Åland is a fascinating archipelago of 6,500 islands in the Baltic Sea, belonging to Finland but with a strong Swedish culture. The main island, Fasta Åland, is home to the capital, Mariehamn, as well as the majority of the population. The islands are a popular tourist destination, offering everything from picturesque villages and sandy beaches to excellent fishing and sailing. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy, from cycling and hiking to swimming and windsurfing, and the locals are always happy to share a cup of coffee or a beer and chat about the best places to go.