Life & society Archives

Unusual speed dating in Finland offers a new way to meet people

Speed-dating events are drawing crowds in Helsinki, but not for the reasons you might think. We visit with Tatskatytöt (“tattoo girls”) to see what attracts people and keeps them coming back.

Life & society Lifestyle

Idyllic Finnish cottage features vintage design and enchanting gardens

In southern Finland, a former dockworkers’ cottage has become a colourful retreat full of history and vintage charm.

Life & society Wellbeing

5 steps to a happier life: How a Finnish designer regained creativity

After experiencing burnout at the height of her career, Finnish designer and educator Emmi Salonen developed a five-step framework to reconnect with creativity, balance and joy. Her approach is now helping people around the world.

Life & society Travel

The last ferry to a Finnish island

Sandy beaches, windswept pine forests and a lighthouse overlooking the Gulf of Bothnia have long made Hailuoto one of Finland’s most distinctive islands. Now, as a new bridge nears completion, the island is preparing for a transformation.

Life & society Nature

Finnish natural and cultural heritage in abundance

Whether in town or out in the country, Finnish people live side by side with nature. Even the largest cities have natural areas accessible by public transport, and the countryside is never far away, including a great diversity of national parks and World Heritage Sites.

Life & society Sauna

Finnish sauna bathing lowers stress and lifts your mood, studies say

Research suggests that Finnish sauna bathing on a regular basis can benefit everything from heart health to sleep quality.

Life & society Summer

Sauna, sunlight, swimming and slowing down: How Finns spend summer

Every summer, much of Finland deliberately downshifts as schools close, workplaces empty out and people head towards lakes, forests and cottages.

Life & society Sports

Finnish figure skater Iida Karhunen glides into the spotlight

Iida Karhunen caught viewers’ attention with her Olympic debut in 2026 at age 17. Her precision and composure suggest she will continue to impress. One goal is the 2027 World Championships in Tampere, Finland.

Life & society