Åland Islands
About Åland Islands
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Language | Swedish |
| Capital | Mariehamn |
The Åland Islands, an archipelago of over 6,700 islands (60 of which are inhabited), are located halfway between Stockholm and Helsinki, in the Northern Baltic Sea. Once home to the Vikings, it came under Swedish rule in the 1100s and then under Russian rule when it was conquered in 1809. In 1921, the Åland Islands were placed under Finish sovereignty and today, they are an autonomous, self-governing and demilitarized territory of Finland. The islands are the smallest region in Finland and the only region where the only official language is Swedish.
The population of the Åland Islands is approximately 29,000 people (2018 estimate). The population is diverse, with approximately one-third of the population being born outside of the Åland Islands (from 92 different countries). The main industries of the Åland Islands are shipping, trade, banking, farming, and food production. The unemployment rate is very low at only 3.9% in 2017.
The islands are easily accessed by ferry or by air. Travel around and between the many islands can be done by car, bicycle, ferry, bus, rental car or taxi. The Åland Islands are a geographically small archipelago so most places are easily accessible; a lot can be explored in a short time.
There are 53 nature reserves on the Åland Islands, although not all can be visited. Camping and disturbing/removing the flora and fauna in the reserves is prohibited. The landscape of the islands is diverse with red granite cliffs, forests, meadows, lakes, and unique flora and fauna. The islands also have many public beaches.
With a mild climate, the greatest number of sunshine hours in the Nordic region, diverse flora and fauna, and a myriad of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, golfing, paddling, cycling, climbing, camping and skating (in the winter), the Åland Islands beckon the nature-loving traveller.
Recommended Vaccinations For Åland Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine
Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis is recommended if travelling in areas where contact with ticks might occur (camping, hiking, outdoor activities).
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Recommended Medications For Åland Islands
There are no recommendations for Åland Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Åland Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a risk of acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis may occur in the Aland Islands.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.
Safety & Security in Åland Islands
Personal Safety
The crime rate on the Åland Islands is low. Nevertheless remain vigilant, especially when travelling aboard ferries as pickpocketing has been reported.
Only visit the nature reserves with designated public access. For your safety and to preserve the ecosystems of the islands, always stay on marked trails. Dress appropriately for all outdoor activities.
Although car traffic is low, road accidents do occur including accidents involving wild animals and accidents due to icy winter roads. Drive with caution.
Finland is known as one of the most progressive countries in terms of LGBTI rights. Same-sex sexual activity and same-sex marriage are both legal in Finland.
Extreme Violence
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.
Political Unrest
Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning in cities. Avoid any protests, political gatherings or marches. Follow the advice of local authorities.
