Latest news with #Åland


Telegraph
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Telegraph
Bodyguards ‘compromised Swedish PM's security' after uploading runs to Strava
Bodyguards for Sweden's prime minister have been accused of putting his security at risk after revealing his location by uploading their workouts on the fitness app Strava. The security service officers shared details of their runs and cycling routes on at least 35 occasions, exposing Ulf Kristersson's whereabouts, including where he goes jogging, his overnight trips and his private address, which is supposed to be secret. Strava shows a map that a person can post showing the route run or walked or the public location where they exercise. The Dagens Nyheter newspaper tracked more than 1,400 workouts carried out by seven bodyguards who were protecting people in government over the last year. The posts were made from locations around the world, including military bases in Mali, close to the Ukrainian border in Poland and New York's Central Park. On one occasion, a bodyguard posted details of a run in Norway when Mr Kristersson was meeting with Jonas Gahr Støre, the prime minister of Norway, and Alexander Stubb, the president of Finland. The Swedish bodyguard later posted a picture of the three leaders running together on social media. Another post revealed that the Mr Kristersson was in Åland, an autonomous region of Finland, on a private family trip in October last year. Dagens Nyheter linked other information uploaded to Strava to the Swedish royal family, a former prime minister and Jimmie Åkesson, the leader of the Sweden Democrats party. Sweden is plagued by gang violence and has the highest gun crime death rate in the European Union. Sweden's security service, Säpo, said it was taking the findings 'very seriously' and taking measures to prevent it happening again. A spokesman said: 'This is information that could be used to map the activities of the security service. In what way it could have had an impact we are now investigating. 'In this context it is also important to know that protection of our protected people is comprised of several layers, of which bodyguard protection is one. In our work we assume that certain information can be known in advance and measure protection based on that.' A government office spokesman said they 'do not comment on security surrounding current or former prime ministers or cabinet ministers'. Earlier this year, the newspaper Le Monde revealed that crew members of French nuclear submarines had given away their patrol schedules by sharing their workouts on Strava. Another Le Monde investigation in October found the whereabouts of Joe Biden, the then US president, and Emmanuel Macron, his French counterpart, could be traced because their agents used the app while on duty. In 2023, a Russian submarine commander was shot dead on his morning run after logging his route with Strava. Stanislav Rzhitskiy was found with four bullet wounds in his back near the Olimp sport complex in Krasnodar, southern Russia. The 42-year-old had commanded the Krasnodar submarine, named after the city, which forms a core part of Russia's Black Sea fleet.


The Guardian
08-07-2025
- Politics
- The Guardian
Swedish PM's private address revealed by Strava data shared by bodyguards
Secret service bodyguards have been accused of jeopardising the Swedish prime minister's safety over several years by sharing details of their running and cycling routes on the fitness app Strava. Ulf Kristersson's bodyguards appear to have inadvertently revealed his location, routes and movements – including details of hotels and his private addresses – by uploading their workouts to the app, making them publicly available. The Dagens Nyheter newspaper tracked more than 1,400 training activities carried out by seven bodyguards who have protected people in government positions over the past year. Their findings covered locations across the world – including close to the Ukrainian border in Poland, the seafront in Tel Aviv, ski slopes in the Alps, Central Park in New York, military bases in Mali and an island in the Seychelles. At least 35 times bodyguards shared information that directly linked to the prime minister and his regular locations including his private home, which is supposed to be kept secret. The routes also reportedly revealed Kristersson's own running routes and locations of overnight trips abroad, including a private family trip to Åland, an autonomous region of Finland, in October 2024. Movement patterns are understood to show how bodyguards move around the government offices in Stockholm and Harpsund, the prime minister's country retreat in Sörmland. The latest run from Harpsund was reportedly shared by a bodyguard just a few weeks ago. In June 2024, when Kristersson visited Bodø in Norway for a meeting with Jonas Gahr Støre, the Norwegian prime minister, and Alexander Stubb, the Finnish president, one of the bodyguards reportedly posted a run on Strava. A few months later, Kristersson posted a picture on Instagram of the three leaders running together. The sensitive information leaked on Strava was also found to involve other high-profile members of Swedish society, including the royal family, the leader of the Social Democrats and former prime minister Magdalena Andersson and the Sweden Democrats leader, Jimmie Åkesson. It is the latest in a string of security scandals faced by Kristersson's government after high-profile issues involving its attempts to hire a national security adviser. Open profiles on Strava have been a problem for security forces across the world. In 2023 a former Russian submarine commander was killed reportedly with the help of his open Strava profile and last year it was revealed bodyguards to several world leaders were sharing confidential information on the app. In 2017, Strava was accused of giving away the location and staffing of military bases and spy outposts around the world by publishing a map that showed all of its users' activity. Sweden's security service, Säpo, said they were taking the findings 'very seriously' and were investigating. A Säpo spokesperson said: 'This is information that could be used to map the activities of the security service. In what way it could have had an impact we are now investigating. 'In this context it is also important to know that protection of our protected people is comprised of several layers, of which bodyguard protection is one. In our work we assume that certain information can be known in advance and measure protection based on that.' They added: 'The security service is taking measures to prevent this from happening again.' The prime minister's office and the government office declined to comment. A government office spokesperson said they 'do not comment on security surrounding current or former prime ministers or cabinet ministers', referring all questions to Säpo. Strava did not immediately respond to a request for comment.


