How to survive in Finland?

Finland is one of the northernmost countries in the whole world and with its dark winters and bright summers it´s completely unique. Despite that, it´s easy to survive in Finland with just few simple tips.

Winter in Finland is cold, dark and usually snowy. Anyhow those conditions don’t prevent Finns from enjoying life to the fullest. When the weather gets too cold you can always go warm up your frozen nose in the sauna. Sauna is a great place to relax and take it easy, if you just remember not to touch the heater. 

After warming up in sauna you can cool down with some ice-hole swimming that makes you feel refreshed. The thing to remember about dipping in a hole of ice is that it will feel terrible at first but after you get up you will feel great and very alive. Just don´t stay in the icy water for too long!

When the mornings are still dark and cold, Finns tend to wake themselves up with some hot coffee. If you´re used to drinking special coffees like latte or cappuccino you should be prepared. Finnish coffee is dark and very strong and it really gets you moving. In addition Finns drink a lot of coffee, anywhere and everywhere, because they like it and it gives these mostly shy people something to do besides talking.

If you really want to enjoy the winter and snow in Finland you must try skiing. There are two skiing styles you should really consider, cross-country skiing and freestyle skiing. Cross-country skiing is really a national sport in Finland and you can do it nearly everywhere! Just do what you´re told to and don´t worry too much, it´s going to be easy and fun but at the same time a good sports performance.

When the winter has passed, it´s time to enjoy the bright and usually warm summer. As you will find out the summertime really is bright throughout the day and night. If you have trouble sleeping while these white nights you should just go buy this light inhibitor curtain thing. It will prevent the light from shining in and you´ll have total darkness.

When the darkness of night is appearing less and less you know that midsummer is getting closer and closer. Midsummer is a great deal in Finland and a cause for a huge celebration. The sun shines through the whole night and people have barbeques and bonfires. If you have a chance you should really take part in these parties!

       

          The Finnish girl, Eve X(oxo)