Finnish Rail, Bus Buys

Travelers headed for Finland, which is often a springboard into the Soviet Union, now can get some inducements to spend more time there.

The Helsinki Card is good for unlimited transportation on city buses, trams and the metro system.

You also get gratis admission to more than 126 places of interest, including museums and galleries. The card can also result in a reduced rate at some hotels, as well as free aperitifs and desserts at some restaurants.

A 64-page booklet comes with the card, describing its use. The card costs $11.50 U.S. for one day, $15.50 for two days and $18.50 for three days.

An option is the Helsinki Tourist Ticket, which offers 24 hours of public transportation for $7.75.

Both the city card and tourist ticket must be purchased in Finland.

When visiting other cities, check the Finnair Holiday Ticket, which offers unlimited air travel on the airline within Finland for 15 days for $250. This air pass can be bought in the United States or Finland.

Although Finland is a member of the Eurailpass program, you can add a Finnrailpass. An eight-day pass costs $123 for first class and $82 for second class; a 15-day version costs $177 for first class and $118 for second class. A 22-day pass costs $228, first class, and $152, second class. These passes allow unlimited rail travel within a specific time period, and can be bought in the United States or Finland. West Coast representative for Finnish State Railways is Scantours. For information, call (800) 233-SCAN.

The Finncheques program sells vouchers with savings up to 70% at 153 hotels in 75 cities throughout Finland, according to the Finnish Tourist Board. The vouchers must be bought in the United States. They cost $32 to $48 a night per person, double occupancy. You get breakfast at all the properties, with some budget hotels also providing lunch.

Vouchers must be used between June 1 and Aug. 31. It’s always a good idea to make at least your first night’s reservation before leaving the United States.

More information is available from travel agents or the Finnish Tourist Board, 1900 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1025, Los Angeles 90045, or call (213) 277-5226.

There was an incorrect phone number listed in last week’s Bargain Corner. For information about obtaining the Florida Travel Discount Guide, call (904) 371-EXIT.