Embracing the Cold with Warm Hearts

Winter in Finland is a magical experience, but for many Filipinos living here, it can also be a bit of a shock to the system. Coming from a tropical paradise, the cold and dark months of the Finnish winter can feel like a stark contrast to the warm, sunny days of the Philippines. But just like the resilient spirit of Filipinos, many are learning to embrace the unique beauty of winter in Finland.

The Darkest Days of the Year

One of the most noticeable differences Filipinos face in Finland is the long winter nights. In the northern regions, the sun barely rises at all for several weeks, and even in Helsinki, the days are short, with just a few hours of daylight in December. This extended darkness can take some time to adjust to. However, Filipinos, known for their adaptability and positive attitude, quickly learn to find ways to cope, like making the most of the daylight hours or embracing the coziness of indoor activities.

Surviving the Cold

The Finnish winter can be incredibly cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, sometimes even reaching -20°C or colder. For Filipinos, who are used to year-round warmth, layering up in thermal clothes, thick jackets, and hats becomes an essential part of daily life. But what many Filipinos find most surprising is the dry cold, which feels very different from the humid chill in places like Baguio or Tagaytay. The key to surviving the winter is embracing the concept of "sisu," a Finnish term that embodies determination and resilience.

Finding Joy in Winter Activities

Despite the challenges, many Filipinos are discovering the joys of Finnish winter activities. From ice-skating and skiing to snowshoeing and even ice swimming, the Finnish winter offers a wide range of outdoor adventures that are both exhilarating and fun. Many Filipinos enjoy the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, learning to embrace the cold by participating in these activities. The Christmas season, with its festive lights and Christmas markets, also brings a unique charm to the dark winter months, creating a magical atmosphere that Filipino expats cherish.

A Taste of Home: Filipino Warmth in the Cold

Of course, Filipinos know how to stay warm in more ways than one. Filipino comfort food like sinigang (sour soup), adobo (marinated meat), and lechon (roast pork) become the perfect antidote to the cold weather. Local Filipino communities often gather for potlucks and celebrations, creating a warm, familiar atmosphere even when it's freezing outside. And let’s not forget the Filipino love for kapeng barako and hot chocolate, perfect for sipping while curled up by a heater.

Making Finland Feel Like Home

Ultimately, it’s the Filipino spirit of warmth, hospitality, and resilience that helps many overcome the cold Finnish winter. Filipinos in Finland often band together, sharing stories, celebrating traditional holidays like Pasko (Christmas), and supporting each other through the long, dark months. While the Finnish winter may seem daunting at first, the Filipino ability to find joy in the toughest of times ensures that every season is something to look forward to.

In the end, winter in Finland isn’t just about surviving the cold – it’s about finding the warmth in the little things: from the glow of a Christmas market to the laughter of friends gathered around a warm meal. For Filipinos, the Finnish winter becomes another chapter in the ongoing adventure of living in a beautiful, albeit chilly, new land.