FAQ
What is the weather like in Finland in July and August?
In the summer the temperature can be anything between 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Normally it is from 15 to 20 during the day and cooler at night. There can be sunshine, clouds or rain, sometimes thunder. We do not know about summer 2018 yet. You must be prepared for different weather conditions. And let’s hope the water temperature reaches the usual 20 degrees so swimming in the lake is comfortable.
What kind of clothes should I bring?
Bring warm enough clothes. We have outdoor activities in the camp so a proper waterproof jacket and shoes suitable for walking in the forest are also required. An umbrella might be smart to have with you. Also bring a swimming suit, even if you do not plan to swim in the lake. We will wear swimming suits in the camp sauna.
You should bring smart casual clothes, of course, too. There is a washing machine in the camp. For more details, ask your host family.
What languages do Finns speak?
There are two official languages in Finland: Finnish and Swedish. Sami is also an official language in some Northern parts of Finland. In Eastern Finland most people speak Finnish as their native language. We study English and Swedish at school. Some people can also speak German, French, Russian or other languages. In your host families and at the camp you will speak English, so please study it as much as you can to enjoy more of your stay. For native English speakers, please remember that bad English is a very common language in the world.
Are there dangerous animals in Finland?
Yes. I would mention gray bears, wolves and vipers (our only poisonous snake). Bears and wolves live in big forests so you will not see them. However, do not go walking in the forest alone. Ask your host family if they live in an area with vipers so you can be prepared. The snakes will, however, escape when they feel you coming, so do not be afraid.
What about harmful animals and plants?
You will soon find out that our mosquitoes like you very much. By July we Finns have mostly already got used to them, so they do not bother us as much as they do in the beginning of summer every year. We use preventing sprays, liquids, sticks, smoke or clothing. The most common medicine for the “mosquito bite” itch is hydrocortisone cream, which is sold in the pharmacies. However, allergic reactions (from mosquito bites for instance) are possible. If severe reactions can be expected, please inform the camp coordinator.
If living in the countryside, ask you host family also to show you a green plant called nettle, so you would know to avoid touching its stalk (it burns your skin).
Anything positive about the nature?
Sure, a lot of things! You may eat most of the berries you find in the forests. (Only a few are poisonous.) The air is clean. The tap water is drinkable. There are beautiful flowers, other plants and animals. We have many lakes and forests, and the landscape might be different than in your country. The nature is almost everywhere, and most Finns really love it.
Furthermore, every day is different. When we wake up in the morning and open the curtains it is always nice to check the weather of the day. Moreover, you will have approximately 20 hours of daylight every day during your stay. Enjoy! (If you want, you can bring something to cover your eyes with during the night.)
Do I have to give a country presentation?
Yes. Bring some material, if you want. So be prepared, but do not take it TOO seriously.
By the way, I am vegetarian.
Please inform the camp and your host family on your personal dietary needs if you forgot to mention them in your application. The camp will make efforts to meet your needs.
Is there a refrigerator for my insulin in the camp?
We will arrange that. In case you are under any medication, please make sure you have enough supply for your whole stay in Finland. The nearest pharmacy is 20 kilometers from the camp.
Cash money or bank card?
Our currency is Euro. Bank cards are accepted practically everywhere, so only the camp fee of 50 euros is required in cash.
I would like to have some quick information about Finland and your culture.
Capital: Helsinki
Population: about 5,5 million
Land area: 338 424 km , water areas 10 %
Government: Unitary parliamentary republic
Main religions: Evangelic Lutheran, Orthodox
In 1917 our country gained independence. As a small country we are very proud of this and we highly respect the veterans who fought for our country.
Cottages are very common in Finland. People spend time in the cottages especially in the summer and enjoy the natural landscape, lakes and silence.
Everyone in Finland has the right to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities; we call it Everyman’s right. The landowner cannot restrict any activities that are allowed according to Everyman’s right. Of course, none of these activities should cause any harm to the landowners or the environment. The activities include, for example, berry picking, walking, skiing or cycling in areas that are not reserved for special use, and fishing with a rod or a line.
Finland is called ”the Land of a Thousand Lakes”. No wonder: there are 188 000 lakes in Finland. Lakes provide us with food as well as activities and refreshment possibilities.
Forests. Finland is sparsely populated, which means we have more room for forests. Forests are places for relaxation and mental health care. There are 4 500 trees for each inhabitant in Finland!
Finnish culture. Equality and justice are important values for Finns. Honesty is another important feature for us. Maybe we are more silent than many other people, because we mean what we say so we do not talk more than necessary. Silence in conversations is not a bad thing, it is rather considered a natural thing. It is also impolite to interrupt others’ speech. We are also very humble and want to listen to others more than we like to talk about ourselves. We are punctual and appreciate time. But after all, we are very laid-back, and after you get to know us you will make good and long-lasting friends!!
However, some of the facts above were overgeneralizations. Take us as individuals.