Group trips to Finland

Finland is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET). If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 2pm in Finland. In the USA, depending on your location, if it is 12pm EST, it will be 7pm in Finland. Note that Finland observes daylight saving time, moving one hour forward in late March and one hour back at the end of October.

Finland uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. If you need to exchange currency, you can do so at banks, currency exchange offices, or even some hotels and airports across Finland. The daily exchange rate can vary slightly, but you can expect it to be around:

• 1 GBP to 1.15 EUR
• 1 USD to 0.95 EUR
• 1 EUR to 1 EUR (as it's the same currency)

Always check the current rates before exchanging money.

In Finland, you can pay using credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is accepted but not as commonly used as card payments. You'll find that most places, including stores, restaurants, and public transport, accept card payments. We suggest you carry a card with a chip for ease of use.

Tipping in Finland is not a common practice, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service and wish to express your appreciation, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated but not expected. Whether at a restaurant, a taxi, or a hotel, feel free to leave a little extra if you feel the service was outstanding, but don't feel obligated.

In Finland, the internet connection is excellent, with widespread availability of high-speed Wi-Fi in cities, cafes, hotels, and public places. If you're from Europe or the Schengen area, you can use your mobile plan's roaming service without extra charges. If you're coming from outside Europe, consider buying a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan for better rates. Popular providers include:

• Elisa
• Telia
• DNA

Wi-Fi is generally reliable and free in many locations, so you’ll stay connected easily.

In Finland, the main languages spoken are Finnish and Swedish. Here are some useful Finnish expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Hei
• Thank you: Kiitos
• Yes: Kyllä
• No: Ei
• Please: Ole hyvä

And some common Swedish expressions:

• Hello: Hej
• Thank you: Tack
• Yes: Ja
• No: Nej
• Please: Var så god

In Finland, you'll find Type C and Type F plugs. They operate on a voltage of 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. These plugs are common in many European countries, so if you're coming from Europe, you might already have compatible devices. However, if you're traveling from the UK or the USA, you'll need a universal adapter to plug in your electronics. It's always a good idea to check your device's voltage compatibility to avoid any mishaps.

In Finland, the main religion is Christianity, with the Evangelical Lutheran Church being the largest denomination. While most Finns are members of this church, the country is quite secular, and religion doesn't play a central role in daily life for many. Important religious holidays in Finland include Christmas and Easter, which are widely celebrated with both religious and secular traditions.

For a trip to Finland, you'll want to pack wisely given the varying climate conditions. Here's a breakdown of what to put in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Warm layers like sweaters and thermal tops
  • A waterproof jacket
  • T-shirts for layering
  • Thermal leggings or pants
• Shoes:
  • Waterproof boots, especially in winter
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Slippers for indoor use
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf
  • Sunglasses for snowy glare
  • A portable charger
  • An adapter for Type C and F plugs
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
  • Moisturizer for dry skin
  • Lip balm
  • Basic medication like pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, and any personal prescriptions

Finland can be cold, especially in winter, so prioritize warmth and comfort.

Finland's weather varies greatly depending on the region and season:

• Southern Finland: Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, while winters are cold, often dropping below -10°C. Spring and autumn can be chilly and rainy.
• Northern Finland (Lapland): Summers are short and can reach up to 20°C, but winters are long and harsh, with temperatures often below -20°C. Snow is common from November to April.

The best time to visit is from June to August when the weather is warmest. For winter activities, December to March is ideal for experiencing snow and the Northern Lights.