Finland VS Coronavirus/COVID-19

So as you probably are already aware there is a virus spreading like wildfire throughout the world called Coronavirus or COVID-19.

I've been watching via Facebook and the news how insane and quickly it spread via China, passengers everywhere around the world - even passengers on cruise ships being stranded and so on!
And the beautiful Italians who came together and sang from their balconies despite being on lock down due to the COVID-19 has also been going viral as well!

I have to admit that I did not think the lengthy line ups, obsession with hoarding and excessive purchasing of toilet paper would come to Finland but it has.

One of multiple memes

I am in the semi-high risk groups due to having asthma and working in a very public space - but have felt perfectly fine thus far.
I carry hand disinfectant with me anyway...wash my hands and shower regularly and try to rest and eat as healthy as possible!

I am also in the position where if I were to get sick - it would be highly unfortunate because I work in an airport restaurant and have a son with non-verbal autism...so I am truly screwed if he becomes sick since he is unable to express how he feels on a day-to-day basis.
And sad unfortunate fact - my contract got axed due to COVID-19 because so many flights are being cancelled...
Also my ex-husband has Crohn's disease - so he should try to remain as healthy as possible because while having Crohn's alone sucks a lot - so does being sick on top of it.

The interesting thing about all this hoarding of toilet paper -which took me awhile to understand to be honest...(it's in case one is strictly quarantined for a minimum of 2 weeks) is that Finland has bidets!!
You can find a bidet in any Finnish bathroom - even in public ones - with the rare exception of a cabin in the woods...

A bidet is a little hose attachment to your bathroom sink so you can rinse yourself, pat yourself with a towel and NOT use toilet paper.
What are some other uses for a bidet?

• Washing your bathroom floors if you have a "half bathroom" that does not have a shower in that particular bathroom (see photo to the right).
• Rinsing the toilet
• Washing babies bottoms - baby wipes aren't regularly used here unless travelling to be honest.
• Rinsing cloth diapers full of poop into the toilet
• Rinsing or bathing a small pet
• Rinsing your hair into a sink if a shower isn't close enough 
• It's incredibly handy to rinse yourself after having given birth - as my Canadian friends have advised me that they only had the option to shower after using the bathroom or using a squirt bottle!
• Fulfilling your sexual needs - but to each their own and it might not be for you. 

I will be honest - I don't use the bidet in the bathroom but am considering using it...not just because I can reduce my costs of toilet paper usage but it just makes more sense and also reduces urinary tract infections and so on.

So now as it stands - Finland is possibly closing schools and universities (a decision was to be made last week but it has yet to be released as of Sunday the 15th in the morning), many flights have been cancelled, swimming halls, orchestras, theaters and sport practices have been cancelled.  Visits to the nursing homes are also forbidden as well - this is all based on Jyväskylä anyway and my (former?) boss is a football player and her practices have also been cancelled completely in Turku!
Update: University of Turku and I am sure elsewhere will be cancelling their courses or having them done online so students and staff can stay safely home.

I am part of a board game group and although we have exchanged game pieces and cards already multiple times - we are possibly definitely cancelling our meet-ups for the next few weeks to assist in preventing others from getting COVID-19 or any flu of any kind.

A lot of people are being asked to work remotely from home - which is also awesome and a great step toward preventing the spread of COVID-19 and yes there are many cases in Finland of COVID-19 and people are being quarantined a minimum of 2 weeks too - and not just the elderly!

S-Market JKL

It IS possible to find toilet paper and grocery stores have been awesome at re-stocking their shelves as fast as they can - but hand disinfectant seems to be the hardest thing to find and while some pharmacies have it - they sell out very quickly as well.

I have not seen anyone wearing a mask thus far in Finland - although the ones that seem to be asking for it are primarily Asian expats and based on multiple posts and warnings from my nurse friends - they're perfectly useless - so I have not bothered with wearing one.

So keep your hands clean, keep your distance from people at risk (regardless of the age in my opinion) and be safe folks!

LAFA

LAFA Experiences: SAUNA!

Sauna is a huge part of Finnish culture!
I do not know many Finns that don't use sauna at all or dislike it completely - it's extremely rare at least!

The only experience I had with a sauna (prior to moving to Finland) was at the local swimming hall back in Nova Scotia - where you do keep your bathing suit on - it was open for anyone to use - and you were prohibited from splashing water onto the rocks!
Which every time I tell a Finn this - they laugh uncontrollably.

My first Finnish sauna experience dates back to 2009 after having my first son and I was very shy because I don't think I had a bathing suit that would fit and who in the world goes into a room to sweat while being naked with people you barely know?!

Apparently I do - along with millions of Finns and non-Finns alike - you learn to adapt.

So here are the bare basics about going to sauna with your friends in Finland:

1. You go totally naked - bring a sauna towel (size of a hand towel typically) to sit on and that's it.  
1. If it's the case of a mixed genders and open public sauna - then yes, you wear a bathing suit if it says so.
1. For example I have been to the public Smoke sauna at Kuusijärvi and we had to wear bathing suits. 
2. I have never once been made fun of or gawked at because of my figure or shape.
   While nudity is considered borderline shameful in other countries - in a sauna - it puts you all on even ground and frankly, nobody gives a crap what you look like - as long as you are clean, enjoy yourself and relax.
3. Plus a lot of Finns wear glasses or contacts - so most likely, they can't see much of you at all!  😂
2. Shower before entering the sauna - usually you'll rinse yourself before going into the sauna and have a cool down or a quick rinse in between your sauna session.  You should shower properly after sauna as well.
1. So bring your shampoo or body wash and lotion if needed!
3. Bring something cold to drink with you.  I always have a water bottle but of course - a proper Finnish sauna includes booze of some kind to cool you down!
1. It is easy to get dehydrated in the sauna - so definitely bring a drink with you!
4. If you've been invited to someone's home and they tell you there will be sauna - be sure to bring your own towel, shower stuff and change of clothes or underwear at least!
5. Swimming halls, spas and hotels in Finland typically have saunas as well.  There can be a variety - even a private sauna in the hotel room if available!
6. There are a variety of different kinds of sauna:
1. Electric sauna is the most common - especially in apartment building complexes.
2. Wood sauna is very common in stand alone houses and at cottages as well.
3. Smoke sauna is not so common but a very different and cleansing experience!
7. Almost all apartment buildings in Finland have a sauna.
1. Either you have one in your own flat - lucky you!
   
   or
2.  You have one in your building and you can either go during the open community times - usually gender-based, for example: Women from 9-10 and Men from 11-12 - or you might have your own private time slot every week.

