Lifestyle - thisisFINLAND

Unesco highlights the intangible but very real spirit of Finnish sauna culture

“Sauna culture in Finland” is now on the Unesco list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. What does that mean, and what does the sauna represent to Finnish people?

Life & society Helsinki

Snow brings light and life to Helsinki

In recent years, southern Finland has experienced a prevalence of comparatively mild winters, in line with predictions and observations of climate change. Every so often, though, a series of snowstorms changes the way Helsinki residents look at their city (article includes slideshow).

Life & society Nature

Fleeting fame: Finland’s “centre of population” exists in the middle of nowhere

Why are two people putting up a monument in the woods? They’re attempting to pin down Finland’s centre of population as it moves slowly south through the quiet forests outside the city of Hämeenlinna.

84.2%

of Finns live in urban areas

Source: UN World Urbanisation Prospects

Life & society Sustainability

Circular fashion finds a good fit in Finland

From hip flea-market boutiques to luxury recommerce, Finland’s second-hand clothing scene signifies a shift toward a circular fashion economy.

Life & society Nature

Finding the fruits of the Finnish forest

Going out to the woods to collect mushrooms and berries is a natural pastime in Finland – some might even call it a sport.

3.2 million

Amount of saunas in Finland

Source: Finnish Sauna Society

Life & society Nature

Life on the edge: Living on the western and eastern borders of Finland

At Finland’s easternmost and westernmost points, people go about their lives in locations that contain direct connections to the nation’s history.

Life & society Nature

In Finland’s far north and far south, life revolves around nature

Life in Finland’s northernmost and southernmost villages offers natural beauty, but it also requires a certain kind of attitude. And you can’t be in a hurry.

Life & society Society

Facts and feelings: Do taxes make Finnish people happy?

What comes to mind when you consider Finland and taxes? What do Finnish people think about taxes? What are the facts? And what do the Finns get in exchange for their tax payments?

500,400

Number of summer cottages in Finland

Source: Statistics Finland