Åland Islands

Åland Islands

Use Normal Level of Caution

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.

Currency EUR: Euro
Language Swedish
Capital Mariehamn
Recent Alerts None
Latest Alert Not Available

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Åland Islands. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A

There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.

Hepatitis B

There is a risk of acquiring hepatitis B in this country.

Rabies

Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis may occur in the Aland Islands.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Åland Islands.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

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.).

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).

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Åland Islands.

None required.

Safety and Security in Åland Islands

Emergency Numbers

112
(018) 5355 First Aid
(018) 538 500 Medical Care
(018) 19 475 Maritime Rescue
(018) 527 100

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.

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