Organizing the Biohacker Summit in Helsinki in 2024 was a milestone in my professional life. Still, this year was particularly special because I could blend my work with family again! My wife, Nao Matsuda, and our kids joined me for the event, marking our first family trip to Helsinki in five years—since Nao last attended the Biohacker Summit 2019.

A Family Time at Biohacker Summit

It was a heartwarming experience to show my family to my colleagues and friends from Europe. Nao, my trusted partner in both life and work, was able to reconnect with the biohacking community while our children had their second glimpse into this world. Watching my family interact with the people who have been part of my journey made this summit even more meaningful.

Our kids particularly loved the breakfasts at the hotels we stayed at. They were a simple pleasure that brought so much joy to their mornings. The variety of Nordic delights, from fresh salmon to hearty rye bread, fueled our adventures through the city.

Exploring the Beauty of Helsinki

Before the summit, we explored the city of Helsinki, including swinging by at the biohacker center office. After the summit, we extended our stay in Helsinki to enjoy some downtime as a family. With its serene landscapes, rich culture, and modern Scandinavian design, Helsinki was the perfect backdrop for relaxation. From strolling around the Park to exploring the vibrant Market Square, our days were filled with activities that allowed us to soak in the city's beauty.

A Day Trip to Tallinn, Estonia

One of the highlights of our trip was a spontaneous one-day trip to Tallinn, Estonia. We hopped on a ferry from Helsinki port, an easy and scenic journey across the Baltic Sea. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a lively celebration, Keskaja Päevad, or Medieval Days. Estonians were in full celebration mode, reenacting medieval times with costumes, market stalls, and performances. Though we didn’t fully understand the local customs, it added an unexpected charm to our adventure, making Tallinn a memorable stop.

A Finnish Farewell at Löyly Helsinki

On our final night, we capped off our trip with a dinner at Löyly Helsinki, a modern sauna complex and restaurant perched right on the waterfront. Sharing a meal with our friend Jani, a sound therapist, made the evening even more special. We indulged in a massive bowl of salmon soup, a traditional Finnish dish that felt like the perfect way to conclude our Nordic adventure. The warmth of the food, the laughter, and the peaceful ambiance of Löyly gave us the perfect send-off from Finland.

Blending Work and Family: A New Chapter

This trip reminded me of the importance of balancing work and family. While organizing the Biohacker Summit is always an intense and fulfilling experience, having my family by my side this time made it even more rewarding. Being able to show them the people and places that are part of my professional life while creating new memories together was a gift I will always cherish.

Whether enjoying the simple joy of hotel breakfasts with my kids, introducing my family to the biohacking community, or making spontaneous trips to places like Tallinn, this journey was a beautiful blend of work, family, and adventure.

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