• Your rent will have an additional sauna fee should you wish to register for your own sauna time slot.
8. To make the sauna hotter:  you can turn up the stove on an electric type of sauna or splash water on the stones.   
9. If you have asthma like I do - it's also wise to bring your asthma meds with you just in case.
1. I also recommend sitting on a lower level or not as close to the sauna stove to reduce your chances of an asthma attack.
1. I find wood and smoke saunas easier to breathe in compared to electric ones - it also depends how much water you splash on the stones.
10. Yes ladies you can sauna while on your period - just use a menstrual cup or tampon and sit on a sauna towel accordingly.
11. When you leave the sauna - you should rinse the benches by splashing water on them and splashing water on the stove (don't forget to shut it off).
12. Remove your contacts or eye glasses before going into sauna - the contacts could cause irritation and you won't be able to see with glasses on anyway.
13. Don't bring your phone into the sauna - it's just common sense.  Leave it out in the shower or change room area.

Photo by "Pori Guy" aka PG.

The history of sauna goes wayyyy back - women used to give birth in a sauna, especially those living in the countryside without close access to a hospital because it was the most cleanest place to give birth!

It was my birthday - and I was at Havumäki Ranch & figured why not?
Photo by M.

Other fun things to know about the sauna:

1. It is totally normal to go outside (usually with a towel on) to cool down from a sauna.  
1. Yes, even in winter and in the snow!
2. It is also totally normal to roll in snow then rush back into the sauna or take it up a notch - if available of course - and swim in a lake in the winter time.
3. It is also socially acceptable to sauna daily after a long day at work.
4. Many Finns sauna all year long - including the summer months - with or without a lake to jump in.
5. Do not wear pure gold jewelry into the sauna - it'll melt and leave you with nasty burn marks.
1. Yes that's coming from experience... not sure what other jewelry could melt but at least - pure gold stuff is not recommended.
6. It sounds crazy but it is also perfectly normal to be beaten with a bundle of birch branches to increase the blood circulation in your body and to have the "ULTIMATE FINNISH SAUNA EXPERIENCE!"  
1. aka a "vihta" - if not made by hand from your Finnish host - you can buy them frozen in the grocery store.
2. I was advised it's best to dip in the bucket of water, toast them above the stove and then smack yourself silly with them.
7. It is pronounced "sou (like "sour") - na" - not like the way you've grown up hearing it as "saw-na".
8. A lot of people use their sauna as storage...yeah I wouldn't but some people just don't use their sauna much!
9. Children generally go into sauna as young as 1-year old, usually sitting in a tub of water at the bottom.
10. In case you're wondering - do people have sex in the sauna? - some do and some won't.  Mostly so people don't pass out from the extreme heat.
11. When I was close to giving birth - all my Finnish friends recommended the "3-S's: Sex, Siivous (cleaning) & Sauna" to encourage getting labour going.
12. Finns love sauna so much that there was a collection of postage stamps dedicated to the sauna culture back in 2009!

And there you have it - a crash course in sauna.

Photo by PG.

LAFA

LAFA Experiences: The Turku Police Station

Okay - so I guess the title is slightly misleading but it's still sort of true.

No - I did not get arrested.

Back in October - specifically the first of - I lost my keys.  This REALLY sucked because cutting keys is expensive - the cheapest place in Jyväskylä was 30€ for a key and it's not an identical one because of the brand name.

Thing is - if you lose your keys - you better hope to God you can find them - depending on your rental agreement plan.  My friend's rental agreement states that if he loses a key - of which he has 2 or 3 copies - he must pay nearly 400€ (some crazy amount of money anyway) to get new keys made along with the installation of a new lock.  Yeah - this stuff is crazy expensive!

If you lock yourself out - your building maintenance company will charge you - minimum 10€ to let you back inside and if it's late at night - even more.
Every building has different rules - so check your rental agreement!

ANYWAY - lost my keys on my way to work October first.  I was super upset because I also had my keys to my storage unit upstairs (of which I only had one copy), I had a key for my ex's home in JKL, I had a couple key chains of sentimental value and I was stuck outside my door with 4 bags of groceries...a lot of it needing to go into the fridge or freezer!

I was able to get back in since my friend carries a spare and was leaving work soon anyway - so I got lucky.
I re-traced my steps multiple times and no luck.  I checked the Föli bus station, the local shops nearby, my landlord's office, turned my flat inside out...even my work place - nope.

Then I heard I should go to the Turku Police station - where you can only pick up lost & found items between 9am -12pm.  This was the tricky part because I work during those hours...but I managed to arrange my schedule to go down two days later and no luck.

Once you enter the police station - you must leave your belongings into a tray and it needs to be scanned before you are allowed inside.

Inside there is a glass tower case full of keys and each month they are received - they are collected together on a shelf.  Every 3 months they empty out the oldest month's worth of keys.

I checked a total of 3x over the last three months and no luck. 
I had called and e-mailed them and they said they would let me know (back in October) that if they saw my keys - which were pretty distinct - they would call me - but never did.

Anyhow - not a huge deal because my ex moved out of his place over the Christmas holidays and his rental agreement was not so strict - so I just paid to have a cheap copy of his key cut and that was acceptable.

It was thanks to a Facebook group called "Turkuintel : varastettu/etsintäkuulutus/sos" that a friend recommended I post there a photo of my keys - that I knew my keys were back at the police station.

Someone was in the police station last week and kindly shared a photo of the lost keys cabinet.
I zoomed in on the photo and spotted a dog clicker that could be mine - I mean, what are the chances anyone else carries a dog clicker on their key ring??

I went in there yesterday morning and checked the cabinet before taking a number - and SUCCESS! They were there!

I was so happy!

