Experience in Helsinki, Finland by Ben

What is it like to live in Helsinki? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Although I haven't lived in Helsinki this past academic year, I have lived very nearby in Espoo, and I often visited Helsinki. It is definitely a very beautiful and historic city. As you approach the city by train, two open bodies of water at both sides give you great views of the city. There is much to visit upon arrival.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Helsinki? Is there any advice you can give?

It can definitely be difficult to find accommodation. HOAS is the student accommodation facility, and it is the ideal place to look for a room. However, it is very congested. ACCEPT your first offer (if you get one) because you most likely won't get another. I declined my first offer and I had to wait a few months before getting another.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

I don't say that it's bad, but Finland is not really known for its cuisine. Of course, there are fish dishes. Roe is a popular food. Traditional Finnish sweets include Sisu and Salmiakki. In terms of food, one of my favourites is fried vendace, followed by Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie), Kaalikääryleet (cabbage rolls) which are often filled with meat. These are just a few.

What places would you recommend visiting in Helsinki?

From Helsinki Railway Station, to the famous Helsinki or Uspenski Cathedral (a great example of Russian architecture, something really common throughout Finland), there is plenty to see in Helsinki.

My favourite area of the city is probably Esplanadi Park. The streets at either side of it are full of tall, Art Nouveau style architecture, and you can also walk to the west harbour through the park. All the most expensive designer shops are in this area as well, if that's your thing. There are some other really nice parks in Helsinki, including Kaivopuisto, which offers great views of the archipelago on Helsinki's southern end.

Is it good to eat out in Helsinki? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Whilst I've eaten out at restaurants only a few times due to the expansive price of meals, Helsinki offers a wide range of cuisine. Zetor is a good restaurant, offering traditional Finnish food.

The brunch options in Helsinki are amazing though. My favourite place, where I've been to quite many times is called "The BLOCK by Dylan". There is a themed brunch each weekend, for example Meze. It is pretty expensive; about 21€ (25€ for special events), but for this price there is a massive, high quality salad selection, the main course of that weekend's theme accompanied with scrambled eggs and meat, etc. There are also pastries, sweets, and doughnuts. And it's an "all you can eat".

Is the nightlife good in Helsinki? Where is it good to go?

Nightlife is great in Helsinki. If you're into metal/rock, go to "The Riff" or "On The Rocks". If you're into clubs Club Capital, Kaivouhuone and Apollo are good options.

What advice would you give future students heading to Helsinki?

Enjoy as much of the city, life, people as you can.