstairs to the hotel restaurant. I ordered a fish dish. Can't remember the name, but it was something local and sounded fancy. It was OK. The potato side? Blandsville. Overall? A bit…meh. But the service was lovely! The waiter was very enthusiastic, probably because he had to deal with people like me and my sauna drama.
20:00: Wandering Turku – First Impressions (and a Mild Existential Crisis) The city center is wonderful. I made the mistake of thinking that it's going to be an easy journey. I walked, walked, and walked… I got slightly lost. The main square is stunning, even in the fading light. I think I need a map to properly explore this place. Turku Castle is beautiful, but I was too tired to go explore it. Ended up in a random bar, sipping a local beer (which tasted vaguely of pine needles, but hey, Finland!). I was looking for the castle, but it was too dark. I'm starting to have the feeling that I need a solid plan.
Day 2: Culture Shock, Coffee, and Cathedral Catastrophe
09:00: Breakfast Buffet – Carb Overload and the Great Coffee Conspiracy. The buffet was a feast! I ate way too much (that's my general travel MO). The coffee? The coffee was…interesting. Let's just call it "not my usual". I suspect an elaborate conspiracy to keep tourists perpetually caffeinated, but in a way that doesn't actually wake them up.
10:00: Turku Cathedral: Awe and Annoyance. Okay, the cathedral itself is magnificent. Truly. Soaring ceilings, stained glass that makes your jaw drop, historical significance oozing from every stone. I went, I gasped a few times, and then…BAM! A group tour. Loud. Annoying. Cluttered. Couldn't even enjoy the silence. The whole experience was a bit of a letdown. Don't go on a Saturday.
12:00: Lunch at a Local Café – The Art of Sisu and a Delicious Fika Alright, I needed a pick-me-up after the cathedral chaos. I sought refuge in a tiny, charming café. Amazing sandwiches. Coffee that actually woke me up. The feeling of getting to experience the Finnish culture was amazing. Every corner was filled with beautiful things. The people are warm and very welcoming.
14:00: Turku Castle, Take Two (and Success!) I was determined to conquer that castle. This time, I went early. It was wonderful. Interesting displays, tales of kings and queens. I really enjoyed it. I'm glad I went.
17:00: Back to the Wiklund – Solo Shopping (and a minor retail therapy session) I had to treat myself. Found some great little shops near the hotel. Local ceramics. Souvenirs for family (and, let's be honest, a little something for myself).
19:00: Dinner – Attempt at Authenticity (and a food-related mishap) I decided to be bold and try a "real" Finnish meal. The restaurant was cozy, and the food was… unusual. It was a meat pie that I ordered. It looked delicious. It was probably the most weirdest thing I have ever tasted. I tried, I really did. But the texture… ugh. I politely ate what I could. The waiter (different one this time) looked at my plate with a mixture of pity and amusement. Don't feel too bad though, this place was still good, and the staff are amazing.
21:00: Late-Night Stroll (and the realization that I'm hopelessly in love with Turku). The city at night is beautiful. I walked again. I felt a sense of peace. I felt amazing. I didn't want to leave.
Day 3: Departure and the Emotional Hangover
09:00: Breakfast (again) and the bittersweet goodbye. Another, glorious buffet. I'm not sure what I feel more, sadness or indigestion. Saying goodbye to Turku.
10:00: Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping Panic. Did I buy enough? Did I miss anything? The usual pre-departure madness. I grabbed some chocolates as well.
11:00: Check-Out and the Tearful Parting. This is the moment. I give way to the hotel clerk. The staff were great. The room was okay. I'm glad I came here. I will miss this place.
12:00: Airport Departure (and the promise to return). The flight back was fine. No drama. I think I'm going to go back there. Turku, you have my heart. I'll be back, I'm sure.
Reflection:
This trip was a whirlwind of emotions. It was great. It was exhausting. It was perfect. It was everything I hoped for, and more. Did I do everything perfect? No. Did I have the perfectly curated experiences? No. But, would I do it all again? YES!
Uncover the Hidden Gem: Ancyra by Continent Hotel, Poso Poso – Your Indonesian Paradise Awaits!
Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund: Your (Sometimes Over-the-Top) Guide to a Stay
Is Wiklund REALLY a "hidden gem"? I mean, it's right in the middle of everything, isn't it?
Okay, let's be real. "Hidden gem" is maybe stretching it a *tiny* bit. It's not like you're stumbling upon a secret speakeasy. Wiklund is smack-dab in the heart of Turku, practically hugging the Market Square. But here’s the deal: It’s a gem because it's *reliable*. You KNOW what you're getting. Solid service, decent food (more on that drama later), and a prime location. It's a gem *for Turku*. Compared to a dingy hostel or a questionable Airbnb? Yeah, it's a sparkling diamond. But, and this is important: Don't expect Narnia. This is Turku. Expect functional, dependable, and occasionally… a little *beige*.
What kind of rooms can I expect? Is it all just… standard hotel fare?
