Åland is an autonomous, demilitarized, and mostly Swedish-speaking region of Finland, situated at the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia in the Baltic Sea. Comprising over 6,700 islands and skerries, Åland's largest island, Fasta Åland, hosts the capital, Mariehamn, a quaint town with a strong maritime heritage reflected in its architecture and museums. The region is known for its peaceful, pastoral landscapes, with lush farmlands, dense woodlands, and rocky shores. Åland enjoys a special political status with its own flag, stamps, and internet domain, yet remains part of the European Union with some exemptions. It's a popular summer destination for sailing, cycling, and enjoying the archipelago's serene beauty, while also being economically significant for its shipping and trade activities, thanks to its strategic location.