I then went to the front where I had to get a number and I pushed "INFO"...I waited 30 minutes to find out I pushed the wrong button.

PUSH THE THIRD OPTION!!!

Then I waited not as long - showed the lady that I had a photo of my keys on my phone (I can highly recommend this especially if you might lose your keys and need to post in multiple Facebook community groups like I did!) but despite having the photographic evidence I own those keys - I still had to have 1 copy of the keys that would match with the lost set.

She matched one of the keys and I was free to go!

Finland is known as one of the most honest countries in the world - and I am so grateful I live here!

I have previously lost a wallet in JKL years ago - with a freshly loaded monthly bus card, about 10€ cash and a ton of cards - bank card, library card, various loyalty and membership cards....and I got it back within 2 weeks.  Nobody called me - even though my identification was in it.
Nothing was taken.  The bus card wasn't even used!

Whereas one time I did lose my bus card - again freshly loaded and someone did use it and once I reported it to the bus office - they locked it down and it was confiscated from the person who used it.  They got quite lucky to use it to begin with because it shows your gender and year of birth to the driver...

My ex has lost his passport in the woods while hiking - it fell out of his backpack and he got a call from the police as someone had dropped it off.

Not only is it quite safe to live in Finland - it's a very honest country - which is greatly appreciated by many.

LAFA

LAFA Interviews: Rock'n Style

Today was no ordinary day for me...it was one in a million.
You see - I am a klutz.  A natural magnet for disasters and accidents...and it just so happens I fell down two steps while taking my dog out (while inside my building) and completely rolled over my left ankle...so for the first time in my life - I had actually sprained something.  I have come close many times but this involved a trip to the ER and some X-Rays and a couple hours waiting in the hospital...so yeah.  It's official - I badly sprained my ankle and came close to rupturing stuff in my foot the doctor said...but anyway...I am alive!

It also happened to be the day I had a hair appointment with Olli Teelmäki - owner of Rock'n Style hair salon and the interview was held afterward over some wings.

So needless to say - I was going to do this interview regardless of my ankle's condition!
I guess you can say I am fairly stubborn or determined!


I arrived quite early to Rock'n Style and was immediately warmly greeted by the other two hairstylists (whom I've never met before) and Olli.
I hobbled over to the bench and sat down while taking in the scenery...you see, I have only been inside once or twice to say hi to Olli but never really took in the environment or the vibes of the place.

Of course there was rock music playing, customers were engaged in conversation with their stylists and the place was clean and bright with the clear contrasting colour scheme of black, red and white.

My hair cut was simple - clear off the dead ends, leave it long enough for me to put up neatly for work and maybe add a bit of layers.  We skipped the washing since I did it in the morning and we chatted about my incident with my stairs in the morning and saved the interview bit for dinner afterward.



"What are your credentials as a hair stylist?
In Finland some of the older barbers will have their certifications up on the wall and framed but I don't.  I graduated from ammattikoulu in Loimaa and I have done some extra courses of course but I did not go to business school for the entrepreneurship part of owning Rock'n Style.
Of course there are some lessons in barber school about how to be an entrepreneur.

Is this something you had always dreamed of doing?
Actually - no.  I have never had any kind of "dream job" ever.  When I was a very small kid my grandparents said that I wanted to be a gardener and grow sunflowers and vegetables.

Olli living the dream at 5-years old with those sunflowers!

In elementary school my favourite subjects were art and wood-crafting class.  I am a person who learns by doing - not from studying via books.

So when it was time to decide what I wanted to study for my post-secondary education - my first choice was being a barber.  The second choice was carpentry.

Have you always been a hair stylist - or have you changed professions before Rock'n Style?
I have always been a barber/hair stylist.

What makes Rock'n Style different than all the other hair salons around?
The first thing that the customers seem to say is that "Rock'n Style looks like a 'man cave' and for me I think it represents or looks like me or my home.
The next thing is that the theme colours are my favourite colours: black, white and red - so there is quite a bit of contrast.  I like pure colours and I like having vivid bright colours with something contrasting - same with dying hair too!

Would you like to expand yourself as a franchise some day if given the opourtunity?
No because I feel that Rock'n Style is me and my place and that is why they come here and it would never be the same as the original.  So I think one place is enough and it is not my ambition to open many places or create a franchise or brand of Rock'n Style like that.

Metallica CD cover art

And the matching CD!

Could this be a Finnish cultural thing - not wanting to show off or have too many ambitious ideas?
I never thought of it this way but I feel having only one location is more relaxed and mellow.

What is the challenge of being an entrepreneur/hair stylist given the competition around?
I actually don't think about the competition because I am not a competitive person by nature.
I mainly think about if the customers are happy and that they go home happy after visiting us.
That is my main focus.

What is Finnish education like in terms of hair stylist school?  What is required to graduate?
Hair styling school is technically a 3-years long program but because I went to Lukio for 3 years - I was able to shorten my hair-styling education by a year and only did 2 years program.

We learned only the basics of hair cutting and styling - colouring hair, cutting it, washing it and perms...we also had to do some reading of course like about micro-chemistry.  But working with customers hair is the best teacher of course!

Were you able to experience working with different cultures' hair types?
No unfortunately not because Loimaa is a small place and our customers we worked with were mostly elderly Finnish people.

Later I have learned how to handle different cultured/styles of hair by just doing it.

What is something you wish people knew about being a hair stylist?
I wish people knew more about what it was like to be an entrepreneur.
Sometimes people are checking if I raised the prices a bit and then they get upset but there are so many factors and reasons why entrepreneurs have to do this.

What is something you wish people would STOP doing to their hair?
I wish customers would stop going from one extreme colour to another - or bleaching it at home then expecting a miracle from a hair stylist to correct it and make it the colour they wanted.
Going from extreme hair colour to another takes time and steps to do it successfully.

What is something you wish people WOULD do more of with their hair?
I think using appropriate products to maintain their hair especially after a new cut or style!

What are the pros and cons of your job?

PROS

• I have a very flexible time table and work schedule!
• I have weekends off!
• Being an entrepreneur gives me the freedom to make my own shifts
• Quite regular customer base so I have a comfortable work relationship with those customers.
• I get to socialize with people!

