The Post Boats Over Kvarken

The Kvarken Archipelago was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2006 as the first Finnish Natural World Heritage Site. 

In the 17th century, the inhabitants of Björkö were assigned the duty of conveying the mails over Kvarken. As compensation, they were granted by King Gustav II Adolf, freedom from military service and reduces taxes. This service was provided until 1809.

The post boat service is still commemorated by an annual cruise over Kvarken using the characteristic traditional type of boat. These are equipped with both sail and oars and the event attracts crews and their supporters to Björköby each year. The cruise is to Holmön on the Swedish side an each second year, the direction is reversed. A memorial has been erected at Bodback from where the first post boats were dispatched.

I bought these cards on our little weekend trip to Kvarken Archipelago.

This is my entry for Maria's "Postcards for the Weekend" on her "Connections to the World-blog" and the theme for this week is Postal/mail related. 

Israel

Old and new Jerusalem comes from Vera in Jerusalem

Distance: 3,563 km

Travel time: 20 days

From Julia  in Jerusalem

Distance: 3,549 km

Travel time: 10 days

From me to my family on my vacation to Israel in 1992.

Tourist Attractions in Turkey

This card with beautiful stamps comes from Elcin in Konya, Turkey.

Distance: 2,749 km

Travel time: 18 days

 Alanya is famed for its harbour, dockyards from Seljuk times, Red Tower, blue flag beaches, full range of accommodation with plenty of good shops and restaurants, together with lively nightlife.

From my friend on her vacation to Alanya.

Antalya is known as the paradise on earth, the pearl of the Mediterranean, and the Turkish Riviera. Antalya offers numerous archaeological cities, waterfalls, caves, endless beaches and world class golf clubs.

From Tanya in Mahmutlar, Turkey

Distance: 2,973 km

Travel time: 31 days

The ancient port city of Kusadasi presents a perfect blend of sea, sun and the unspoilt beauty of nature. The outcome is a holiday destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

 From me to me :) on my way to Ephesus.  

Lebanon

Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

"Bonjour de moi et du Liban. Je te souhaite une tres bonne annee et

vie pleine du bonheur."

Eliel

"Hello from me and Lebanon. I wish you a Happy New Year and

life full of happiness."

Eliel

Ancient costumes Libanais, circa 1973

Iran

Chahār Bāgh Theological School, Isfahan, Iran

Chahār Bāgh school, also known as Shah school, is a 17-18th century cultural complex in Isfahan, Iran. The compound was built during the time of Soltan Hossein, a Safavid king, to serve as a theological and clerical school to train those who were interested in such sciences. 

From Camilie in 1973

"You should see this place!

Yes I'll be back in October!"

Egypt

Nile Hilton Hotel and the Isis Floating Hotel Cairo

Temples at Abu Simbel

10.9. 1973 

"With best regards.

See you in October!

Camilie"

Domesticated animals

Tunisia, Kairouan

This is a very special card.  My father-in-law sent it from his very first and only trip abroad sometimes in the 80s. He was retired and wanted to see something different so he and his friend Veikko decided to travel to Tunisia. They were both over 70 years of age. 

He wrote:

"Summerly beautiful and warm country, a peaceful retreat. We are very pleased with our holiday.  The sun shines from a cloudless sky.

 Best wishes Vaari (Grandpa)"

Sousse, Tunisia 20.10.1999

From us to our son. 

"Greetings from Sousse!

Unfortunately we couldn't attend the camel trip because we got a nasty bacteria from hotel's breakfast.  Instead we stayed at the hotel and wrote postcards.  Luckily our friends brought us a small bag of Sahara sand.

Take care!

Mom and Dad"

This is my entry for Maria's "Postcards for the Weekend" on her "Connections to the World-blog" and the theme for this week is Domesticated animals. 


What to do with old  baby food jars?

One is now full of Sahara sand :) :)