Don’t assume a Finn can speak Swedish, even though Finland is a bilingual country. Some Finns dislike "pakkoruotsi" (mandatory Swedish studies). On the other hand, if you travel to a predominantly Swedish-speaking area, not everyone may speak Finnish very well.
--Susanna
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Don’t try to impress with titles. Many workplaces are flat in structure. Of course, there are bosses and employees, but hierarchy is often downplayed in everyday interactions.
--Susanna
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Don’t try to buy a ticket in public transport with cash—it’s not possible.
--Susanna
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Don’t be surprised if a restaurant employee doesn’t speak Finnish. Nowadays, it’s quite common in the Helsinki metropolitan area for staff to speak only English, not Finnish or Swedish. So a restaurant might not be the best place to practice your Finnish skills.
--Anniina
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Finland is, in general, an equal country. Don’t make a big deal out of gender.
--Anniina
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It's best to not ask a Finn how they’re doing if you don’t actually want to know.
--Susanna
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Don’t stress about tipping in restaurants. Finland doesn’t have a strong tipping culture, and leaving a tip is completely voluntary. Employees’ salaries are designed assuming they won’t receive significant tips. Of course, tipping is still a nice way to show appreciation for excellent service!
--Anniina
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Don’t accidentally walk in a bike lane in Helsinki! Cyclists can go very fast, and they can get annoyed if you’re in their way.
--Seliina
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Give sauna a try! Finland has plenty of public saunas. Many public saunas have rules requiring you to be naked. Some public saunas are mixed-gender. Make sure to check the sauna beforehand so you’re not surprised to find men and women naked together.
--Seliina
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It is polite to bring a small gift when visiting a Finnish home. A package of coffee is the most traditional choice, but flowers or chocolate bought at a grocery store are also appropriate. However, bringing a gift is not mandatory. It’s best to avoid expensive gifts unless it’s a special occasio
--Susanna
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Arrive exactly at the agreed time. For example, it’s best to show up at a party exactly when the invitation says. If you’re going to be late, let the host know in advance.
--Seliina
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The most common wedding gift is money, which the couple usually asks to be transferred to their account. They are likely saving the money for their honeymoon. The amount depends on your budget and how well you know the couple. Usually, it ranges from €50 to €100.
--Susanna
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When introducing yourself to someone new at a party, Finns appreciate a firm handshake, eye contact, and a stating your name. A good way to continue getting to know someone is to ask how they know the host of the occasion.
--Anniina
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Drink tap water with confidence. Finland’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world. Finns rarely drink bottled water.
--Susanna
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At casual get-togethers, people often play board games, such as Alias or Afrikan Tähti. Delight your fellow guests by bringing along your favorite game! At a summer cottage, people often play darts and Mölkky (a Finnish throwing game).
--Susanna
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When you visit a Finnish home, you will most likely be offered coffee. Drinking coffee and chatting is a traditional way for Finns to spend time with their guests. However, if you don’t like coffee, you can ask whether there is any tea.
--Susanna
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Vappu, celebrated on May 1st in Finland, is different from similar holidays in other countries. On Vappu Eve (April 30th) or Vappu Day, go for a picnic in the park to celebrate this popular spring, workers’, and student festival. Be sure to bring sima (a traditional drink) and doughnuts!
--Seliina
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Try Fazer chocolate – it’s popular in Finland!
--Susanna
