1. Deep Dive into Finnish Education — Three days of structured professional development including a full school visit, workshops on the Finnish National Core Curriculum, phenomenon-based learning, project-based learning, and direct conversations with Finnish teachers.

2. Day Trip to Tallinn, Estonia — Take a ferry across the Baltic to explore the medieval Old Town of Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a guided tour through cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture.

3. Suomenlinna Fortress Island — Visit a UNESCO-listed sea fortress just off the coast of Helsinki, one of the largest sea fortresses in the world and a fascinating piece of Nordic history.

4. Traditional Finnish Sauna & Home Dinner — Spend a day experiencing life the Finnish way, with a sauna, lake, and a home-cooked traditional Finnish meal at a local's home.

5. Two-Day Helsinki Pass — Built-in city pass for two days of independent exploration across Helsinki's museums, trams, ferries, and attractions at your own pace.

Bookbag Tours was built specifically for educators, by people who understand that your time and money matter. We take the learning outside the classroom and into the world, making sure every trip feels as rewarding as it is memorable. From the moment you book to the day you return home, our focus is on creating meaningful, manageable travel that fits your life as a teacher. And the best part? You don't have to go alone. Bring your spouse, a friend, or anyone else who wants to tag along, non-educators are always welcome on our trips too.

✅ Travel With Confidence — Every detail is handled, every partner is vetted, and help is always a message away

✅ Interest-Free Payment Options — Keep your budget stress-free with zero-interest financing

✅ Customizable Payment Plans — Pay on a schedule that actually works for you

✅ 20+ Hours of Professional Development — Built into every trip, ready to document

✅ Graduate Credits Offered — Turn your travel experience into academic credit

✅ Personalized Pre & Post Trip Extensions — Want to explore more? We'll help you plan extra time before or after the group tour

✅ Limited Spots Available — Every trip is intentionally small so every traveler gets the attention they deserve

Petteri Elo

Terrain:  Hills and mostly city walking.

Activity Level:   Moderate to High (Some hiking in nature)

School Visit:  Yes

This trip offers immersive professional development through school visits, allowing educators to engage directly with local teachers and students, observe classrooms, and participate in meaningful dialogue about education systems around the world. These experiences foster fresh perspectives and practical ideas to bring back home.

Professional Development – Medium Level

This trip includes educator discussions, offering authentic opportunities for cultural exchange and professional growth. You’ll gain meaningful insights to reflect on and bring back to your classroom. Participants will receive a certificate for 20+ professional development hours. The true magic of PD on this trip comes from the organic conversations and connections you make with fellow educators along the way.

Graduate Credits- In addition, we have partnered with an accredited university to allow participants to earn 1 graduate credit for an additional $100 or 3 graduate credits for an additional $300. 

• Welcome Reception

  Welcome Reception upon arrival

• Airport Transfers

  Airport Transfers to/from airport (if arriving on set arrival/departure dates)

• PD Certificate

  A certificate for 20 hours of professional development will be given to each participant

• Hotel Accommodations

  3 and 4 Star Hotel Accommodations

• Meals

  Breakfast every morning

• Summit Dinner

  Conclusive Summit Dinner

• Group Sightseeing

  Two-Day Helsinki Pass, Guided Tour of Tallinn, & more.

• Ground Transportation

  All Ground Transportation for group activities

• BBT T-Shirt

  You will be sent a BBT shirt, specific to your trip, before your departure!

• The BBT Team

  Your amazing Trip Leaders, your Professional Development facilitators, our Trip Managers, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!

• School Visit

  One day

• Airfare

  Airfare is not included

• Optional Side Trips

  You will have a list of optional side trips for an additional fee at a later date

• Tips and Gratuities

  For in-country guides and drivers

• Early/Late Transfers

  If you are arriving or departing earlier/later than the scheduled Group dates, you will be responsible for your own transfers. We are happy to advise, but we will not cover the cost.

Leaders will welcome you at the airport and will get you transferred to the hotel.

Enjoy an afternoon mingling with fellow educators and light refreshments.

Overnight in Helsinki

We will have a group itinerary you can choose, or you can choose to do your own thing.

We will have a group itinerary you can choose, or you can choose to do your own thing.

A visit to Suomenlinna, fortress island on the coast of Helsinki

Ferry to Tallinn - We will leave early in the morning to head to Estonia

Enjoy a free day in Tallinn, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its stunning architecture.

Option to Book Bike Tour of Tallin Here!