The Guardian
08-07-2025
- Politics
- The Guardian
Swedish PM's safety jeopardised by Strava data shared by bodyguards
Secret service bodyguards have been accused of jeopardising the Swedish prime minister's safety over several years by sharing details of their running and cycling routes on the fitness app Strava. Ulf Kristersson's bodyguards appear to have inadvertently revealed his location, routes and movements – including details of hotels and his private addresses – by uploading their workouts to the app, making them publicly available. The Dagens Nyheter newspaper tracked more than 1,400 training activities carried out by seven bodyguards who have protected people in government positions over the past year. Their findings covered locations across the world – including close to the Ukrainian border in Poland, the seafront in Tel Aviv, ski slopes in the Alps, Central Park in New York, military bases in Mali and an island in the Seychelles. At least 35 times bodyguards shared information that directly linked to the prime minister and his regular locations including his private home, which is supposed to be kept secret. The routes also reportedly revealed Kristersson's own running routes and locations of overnight trips abroad, including a private family trip to Åland, an autonomous region of Finland, in October 2024. Movement patterns are understood to show how bodyguards move around the government offices in Stockholm and Harpsund, the prime minister's country retreat in Sörmland. The latest run from Harpsund was reportedly shared by a bodyguard just a few weeks ago. In June 2024, when Kristersson visited Bodø in Norway for a meeting with Jonas Gahr Støre, the Norwegian prime minister, and Alexander Stubb, the Finnish president, one of the bodyguards reportedly posted a run on Strava. A few months later, Kristersson posted a picture on Instagram of the three leaders running together. The sensitive information leaked on Strava was also found to involve other high-profile members of Swedish society, including the royal family, the leader of the Social Democrats and former prime minister Magdalena Andersson and the Sweden Democrats leader, Jimmie Åkesson. It is the latest in a string of security scandals faced by Kristersson's government after high-profile issues involving its attempts to hire a national security adviser. Open profiles on Strava have been a problem for security forces across the world. In 2023 a former Russian submarine commander was killed reportedly with the help of his open Strava profile and last year it was revealed bodyguards to several world leaders were sharing confidential information on the app. In 2017, Strava was accused of giving away the location and staffing of military bases and spy outposts around the world by publishing a map that showed all of its users' activity. Sweden's security service, Säpo, said they were taking the findings 'very seriously' and were investigating. A Säpo spokesperson said: 'This is information that could be used to map the activities of the security service. In what way it could have had an impact we are now investigating. 'In this context it is also important to know that protection of our protected people is comprised of several layers, of which bodyguard protection is one. In our work we assume that certain information can be known in advance and measure protection based on that.' They added: 'The security service is taking measures to prevent this from happening again.' The prime minister's office and the government office declined to comment. A government office spokesperson said they 'do not comment on security surrounding current or former prime ministers or cabinet ministers', referring all questions to Säpo. Strava did not immediately respond to a request for comment.


