Finland in the summer
Upon stepping my feet on to the soil of my partner’s homeland the direct and practical nature of the Finns’ I had heard so much about was showcased immediately. The border control personally came out of their booths to escort all the young families to the front of the queue whilst we were waiting for our immigration checks. Prioritising families with small kids is something that should definitely be a worldwide thing but I’ve never experienced before even though I have traveled quite a bit. Traveling is hard and tiring as it is - imagine trying to do it whilst caring for your children!
The next experience was the Finnish food. I had no expectations since Heli had told me it’s nothing special, but it is surprisingly delicious for what it is. Like most countries, the cuisine has been heavily influenced by its neighbour countries highlighting its local produce such as rye bread, berries, salmon and potatoes. A Finnish staple of sliced cheese and cucumber on a rye bread doesn’t sound that appealing, yet each of the three ingredients are world class quality, which always leaves you craving for more. This was the case with all the meals I enjoyed in Finland - simple and clean home food, but exceptional flavours due to the freshness and quality of each individual ingredient.
The considerate and practical nature of the progressive Finns’ is also highlighted in its cuisine. With an abundance of options for vegans, vegetarians and other dietary requirements which are just as, if not more delicious than the regular options. This abundance of options is not only found in restaurants and cafes but also in supermarkets and even little corner stores. The Finnish corner store also highlights the progressive Finns’ practical nature. These tiny little stores provide unique and brilliant services such as coffee grinders free for anyone to use and recycling dispensers which will take all empty bottles and exchange you store money. Simple and effective.
Helsinki is the capital city of Finland and even though it’s one of the youngest European cities, it’s still way older than any Australian building. Lots of people in Helsinki live in old stone block buildings in small apartments.
These little apartments are representative of its people. They are humble and beautiful, providing you with everything you need, rarely with anything extra.. besides saunas which most Finns would argue are a necessity, and after spending a significant amount of my time in saunas during my trip, I now understand. We will definitely have a sauna of our own one day.
Just outside of the capital city you are surrounded by nature. Seemingly endless forests and lakes with the classic “red house and a field of potatoes” nestled amongst them, which is the Finnish version of the American dream. During the summer months you can walk in most forest areas and eventually find a abundance of wild berries ready to be picked. I initially laughed at the invitation to come pick berries as my naive ego labeled it as a childish thing to do. But after dealing with horrible moose flies trying to eat us alive and spotting an uncomfortably fresh bear scat, bringing a bucket of hand picked berries home to use for the evening dessert brought me similar joy to catching and cooking a fish. It was extremely rewarding, a primal “hunter gathering” experience and I can’t wait to do it again.
Humble and resilient are both qualities seen in the character of every Finn. This could be due to the harsh weather conditions they endure each year from +30 to -30 degrees and from the sun never setting to only having three hours of light with the remaining dark hours muscling through snow. Or perhaps these qualities come from the struggle to gain and protect the country’s independence. Just a small glimpse into the country’s past 150 years shows this tiny population defending its territory numerous times against enemies far better equipped in numbers, supplies and equipment. Multiple David and Goliath stories have happened here, in some of the harshest conditions on the planet. Recognising how much tragedy this land has endured and how many sacrifices have been made to keep this country’s independence, a mere tourist can understand why the locals are so humble, considerate and practical but also very proud - because they are Finns and they have every right to be.
And yet.. No matter how humble, practical and modest people are we all need to blow off some steam from time to time, and it seems the most popular way to do so in Finland is karaoke. I have never seen so many karaoke bars in one location, and every time we entered a bar it was always crowded. Perhaps the humble nature of a Finn, a microphone and some drinks equates enough confidence for everyone to embrace a public sing along. Whatever that recipe was, it left me with a sore throat, a thumping headache and a big smile the next morning.
This was the first overseas trip I have done since the pandemic, but also the first time I have travelled with someone from start to finish and it was the most northern point of the world I have ever been to. Finland is an amazing country and my experience there was absolutely incredible. Heli, you were amazing tour guide, I feel very happy to have a Finn as my better half. Now with a ring as well. What a trip!
Safe travels to all, can’t wait for the next one,
Joshua