Tales from Tallinn and the Heroes of Helsinki

Another great trip to Scandinavia, unequally proportioned between business and pleasure. The Helsinki Youth Conference, which featured young people from all corners of the globe, was a memorable experience.

We worked for the first two days on a set of proposals based on different areas of the UN World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY), which was then promoted to the 'grown-up' politicians at the real Helsinki Conference. Taking place at the Finlandia Hall, we were lucky enough to have a 'Youth Corner' all of our own. We used it to maximum effect, really raising awareness of the problems which affect modern-day youth.

The major achievement was to promote young people's issues, which we approached from a truly international perspective thanks to the diversity in participants of our youth conference. The politicians, decision-makers and NGO reps really took notice of what we had to say.

That is the reason why everyone I met in Helsinki are heroes. We worked incredibly hard and reaped the rewards. Many people we spoke to at the Youth Corner were visiting the Helsinki Conference to research how major diplomatic events should be held in preparation for their own. Now they have been made interested in having youth representation and have vowed to guarantee it.

As for Tallinn, I had actually flown in on Saturday before taking the ferry to Helsinki. I returned again a week later and had a fantastic time. It's such a beautiful city, with striking medieval architecture in pastel colours and cathedral spires to admire from any distance as they loom over rambling rooftops.

This ancient charm, however, was at something of a paradox with the widespread dominance of modern tourism in the city. Souvenir shops, restaurants, bars and hotels were everywhere to be seen. The reliance of Tallinn's economy on this industry was all too clear.

But this did at least provide diversity in entertainment and the nightlife was truly excellent. I met a great variety of people again and will never forget the good times we had.

I would heavily recommend both destinations to anyone, particularly in a combination trip like I had. The two cities are fascinatingly different for places so close together; these two former Soviet states have developed in different ways since achieving independence.

Coming back to London after an eventful week-and-a-bit, I had a great feeling of satisfaction - as well as tiredness! But I cannot overemphasise how wonderful Helsinki and Tallinn are. In short: unforgettable.