• I am very lucky with my co-workers as well.  
• Linda has been working with me for ten years or so.
• Petra rents a chair and has been working with me for about a year.
• Nelli has also worked many years with me but is currently away.

CONS

• I tend to work longer evening shifts.
• Because I am an entrepreneur I don't get:
• sick leave
• official holidays

But this is normal for an entrepreneur.

What are your earliest memories of cutting or playing with hair as a child that you remember?

Immediately Olli laughs and says loudly: "MY POOR SISTER!"

I was about 2nd or 3rd grade (about age 8-9) and my sister was as young as kindergarten or first grade (6-7 years old) and our mom was on the phone and we asked if we could "go play barber".  She was busy on the phone and said okay!

So I tried cutting my sister's bangs to create a new parting line in the middle because I was so young I didn't know you just needed a comb for that!😆

Of course, she had her school photos the next week...

If you ever made a mistake while doing someone's hair - what was the best mistake you ever made?  Did the customer notice it and how did they react?!

The customer wanted to have her bangs dyed bright purple from ear to ear and leave the rest a very white-blonde.
Well, during washing after dying it - the purple leaked and her white-blonde hair went to a pastel purple instead.

I was very worried she wouldn't like it but I showed her and she was really happy thankfully!

What is Rock'n Style's specialty - if any?

We have been told that customers say "We have a bold way to cut and dye hair."

But my method is - "If the customer want it - we do it."

Whatever could be considered "radical or extreme" hair cut to someone else is just a normal day for me.

What was your targeted age group when coming up with the Rock'n Style concept?

Actually - none.  We did not have a targeted age group - of course we don't get many kids but some of our customers are having children and now bringing them to us - so we do get some children in for their hair cuts.  We have hardly any grandpa customers - which is a real shame!  Because they are so fun!

We actually have some older women clients and they tend to be more open-minded, have a bit more attitude (in a good way!) and are more young at heart.

It's actually interesting that older people question if they are allowed to come inside because the company name is "ROCK'n Style"...and of course they can!

Do you find first-time customers come in knowing exactly what they want or is there a bit of a guessing game - or is it totally spontaneous with what they're willing to do with their hair?

All of it.  It can be all of those above and then I mix in my own spice to it and we together mix it up to get a hair cut or style the customer likes!

Can someone who is interested in donating their hair to cancer patients for wigs go to you?
What is the process that goes into this?

We can measure off and cut the hair off in pig-tails and also cut and style the hair afterward - but we are not providing the donating service.  

Customers can come with their washed already that day or we will wash the hair if it's dirty.

Customers have to mail their ponytail donations themselves.  One place is Little Princess Trust. 

There is no fixed price for this service - it is based on time spent washing the hair, cutting the ponytails then properly cutting and styling it.

How do new customers find you usually?  
Usually by word of mouth - which is the best and worst way because anything (both positive and negative) can be said - it is an extremely powerful way for new customers to find Rock'n Style.
Sometimes people just walking by and dropping in and also via Instagram & Facebook.

Some customers have said that random people sometimes stop them and give a compliment about their hair.  That kind of information feels good and let's us know we have done a good job! 😀

How big is your team at Rock'n Style?
We are a team of four altogether but one is studying another field so she may leave Rock'n Style for that career path after graduating.


It is clear that rock music has defined you and your business...do you think it has made any kind of impact on your job or career choice?
Well, for me - rock music is my own way of living.  In 2005 I worked at Funky Star (a hair salon and fashion clothing shop) and the music was everything I did not like - too much pop, rap, shit music - ALL DAY.
So I already thought to myself, 'If I ever have my own place - it will play rock music!!'

All trimmed! 😁

What did it take to go from hair styling school to where you are now?  Did you "rent a chair" right after graduation and what does that even mean?
I went straight to a salon after graduating.
So after I graduated from Loimaa in 2002 I went to work at a hair salon called "Hiusstudio Teija" in Ikaalinen, where I am from, and I moved to Turku in 2003.
I then went to ammattikorkeakoulu to study estenomi for about 12 months and then I quit.  It was like a play-school - I didn't learn anything I didn't already know.

Rent a chair means you rent a chair in a salon somewhere and you usually bring your own scissors.
Normally all the other products like capes, machines, dyes, water, electricity etc. - is covered by the owner of the salon.
For example, deducted from your pay is 40% to be paid to the owner to cover those expenses and then the worker gets 60% and from that is the regular expenses like your taxes and pension etc are deducted.
With rent a chair employees - you just do your job and it is less risk for the owner of the salon because they do not have to pay your sick leave or official holidays.

What do you want people to know about Rock'n Style?
Our customer base is primarily 20-50+ years old with more women than men.  And we really do welcome everyone of every age and gender.
We can also do big hair makeovers to little ones!
People are so fixated on the shop title name that they think they can only come in if they have that "rock star" look or personality - and that is not true.  Perhaps some people think "Rock Music" is for "really old people" and they're scared of the name and style of music - but we can do a variety of styles for a variety of ages.

We have an easygoing environment and attitude!

Where do you see Rock'n Style in 12 months, 5 and 10 years?  When did Rock'n Style open?
I don't think much will change in a 1, 5 or 10 years.  And we opened about 11 years ago.

Are you ever bored of your job?
No - sometimes maybe a teeny-tiny bit but really everyday is so different.  There's always different customers and different stories and many of our customers are like friends - so it's nice to see them at work!
I really like my job and after having a holiday break - I am totally fine going back to work whereas many people dread it.

If you could style any celebrity's hair - who would it be?
Michael Monroe for sure!! He is a rock dude.
He actually lives nearby and every time I see him walk by I hope he will come inside but it hasn't happened yet!

Did you design the inside of Rock'n Style?
Yes mostly and I built some of the interior as well.  Before Rock'n Style it was a painting/art and poster shop.

What product line does Rock'n Style sell?
We primarily carry Four Reasons."

You can find Rock'n Style on Facebook, Instagram and book an appointment on their website here.
And if you are a student - with a valid student ID card you get -10% off your hair cut (excludes colouring, perming etc - only the cut) and if you have the "Slice" student card app - you get 10% off the hair cut too.
But as a first time customer, using the Slice app - then you get 20% off everything - colouring included.
You can be served in English and Finnish.