Alright, room situation. It's a mixed bag, honestly. Standard rooms? Perfectly fine. Clean, functional, the usual. But… the *suites*? Now we're talking. I once stayed in a suite that had a *sauna* in the bathroom. *IN THE BATHROOM!* I spent a shameful amount of time just… sweating. Completely worth it. Seriously consider upgrading if you can. It's the difference between a perfectly pleasant stay and, well, feeling like a slightly sweaty Nordic god. However... I also had a room once where the shower pressure was weaker than a newborn kitten. A *newborn kitten!* So, prepare for the occasional hiccup, but generally, they’re doing okay.
The breakfast buffet. Is it worth the hype (and the probable cost)?
Oh, the breakfast. This is a HUGE topic of discussion, I can tell you that. Okay, the breakfast is *mostly* worth it. The standard Sokos breakfast buffet is their thing. Think copious amounts of everything. Salmon? Check. Various cheeses? Check. Freshly baked bread you'll immediately regret inhaling because you'll overeat? Double-check. *BUT*. Here's the thing. Sometimes, and I swear this happened on the last trip, the scrambled eggs were… rubbery. Like, bouncy-ball level rubbery. And the coffee? Lukewarm. I'M SORRY, but tepid coffee in the morning is basically a personal insult. So go in with tempered expectations. But embrace the opportunity to become a cheese and cured meat connoisseur. And grab a *lot* of pastries.
What's the best thing about the location? Is it really THAT central?
Central? Honey, it’s practically *inside* the action. Literally everything is walkable. The market, you're practically tripping over it. Restaurants? Dozens. The Aura River? Five minutes away. The best thing? After a long day of sightseeing (or let's be real, *shopping*), collapsing into your room is a breeze. No long commutes, no struggling with public transport. It's the convenience factor that truly shines. You can nip back to your room for a quick nap before dinner, change outfits a million times, or drop your grocery bags without a second thought. That alone is worth the price of admission. Don't underestimate the joy of a quick bathroom break when you're in the middle of exploring the city.
Is there anything *bad* about staying at Wiklund? Let's be real here...
Okay, the downsides. Let's get them out of the way. It can get a bit… *noisy*. Especially if you're on a lower floor. The Market Square can get lively, and let's not forget the occasional revelry spilling from the nearby bars. Light sleepers, prepare for earplugs. Then there’s the inevitable service inconsistencies. One time, I had to ask for a towel, and I felt like I had to beg! Another time, the staff was super helpful and friendly. it's the lottery of life. And don't expect cutting-edge design. The decor is… let's say "classic". Think '80s glamour with a touch of Finnish practicality. It's not ugly, but it's not going to win any design awards. Also, the elevator, that’s a whole thing. It's slow and often packed. Plan accordingly.
What about the food at the hotel's restaurants? Are they any good?
Ah, the restaurants. This is where things get… complicated. Wiklund has a few options, from the casual cafe to a more upscale restaurant. The cafe is fine for a quick bite, I've grabbed a pastry and coffee there a few times, but nothing to write home about. The main restaurant… now that's a story in itself. I've had meals there that were absolutely *divine*. Seriously, melt-in-your-mouth fish, perfectly cooked vegetables, innovative flavor combinations. But I've also had meals that were... well, underwhelming. Bland, under-seasoned, and frankly, a bit forgettable. The service can fluctuate wildly, too. One night, you'll be treated like royalty. The next, you'll feel like you're invisible. So, it's a gamble. Definitely check recent reviews before you commit. Maybe explore some of the amazing restaurants Turku has to offer, which is really what makes up for the slight let down on site.
Any tips for first-timers? Things I MUST know before booking?
Yes! Okay, my survival guide to Wiklund. First, *book in advance*, especially during peak season. Second, strongly consider paying more for a room with a view. Watching the lights of Turku sparkle at night is worth every penny. Third, bring earplugs. Seriously. Fourth, embrace the imperfections. Wiklund isn’t perfect, but it's got a certain charm. Fifth, learn a few basic Finnish phrases. "Kiitos" (thank you) and "Anteeksi" (excuse me) can go a long way. Also... pack snacks. Because, you know, sometimes you’ll need something between meals.
Okay, you mentioned a "drama" incident earlier. What was that about? Spill!
Alright, buckle up. This is a *long* story. So, I was there, right? In a suite, naturally, enjoying the sauna like a proper Finn. Bliss. Came down to the restaurant for dinner, and ordered... oh, I don't even remember what I ordered. But the problem was, when the meal came out, it wasn't what I had ordered, but the waiter swore up and down that I DID. I was sure I was right. He was adamant. It escalated. It got a bit heated. I ended up eating a thing that I 100% didn't request. And the food was… blah. Like, aggressively bland. It was a whole thing, and I'm stillEscape to Paradise: Unbelievable Oceanfront Villas in Da Nang, Vietnam
Post a Comment for "Turku's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Luxury of Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund!"