Blog part 1 - life in Finland
What it's like to become a resident of Scandinavia
Hello! My name is Galyna, and I’ve been living in Finland for three years now. I am currently studying for a new profession at the South Karelia Sampo College. My specialty is "Matkailualan perustutkinto" (tourism). In this blog, I want to share what it’s like to be a girl in Finland, what my days are like, and what I’ve learned during my time living in this northern country.
The first thing that immediately stands out is the weather. It’s cold and dark here in winter, but I’ve already gotten used to the long nights and snowy streets. Finland is incredibly beautiful in the winter: white snow, frosty mornings and evenings, fresh air. I often walk outside, enjoying the silence and the beauty of nature. The forests and lakes in Finland are just stunning. In contrast, summers are warm, and the nights are almost never dark — the sun sets very late.
Life in Finland is different from many other countries, especially when it comes to culture. Finns really value personal space. It’s common to keep quiet on public transport and not talk to strangers without a reason. This may seem strange, but I’ve gotten used to it and learned to respect these traditions. Finns may seem reserved, but once you get to know them, they become real and loyal friends. Another important Finnish tradition is the love of sauna. Many Finns go to the sauna several times a week, and I’ve also come to love this practice. After a sauna, I feel completely refreshed!
Favourite activites
One of my favourite activities is traveling around Finland. There are so many beautiful places here! I often visit Helsinki, a city that combines ancient architecture with modern technology. But Southern Karelia, especially Imatra, Lappeenranta, and Savonlinna, is not just about nature, but also about culture. There are many historical sites here, old churches, and beautiful castles. In these places, you can feel a connection to the past, and every corner is full of history.
I also love spending time in Lapland. There, I worked as a guide for tourists from Romania, Bulgaria, Germany, and Moldova. Winter is a real adventure: reindeer safaris, husky sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobile rides. And the northern lights — that’s something unforgettable!
Life in Finland is not as hectic as in other countries. Things move at their own pace, and I really like that. Finland is one of the cleanest countries, and I’ve never seen any trash on the streets. Cities often have special containers for recycling. Finns may seem closed off, but if you show respect, they’ll open up and be very kind.
Internship in Saimaa Geopark
I’m studying at a college, and this is probably one of the most interesting and useful experiences of my life. The teaching style here is a bit different — they focus a lot on practical skills rather than just theory. As part of my studies, I have a workspace internship. I’m lucky because I’ve been accepted for an internship at SAIMAA GEOPARK ry. My supervisor, Mikko Ikävalko, went over the work plan with me, showed me where I’ll be working, and explained where all the necessary resources are — like office equipment, restrooms, materials and resources for work and other important things.
Mikko explained the tasks and goals I’m expected to accomplish, what is expected of me, and the specific assignments I will be working on. He also explained the work rules, safety procedures, and provided me with special work clothes.
Thank you for reading my blog!
Blog part 2 - Matkamessut
A Celebration of travel, inspiration, and connection in Helsinki
Every year, there is one event that becomes a true celebration for all travel enthusiasts. It’s the Matkamessut travel exhibition in Helsinki. Although it takes place only once a year, it always brings a whirlwind of emotions and inspiration. This year, I had the chance to attend this incredible exhibition, which is the largest not only in Finland but also in Northern Europe. Over 850 travel companies from 70 countries gathered here to showcase their latest ideas and innovations! It was truly something unique for me.
The exhibition took place from January 17 to 19 in the heart of Helsinki, at the Messukeskus expo center. During these three days, I was so immersed in the atmosphere that every moment brought new impressions. The air was filled with incredible positivity and energy, as well as countless opportunities for inspiration for future travels. Here, you could take part in contests, interact with people from all over the world, and discover new destinations.
Travel fair was a memorable experience
I was fortunate to become a part of this event thanks to my internship at the Saimaa Geopark. I spent two unforgettable days (Saturday and Sunday) with my new colleagues, and the atmosphere was amazing. It was a pleasure to work with such responsive and professional people. The entire Go Saimaa team welcomed me with warmth and hospitality, and I was truly impressed by the scale of the information presented about our region – Eastern Karelia.
I would like to express my special thanks to Veera Hakkarainen, who supported, mentored, and gave me valuable advice throughout the event. My colleagues and I helped visitors by providing information about the Saimaa Geopark, inviting them to visit our incredible region. We recommended local hiking and cycling routes, road trips, and, of course, shared information about the new GEOfood brand. This brand symbolizes local products and restaurants that support sustainable agriculture while preserving the geological and cultural heritage of the region. It’s not just about promoting products – it’s about moving towards a sustainable future for local communities. As I wrapped up my participation in the exhibition, I realized how important such events are for sharing experiences, building new connections, and, of course, inspiring new travels. Participating in Matkamessut was a true revelation for me, and I am confident that even more exciting travels and encounters lie ahead!