I want to thank Olli and his team at Rock'n Style for meeting with me to have this interview and for the fantastic service for my quick trim too!

LAFA

If you're interested in being featured in my blog - please don't hesitate to contact me at:

learningaboutFinland (a) gmail.com

Questions from a Finn...

Whenever a Finn has the oppourtunity to speak English - they will gladly take the chance and I am flattered that a typical shy Finn will want to speak with me in MY native language!

Mostly it's a chance for them to understand a different English-based accent better or to simply practice their own language skills.

Of course Finns are introduced to the English language at a fairly young age whilst studying languages in elementary school but also on television, the radio and in popular movies as well.

Here is a list of questions that I get asked on a regular basis whenever meeting a new Finnish person for the first time and throughout the conversation of getting to know each other:

1. What brings you to Finland?
2. Isn't Canada and Finland the same - in terms of nature and weather?
3. What is your favourite ice hockey team?
4. What parts of Finland have you been to?
5. What is the best part for you - as a foreigner - about living in Finland?
6. Where are you from in Canada?
1. Is your weather similar to where you live in Finland?
7. What do you think of Finland?
8. What do you think of Finnish people in general?
9. Do you like Finnish winter?
10. Was it difficult to move your life and everything you knew to move here?
11. Was it difficult to move your dogs here?
12. What do you think of Finnish food?
13. Do you know any Finnish?
1. What words do you know?
2. Do you know how to swear in Finnish?
14. Do you watch sports?
15. Do you drink Finnish beer?
16. Do you like Finnish coffee?
17. Have you ever tried this Finnish Easter dessert called 'Mämmi'?
1. DO YOU LIKE IT?!
18. What did you do in Canada - work or study?
19. Why do your children have Finnish names?!
20. Have your friends or family visited you in Finland yet?
21. How often do you travel back to Canada to visit your family and friends?
22. What do you think of ___insert current political thing that is viral or ongoing in the world___?

Typically in a bar setting - where I am waiting for a friend to return from the toilet or a smoke-break - I will be approached by some older drunk Finnish man and these are the questions I usually get - in combination with the ones I had above mentioned!:

1. Where are you from?
2. No really, where are you from?
3. But ...*sigh* where are you REALLY from?
4. I mean, where are your parents from?
5. ...but where are YOU from - because you look a little Asian???

I never get offended by the repetitiveness of the questions - again as I said earlier - I am flattered that someone will ask me questions in my native language...especially when they realize that my Finnish language skills are absolutely horrible!!!

LAFA

LAFA Experiences: Meeting My 1st Finn

Believe it or not - my first experience meeting a Finn was back in 2006 and in Canada.
I had absolutely 0 intention of moving to Finland - why would myself or my at the time spouse bother?! -  so meeting a random Finn at the local pub was culturally exciting as it was.

I was the designated driver for my group of neighbours that wanted to go see the World Hockey Championship game on the bigger screen.  My (now ex) spouse was out of country at a conference and I had nothing else to do - so why not?

I went to hold down a table while the guys went to get a drink and there this guy approached me at my table...

"Hi, are you from Japan?" he asks boldly and cheerfully.
"Uh, no - I am from here...." I respond quite confused and mildly irritated at this possible drunk guy using a shitty pick-up line.
"Oh so you are a Canadian?! NOT from Japan?" - him genuinely confused.
"Yep...100% Canadian.  You're in my town," I say firmly.
"Oh okay.  Well, I *dramatic hand flaring gestures* am from ....Finland," he proudly announces.
This piques my interest and I inquire if he's a student or on exchange or what and he advises me...I kid you not -

"I am THE WORLD'S BIGGEST Ice Hockey Championship fan ever!"

By this point I am convinced he is plastered beyond belief as it was quite a bold statement (I have 0 interest in hockey actually) and who calls it "ice hockey"?!
Apparently Finns do - that's who.

So he advises me he is here for the championships and I am blunt with him in the nicest East Coast Canadian way possible...

"So you traveled all the way from Finland to Halifax, Nova Scotia in Canada to watch the hockey game...at a bar on a television screen?"
"Noooo I have tickets for X games and finals of course!"

That makes more sense.

My friends are approaching and he quickly darts off and before he does leave - he does suggest I visit him in Finland.

No Whatsapp number, Facebook friend request or even a name.

I laugh and shrug it off - honestly why would I move to Finland?!

"Thanks buddy but I have no reason to go to Finland.  Enjoy your stay though!" I cheerfully wave him off and that's it.

3 YEARS LATER....

I am absolutely 26 weeks pregnant, confused and arrive to Finland and am mortified I will meet that guy from Cheers who said I should visit him in Finland...I don't really remember what he looks like but what if he popped up out of nowhere and called me a liar for not coming to Finland?!  LOL ridiculous I know but the thought still runs through my mind - 10 years later.

Anyway 6 years later...
I am on a Tinder date...yeah not what you think.  I am divorced and meet a nice father of 3 who is - obsessed with hockey.
Ice hockey - obviously.

And I share this story about the first time I met a Finn and while we are eating pasta - he says, "Yeah - I know that guy."

You know how in movies the stunned actress (usually) is eating and begins choking or food falls out of her mouth and she doesn't look so graceful anymore?! Yeah...that was me - not choking but food falling out of my mouth....realllllly classy.

"WHAT?!" I begin flipping out.

Tinder Date confirms the description of the guy and location because Hockey Dude IS the biggest fan and travels anywhere the International Ice Hockey Federation championship games (IIHF) play.  He has been to my city....Tinder Date and Hockey Dude happened to be good friends so he messaged him and inquired if he remembered me...

"Well, good thing is he probably lives in a larger city like Helsinki, Tampere or elsewhere.." I mumble as I try to eat my pasta like an adult instead of a toddler with no teeth.

"Nah - he lives in Jyväskylä actually..." - Tinder Date continues to eat like it's no coincidence or big deal.

