If you are looking for a gateway to Russia one great way is as follows. I recently found a route that starts off from Helsinki by train and continues by a ship and you will end up in St.Petersburg. It is a great way to see Finland as it goes through Lappeenranta and Savonlinna, and you will get to St.Petersburg as well.

Did you write a blog about it? Post the link here, I would love to read it.