Helsinki & Lifestyle, xmas

Finnish and Finland-inspired gift ideas

For those of us who are expats, family and friends at home love a little glimpse in our lives up North, and Christmas gifts from Finland are always a welcome novelty. For those of us who have moved here with our family and we want to strengthen our relationship with the new home in Finland, or just for those Finland-enthusiasts in your life – this is a collection of gift ideas of Finnish items or things that are super useful to have when (living) in Finland. Especially with winter in mind.

Helsinki, Helsinki & Lifestyle, Restaurants & Cafés

The Ultimate Helsinki Guide to the best Breakfast, Cafés and Bakeries

Who doesn’t love breakfast? Helsinki has a bunch of just delicious breakfast cafés all around town, so make your pick! I’m more of a savoury kind of breakfast gal, so you can always win me over with good break, well-prepared eggs and of course – strong coffee. Coming from Central Europe, bread and pastries are my weakness – there is nothing that makes me happier than a buttery croissant, or a loaf of crusty bread. Luckily, the last years have brought us some amazing places to enjoy baked goods. Of course many overlap in these categories, so go and check them out yourself!

Helsinki, Hotels & Where to Stay

Unique Staycation: spend the night at Nuuksio Reindeer Park

Have you ever dreamt of sleeping in the middle of the forest, and waking up to enjoy your morning cup of coffee while feeding a cute reindeer straight from your bed? In Nuuksio National Park, just a 30-minute drive out of the Helsinki city center, this absolutely magical hideaway accommodation makes dreams come true for those who love the nature and fluffy noses.

Dinner Date, Restaurants & Cafés

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in Helsinki

Dining out and trying new restaurants is not only my favourite hobby – it is also delicious. Over the years I am close to saying confidently – that I have tried them (almost) all – and here is my ultimate Helsinki Guide for all things café and restaurant in Helsinki – of all places that are NOT specifically Finnish food. Helsinki’s restaurant scene has changed vastly over the years, with so many amazing options. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast spot, a lunch place, great pizza or a fancy night out – I got you covered. Did I miss anything? Share in a comment!

Expat Life

10 Things that have changed in Finland in 10 Years

10 years ago today, I landed in Helsinki to start my exchange program, which was supposed to be one year. Many years later, I am still here, and I couldn’t imagine myself being anywhere else. I always get a little melancholic on this day, and think a lot about how things have changed, how I have evolved and what things are like today. 10 years is a long time, and both Helsinki as a city and Finland as a whole, has changed a lot. I asked around a bit and put my mind to it – here are 10 things that have changed here in the last 10 years. Not all good – but mostly things have changed for the better.

City Escapes, Finland, Helsinki, Helsinki & Lifestyle, What to Do & Experience

City Escape: Iso Vasikkasaari Island in the Espoo archipelago

The Espoo archipelago is a place I haven’t explored enough yet, but luckily summer isn’t just over yet! Visiting more of the local islands that are right in front of my doorstep is easy and a wonderful day trip from anywhere in Helsinki, so that it’s something great for the weekend. Iso Vasikkasaari is a beautiful recreational island in Espoo that you can reach by boat from various spots, such as Otaniemi, Nokkala or Haukilahti.