Erasmus Experience in Helsinki, Finland by Jules-André

Why did you choose to go to Helsinki, Finland?

I chose to go to Helsinki following the advice of a friend, and I don't regret coming here at all.

How long did you stay there?

I am in Helsinki for 4 and a half months.

What's the student life like in Helsinki?

The atmosphere is superb. Haaga Helia is really welcoming of Erasmus students from day 1. They organise a wide range of activities to help make your stay comfortable and successful. The club nights can be great, but not always. It all depends on the party's theme.

Haaga Helia University

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Would you recommend the town and the University of Helsinki to other students?

I am at the Haaga-Helia University. I fully recommend this university as it's a great place to study. The location and layout are good, plus it only costs 1. 50€ for a starter and a main in the canteen.

What's the food like in the country?

The food is good but lacks taste. However, everything is more expensive here, which is the main drawback...

Did you have much difficulty finding accommodation in Helsinki?

No, once I submitted my application to Hoas, the agency took care of everything. However, they only offered me one accomodation, because of trying to fulfil the wishes and expectations of everyone. If you refuse their accommodation offer, you have to look for an apartment yourself, complicating your search. I advise you start looking in advance to maximise your chances of getting the accommodation you want within your price range.

A street in Helsinki

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What's the cost of living like in Helsinki?

Expensive. Alcohol is a lot more expensive. Sugary drinks cost €1 more than they do in France. The cost of living is undeniably more expensive here than in France, however, if you take care, you can absolutely get the most out of your stay. Also, it's important to know that there are numerous offers and discounts for students within the city.

Viisi Penniä Beerhouse in Helsinki

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What's the language learning like there? Did you take a language course at the University?

I am not intending to learn Finnish. But yes, in the University Haaga Helia, there are language classes available.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Helsinki from your town?

Public transport. My University offered reductions on the price of a travel pass: €24 per month instead of the usual €48 I think.

What places would you recommend for a night out in Helsinki?

The famous Tiger on Sunday evenings which sells its own beer. Molly Malones, Aussie bar and many others which I have forgotten the names of. On the flip side, avoid the Vatican club and going out after midnight, as before then it's free entry. The music is bad.

Molly Malones Bar

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What about eating out in Helsinki? What are your favourite places?

I've got to be honest, I have never eaten the local food...

And what cultural sites would you recommend?

The islands: SuomenLinna and Seurasarie, easy to get to and free (better to go when there's no snow if you can). The Red and White churches, the parliamentary buildings. Pay a visit to Tallinn (€25 and 2 hours by boat), the alcohol is a lot cheaper. So I would advise you to stock up on it there (only if you want to of course).

SuomenLinna Island

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It's easy to get to Tallinn from Helsinki

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Lastly, my firm favourite is the Torni hotel, with a bar on the rooftop where you can have a coffee or a different drink, with a spectacular view of the entire city! Seriously, go there to see the rays of the morning sun! It can be found in the city centre 1 minute from the Forum shopping centre!

The view from hotel Torni

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Any advice to future Helsinki students?

Have fun and make the most of it!

Erasmus students in Helsinki

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