I begin to alternate between "OMG" and "SHUT UP!" and "NO WAY!" and internally trying to think if my subconscious had tucked the images of Hockey Dude so far away that I may have walked past him in the last few years and had no idea....and he probably thought I was just another exchange student or the other popular stereotype - a Thai married to a Finn. 😂

And there you have it ladies and gentlemen...the tale of meeting my 1st Finn.

And there's no sequel to that Tinder Date because we magically never met again...gee I wonder why? LOL

The End.

LAFA

LAFA Interviews: Cup & Pint

It took awhile to plan this interview due to both of our schedules but luckily, I was able to sit down with Casper - manager of Cup & Pint in Turku for about half an hour and we sped through this interview!
The reason for it going so quickly is primarily based on the fact it was a student night and there was an estimated 10,000 students planning on touring Turku's pubs!

"When was Cup & Pint born?
Autumn 2009

Why is it called 'Cup & Pint'?
It is a mix of a coffee house and bar with a mainly British Royals theme.

What kind of food does Cup & Pint serve?
We have appetizers, snacks, pancakes, pizza and salad.  Pizza is our most popular seller - especially the "Brexit" one!

How often does the menu change?
It hasn't changed in about 1.5 years but we aim to change it about once a year.

Do you change the alcohol menu just as often?
We change it all the time because we will get new wines and beers almost every week.

What is Cup & Pint best known for?
Well, we have the British Royal theme, good pizzas and a good selection of beers as well.  We are an easygoing bistro pub!
We also have a very popular Pub Quiz night every Thursday from 6-9pm in Finnish.




Who runs Cup & Pint?
Ravantit Oy runs Cup & Pint along with 7 other restaurants/pubs.
There is:

• Pippurimylly
• Hugo
• Hunsvotti
• Kerttu
• Rantakerttu
• Ravintola Teini
• Gastro Pub Löytö

They are a family-run business.

Is Cup & Pint a local or franchised business?

It is local - there is only one location in Turku and only one Cup & Pint!

Are your ingredients locally sourced?

Some are - yes.  We do try our best to get local products and we do have some local beers available as well.

What is the busiest time of the week?

A great selection of board games for you to play!

Usually whenever we have a Pub Quiz, weekends and Fridays are especially busy.

Do you offer delivery of meals directly or via Wolt or Foodora?

We offer delivery via Wolt only.

Do you find the competition tough with so many pizzerias nearby or with so many pubs & bars around?  What makes Cup & Pint stand out and rise above all of the competition?

Yes.  We have different kinds of pizzas, we make our sour dough pizza dough on site and fresh, we are a small family-owned company and we offer friendly service.

I saw there is an extensive alcohol-free (and recently updated) menu online.  Does Cup & Pint sell equal amounts of alcohol-free and regular alcohol-based beverages?

Primarily I think alcohol-based beverages sell the best.

Where do you see Cup & Pint in 12 months, 5 and 10 years from now?

Hopefully in 12 months we are doing a little better on the business side of things and have more customers.

In 5 and 10 years - hopefully we are still around!

Would you say majority of your customers are Finns or expats?

Mostly Finns.

Has Cup & Pint always been at this location? (Across from the train station at Humalistonkatu 17b)

Yes

Up close and personal 

Even the toilets are royally themed!

Do all the staff speak English - seeing as this is a British/Royal themed gastro pub?

Almost!

Will there be another Cup & Pint location in Turku or elsewhere in Finland?

Not as of yet but who knows!"

After our interview was done Casper kindly shared information about the Pub Quiz nights and how they work as I had never been to one.

Nearly every night at a variety of pubs and bars throughout Turku (and other cities in Finland) there are these Pub Quiz nights.
In Cup & Pint alone there are about 100 customers participating in both floors of this pub!
The bottom floor houses a couple fooseball tables and some comfortable seating - but is much smaller than the upper floor.

To reach all (approximately) 100 participants of the Pub Quiz - they post the questions on the TV screens and participants in teams of 1-5 people.

Prizes at Cup & Pint are:

1st: 35€ gift card

2nd: 25€ gift card

3rd: 15€ gift card

Also there is a lottery throughout the night for a variety of prizes.

The ages for the Pub Quiz nights range from 20-80 years old!
There are different levels of finals as well:

Restaurant Finals - Prizes are a little bigger

Area Finals - Prizes are bigger than Restaurant Finals.
National Finals - Prizes are usually holiday-related and this is only held once a year.

So 6 months is 1 season in the Pub Quiz world and in the Spring and Fall they count up the ranking points (if I understood correctly) because every Pub Quiz night you go to - you/your team collect points that go toward the Restaurant Finals and help you possibly advance.
Pub Quiz nights are held only in Finnish in Cup & Pint with the questions covering a variety of topics every week!

I loved how bright it was inside (of course it helps when the sun is shining 😁)  - the furniture was comfortable and I love the large windows to people watch!

I also thoroughly enjoyed the decor with all these wonderful old photos of the Royal family!

It was also shared - since I inquired about lunch buffets or special deals available - that they are not open until 14:00 on Friday and Saturdays and only 16:00 from Monday to Thursday (closed on Sunday).
I asked why so late and Casper had said that there wasn't enough business to be open earlier in the day and he remembered before where they did have lunch offers and even breakfast as well!

Considering the location is quite near the bus station and directly across from the train station - I was very surprised!

Downstairs

Downstairs

I would like to thank the staff of Cup & Pint for allowing me to roam around and take photos during a very busy evening in progress and also to Casper for accommodating some time for me to squeeze in an interview!

You can find Cup & Pint's website here and on Facebook and Instagram here.

I had heard of Cup & Pint and seen friends' photos of their pizza but had never actually ventured inside before!
But thanks to this friendly and quick interview and seeing the customers being in a very bright and relaxed atmosphere - I may have to give it a try sometime!
AND I JUST SAW IT IS A DOG-FRIENDLY LOCATION ON THEIR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT!!! So now I DEFINITELY have to bring my side kick Loki with me!! 

Loki is my 12-year old husky mix gentledoggo!
If you ever see us around - please feel free to say hello as he is SUPER friendly and loves everyone and all doggies too!

