Embracing Finland: A Filipino’s Journey of Adjustment and Discovery

Living in Finland is like stepping into a world where tranquility and order meet breathtaking natural beauty. For Filipinos moving to Finland, it can feel like a journey to a completely different universe—one that offers a mix of challenges, awe, and eventually, a sense of belonging. But for those willing to explore, Finland offers a unique experience that combines the best of both worlds: a thriving, modern society with a deep respect for nature and a strong sense of community.

The first thing a Filipino might notice when they land in Finland is the weather. With long, dark winters and short, bright summers, the weather plays a huge role in shaping the culture and daily life here. The cold months can be a shock, especially to those used to the warm tropical climate of the Philippines. The daylight hours in winter are so short that many newcomers can feel the heavy weight of the darkness. But as the months pass, many Filipinos learn to adapt. They discover the joy of embracing the cold, donning layers of clothing, and enjoying winter sports like skiing or ice skating. When the sun finally returns in the summer, the entire country celebrates the light, and Finns are known to make the most of the brief summer months with outdoor activities, festivals, and BBQs by the lakes.

What makes Finland particularly attractive to Filipinos is the country’s incredible social welfare system. For Filipinos coming from a nation with a different approach to social services, Finland’s robust healthcare, education, and social security programs are eye-opening. The Finnish healthcare system, for example, provides quality medical care, and it's largely accessible to everyone, making it a major relief for those who come from countries where medical bills can be financially burdensome. Similarly, Finland’s education system is often hailed as one of the best in the world, offering equal opportunities to children regardless of their background.

While these systems are designed to create a strong sense of security, adjusting to Finnish society requires more than just understanding its infrastructure. For Filipinos, a big part of the challenge lies in the cultural differences that come with living in a society so different from the warmth and close-knit nature of Filipino communities. Finns are known for being reserved and valuing personal space. Unlike in the Philippines, where social interactions are lively, and everyone is treated like family, Finns often enjoy their solitude and prefer quieter, more private conversations. This can feel like a barrier for many Filipinos who are used to the openness and sociability of Filipino culture.

But this doesn’t mean that Finns are unfriendly or unapproachable. On the contrary, many Filipinos find that Finns are deeply respectful and will often go out of their way to offer help when asked. It’s just that the approach to social interaction is more understated. Over time, Filipinos often learn to appreciate the calm and introspective nature of Finnish culture, understanding that the polite silence is not a sign of indifference, but a sign of respect for one’s personal space.

Another adjustment for many Filipinos is the food. Finnish cuisine is simple, yet hearty, and often revolves around seasonal ingredients like fish, potatoes, rye bread, and dairy products. For Filipinos, accustomed to the rich, vibrant, and often spicy flavors of Filipino food, the Finnish dishes might seem a bit bland at first. However, many come to appreciate the freshness of Finnish ingredients, especially the fish and berries, which are part of the Finnish identity. Finnish coffee culture also becomes a welcomed habit for many Filipinos, with its strong, black coffee served alongside sweet pastries like pulla.

Of course, no Filipino journey in Finland would be complete without a deep connection to the Filipino community that resides there. In Finnish cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku, you’ll find tight-knit Filipino communities where traditions are kept alive. Filipinos in Finland often celebrate important Filipino holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Independence Day with lively gatherings, food, and singing. These celebrations serve as a reminder of home and provide a comforting sense of familiarity in a foreign land. Whether it's through Filipino restaurants, churches, or social groups, Filipinos in Finland are never far from their roots, and these connections help ease the transition.

Yet, despite the cultural and environmental adjustments, many Filipinos discover that Finland’s most compelling feature is the balance it offers between modern life and nature. The Finnish concept of sisu—a form of resilience and determination—is something that resonates deeply with Filipinos. The Finnish ability to find peace in nature, whether it’s walking through the forests, fishing by the lakes, or simply enjoying a sauna, becomes a way for many Filipinos to decompress and find a sense of calm. In Finland, there’s a strong emphasis on personal well-being, and the quiet moments of reflection and connection with nature are something that can be quite appealing to Filipinos who are used to the fast-paced life of the Philippines.

In the end, adjusting to life in Finland as a Filipino is a process of merging the best aspects of both cultures. It’s about learning to navigate the cool, quiet charm of Finland while holding on to the vibrant warmth of Filipino hospitality. With time, Filipinos in Finland come to appreciate the country’s unique rhythm—a life that values independence but also offers deep connections with nature, with community, and with one’s inner self.

Though the journey of adjustment might not always be easy, the rewards are worth it: a sense of belonging in a country that is rich in opportunities and natural beauty, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around them. As Filipinos make their mark in Finland, they are not just adapting—they are thriving, bringing a piece of Filipino culture into the heart of Finland’s vibrant and diverse society.