Almost 200,000 lakes, saunas, and arts festivals highlight Finland’s unique culture. If you enjoy skiing, hiking, and sailing, and appreciate a balanced mix of life in modern cities and small towns, you should immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most mysterious countries. At first, Finns may seem shy and reserved, but they will open up as they get to know you. Finns focus on common sense, avoid unnecessary stress, and let things take their natural course. Enjoy 24-hour sunlight in summer and round-the-clock darkness during the Arctic winter.
Teenagers in Finland are given a lot of independence and opportunities to spend time outdoors, even in winter. Finland’s active culture includes cycling, canoeing, skiing, soccer, and pesäpallo (Finnish baseball). Your Finnish friends will almost certainly participate in high school dance classes featuring both modern and traditional music, known as vanhojen tanssit.