Blog part 3 - Winter visit to Kummakivi and Ruokolahti Church
Kummakivi: experiences and observations
One of the tasks of my active work practice in Saimaa Geopark is visiting places that are under the protection of UNESCO.
A notable feature of the Saimaa Geopark is Kummakivi. Its unusual shape and balancing position attract the attention of both tourists and scientists interested in geology and natural anomalies. Including objects like Kumakivi in the Geopark highlights their significance and contributes to their preservation and popularization. This place attracts both nature lovers and those interested in geological phenomena and ancient legends.
Stone in the middle of nowhere
I have been to this wonderful place before. Kummakivi is a huge boulder, about 7 meters long, which balances on a smaller smooth rock, touching it only slightly. This unique geological formation is in Ruokolahti, in the region of South Karelia, Finland.
Kummakivi is one of the notable objects of the Saimaa Geopark. Its unusual shape and balancing position attract the attention of both tourists and scientists interested in geology and natural anomalies.
Kummakivi is believed to have been formed by glacier movement at the end of the last Ice Age, about 8,000 years ago. The retreating glaciers left behind this enormous boulder, which remained lying on the cliff in such an unusual position. Local legends attribute Kummakivi's appearance to the actions of giants, who allegedly placed the stone in this position. However, scientific research confirms its glacial origin.
Kummakivi is a popular tourist attraction and is accessible by a marked trail about 800 metres long from the nearest car park.
This is my second visit to this site. Three years ago, everything was perceived differently. Everything that I saw for the first time, I felt from the position of a tourist who saw this huge stone for the first time. It was easy to find in the summer. Roads, signs, sun, weather.
This time everything is different. Firstly, it is a winter visit. Secondly, I had different tasks. My task was not just to visit this unique place - Kummakivi - in winter. Assess the possibilities of free passage to the object, check whether all information stands are in good condition. Assess their integrity, readability and relevance of information. The information on the signs should correspond to the current situation on the route. This includes updating data on travel time, changes in the route, the presence of new objects. And also whether it is difficult to find this incredible boulder in winter.
You know, I was really interested in testing everything on myself and paying attention to details that an ordinary tourist simply doesn’t see.
Travel to Kummakivi
The road from Imatra took about an hour. It was impossible to drive straight to the parking lot where the hiking trail starts. The road was covered in snow. I left the car on the side of the road and walked. Luckily, the path was trodden. It was necessary to walk 1 km to the start of the main route. The nature of Finland is so untouched that it is a great pleasure to walk along the path, since the winter is warm this year, where there were streams, and the snow around had melted a little, the sounds of water were heard. Traces of hares were visible in the snow on the right and left. Trees felled with roots in some places. Everywhere, along the entire path, various boulders were encountered.
I can say with full confidence that, starting from the main starting point with the designation of the passage route to the object, all the stands are in good condition: integrity, readability and relevance of the information. The information on the signs corresponds to the current situation on the route. No difficulty in winter to find this incredible boulder. In winter, it is not difficult to find Kumakivi, but snow increases the travel time.
Visitors are advised to plan their trip during the warmer months, as access to the stone may be difficult in winter due to snow.
The grandeur and comfort of Ruokolahti Church
On the way back I stopped at Ruokolahti Church. It became famous thanks to the painting by Finnish artist Albert Edelfelt "On the Church Hill in Ruokolahti" (1887). It depicts parishioners in traditional Finnish costumes, making the painting a symbol of 19th-century Finnish culture. Today it is considered a national treasure.
The church is located on a hill surrounded by picturesque lakes. It and its pews are listed as significant historical objects in the Finnish cultural heritage list. It is one of the most recognizable buildings in the region.
Built in 1854 according to the design of the architect Ernst Lorman, the church is a granite building in the shape of a cross, executed in the style of late classicism with elements of Finnish architecture. Its strict and majestic appearance is emphasized by a high tower with a spire, visible from afar.
The interior is decorated in light colours, with simple wooden elements and discreet decor. There is also an old organ, which is still used in worship.
The church is especially beautiful in winter: it looks like a part of a Christmas card, covered in snow. Take a walk around its surroundings, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the peace. For photography lovers, this place will give you many bright moments.
Ruokolahti Church is the perfect place to experience the harmony of nature and history. This trip will leave you with warmth and peace.
