Never take a "no" as a definitive refusal

Photo: Pinterest

It is not rare that Finns answer "no" to the questions foreigners ask in English. I faced it in different places such as in shops, at the bank and at KELA (social insurance institution). During the past years I have understood that behind this 2-letters-word there is a hidden message. It is easier for them to say "no" that to look for the answer when they don't know or are not sure to understand what you really want. The language is very often an issue. But the culture also plays a role. Finns are honest people. No doubt about it. And lying is not in their habits.

Cruises: don't fall in the traps!

Silja Symphony heading towards Stockholm

Helsinki is ideally located in the Gulf of Finland, close from Saint-Petersburg (Russia), Tallinn (Estonia) and Stockholm (Sweden). A lot of boats are schuttling back and forth between Finland's and Estonia's capitals from early morning to late evening 7/7. The cities are just separated by 130km of water. It is the perfect destination for some shopping (especially alcoholic beverages as the prices in Finland are really high), enjoying a spa massage or having a walk in the picturesque old town. Going to Stockholm means for many people partying on the boat in the clubs and bars until late. Some of them won't even disembark. Since a couple of years, the company St Peter Line is offering visa-free trip to Russia for a stay shorter than 72 hours.

This article is not about telling you which trip is the best, which company is the cheapest. No, it's about the traps that you should avoid.

Watch out for birds!

Very aggressive male bernacle 

In May-June birds are nesting a bit everywhere. As nature is never far from the urban life, some birds might create their nest in unappropriate places. They need peace. When you see a goose with an aggresive behavior (showing the tongue, running over people, opening wings, biting or flying to the face), it means that there is a female with eggs or babies very close. It is extremely important to explain the situation to children and prevent any attack. The wingspan of a adult bernacle can be up to 2m. In Helsinki, they are particularly numerous on the islands such as in the zoo of Korkeasaari, Suomenlinna, Lonna and Seurasaari which are very much visited by families.

How to photograph the Northern Lights?

Northern Lights are undoubtedly the most amazing natural phenomenon that is observable in Finland and probably on the whole planet. But how can one's show to others the beauty of these lights? As the saying tells: a picture is worth a thousand words. How often people get disappointed as their images are not translating what they saw? The explanation might be that taking a picture of a Northern Light is not as easy as pressing the shutter release in automatic mode. In this article I will try to give you the best tips to get the best possible result even without being a pro in photography.

Ruka 01.12.2013 1:35am, ISO1250, F/5.6, 30s, 24mm (Canon 5D Mark II) 

When is the next tram coming? Geo-located it!

The public transportation of Helsinki offers a real-time geo-localisation map (see link at the bottom of the article) of its commuter trains, subways and on demand busses (called Kutusplus). It is quite interesting to have an overall view on the network which is, in my opinion, very well developed.

In the honor of the Sàmi people

Traditional costum from Inari and reindeer leather tambourine

On February 6th, Finland celebrates the Northern people, the Sàmi or Saami in Finnish. This date wasn't randomly chosen. It reminds when the first Sàmi concil meeting was held in Trondheim (Norway) in 1917. Different theories suggest that the origin of the Sámi goes back 4,000 years or more. About 163,000 Sàmis are currently living in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Russia in an area of 388,350km2. In Lapland, it is more frequent to see reindeers than humans! Locals speak about ten different dialects, and do not necessary understand each other. Traditionally, they were living of fishing, hunting, fur trapping and sheep herding. This day is important to remember these people with their different culture, languages, traditions and way of living.

It's Runeberg Day!

Runeberg statue on the Esplanade in Helsinki

Every 5th of February, Finland celebrates the anniversary of Johan Ludvig Runeberg by raising the flags and eating a delicious... Runeberg torte. Runeberg, Runeberg,... his name probably rings a bell if you have been to Helsinki. Like many people, you have probably photographed his statue in the middle of the Esplanade, always with a seagull on his head. But Runeberg wasn't a baker or a politician as some people might think. He was the national poet who wrote a lot about the rural life during the 19th century in Swedish language. But his most famous piece is undoubtably the poem "Vårt land" (Our Land Maamme in Finnish) which became the lyrics of the Finnish national anthem.

The Runeberg torte or Runebergin torttu in Finnish, is a cylindric pastry flavored with almonds and decorated with raspberry jam in a white or pink sugar ring. The pastry got its name as the poet was used to have them for breakfast. They are only available in Finland and during the months of January and February. Of course, you can always bake them at home anytime. Check the recipe: here

Homemade Runeberg tortes in Porvoo

Be visible!

