Four things you should know about the Finnish way of life (that are not necessarily true)

It is general knowledge that Finns are quiet, nature loving people who are passionate about the sauna and foraging. Or are they really? My yet another trip to Finland this last week confirmed what I had already known before — there is much more to the stereotypes we usually have about five million Finns and their way of life. Here are four things you should know about the Finnish way of life that ...  (continue reading)

Discovered… A Home Away from Home

1. A preference of harmony in people’s relation to their surroundings, both natural and social.
2. Getting along with others is important.
3. A consensus-building decision-making process is strongly preferred.
4. Work is a value in itself, not just what can be gained by working.
5. Be punctual, persevering, frugal and prudent.
6. Pay attention to details!

Which country do you imagine when you hear ...  (continue reading)

Summer cottage, sauna, good food and wonderful talks: the ultimate Finnish experience

Welcome to a Finnish summer cottage in Hyvinkää. Take off your shoes (as the Finns always do) and be ready to enjoy the summer sun, the smell of old wood, sauna, wonderful people, interesting conversations, starry nights and delicious food.

Being with a Finnish family for the weekend has been one of the best things of the Foreign Correspondents’ Programme so far. Jaakko Jokio, and Annukka and ...  (continue reading)

Kazakh and Finnish families: similarities and differences

I have never stayed with a foreign family alone. When I was a student, I visited my friends in Russia and Kyrgyzstan, but it was different from my last weekend.

Before the start of thisisFINLAND Foreign Correspondents’ Programme I read several articles about Finnish people, because I wanted to be prepared for my family weekend. I’m from Kazakhstan. You know, according to these articles, blog ...  (continue reading)