Life in Finland vs. the Philippines: A Filipino Perspective on Cost of Living and Mental Math Mastery

_{Image courtesy of Olia Danilevich}

Living in Finland as a Filipino can feel like stepping into a whole new world. From the chilly winters to the quiet efficiency of Finnish culture, it’s a stark contrast to the sunny, vibrant chaos of the Philippines. But perhaps the biggest shock comes when you look at the price tags in Finland. That’s when you realize every Filipino has a secret superpower: an imaginary calculator that kicks into overdrive when spending money abroad.

The Basics: Finland vs. Philippines

In the Philippines, life is colorful, fast-paced, and, let’s admit, sometimes a bit chaotic. Jeepneys honk, street vendors yell out their goods, and there’s always the comforting aroma of freshly cooked adobo wafting through the air.

Contrast that with Finland, where life feels calm and ordered. Public transport runs on time, people respect personal space, and the air smells of pine trees and freshly fallen snow. Finland’s charm lies in its quiet beauty and sense of stability—a paradise for introverts.

But this peaceful lifestyle comes at a price—literally. Finland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, especially when you’re used to the budget-friendly lifestyle of the Philippines.

Sticker Shock: Price Tags in Finland

Picture this: a Filipino in a Finnish grocery store. You grab a small pack of strawberries, glance at the price tag, and your jaw drops. "€6?! That's like ₱360! Sa Pinas, dalawang kilo na ‘yan!"

This is where the Filipino imaginary calculator comes in. Whether it’s groceries, coffee, or a simple meal out, Filipinos automatically convert euros to pesos in their heads. It’s not even conscious—we just do it. And when the calculation is done, we find ourselves putting half the items back on the shelf.

Why the Mental Math?

This habit comes from growing up in a culture where every peso counts. In the Philippines, you’re constantly aware of how far your money will go. P10 for a tricycle ride, P50 for street food, and P100 for a hearty meal. So, when you see €3 (₱180) for a cup of coffee in Finland, your brain instantly screams, "Pwede na itong pang isang buong araw sa Pinas!"

In Finland, it’s not just the food prices that make Filipinos do a double take. Rent, utilities, transportation, and even a simple haircut can cost several times what you’d pay back home. For many, it’s a lesson in budgeting and rethinking what “expensive” really means.

Lifestyle Differences: Spending vs. Saving

1.Necessities: In Finland, life revolves around quality. The bread is fresh, the coffee is strong, and everything—down to the tiniest detail—is built to last. In the Philippines, it’s about quantity and affordability. Why buy one fancy jacket when you can get three trendy ones from Divisoria?

2.Leisure: Going out in Finland often means paying a premium for peace and quiet. A hike in the forest or a cozy sauna session feels luxurious but doesn’t require splurging. In the Philippines, leisure is more social. Even budget-friendly hangouts like karaoke nights and beach trips are rich in fun and laughter.

3.Food: Filipinos in Finland also struggle with the idea of spending €12 (₱720) for one meal in a restaurant when ₱720 can feed an entire family back home. The solution? Cook at home. That’s why many OFWs and immigrants spend Sundays whipping up pots of sinigang and adobo.

Adapting and Finding Balance

Despite the cost of living, Filipinos thrive in Finland by blending the best of both worlds. Here’s how:

Embracing Simplicity: Finland teaches Filipinos to appreciate a minimalist lifestyle. You learn that a high-quality jacket might cost more but will last through several winters.

Relearning Money: Over time, you stop converting euros to pesos. Instead, you think in euros and focus on earning enough to enjoy life without guilt.

Staying Rooted: Filipinos find ways to keep their culture alive. Whether it’s cooking Filipino food, sending balikbayan boxes, or celebrating fiestas with fellow Pinoys, there’s always a piece of home in their Finnish life.

The Filipino Superpower

The imaginary calculator isn’t just about converting prices—it’s a symbol of adaptability. It reflects the Filipino way of carefully balancing affordability with quality, no matter where in the world they are.

Living in Finland might be expensive, but Filipinos bring their resourcefulness, sense of humor, and warmth to make it work. And when you finally sip that €3 coffee while watching the Northern Lights, you realize that sometimes, the experience is worth every cent—or peso.