10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Finland

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of navigating a different culture. Finland is known for its unique customs and social norms. As an expat, understanding these can help you integrate more smoothly into Finnish society. Here are 10 tips to help you avoid cultural faux pas and respect Finnish sensibilities.

1. Respect Personal Space

In Finland, personal space is highly valued. Finns may stand further apart from each other than in other cultures when having a conversation. Avoid standing too close to someone, as it might make them uncomfortable. Remember that a respectful distance is a sign of politeness in Finnish culture.

2. Embrace Silence

Finns are comfortable with silence and do not feel the need to fill every gap in conversation. Do not mistake this for rudeness; it's simply a cultural trait. If you're in a conversation and a pause occurs, don't feel compelled to speak immediately. Embrace the silence and wait for a natural moment to continue the dialogue.

3. Be Punctual

Time is taken seriously in Finland, and punctuality is considered a virtue. Whether it's a business meeting or a casual get-together, make sure to arrive on time or even a few minutes early. Being late can be seen as a sign of disrespect.

4. Avoid Small Talk

Small talk is not as common in Finland as it is in many other countries. Finns prefer meaningful conversations and may find excessive chit-chat insincere. When initiating a conversation, skip the small talk and discuss more substantial topics.

5. Sauna Etiquette

The sauna is an essential part of Finnish culture. Remember that it's a place for relaxation and not for loud conversations or business discussions. Follow the lead of your Finnish hosts, and always sit on your towel for hygiene reasons. It's also customary to sauna without clothes, but you can wrap yourself in a towel if you're not comfortable with nudity.

6. Recycle and Respect Nature

Finns take pride in their clean and beautiful environment. Show respect by following local recycling rules and maintaining cleanliness when enjoying outdoor activities. Littering is frowned upon, and conservation efforts are taken seriously.

7. Dress Appropriately for the Weather

Finland experiences extreme weather conditions, and dressing appropriately is important. In winter, wear layers and invest in good-quality outerwear. During the warmer months, be prepared for sudden weather changes. Dressing suitably shows that you respect the Finnish way of life and are prepared for their climate.

8. Learn Basic Finnish Phrases

While many Finns speak excellent English, learning a few basic phrases in Finnish is appreciated and shows your respect for the local language. Simple greetings like "Moi" (hello) or "Kiitos" (thank you) can go a long way in making a good impression.

9. Respect the Law and Order

Finland is a country with a high regard for law and order. Always adhere to local laws and regulations, and respect the quiet and orderly nature of public spaces. For example, jaywalking or loud behavior in public areas is not well-received.

10. Understand Alcoholic Beverage Etiquette

Alcohol consumption in Finland is regulated, and there are specific times when you can purchase alcohol from stores. Be aware of these regulations and also note that drinking in public places is generally not allowed. When invited to a Finnish home, it's polite to bring your own alcoholic beverages if you plan to drink.

We hope these tips will help you navigate Finnish culture with ease. Remember, every culture has its nuances, and the best way to learn is through experience. Share your thoughts and experiences on Expat Exchange's Finland forum to connect with fellow expats and learn from their insights.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Finland

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Finland. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Finns tend to dress more formally than many other countries. It is also important to be aware of the Finnish custom of personal space, and to respect the personal space of others. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the Finnish custom of not discussing personal matters in public, and to respect this custom. Finally, it is important to be aware of the Finnish custom of not discussing religion or politics in public, and to respect this custom," commented an expat living in Finland.