In September 1994, tragedy struck the Baltic Sea when the ferry M/S Estonia sank, resulting in the loss of 852 lives. The disaster stands as one of the most catastrophic maritime incidents in 20th-century European history. Recently, authorities from Estonia, Sweden, and Finland deliberated over the necessity of reopening the investigation into this harrowing event. In a final report published by these agencies, they concluded that further inquiry is unwarranted. This decision comes on the heels of renewed interest sparked by a documentary released in 2021, which showcased new footage of the shipwreck and prompted a closer examination of the…
Author: Finland Review
*Note: This post may include affiliate links, which means I might earn a commission if you use them. Rest assured, I only recommend products and services that I genuinely trust and enjoy. There’s an old saying, “There’s a time and place for everything”, and it rings especially true when we’re talking about witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Finland. The Finns have a deep affinity for the Auroras; after all, we know a thing or two about them. As a local, I’m eager to share insights that will help you plan an unforgettable trip for you and your loved ones.…
The Finnish Nature Center Haltia serves as an excellent launchpad for both leisurely local trails and the more rugged expanses of Nuuksio National Park. The areas around Lake Urja and Lake Orajärvi are particularly enchanting, though adventurers should note that these sections lack marked trails; map-reading skills and a patient mindset are essential, or one might consider hiring a Wilderness guide. On a misty Wednesday morning, I set out from Haltia towards the Solvalla Rundan loop, soon making our way along a narrow forest path that led us to the serene shores of Lake Orajärvi. Starting point (Haltia) marked on…
Loving a Finnish Man: Why It’s Worth It When it comes to romance, few experiences can rival the joy of being in a relationship with a Finnish man. Trust me on this; I’m here to share ten compelling reasons that will have you nodding along with enthusiasm. Ten Reasons to Love a Finnish Man 1. Housework Heroes Finnish men are champions when it comes to sharing household responsibilities. From cooking and grocery shopping to vacuuming, they dive into domestic tasks with a genuine smile. Want a glimpse of daily Finnish life? Follow me on Instagram for more! 2. Masters of…
Discover the essence of traditional Finnish culture by experiencing an authentic dry sauna at the doorstep of Nuuksio National Park, just a short 35-minute journey from Helsinki. At Saivo, located within the Finnish Nature Center Haltia, you can relax and partake in age-old sauna rituals while absorbing the serene beauty of Finland’s natural landscapes. What should I know before my visit? Planning ahead is key. To ensure a smooth experience, make sure to book your sauna session in advance—this can be done online, over the phone at +35840 163 6200, or via email. Consider whether you’d like to rent towels,…
Dating Finnish men, or more specifically, dating a Finnish man, can be nothing short of miraculous! Are you hoping for a meaningful connection with him but feeling unsure about how to move forward? You’re not alone. Fortunately, the incredible power of the internet—and of course, my perspective as a Finnish woman—can guide you through this journey. Psst… Embellish your life with a touch of Finland by following me on Instagram! But don’t worry—I’ve had my fair share of experiences with Finnish men and I know what I’m talking about! (A slight word of caution: that sentence might not have landed…
Planning to drive in Finland during winter? This guide offers essential safety tips to navigate icy roads, freezing temperatures, and rapidly changing conditions. From choosing the right winter tires to maintaining visibility, dressing appropriately, and parking safely in reindeer herding areas, we’ve got you covered with the must-know advice for winter driving in Finland. Inspect Your Winter Tires Your winter tires are critical for safe driving during Finland’s cold season. Ensure your vehicle is fitted with high-quality studded or non-studded winter tires. Regularly check the tread depth to guarantee adequate grip in slush, snow, and on icy surfaces. Don’t forget…
Discovering Helsinki: An Affordable Gem Awaits You Are you contemplating a trip to the Finnish capital but worried about the potential expenses? Allow me to enlighten you: Helsinki is far from prohibitively pricey, and I’m here to show you just how accessible this vibrant city can be! Helsinki holds a special place in my heart. As a child, I was fortunate to have grandparents who lived here; their home was nestled within the confines of the Helsinki Zoo, where my grandfather dedicated his life to caring for the animals. Today, my relationship with the city has only deepened as I’ve…
Finnish sauna culture is rich with expressions that might sound enigmatic—or even slightly jarring—to those unfamiliar with them. Many of these phrases encapsulate Finland’s deep-rooted bond with warmth, steam, and the enveloping sense of well-being that a sauna offers. This article aims to unravel the meanings and contexts of common expressions, inviting readers from around the globe to appreciate the essence of this cherished tradition. “Greetings from the sauna” “Greetings from the sauna.” The phrase “greetings from the sauna” is often uttered in a lighthearted, humorous tone when someone emerges from the heat of the sauna, seemingly refreshed and content.…
When you think of Vikings, what images spring to mind? Ruthless warriors from Scandinavia raiding the coasts of England? Iconic longships slicing through the North Sea? Or perhaps you picture the dramatic reenactments of the popular television series? Here’s a twist you might not expect: the Vikings also made their presence felt in Finland. While Finland never served as a Viking stronghold like Denmark or Norway, and the Finns themselves were not Vikings in the classical sense, the country played a pivotal role in the Viking saga of trade and travel. Today, you can even visit sites in Finland that…