Living in Helsinki

Finland is a good place to raise kids. With so much of its GPD going towards daycare and education, you know you’ll have all the tools and resources you need -- as long as you have a municipality of residence, of course. Apart from that, the country also boasts an impressive network of international schools and private options for daycare, as well as processes that will make things as smooth as possible for you, if you’re looking to adopt.

Finland is a country of contrasts. Its vast wilderness and majestic landscapes will make you want to hop on a pair of skis or a kayak and start exploring, though its harsh weather will make you want to stay at home. Thankfully, there are many leisure options in the city as well, from tasting local produce and attending some of the numerous festivals and performances, to just relaxing in a sauna.

Finland takes technology and connectivity issues very seriously. This is a country where broadband access is guaranteed, by law, to everyone, even in the most secluded areas. There are twice as many data subscribers as there are people in Finland, and “landlines” are a relic of the past no one uses anymore. Welcome to the future. After a while, you won’t be able to fathom how you were able to live any other way.

International relocation is not easy. It requires plenty of research and thorough planning on your behalf -- and still, you need to be prepared for the unexpected. Nonetheless, Finland makes it as easy as possible for you to start your new life, With its relatively relaxed customs procedures, its many relocation services that can help you out in your first steps and its commitment to supporting diversity and equality, this country will become your new home with less hassle than you’d originally thought.

Driving in Finland is not without its challenges. Not so much because of the driving culture, which is mostly laid-back and friendly, or because of the roads, which are, for the most part, in perfect condition. The main problem is the weather and the lack of light -- which combined with the long distances of this sparsely populated country take some serious driving skills to navigate safely. The fact that people in Finland start doing so from a younger age (the age limit is 15 years old for mopeds and tractors) may seem disconcerting at first, but the thorough driving lessons and strict adherence to traffic regulations make sure that no unnecessary risks are being taken.