Finnishness Archives

5 tips for enjoying the sauna like people in Finland

Want to make the most of your sauna experience? Start with this simple list!

Finnish sauna offers a warm welcome for people from all walks of life

In Finland, sauna is not a rare luxury, but a central part of the culture. In fact, did you know that there are more saunas than cars in Finland?

Christmas Christmas traditions

Calm and harmony: A relaxing sauna continues to be a Finnish Christmas tradition

A steaming hot sauna, softly illuminated and filled with the fragrant aroma of birch leaves, is a centuries-old Finnish tradition intended to bring calmness, harmony and peace before the start of Christmas celebrations.

Life & society Education

Report gives Finland top marks in literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills

According to a worldwide OECD survey, people in Finland have chart-topping skills in literacy, numeracy and problem solving.

Arts & culture Music

Sounds like Finland: Capturing the country’s essence in music

What does a country sound like? Finland set out to answer this question by becoming the first nation in the world to create an official national soundscape. Plug in, press play and experience Finland – no plane ticket required.

Life & society Language

Pronouncing Finnish with a smile: The sivistys video edition

Civilised behaviour – we’d probably all like to see more of it these days. A great Finnish word, sivistys, covers the idea – but how do you say that? With a smile! Watch our video.

Life & society Sauna

Finnish sauna healers trust tradition and the restorative powers of the forest

Birch, spruce, juniper and other trees in Finland provide a range of wellness benefits in care offered by traditional sauna healers. They draw on accrued knowledge, Finnish folklore and a good steam.

Life & society Architecture

Admiring art nouveau: Helsinki’s architectural eye candy

Helsinki showcases one of Europe’s richest concentrations of photogenic art nouveau buildings. We aim a camera at some of our favourite Finnish façades, towers, doorways and balconies.

Finnishness