Moving to Helsinki, Finland

"I'm a student with limited possessions so I used voovit for the move- not bad but they did insist on me giving a Finnish landline number which we just don't have. Otherwise, it's basically the postal service. We live on the East side but it doesn't feel too rough so far despite its apparent bad reputation. There are a lot of other immigrants in this area, moslems are very visible. So I imagine there are facilities available here for moslems. I recommend living near a metro line as it's very easy to travel to the city but there are buses and trams in other parts of the city," said one expat in Helsinki.

"Before moving to Helsinki, it is important to research the cost of living, demographics, employment opportunities and job market, housing, cost of health care and educational options. It is also useful to research the culture and language, transportation options, weather and climate, nearby attractions, and the overall atmosphere of the city. Additionally, it is recommended to familiarise yourself with Finnish culture (especially the sauna), traditions and customs, as well as look into visa requirements and costs of living if you plan to stay long-term," said one expat who made the move to Helsinki.

"I moved in with my partner so that was fairly simple. He's lived here most of his life," said one expat who made the move to Helsinki.

"Finding a place to live in Helsinki can be relatively easy, as there is a variety of options available. You can search for both short-term and long-term rental options on online sites such as Airbnb, VRBO, and Nimellä. Additionally, websites such as Vuokraovi.fi offer listings for privately owned apartments and houses, many of which are located in neighborhoods conveniently situated for public transportation. Helsinki also has a variety of student housing options, as well as co-living spaces such as Kodit.io and Coliving Society. Helsinki has a number of dedicated real estate agents and require no commission - they are a great option for those who are unfamiliar with the city. Finally, if you’re looking for a more permanent living arrangement in Helsinki, you have the option of purchasing a property. The commonly used websites for searching for a property include Oikotie Asunnot, Uusimaa.fi, and Etuovi.fi," explained one expat living in Helsinki, Finland.

"Tower block in the suburbs but not nearly as grim as I imagined. It's clean, modern and there's even a washer and sauna room. Might be because it's subsidised young people's housing. All the other ex pats I know have had to take jobs as nannies/au pairs so they live with their employers," remarked one expat who made the move to Helsinki.

"Expats in Helsinki can rent a large variety of accommodation, from modern studio apartments to traditional Finnish homes. Most apartments are well-equipped, with up-to-date appliances, and many feature generous balconies with views over the city. Most will also have access to a sauna and washing facilities. Depending on the neighborhood, some apartments may also come with access to gardens and other amenities, while others may offer more of a city-dwelling experience. There are lots of public transport options, and with the city's comprehensive bike-share system, getting around is easy," explained one expat living in Helsinki, Finland.

"Lower rent but as I said it's subsidised. When we leave here it will be much the same as in the UK. They have a genius system that recycles hot water from power stations which helps stop the energy bills getting ridiculous," commented one expat who made the move to Helsinki.

"The cost of housing in Helsinki varies depending on the area, size, and condition of the property. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in a good location in Helsinki can cost around €1000 to €1200 per month," remarked one expat in Helsinki, Finland.

"This mainly depends on your own personal preferences and financial situation. Buying a home in Helsinki typically requires a large down payment, and a larger monthly mortgage payment. This can make it difficult to qualify for a loan. Furthermore, it can take a longer period of time to pay off the loan, and you may be responsible for maintenance and repairs. On the other hand, renting a home can be less expensive and may require less of a commitment. Rental contracts are typically shorter and there is less maintenance to worry about. Additionally, it is often easier to relocate if needed. In the end, you will need to weigh the pros and cons of buying and renting a home before you make your decision," replied a member in Helsinki.

"I wish I had brought ponds cold cream. Not missing much else! And more 3 pin to 2 pin plug converters- I forgot that all my electrical goods will need them here. I don't have any medical or dental records- maybe I should have requested copies of those. I wish I had left at home a lot of printed out info- it took up weight allowance moving and it's all available on the internet. Otherwise I travelled very light," remarked one expat in Helsinki, Finland.

"• Clothes suitable for all types of weather conditions • Comfortable shoes and rain boots • Water-resistant coat, gloves, and a hat • Toiletries and essential medical supplies • Documents such as passport, visa, and medical records • Laptops, mobile phones, charger, and adapters • Local currency and emergency cash • Power strips and surge protectors • Kitchen items such as pots, pans, cutlery, and small appliances • Blankets and sleeping bag • Bedding and pillows • Essential furniture such as chairs or tables • First aid kit • Local maps and guide books • Insect repellent • Laundry supplies • Binoculars or cameras," said one expat in Helsinki.

"While in Helsinki, it is important to be respectful towards the local culture and customs. Avoid dressing too casually or wearing less conservative clothing in places such as churches, government buildings, and formal events. Additionally, be mindful of the use of personal space, as Finns tend to maintain a greater amount of personal distance than many other cultures. At the dinner table, avoid disrupting conversations, and speaking too loudly or increasingly. As a sign of respect, it is customary to wait for the host to start drinking any alcoholic beverages during meals, and commenting on the taste of food is also generally seen as offensive. Lastly, be considerate of the environment when exploring Helsinki, and take proper measures to minimize your impact," remarked one expat in Helsinki, Finland.

"Expats are attracted to move to Helsinki, due to its high quality of life, excellent education system, and comprehensive social welfare programs. The city is known for its clean and safe environment, efficient public transportation, and extensive outdoor recreational opportunities. Helsinki also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and events throughout the year. The work-life balance in Finland is highly valued, with flexible working hours and generous parental leave policies. Additionally, the country's strong economy and thriving tech industry offer ample job opportunities for skilled professionals. While the cost of living can be high, the overall benefits and quality of life make Helsinki an attractive destination for expats," offered one expat living in Helsinki.

"Healthcare services in Helsinki, are known for their high quality and accessibility. The city's healthcare system is primarily funded by the government, ensuring that residents have access to affordable and comprehensive care. Primary healthcare services are provided through local health centers, which offer a range of services, including general practitioner consultations, dental care, mental health services, and maternity care. In addition to primary care, Helsinki is home to several specialized medical facilities and hospitals, such as the Helsinki University Hospital, which is renowned for its cutting-edge research and advanced treatments. These facilities provide a wide range of specialized care, including emergency services, surgery, and rehabilitation. The healthcare system in Helsinki also emphasizes preventive care, with various programs and initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and early detection of illnesses. This includes regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings for various conditions. Furthermore, Helsinki's healthcare services are supported by a robust digital infrastructure, which enables seamless communication between healthcare providers and patients. This includes electronic health records, e-prescriptions, and online appointment booking systems, making it easier for residents to manage their healthcare needs. Overall, healthcare services in Helsinki are characterized by their high quality, accessibility, and focus on both treatment and prevention, ensuring that residents have access to the care they need to maintain their health and well-being," said one expat living in Helsinki, Finland.

"Medical services in Helsinki, are known for their high quality and efficiency. The Finnish healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers, ensuring comprehensive coverage for residents. Public healthcare in Helsinki is funded through taxes and is accessible to all citizens and residents, offering a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, dental care, mental health services, and emergency care. Helsinki has numerous health centers and hospitals, with well-trained medical professionals and state-of-the-art equipment. The city is also home to the renowned Helsinki University Hospital, which is a leading medical research and treatment facility in the country. Private healthcare is also available in Helsinki, offering additional options for those who prefer or require specialized services. Private clinics and hospitals often have shorter waiting times and more personalized care, but they can be more expensive than public healthcare services. Overall, medical services in Helsinki are of high quality, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and early intervention. The Finnish healthcare system is known for its efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring that residents have access to the care they need," said one expat.