Reflectors by Aarikka

In winter, it is quite dark and it is extremely important to be visible. You are seriousely walking at risk along the roads. It is the reason why you have to be visible by law. Don't worry, you won't get a fine if you don't have a reflector but the police will stop you and ask you to wear one. In order to avoid being killed, it is highly recommended to wear reflectors on your jacket and bag.

Too cold? It' time to watch a movie!

Choose your seat

Temperature are far below zero since a couple of days. Everything is frozen, and going out (even for a cigarette break) looks like a polar expedition. It's the perfect time for enjoying a movie at the cinema. In Finland, all movies are shown in original version with Finnish and Swedish subtitles. Only movies for children are dubbed. Finnish movies have unfortunately no English subtitles. In 2012, Finns went about 1.6 times to the cinema. Almost all the theaters have now the 3D equipment.

In some countries, after getting the ticket at the cashier, people are running to the room to get the best seats. In Finland, buying a ticket is very easy and convenient. It can be purchased on the Internet or at the cashier. Seats are chosen, and the number of the row and the seat are printed on the ticket like for the airplane's boarding pass. With this system, there is no rush. No one will seat at someone's else place.

A large choice of candy

Who do Finns take with them in the dark room? Popcorn is very popular as almost everywhere in the world. But what they like most is to fill a paper bag with candies. A lot of candies. Some of the bags weight one kilogram!

Superday advertisment in Lahti

My tip: Finnkino, the largest chain, is having a "superday" almost every month where all 2D-movies cost 6.50€ and all 3D-movies 7.50€. Popcorn (3 liters) costs only 3€. 

January 22nd, 2014 is the next superday.

Link to "Finnkino Superday"

For a smooth departure

The international Helsinki-Vantaa airport is the busiest in Finland. Built in 1952 for the Olympic Games, it has constantly grown to reach in 2011 a number of over 14 million passengers. The airport is the most important gateway for travelers willing to visit Finland. Since a couple of years, the airport became an important hub for all passengers travelling between Europe and Asia. Effectively, Finnair offers direct flights to 14 destinations in Asia. Its slogan is "the shortest route between Europe and Asia". Therefore, it was important for the airport to develop services to help the long distance travelers to relax before or after their trip.

While visiting the airport, I have noticed two new services that are really helpful. The first one was in the café in front of the souvenir shops (sorry I don't remember its name). On the tables, passengers have the opportunity to recharge their mobile phones using an interesting interface wire-free. If you have a Nokia Lumia, just put it over the picture and the phone will automatically be recharged. If you have any other mobile phone brand (Samsung, iPhone, HTC,...), you can buy or borrow a little key that you connect to your phone, and recharge it while you are enjoying a cup of coffee and a sweet bun.

Recharge your smartphone wire-free

The second new service is simply amazing. How often do you need to wait for hours for your connecting flight and don't know what to do? Or where to relax? In Helsinki, just walk to the crossing between the gate 31 and the passport-security check for the flights outside the Schengen area at the terminal 2. A newly open relaxing area offers different options to the travelers: silent chairs if you wish to work on your laptop or pad, sleeping tubes, beds, fatboys in a very Finnish atmosphere. The highlights of Finnish nature such as an ice wall and Northern Lights will definitively help you to relax. I have particularly liked the sleeping tube (the kind of egg in the middle of the picture). Basically, you lay down on a chair with 3 different adjustable parts and you can close the curtain. But always keep an eye on the clock and don't miss your flight! the room is free of chrage and open 24/7.

The new relaxing room

Helsinki airport has been voted 5th best airport for its comfort, conveniences, cleanliness and customer service by sleepinginairport.net travelers.

Have a pleasant flight!

Independence day

President Sauli Niinistö and his wife are greeting the veterans from the palace's balcony

On December 6th 1917, Finland declared its independence to Russia after 108 years of domination. The celebrations in the country include the rise of the national flag on all the official buildings, but also to all private homes. It is a holiday and all the shops, museums, theaters and so on are closed. Commemorative events and speeches are oraganized during the day. At 6pm, Finns light 2 candles behind their window to remember the portest against Russian occupation. There is no special meal for this event. Most of the people are celebrating the event at home, watching war movies (the unknown soldier), and watch the Linnan Juhlat (castle's ball), the official ceremony where about 2000 special guests are invited at the President's place. But in 2013 due to the renovations at the palace, the ceremony will be exceptionally held in Tampere. On Monday, everybody will comment the event, and ladies will check if the magazines and newspapers have the same tastes about the dresses.