LAFA

If you are interested in an interview and being featured in my blog - please contact me at:

LearningaboutFinland(a)gmail.com

LAFA Experiences: The Jyväskylä City Library

Photo credit to my 8-year old

Today is a super snow filled day and because my children and I are a group of 4 (ages are 6-10) - we decided to get an all day ticket for the Linkki bus on their app and do some shopping about.

One thing we did was going to the Jyväskylä City Library.  It is free to get a library card with proof of identity and a Finnish Social ID number.
I actually have forgotten to bring my library card with me a couple of times and have provided my Finnish ID card at the desk and was able to still borrow a library book.

You also get a PIN code for your library card that you can choose yourself - so when checking out books you can confirm your identity by punching in the code.
Library books are good to borrow for 4 weeks at a time unless otherwise noted.
Movies are good for 1 week (as far as I know but it has been awhile) and the JKL City library has actually been under some renovations and re-designing recently!

There is a children-friendly area, along with a newly designed gaming area (the game on display to play was chess), lots of comfortable seating areas and you are also able to have snacks in designated areas as well.
There are rooms to rent to play musical instruments and they now have a "Self-Service Library" (Facebook link for info in English).

A new digital map

Of course the JKL City library does not compare to the newest Helsinki addition "Oodi" but it's still quite nice to be in with plenty of events and things to do!
And I can most certainly recommend the Oodi library if you ever want to see a not so typical tourist attraction while visiting Helsinki!

Board games to play!

The library is easily accessible by most Linkki buses or by foot depending where you live and very high tech in terms of returning books, checking books out and even renewing books online!

Here is a list of all the Central Finland libraries "Keski Libraries" available for you to access via Facebook and yes, you can use the same library card along with returning books to the other linked libraries.

Little tablets can be found to help you search for books in the aisles!

Returning items to the library

It is also worth following them on Facebook for any last minute updates or cancellations there may be - along with general knowledge of local events happening at the various libraries throughout Jyväskylä!

The primary one that I visit is the downtown location for convenience in terms of location.

Upstairs in the children's area are a collection of fish tanks!

My son's library card! Mine is in Turku in a different wallet!

Libraries are not just full of books these days - they seem to be evolving with the changing of the times and keeping up relatively well with the modern technology as well.

And if you didn't know already - Finland is one of the top countries that uses their library services the most!

Comfy seating in the board game area!

A community puzzle anyone can contribute to!

Going to the library for me brings back fond memories of going with my parents on the weekend - returning my borrowed books and borrowing new ones to read!  I am hoping to instill the same fond memories for my children and let's face it.  Books in the shop are expensive and being able to have access to a very well stocked library is one of the greatest gifts one can have!

Just FYI - during the winter months - you cannot enter the library with metal studded footwear or metal grips to prevent slipping on the ice inside!

Thank you for reading!
LAFA

LAFA Interviews: Sigma Freelancing

I got to sit down with Tara Malay of Sigma Freelancing the other night and while Tara and I have a bit of history back when we lived in Jyväskylä - we did not get to see each other often until I moved to Turku for work a few months afterward!
I had moved here in August 2018 and did not know anyone really other than my workmates and at the time partner that I dated - so it was wonderful to see a familiar face!

Now - over a year later, I sat down with her to discuss what brings her to Finland and what IS "Sigma Freelancing".

"What brought you to Finland and when did you move here from the USA?
I moved here in August 2016 to study my masters abroad.  I had other expat friends living in Finland already and also some I had met from Germany while studying there abroad.

What did you study?
I was doing my Masters in Applied Linguistics.

Do you plan to study more here and if so - would it be a continuation of your current study field or something entirely different?
After I obtain Finnish citizenship I would like to go to the police school in Tampere.
They offer their education program in Swedish, which would mean smaller classes as there are less Swedish speakers and I am fluent in Swedish!

Why the police force?
I have always had an interest in the law and law enforcement and as a foreigner - I believe we should know the local laws.
I feel that foreigners that require police assistance or are involved with a police matter somehow - would prefer to have someone they can communicate easily with in English.  And if they do not speak Finnish or Swedish - then they would be able to express themselves in English in an emergency situation.

Where are you from in the USA?
I am from Dallas, Texas.

Other than language differences - what was a major culture shock for you moving to Finland?
How extremely introverted Finns can be and they really can keep to themselves - and I myself am an introvert!

What cities did you live in other than Turku?
I have lived in Dallas of course, New Orleans (Louisiana), Dortmund (Germany), Jyväskylä (Finland) and I have spend a lot of time in Stockholm (Sweden).

What are your hobbies?
Reading, nature photography, watching Youtube videos, reading fashion magazines and I love cooking!

When did Sigma Freelancing come about?
Around November 2019 I was incredibly frustrated because I did not have a job and I couldn't find one at all - so I decided to make my own job and I have filled paperwork and am just getting started.

What does "Sigma" represent?
Sigma is my favourite Greek letter! I did a semester in Ancient Greek Literature and I also really like the look of it.  It is used a lot in math and it means it is the sum of something.
In physics it has to do with a term called "self-energy" in condensed matter physics.  Basically self energy is the energy that a particle has - as a result of changes it itself caused in its own environment.

Sigma's core values are offering services to small business companies who need help with social media platforms and help these businesses understand the value of a strong social media presence.

What do you do as a freelancer?
I am teaching my clients to understand value and strategy.  If you don't have an idea - you're going nowhere.  If you can understand what each social media platform can give or offer you - then utilize them accordingly - then your customer flow can increase significantly.

Why do you want to be a freelancer?
Being from the USA there is a warped sense of work and life balance.  For me - as a freelancer - I have the freedom to be my own boss, do as much work as I feel comfortable doing and it gives me the ability to achieve a healthy work and life balance.
Because I know a lot of people can burn themselves out at their jobs - whether they are entrepreneurs or not!

Do you find it difficult to find clients that need your services?
I am officially licensed but I am in progress of getting legal insurances and once that is obtained then I will be taking on clients.
I do feel there is a niche for my services.  People KNOW what social media is but knowing how to utilize their social media platforms fully is where I am needed.

Are Finns open-minded to having an expat handle their business-related affairs with Sigma Freelancing?
The assumption is that it would be on a customer-by-customer basis.  Everyone has different needs.