Forbes
10-06-2025
- Forbes
Forget The Heatwave, This Is The Coolest Way To Travel Europe This Summer
The lakes in Finland are a great place to spend the summer holidays with the whole family. As summer temperatures soar and overtourism gets out of hand, travelers turn to 'cool' European destinations. According to the latest booking data by Virtuoso, European destinations with a moderate climate, like Scandinavia, Finland, and Iceland, are up 263% year-over-year. Condé Nast Traveller introduced the word "coolcation" as one of the biggest trends in travel for 2024. It is a wordplay of "cool" and "vacation," meaning travelers plan to visit locations where the temperatures remain comfortable throughout summer. Which locations fit the bill? Unsurprisingly, Northern countries are drawing attention, but they are not the only locations with climates that match this travel trend. European mountains are heating up for summer but not in temperature. According to data by Virtuoso, Courchevel in France has seen a 132% rise in bookings, with St. Moritz in Switzerland up 153%. But Val-d'Isère in France is skyrocketing 457% compared to last year. "If you're looking for a cool and scenic summer escape, southwest Finland and the Stockholm Archipelago are perfect destinations," says Tom Wilkinson, product manager for Europe at Explore Worldwide, in an email interview. The 10-day combined Finland and Sweden walking & trekking tour takes travelers across charming wooden towns to discover ancient Bronze Age sites and explore the region's rich maritime heritage. "A cruise to the autonomous Åland Islands is a great way to take in tranquil beauty. Don't forget to treat yourself to some delicious Nordic cuisine, with fresh delicacies and craft beer to sample along the way," says Wilkinson. Popular tourist destination in Marienhamn harbour on Aland islands. The Åland Islands are an autonomous, Swedish-speaking region of Finland with a unique identity, legal system, flag andeven postage stamps. But what truly sets Åland apart is the traffic-free roads, red granite cliffs and pristine archipelago landscapes that stretch across 6,700 islands. Here, slow travel is not a trend; it is the default. Summer seascape with red boathouses in Aland Islands, Finland. Another memorable way to embrace slow travel in Finland is by water along its historic canals. In Tampere, travelers can board a vintage steamboat called S/S Tarjanne, to explore the scenic waterways that once powered Finland's industrial heartland. It is an ideal detour for those seeking a slower, more reflective Nordic summer. Historic steamboat of S/S Tarjanne is at Tampere Harbour. Mediterranean beaches and historic capitals are often called European summer hotspots. Skiing is usually a winter pursuit, not an activity associated with summer vacations. However, many ski areas in Switzerland, such as Zermatt or Saas Fee, think differently. "In Zermatt, skiing is possible almost year-round on the Theodul Glacier, with around 21 km (over 13 miles) of pistes open during the summer months (typically from late spring to early autumn)," says Oli Corkhill, director at Leo Trippi, a Swiss travel company focusing on luxury alpine travel, in an email interview. Corkhill also mentioned the over 12-mile pistes of Saas Fee's glacier ski area, which operates from around July to October. A young girl is skiing during summer in Zermatt, Switzerland. "However, the ski areas are much smaller than in winter, and conditions can be variable, with skiing usually limited to the morning before the snow softens," says Corkhill. He recommends combining skiing with other alpine activities like hiking, mountain biking or glacier excursions. In Zermatt, Corkhill recommends the Five Lakes Walk. The moderate route stretches just over six miles from Blauherd to Sunnegga, passing alpine gems like Stellisee, Grindjisee and Leisee that reflect the iconic Matterhorn on clear days. "It's one of the best ways to experience the Swiss Alps," he says. Woman is sitting on a bench looking at the reflection of Matterhorn in Switzerland. In Saas-Fee, he calls a guided glacier trek across the breathtaking 'Feegletscher,' a standout experience. Outfitted with crampons and ropes, travelers can safely traverse through ice fields and rugged terrain. For those craving more adrenaline, he recommends the Gorge Alpine route, offering a thrilling descent through the Fee Gorge, complete with suspension bridges, ziplines and cable pulleys. Saas-Fee Gorge in Valais, Switzerland. According to Global Wellness Institute's (GWI) data, 88% of wellness-related travel falls under "secondary wellness travel," meaning most travelers prioritize healthy food, accommodations and wellness experiences even when those are not the main reasons for their trips. Austria's wellness industry is having a star-powered moment. Last year, high-profile figures like Nicole Kidman, Rebel Wilson, and Elizabeth Hurley turned to Austria, not for