Hyvää Itsenäisyyspäivää!

You can follow the celebration starting at 5:15pm live on YLE (visible worldwide): Watch the Linnan Juhlat

Storm warning

The Xaver storm is on its way to Finland after have cause important damages in the UK, Belguim, the Nederlands and Norther Germany. In the following 24 hours, the powerful wind will hit the Finnish West and South coasts, and cross the half of the country. Difficult road conditions have to be expected and trees might fall. Power shortage might also happen in some areas. High waves are expected as well, especially in the Turku archipelago and near Aland. It is highly recommended to stay home.

Read more on the storm alerts on the following page: Finnish meteorological institute

Happy coffee day!

Coffee with korvapuusti

Finland is the country that consums the largest quantity of coffee worldwide with 12kg per capita. In order to celebrate this record, November 25th is the coffee day! Until noon, all the R-Kioskis are offering free cups of Paulig coffee. Finnish coffee looks and tastes like American coffee and not at all like Italian coffee. This beverage goes well with a sweet bun (pulla).

Happy coffee day!

Start your own business!

Finland is currently encouraging people to be innovative and create new companies. The recent collapse of the giant Nokia, which was contributing to 4% of the GDP in 2000, showed that Finland needs to diversify its economy. Some startups became very successful in the past years such as Supercell (Clash of Clans) or Rovio (Angry Birds - 1 billion downloads!), and are good examples for people willing to follow their paths. Many companies are developing web applications or are operating in the game industry. But also the most traditional handicraft is developing. All new idea is welcome!

In 2012, 8.5 million users are registered worldwide and Supercell is earning 2.5 m$ a day!

Despite the good ranking of Finland in international researches, the reality is that many companies are laying off people, and it is very challenging to find a job. It is even more difficult for immigrants not fluent in Finnish, and youngsters without experience. What are Finns doing when they don't have a job? They are going to study something they like. It is not rare that a person has several certificates. The other alternative is to start your own business! All what you need is a good idea!

For many people, it is difficult and scary to start. Where to start? What to do? How to get a grant? How does it work with the taxes and insurances? For answering all these questions and more, the meeting place of the Think Helsinki Company welcomes everybody to an information session in English.

Where? At Vuorikatu 5 (in Kaisaniemi next to the library of the University of Helsinki)
When? 14.11.2013 16:15-19:00 or 12.12.2013 16:15-19:00

Info about the event
Info about establishing a business in Finland 
Ministry of employment and economy 

Father's Day

Today, all the fathers are celebrated in Finland. Each second Sunday of November (6 months after mother's day), fathers are honoured and get presents from their children. In the morning, their get their breakfast in bed, and later in the day, they eat a special meal. This tradition has been inspired by the American Father's Day in the 50s.

Hyvää isänpäivää!

Don't forget that all the shops are closed.

Best spots in Rovaniemi to see the Northern Lights

Northern Lights from the Ounasvaara hill

In order to see the Northern Lights, a combinaison of parameters have to be gathered together: be in the North (ideally as North as possible from the Arctic cercle), have a clear night, no light pollution from cities, be patient and lucky. The Northern Lights are unpredictable but with luck, a magnificient show can enlight the sky. Previously, the article Northern Lights forecast help you to know how high your chances to see them was, based on the solar erruptions.

Life in Lapland has published a map to help Northern Lights hunters who do not have the opportunity to go to the wilderness to chase the lights in the city of Santa Claus. Despite the city lights, the Northern Lights are easily visible from the hills, islands and along the river shores. Do not forget to dress with warm clothes and take a warm drink and a snack if you plan to stay in the darkness and coldness for many hours. Depending of the distance you have to walk from/to your hotel, remember that city busses are not running late. In the worst case, call a taxi to drive you back to the hotel. As an example, you will need about an hour to walk from the train station to the top of Ounasvaara (hotel Sky on the map). Keep your phone in a warm pocket. With the coldness, the battery gets empty very fast. Many locals turn their phone off, and turn it on only in case of emergency. Update your Facebook account when you are safely back at the hotel.

Many companies offer Northern Lights safaris, but you will have to spend between 50 and 90€, depending on the services which are included. Now, it is up to you to decide if you want to pay or to walk.

Click on the map to enlarge

Link to the map

It can be stormy in Finland

Storm over Suomenlinna

Last night, the terrible storm which devastated the UK was awaited in Finland. But luckily the wind speed decreased dramatically, and when it reached the Southern coasts, the speed was even not at the storm level. Nevertheless, some houses on the Southern and Westsouthern coasts were without power as the wind caused some power outages. The wind calmed down around midday but is blowing again in the evening. It should come to normal level during the night.

