Suomi Unveiled: Discovering Finland’s Heart and Soul

Originally published on Medium (2024), now updated for Vocal!

Welcome to this introduction blog post on Suomi Unveiled. My name is Päivi and I create content for Suomi Unveiled. I’m thrilled to share this journey with you and everything amazing about Finland, especially beautiful Helsinki where I currently live. But before we dive into all things Finnish, let me tell you a bit about myself and how this all started.

A Traveler at Heart

Traveling has always been my passion. Ever since I was little, I’ve been curious about the world and the different cultures that make it so interesting. I’ve had the chance to travel across Europe, for example, Germany, Italy, Hungary, and Croatia. Exploring rich history, diverse traditions, and of course delicious food. One of my most memorable adventures was living in Chicago, USA, for a year. The bustling city life, the deep-dish pizza, and the friendly Midwestern vibes. It was an experience I’ll never forget and I consider Chicago as my second hometown.

But no matter where I went, my heart always found its way back to my home country, Finland. I was born in Eastern Finland, near the Russian border. My childhood place is surrounded by stunning lakes and deep forests. Growing up there was like living in a fairytale, with snowy winters and warm summers.

From Eastern Finland to Helsinki

Now, I live in Helsinki, the vibrant capital city of Finland. For those wondering, “Where is Helsinki?” — it is situated in the southern region of Finland, right on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Helsinki is known for its beautiful architecture, bustling markets, and lively arts scene. It’s a city that perfectly blends modern life with nature.

After moving to Helsinki, I studied hospitality and tourism. If you’re wondering, “What is hospitality and tourism?” — the focus is on ensuring travelers have great experiences, whether at a hotel, restaurant, or new destination. I love working in this field because it’s full of international vibes and allows me to meet people from all over the world.

Working in the Hospitality Industry

Currently, I work at a hotel in Helsinki city center. I love my job because every day is different, and I have a chance to meet guests from every corner of the globe. There’s something so special about helping someone discover Helsinki for the first time. Whether it’s recommending the best places to eat, the coolest spots to visit, or just sharing a friendly smile — it’s all about making their stay unforgettable.

Starting Suomi Unveiled

My love for travel and my pride in my Finnish heritage led me to start Suomi Unveiled. I launched a YouTube channel and began blogging on Medium to showcase what makes Finland unique. I’ve now switched my blog to Vocal to share my stories more directly. On my YouTube channel, you’ll find videos that take you on virtual tours of Helsinki. These YouTube Shorts give you quick travel tips and share information about Finnish culture. On my Vocal, I dive deeper into personal experiences and insider tips for exploring Finland.

What Does the Word “Suomi” Mean?

You might be wondering about the word “Suomi.” It’s the Finnish word for Finland. When I was deciding on a name for this blog and my YouTube channel, I wanted something that truly represented my homeland. “Suomi” felt perfect because it captures the essence of Finland in one word. It’s a word that connects Finns to their country and heritage, and now, through Suomi Unveiled, I hope to connect you to the beauty and culture of Finland too.

Exploring Helsinki

One of my favorite things about Helsinki is its versatility. You can spend a morning, for example, exploring the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, an afternoon shopping at the vibrant Market Square, and an evening enjoying a peaceful stroll by the seaside. There’s always something new to discover, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident like me.

Sharing My Experiences

Through Suomi Unveiled, I want to share not just the touristy highlights but also the hidden gems and local secrets that make Finland special. I’ll give you tips on the best places to visit, traditional Finnish cuisine, and nature spots. I’ll guide you through Finland, a country known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture.

And I’ll also share about my own experiences. For example, in my last blog post, I wrote about the sightseeing cruise I went on in Helsinki during Midsummer a few weeks ago.

Join Me on This Adventure

I’m excited to have you join me on this adventure! Whether you’re planning a trip to Finland, are interested in learning more about Finnish culture, or just love travel stories, Suomi Unveiled is here to inspire and inform. Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel and join Vocal for the latest updates and new content.

Thank you for reading, and I’m looking forward to sharing more with you soon. If you have any questions or topics you want me to talk about, please feel free to write a comment.

Warm regards,