The Long Ride and First Experiences

Guest bloggers: Ashley Quick and John Hall

We set out for LHR from RDU around 8pm. The long flight took a toll on the majority of our crew, but despite this we were still in good spirits! While in London’s airport we stopped by the shops and checked out different food options. One interesting place to note was a Chinese restaurant that had food conveyed around the bar area. Guests in this establishment simply picked up the dishes they thought would be good. The last leg, from London to Helsinki, seemed to pass by much quicker in comparison.

Upon arrival to Finland, we were serenaded while waiting for our checked bags by a flight crew. Afterward we were shuttled by Ladytaxi to the Radisson Blu Royal hotel. Shortly after check in we discovered authentic traditional Finnish cuisine at Zetor restaurant where many of us enjoyed reindeer dishes. On the way back to the hotel, several members of our group decided to check out a local market, which was less like a convenience store and more like a grocery store. There were many familiar brand names but the products for the brands were different. Most importantly we found chocolate!

Here’s looking forward to day two!

Check out photos at go.ncsu.edu/PIEFinland