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Our Guide to the Suomi Galaxy

Published: 13.7.2021

Here is a crash course on how to survive Finland as an international student. Doesn't matter if you are here for an exchange or for a long period of time, this here is a bible for you to refer to if you ever feel lost or confused.

A good way to begin your journey in this Nordic nation is by apprehending the language, which is quite difficult and it takes some time and energy in wrapping your tongue around the basics. However I have managed to string together some everyday phrases which might make you a favourite with the local brewery.

Young students enjoying the advent of summer — Photo by : Jussi Hellsten, (c) Helsinki Marketing

Moikka : Hello

Moi Moi : Bye

Kiitos : Thank you

Anteeksi : Sorry

Kippis : Cheers

Hyvää päivää : Good Day!

Well, one important thing to keep in mind is the pronunciations; I sounded like an alien when I spoke Finnish for the first time and got the locals rather confused (not a pleasant feeling). If you are unsure of these pronunciations, feel free to launch google translate on your phone and try practising these phrases wherever you go. Remember written and spoken Finnish are two very different things, do not place your servitude only on Google.

Beautiful winter landscape — Photo by : Carl Bergman, (c) City of Helsinki

The Weather

The weather in Finland is extremely fickle and it is advisable to invest in a winter coat, light spring jacket and a raincoat. Worry not if you do not want to lug your bags through airlines, there are tons of second hand stores which sell a variety of the same at affordable rates. However keep an eye out on the weather application, as it keeps one well informed about the exteriors.

Delicious food being sold at a stall — Photo by : Shoot Hayley, (c) City of Helsinki

The Culture

Take a dip in the local Finnish culture which is dripping in sauna hangouts and creamy salmon soup. Coming from the tropical land of India, I have never spent my time in Saunas as the day temperatures are boiling . However, every living accommodation in Finland is equipped with a sauna which can be used for both casual and serious purposes. The steam lifts all the worries from your pores and extinguishes all troubles for a brief amount of time. The sea facing land is blessed with delicious salmon, which cooked with carrots and potatoes makes it the one dish that can touch your soul. The ingredients are easy to find and the recipe is even easier to cook. You can find one here :https://herfinland.com/finnish-salmon-soup/

Well this is all for now, catch you in my next blog! Moi Moi