Blog part 1 - Life in Finland: What it's like to become a resident of Scandinavia
Hello! My name is Galyna, and I’ve been living in Finland for three years now. I am currently studying for a new profession at the South Karelia Sampo College. My specialty is "Matkailualan perustutkinto" (tourism). In this blog, I want to share what it’s like to be a girl in Finland, what my days are like, and what I’ve learned during my time living in this northern country.
The first thing that immediately stands out is the weather. It’s cold and dark here in winter, but I’ve already gotten used to the long nights and snowy streets. Finland is incredibly beautiful in the winter: white snow, frosty mornings and evenings, fresh air. I often walk outside, enjoying the silence and the beauty of nature. The forests and lakes in Finland are just stunning. In contrast, summers are warm, and the nights are almost never dark — the sun sets very late.
Life in Finland is different from many other countries, especially when it comes to culture. Finns really value personal space. It’s common to keep quiet on public transport and not talk to strangers without a reason. This may seem strange, but I’ve gotten used to it and learned to respect these traditions. Finns may seem reserved, but once you get to know them, they become real and loyal friends. Another important Finnish tradition is the love of sauna. Many Finns go to the sauna several times a week, and I’ve also come to love this practice. After a sauna, I feel completely refreshed!
Favourite activites
One of my favourite activities is traveling around Finland. There are so many beautiful places here! I often visit Helsinki, a city that combines ancient architecture with modern technology. But Southern Karelia, especially Imatra, Lappeenranta, and Savonlinna, is not just about nature, but also about culture. There are many historical sites here, old churches, and beautiful castles. In these places, you can feel a connection to the past, and every corner is full of history.
I also love spending time in Lapland. There, I worked as a guide for tourists from Romania, Bulgaria, Germany, and Moldova. Winter is a real adventure: reindeer safaris, husky sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobile rides. And the northern lights — that’s something unforgettable!
Life in Finland is not as hectic as in other countries. Things move at their own pace, and I really like that. Finland is one of the cleanest countries, and I’ve never seen any trash on the streets. Cities often have special containers for recycling. Finns may seem closed off, but if you show respect, they’ll open up and be very kind.
Internship in Saimaa Geopark
I’m studying at a college, and this is probably one of the most interesting and useful experiences of my life. The teaching style here is a bit different — they focus a lot on practical skills rather than just theory. As part of my studies, I have a workspace internship. I’m lucky because I’ve been accepted for an internship at SAIMAA GEOPARK ry. My supervisor, Mikko Ikävalko, went over the work plan with me, showed me where I’ll be working, and explained where all the necessary resources are — like office equipment, restrooms, materials and resources for work and other important things.
Mikko explained the tasks and goals I’m expected to accomplish, what is expected of me, and the specific assignments I will be working on. He also explained the work rules, safety procedures, and provided me with special work clothes.
Thank you for reading my blog!
Blog part 2 -Matkamessut "A Celebration of travel, inspiration, and connection in Helsinki"
Every year, there is one event that becomes a true celebration for all travel enthusiasts. It’s the Matkamessut travel exhibition in Helsinki. Although it takes place only once a year, it always brings a whirlwind of emotions and inspiration. This year, I had the chance to attend this incredible exhibition, which is the largest not only in Finland but also in Northern Europe. Over 850 travel companies from 70 countries gathered here to showcase their latest ideas and innovations! It was truly something unique for me.
The exhibition took place from January 17 to 19 in the heart of Helsinki, at the Messukeskus expo center. During these three days, I was so immersed in the atmosphere that every moment brought new impressions. The air was filled with incredible positivity and energy, as well as countless opportunities for inspiration for future travels. Here, you could take part in contests, interact with people from all over the world, and discover new destinations.
Travel fair was a memorable experience
I was fortunate to become a part of this event thanks to my internship at the Saimaa Geopark. I spent two unforgettable days (Saturday and Sunday) with my new colleagues, and the atmosphere was amazing. It was a pleasure to work with such responsive and professional people. The entire Go Saimaa team welcomed me with warmth and hospitality, and I was truly impressed by the scale of the information presented about our region – Eastern Karelia.
I would like to express my special thanks to Veera Hakkarainen, who supported, mentored, and gave me valuable advice throughout the event. My colleagues and I helped visitors by providing information about the Saimaa Geopark, inviting them to visit our incredible region. We recommended local hiking and cycling routes, road trips, and, of course, shared information about the new GEOfood brand. This brand symbolizes local products and restaurants that support sustainable agriculture while preserving the geological and cultural heritage of the region. It’s not just about promoting products – it’s about moving towards a sustainable future for local communities.