Departure around 7PM

PD from 8am - 4 PM

• Workshop: Finnish education system and National Core Curriculum in Action. In this session, you will gain an understanding and insights into the Finnish education system and National Core Curriculum. You will study some of the key elements of the curriculum and its skill-based approach to gain an understanding of the reforms that the system is going through to better meet the demands of the 21st century.

• Phenomenon Based Learning

• Workshop: Teaching communication and collaboration skills.  In this workshop, you will gain tools and strategies for building a respective and responsive learning environment through rigorous teaching of collaboration and communication skills for your students.

• Conversations with Finnish Teachers

• Activity #1

  • Workshop: Project-Based Learning. In this workshop, you will gain tools and strategies for running engaging and student-centered PBL projects in your classroom.

• Activity #2

  • Conversation with Finnish teachers

 Day at the Spa, Sauna, Lake, and dinner at Petteri's home. Featuring a traditional Finnish Meal. 

If flight allows.

Our Bookbag Tours team will assist with your transfer to the airport for your departure. 
Let us know if we can be of any help with travel arrangements, if you plan to  extend your trip.

Perfect for travelers looking to save and connect. Share a comfortable room with another traveler and enjoy all the same great experiences at a lower cost. If you’re traveling with a friend, let us know your roommate preference at checkout. Otherwise, we’ll thoughtfully pair you with someone of a similar age and teaching level.

Ideal for those who prefer extra privacy. Relax in your own room after each day’s adventure while still enjoying all group activities and inclusions. A great option for travelers who want a little more personal space.

Heads-Up, Snoozers! 😴💤  If you snore like a bear 🐻, rock a CPAP machine 🛏️, need white noise 🌊, or have any other quirky sleep habits, we totally understand — everyone has their bedtime vibe! But to keep things peaceful for your fellow travelers, please consider booking a private room 🛌.

Even better? Bring a friend you’ve already shared a room (and some laughs) with, and have them register too! 👯‍♀️

Let’s keep the Zzzs drama-free and the vibes just right. Thanks for being the considerate rockstar you are! 🌟

• Pack for all kinds of weather

  Finland's weather can be unpredictable—layers and waterproof gear are essential, even in summer.

• Embrace the slower pace

  Finnish culture values tranquility and connection to nature. Slow down, chat with locals, and enjoy the serene vibe.

• Carry cash for rural spots

  Many small towns or cafes may not accept cards, so having some euros on hand is wise.

• Don’t rush through Helsinki

  Take time to enjoy Helsinki’s architecture, saunas, and unique neighborhoods—not just the tourist attractions.

• Try local dishes and drinks

  Don’t miss out on reindeer meat, rye bread, or a glass of cloudberry juice straight from Finland.

• Respect the land and heritage

  Whether exploring national parks or visiting historic sites, take care to leave places as you found them and learn the stories behind them.

Here are 7 useful phrases to know when traveling to Finland, along with how they’re commonly pronounced and used:

1. “Miten menee?” (“Mee-ten men-eh?”)

   Means: “How are you?”

   A common Finnish greeting to check in on someone!

2. “Hyvä” (“Hoo-vah”)

   Means: Good, fine, or okay

   Example: “Miten menee?” “Hyvä!”

3. “Kiitos” (Key-tos)

   Means: Thank you

   Essential for expressing gratitude in Finland.

4. “Kippis!” (“Kip-pis”)

   Means: Cheers! (Used as a toast)

   Raise your glass with this friendly toast!

5. “Missä on WC?”

   Means: Where is the bathroom?

   “WC” is a common term for restroom.

6. “Olen väsynyt” (Oh-len vah-sy-nut)

   Means: I’m tired

   Perfect after a busy day exploring!

7. “Mahtavaa” (Mah-ta-va)

   Means: Awesome / great

   Example: “Se musiikki oli mahtavaa!” (That music was awesome!)

Bookbag Tours is dedicated to providing quality professional development through immersive travel experiences for educators and their family and friends. Our trips offer a truly global perspective, allowing participants to gain insights that enrich their classrooms and lives.

Our mission is to empower educators and their companions with hands-on global experiences, equipping them to inspire students both in and out of the classroom.

With Bookbag Tours, you’ll earn 20+ professional development hours while exploring incredible countries alongside fellow educators and their guests. We also offer specialized trips focused on Marine Conservation and Ancient Civilizations that provide excellent PD without school visits, ensuring valuable knowledge is brought back to every participant.

We’re committed to enhancing the lives of those who strive to make the world a better place through meaningful group trips, professional development conferences, and cultural engagement.

We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:

Phone or WhatsApp: +1 (864) 907- 9874

Email: contact@bbtglobal.us

DM us on Socials: @bookbagtours

Our team is available to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your dream trip a reality!