red carpets but for wellness treatments, detoxification and holistic health. But it is not just celebrities driving the trend. According to report, more than half of U.S. travelers would pay for a vacation that could extend their lifespan and well-being. Is it a clear sign that longevity is becoming the next frontier in luxury travel? High above the clouds, at 5,800 feet in the Gerlitzen Alps, Carinthia, Mountain Resort Feuerberg welcomes travelers to a quiet alpine wellness resort with a charming chalet village. The resort is above the clouds in Gerlitzen Alps, Austria. Over 120 acres of alpine meadows and old-growth forests surround the resort, offering a wellness experience on a grand scale. Its expansive spa complex features 11 saunas, 11 pools and 16 relaxation areas, including a striking infinity pool with panoramic views over Lake Ossiach. "The forests surrounding Mountain Resort Feuerberg act as a source of immune strength, deep relaxation, and natural vitality," says Emanuel Berger, owner of the resort. "The forest not only purifies the air but also clears our inner world. Rich in microorganisms and volatile organic compounds, the woodland environment strengthens the immune system, enhances brain function, and lifts our mood. One of the most remarkable benefits is its positive impact on sleep," he continues. Guests can join guided forest bathing sessions to reconnect with nature's rhythms, explore the power of alpine herbs on curated hikes, or even sleep beneath the stars in a suspended hammock in the resort's open-air 'forest bedroom.' The program includes yoga, meditation, Zen archery, sound journeys, traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, multisensory concert saunas and mystical Sufi rituals. Alpine resort with infinity pool, green garden area to relax and unwind in Carinthia, Austria. So why chase the heat when you can chase alpine lakes, high-altitude wellness retreats, and endless daylight? Isn't it time your vacation left you refreshed and not overheated? Is visiting locations with cool temperatures a smarter and more sustainable way to experience Europe this summer?
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bank of Åland Plc: Managers' Transactions (Salonius)
Bank of Åland PlcManagers' TransactionsMay 14, 2025, 11.30 EET Managers' Transactions (Salonius)_______________________________Person subject to the notification requirementName: Anne-Maria SaloniusPosition: Other senior managerIssuer: Ålandsbanken AbpLEI: 7437006WYM821IJ3MN73Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATIONReference number: 108434/5/4_______________________________Transaction date: 2025-05-07Venue: NASDAQ HELSINKI LTD (XHEL)Instrument type: SHAREISIN: FI0009001127Nature of transaction: DISPOSALTransaction details(1): Volume: 33 Unit price: 36.9 EUR(2): Volume: 16 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(3): Volume: 99 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(4): Volume: 1 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(5): Volume: 1 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(6): Volume: 14 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(7): Volume: 37 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(8): Volume: 36 Unit price: 36.8 EUR(9): Volume: 300 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(10): Volume: 30 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(11): Volume: 14 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(12): Volume: 5 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(13): Volume: 5 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(14): Volume: 5 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(15): Volume: 3 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(16): Volume: 14 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(17): Volume: 36 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(18): Volume: 1 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(19): Volume: 7 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(20): Volume: 14 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(21): Volume: 15 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(22): Volume: 30 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(23): Volume: 23 Unit price: 36.7 EUR(24): Volume: 2 Unit price: 36.7 EUR(25): Volume: 23 Unit price: 36.6 EUR(26): Volume: 8 Unit price: 36.6 EUR(27): Volume: 8 Unit price: 36.6 EUR(28): Volume: 7 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(29): Volume: 8 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(30): Volume: 1 Unit price: 36.6 EUR(31): Volume: 3 Unit price: 36.6 EUR(32): Volume: 7 Unit price: 36.6 EUR(33): Volume: 8 Unit price: 36.5 EUR(34): Volume: 15 Unit price: 36.5 EUR Aggregated transactions (34):Volume: 829 Volume weighted average price: 36.60181 EUR For further information, please contact: Peter Wiklöf, Managing Director and Chief Executive, tel +358 40 512 7505Sign in to access your portfolio