As I wrapped up my participation in the exhibition, I realized how important such events are for sharing experiences, building new connections, and, of course, inspiring new travels. Participating in Matkamessut was a true revelation for me, and I am confident that even more exciting travels and encounters lie ahead!
Blog Part 3 - Winter visit to Kummakivi and Ruokolahti Church
Experiences and observations
One of the tasks of my active work practice in Saimaa Geopark is visiting places that are under the protection of UNESCO.
A notable feature of the Saimaa Geopark is Kummakivi. Its unusual shape and balancing position attract the attention of both tourists and scientists interested in geology and natural anomalies. Including objects like Kumakivi in the Geopark highlights their significance and contributes to their preservation and popularization. This place attracts both nature lovers and those interested in geological phenomena and ancient legends.
Stone in the middle of nowhere
I have been to this wonderful place before. Kummakivi is a huge boulder, about 7 meters long, which balances on a smaller smooth rock, touching it only slightly. This unique geological formation is in Ruokolahti, in the region of South Karelia, Finland.
Kummakivi is one of the notable objects of the Saimaa Geopark. Its unusual shape and balancing position attract the attention of both tourists and scientists interested in geology and natural anomalies.
Kummakivi is believed to have been formed by glacier movement at the end of the last Ice Age, about 8,000 years ago. The retreating glaciers left behind this enormous boulder, which remained lying on the cliff in such an unusual position. Local legends attribute Kummakivi's appearance to the actions of giants, who allegedly placed the stone in this position. However, scientific research confirms its glacial origin.
Kummakivi is a popular tourist attraction and is accessible by a marked trail about 800 metres long from the nearest car park.
This is my second visit to this site. Three years ago, everything was perceived differently. Everything that I saw for the first time, I felt from the position of a tourist who saw this huge stone for the first time. It was easy to find in the summer. Roads, signs, sun, weather.
This time everything is different. Firstly, it is a winter visit. Secondly, I had different tasks. My task was not just to visit this unique place - Kummakivi - in winter. Assess the possibilities of free passage to the object, check whether all information stands are in good condition. Assess their integrity, readability and relevance of information. The information on the signs should correspond to the current situation on the route. This includes updating data on travel time, changes in the route, the presence of new objects. And also whether it is difficult to find this incredible boulder in winter.
You know, I was really interested in testing everything on myself and paying attention to details that an ordinary tourist simply doesn’t see.
Travel to Kummakivi
The road from Imatra took about an hour. It was impossible to drive straight to the parking lot where the hiking trail starts. The road was covered in snow. I left the car on the side of the road and walked. Luckily, the path was trodden. It was necessary to walk 1 km to the start of the main route. The nature of Finland is so untouched that it is a great pleasure to walk along the path, since the winter is warm this year, where there were streams, and the snow around had melted a little, the sounds of water were heard. Traces of hares were visible in the snow on the right and left. Trees felled with roots in some places. Everywhere, along the entire path, various boulders were encountered.
I can say with full confidence that, starting from the main starting point with the designation of the passage route to the object, all the stands are in good condition: integrity, readability and relevance of the information. The information on the signs corresponds to the current situation on the route. No difficulty in winter to find this incredible boulder. In winter, it is not difficult to find Kumakivi, but snow increases the travel time.
Visitors are advised to plan their trip during the warmer months, as access to the stone may be difficult in winter due to snow.
The grandeur and comfort of Ruokolahti Church
On the way back I stopped at Ruokolahti Church. It became famous thanks to the painting by Finnish artist Albert Edelfelt "On the Church Hill in Ruokolahti" (1887). It depicts parishioners in traditional Finnish costumes, making the painting a symbol of 19th-century Finnish culture. Today it is considered a national treasure.
The church is located on a hill surrounded by picturesque lakes. It and its pews are listed as significant historical objects in the Finnish cultural heritage list. It is one of the most recognizable buildings in the region.
Built in 1854 according to the design of the architect Ernst Lorman, the church is a granite building in the shape of a cross, executed in the style of late classicism with elements of Finnish architecture. Its strict and majestic appearance is emphasized by a high tower with a spire, visible from afar.
The interior is decorated in light colours, with simple wooden elements and discreet decor. There is also an old organ, which is still used in worship.
The church is especially beautiful in winter: it looks like a part of a Christmas card, covered in snow. Take a walk around its surroundings, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the peace. For photography lovers, this place will give you many bright moments.
Ruokolahti Church is the perfect place to experience the harmony of nature and history. This trip will leave you with warmth and peace.