As Finland is a forest country, it is important for every people to check the forecast and avoid all unnecessary travel as trees might fall. Also, it is advised to don't stay too close from the sea side. A powerful wave can catch a person and drag it offshore. If you are planning to travel by plane or by boat, check with the travel company or agency if the conditions are acceptable for the trip. As an example, when the waves are higher that one meter, the fastest boats operating between Helsinki and Tallinn are not leaving the harbor.

You can check the weather forecast on Foreca or FMI

Salads and herbs sold in pot

Lettuce sold in plastic pot

When going to a Finnish grocery store, you might notice something completely different from your home country in the vegetables counters. The salads and fresh herbs are sold in plastic pots! No, you are not dreaming, and neither are in a garden center. The main reason why they are still in in peat, is to guarantee the freshness of the product during the whole year from the greenhouse to your kitchen.

Parsley, rosemary, marjoram and basil on my balcony

Another advantage of this technique is that if you do not use everything, you can create your own garden that might last for a very long time. No waste!

There is always an interesting exhibition in a fair center

Fair center in Lahti has been renovated

During the whole year (expect in June-July), exhibitions on different topics are offered to the public in all major cities of the country. In Finnish, fair center is called "messukeskus". The entrance fee vary from exhibition to exhibition. In order to obtain a dicount price (other than the usual ones: children, veterans, students,...), check the magazines about the topic and cut the coupon. Sometimes, you can also get a reduced price if you pay online or fill in a coupon at the entrance. As some events are very popular, the best way is to come by public transportation. Check that some of the fairs are only for professionals. It happens also quite often that  more than two fairs are at the same time in the same fair center. You do not have to pay a separate ticket for each. Just enjoy and discover new things. The biggest fair center is situated in Helsinki with its 7 exhibition halls and 40 conference rooms. Remember that some exhibitions are very popular and can be crowded. If you can, come early or later in the day.

The main exhibitions in autumn

Helsinki
18-22.09 Habitare, ArtHelsinki13, Salon13, Valolight (fair about design)
01-03.10 Automaatio ( the Number One Automation Event in the Baltic Sea Region)
11-13.10 I love me 2013, Beauty 2013, Jewel & Watch 2013, Fashion 2013, Näköä 2013, Health 2013
24-27.10 Book Fair 2013, Music Fair 2013, Wine, food & good living 2013
01-03.11 BoardExpo 2013, DigiExpo 2013, HifiExpo 2013, Ice hockey & Floorball 2013, SkiExpo

Lahti
20-22.09 Caravan 2013
02-03.11 Crafts, hobbies and reading
21.11 Business Day

Tampere
04-06.10 Tampere Art Fair, Homevision, Antique
15-17.11 Finnish Handicrafts, Gem and Jewel

Turku
04-06.10 Turku International Book fair (Finnish president Sauli Niinistö will be the guest of honnor), Turku Food Fair, Science Fair 
18-20.10 Harmony (ecological and ethical fair), Women's skils
23-24.11 International Cat Fair

Travel from 2€ with ExpressBus or 3€ with Onnibus

It is not a secret that traveling in Finland is expensive, especially if you cannot have a discount. On this blog, there are already a couple of tips on how to save money, and here is another one. Busses are in general more expensive than trains. But some companies are offering discount tickets if you order your ticket online and in advance. For example, ExpressBus has tickets starting at the very low fare of 2€. ExpressBus has a fleet of long-distance busses which are comfortable with air conditioning and compartment of suitcases. Drivers are friendly, speak English and are always on time. If they are not, it is because of the traffic or weather conditions but you will always arrive safe to your destination.

On the example above, I am looking for the best offer for a ticket from Helsinki bus station Kamppi to Lahti bus station on Saturday September 7th (2 weeks and 2 days in advance) because I want to attent the Finnish ski jumping championship team event. The one way ticket costs 24€ which is far too much in my point of view. But ExpressBuss has some discount on this trip at 19 and 9€. 9€ is cheaper than the student price!

Onnibus is also selling cheap tickets online, starting from 3€. The offer is limited compared to ExpressBus but it goes to different destinations such as student area (like Hervanta in Tampere) or airports where for example Ryanair planes land. Before ordering a ticket, make such that you know where to catch the bus and where it will stop at your destination as it is not necessarly in the city center.

Have a nice trip!