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Villa Lante, used by the Finnish Institute in Rome, reopened in autumn 2025 after an extensive renovation. In this story, Helka Parkkinen from the design studio KOKO3 talks about how contemporary Finnish design finds its place within an Italian Renaissance villa.
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A memorable place to stay can transform your travel experience – or inspire a staycation right in your own city. Design Stories rounded up a selection of design-driven accommodations, from Finnish hideaways to Mediterranean escapes, from cityscapes to countryside serenity.
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The Belgian capital has plenty to offer for architectural aficionados and those who enjoy comics and beer. You might also visit some of the interesting museums in Brussels or take a trip to the neighboring areas by tram.
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Travelers venturing underground are sure to be greeted by wondrous sights: millions of glowworms, golden pavilions, endless tunnels and stalactites hanging majestically from the ceiling. Take a tour of six fascinating caves with Mondo!
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Some natural attractions look particularly stunning from above. Mondo picked six places also worth seeing from a bird’s-eye perspective.
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Mondo picked three excellent choices for accommodation in a beautiful setting in Finland. Visit the luxurious Haasi Mirror House cottages on Lake Päijänne, the historic Carlsro Badhotell on the Åland Islands and The Barö in Ingå tested by Mondo.
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The capital of Norway is already competing with Stockholm and Copenhagen for the title of the most interesting city in the Nordics. Mondo chose what’s relevant in Oslo: in addition to the inexpensive restaurants and new cultural and architectural sites, they recommend you to take a fjord cruise and visit the great maritime museums.
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The capital of Norway is already competing with Stockholm and Copenhagen for the title of the most interesting city in the Nordics. Mondo picked the most essential spots in Oslo: affordable eateries and new cultural and architectural attractions, such as the largest art museum in the Nordics.
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Many cities have been nicknamed the Paris of their country or the surrounding area. Mondo picked six destinations that exude a charmingly Parisian atmosphere.
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The port city on the north coast of Spain is once again flourishing, offering bold architecture, distinctive culture and tasty food. Join Mondo on a tour of Bilbao!
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It seems that everyone in Copenhagen is now talking about Christianshavn, the district of the Danish capital that includes the famous Freetown Christiania. Mondo went to spend a sunny day with the locals.
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Did you know that the Croatian city of Šibenik is every bit as lovely as Dubrovnik, but without the crowds? In this article, Mondo presents six superb alternatives to some of the world’s most popular travel destinations.
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Design treasures, local history, architectural gems, art in a sauna... There’s no end of places to visit in the Finnish summer. Design Stories’ editorial team picked their must-see exhibitions for summer 2022 – grab the best tips for your own summer adventures!
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The beautiful city in the French Riviera is known for its atmosphere of luxury. However, Nice also has so much more to offer: neighborhoods with character, cultural experiences and interesting destinations for excursions. Mondo’s picks invite you to admire the splendor of the past in Cimiez and to take a day trip to the famous Cote d’Azur.
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The beautiful city in the French Riviera is known for its atmosphere of luxury. However, Nice also has so much more to offer: neighborhoods with character, cultural experiences and interesting destinations for excursions. Join Mondo on a tour of the famous boardwalk Promenade des Anglais, charming Old Town and atmospheric harbor.
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Parks and botanical gardens provide both a feast for the eyes and an ideal place for a breather during your travels. Mondo chose fabulous destinations from Africa, Asia and the Americas.
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Why is Sigmund Freud hanging from the edge of a roof in Prague? Why is there a Prada boutique in the middle of the Texas desert? Mondo introduces six pieces of surprising art.
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Where can you enjoy the best afternoon tea in London or the tastiest cinnamon roll in Finland? Mondo chose the delicacies that are worth taking a trip.
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Already walking the streets of New York is an experience in itself. Mondo picked three streets leading to the best places in Manhattan and Brooklyn, each worth experiencing. Bedford Avenue, which runs through trendy Williamsburg, is one of the best shopping streets in the city.
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Already walking the streets of New York is an experience in itself. Mondo picked three streets leading to the best places in Manhattan and Brooklyn, each worth experiencing. The narrow Mott Street is bursting with nostalgia and authentic flavors.
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Already walking the streets of New York is an experience in itself. Mondo picked three streets leading to the best places in Manhattan and Brooklyn, each worth experiencing. First up is Fifth Avenue, which runs along Central Park and is known for its glamor and towering skyscrapers.
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Top restaurant in Norway under five meters of water, statue park taken over by corals in Mexico. Mondo listed unforgettable underwater experiences around the world.
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Interested in a cycling excursion to Tuscany’s charming villages, or mountain biking in the beautiful wilds of British Columbia? Or how about a two-wheeled climb in the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Tenerife? Mondo chose seven cycling routes that are sure to be unforgettable.
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In Paris, walking around the city is a great experience in itself. Mondo selected three streets that everyone should see at some point in time. They feature memorable sights, attractions and authentic discoveries, loved by the locals. Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, also known as Little Turkey, offers multicultural culinary experiences and rugged but fashionable bars.
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Design Stories is the online magazine of Finnish Design Shop, created to inspire and delight design lovers everywhere. We hope you enjoy exploring with us! Let the Design Stories editorial team know of an interesting story – or send us feedback!
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