What is it like for an expat to open up their own small business or become an entrepreneur?
I think it is quite simple and knowing Swedish DEFINITELY helps.
All the sites, information and documents are available in Finnish but of course there are some things that do not translate well to Swedish or it is missing altogether so you need to hunt for it.
There is a really strong entrepreneurship community in Finland and they can provide you with information packages depending on what kind of business you are registering.

There is the link for the Finnish Patent and Registration office.
And also there is "My Enterprise Finland" which is a public service managed by Ministry of Economic Affairs & Employment - this would be handy for those wanting to start up their own business!

I informed Tara that everyone else I have interviewed so far would disagree with that statement based on language skills and requirements alone and this is where Tara has the upper hand - being very fluent in Swedish!

How would you change the system for expat students living in Finland - if you were given the power?
I would change the Finnish language requirements.  At least based on when I was attending the University of Jyväskylä - depending on what you studied of course - I would focus more on day to day situations and be more of a spoken-heavy course.  We did a lot of book-based learning and it was not enough.
I did not feel comfortable or learn enough to order food or ask for assistance while out shopping.  So there are huge gaps in my learning of the Finnish language.
There should also be caps in the amount of students per class as well.  At most - 20 students.  Everyone has different levels and it is mandatory to study Finnish for a single semester.  Within one of my classes there were multiple and huge gaps (both in learning and the knowledge of the Finnish language) and there would be easily 30+ people in the same room!

How would you change the system and application process for expat small business holders living in Finland - if you were given the power?
I would have everything available in English.  I do understand that the two official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish but there are SO many foreigners needing jobs that they could do a better job if they offered their existing skills as business owners.

How does Sigma Freelancing compare to other freelancing companies in Finland?
It is hard to compare because everyone is different.  I think my idea is unique and upcoming and the social media strategy business is becoming more popular and necessary.

Is Sigma Freelancing a franchised/already established company or you're completely independent and 100% local?
I am 100% local and independent.

I pointed out that there were other "Sigma Freelancing" companies online but she confirmed that she is not affiliated with those and is completely independent.

Do you feel having a social media presence helps to boost customer flow?  What kind of social media presence do you have with Sigma Freelancing?
Currently I have Instagram and am in the process of building a Twitter account and a Facebook page.

A lot of people think social media is only for connecting with friends and family.  But once you utilize it to its full potential - your audience is THE whole world.

Sigma Freelancing will be offering services for Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.  And while a lot of people think Pinterest is just for food and crafts - you can actually do a lot more with it!

What are the pros and cons or challenges of having your own small business in Finland from a foreigners perspective?
Pros
Because I speak Swedish - one major pro is that all the documents are available in Swedish!
There is also a strong entrepreneurship community in Finland and I really do feel very supported.

Cons
Well, not everything is in Swedish so there is a bit of a treasure hunt involved.  Some things are missing and sometimes I have to find it in Finnish or English and translate it accordingly.

If you do not speak Swedish or English - banking can be difficult.

As an American - certain laws affect expats in foreign countries.  For example, some banks don't comply with American banks regulations so getting a Finnish bank account with insurance - whether it be personal or a business one - is extremely difficult.

There is a law called "Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FACTA)" so as an American we have to abide by this.

In Finland we have to file taxes once a year where as in the USA we have to file taxes every quarter but even though we have to file in both countries we only have to pay to Finland and the IRS can see we pay taxes to another country.  Of course this depends on how much you make.

Do you feel your education you have currently has prepared you for running a small business?
I would say 50/50 because from a language perspective - most definitely.  I have the language skill sets to make my idea sell.
But I learned a lot of the business side from my father as he has worked in a bank before and still works in a business-related field.  I learned a lot also from friends, other business owners and online videos too.

Starting businesses has ran in my family for a very long time - my great uncle knows how to make cowboy boots and actually my great grandfather was into super custom-made cowboy boot making and had his own shop.  He was actually an apprentice for "Lucchese Bootmaker" brand!
So I come from a family of self-makers.

Is freelancing in your field popular in the USA?
It is starting to become really popular among those in their late 20's to 30's.  The only thing is that a lot of jobs do not offer pension plans so you have to ensure you have enough in your savings for when you retire - but with freelancing, you are in control of everything - including when you retire.

There is not enough creativity being used in companies and you are often told to suppress it.  But with freelancing - you only limit yourself and you can use as much creativity as you want.

What advice would you give to other expats wanting to run a small business themselves?
Best thing you can do is to be friends with someone who is an entrepreneur or has their own business.  Be sure to ask questions of other business owners and of the entrepreneurship community!  Especially befriend those that are in a business that is similar to your business you are trying to start.

Don't be afraid to mess up and also, don't be afraid to ask for help!

What languages do you speak?
English is my native language and I am fluent in Swedish.  However, my German is pretty good and my Spanish, Russian and Finnish skill levels are very basic.

Starting up a self entrepreneurship in Finland as an expat is a very high risk in this particular field.  Did you consider signing up via Ukko or anything similar to reduce the risk to yourself and your business idea?
(Ukko is a light entrepreneurship company that handles taxes and a lot of the paperwork for you so you can work legally and test out your business idea.)
I don't know if I'll do that.  It seems like they take care of a lot of the bureaucratic work and I've already done that, plus the banking stuff.  I need an accountant, but that's easy enough to find.  I think that Ukko would be good if you can't speak Swedish or Finnish, but if you can, then I don't really see the use for it unless you're unsure of the banking and insurance side of things.
Also, I enjoy trying to learn these things for myself because I think it's good to know as a business owner.


Where do you see yourself and Sigma Freelancing in 12 months, 5 and 10 years respectively?
In 12 months I would like to have at least 4 clients.
In 5 years I would like to expand my business and hire an employee or two.
In 10 years I would like to have a second office in Sweden or Germany and go international.  Currently I am working from home."

I would like to thanks Tara for taking the time to meet with me and sharing insight of what it's like to start a business from a Swedish-speaking American point of view!
You can find Sigma Freelancing  on Instagram, Facebook and on her site here.

LAFA

If you are interested in having an interview with me and being featured in my blog - please email me!
LearningaboutFinland(a)gmail.com