Experience in Helsinki, Finland by David

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

Helsinki is a very "cool" city. Walking around the city you will always find something to do, but if you want to find the coolest people and parties, you will have to go to places off the beaten track, or alternatively, you should meet a couple of locals to show you. This is advice to save money in such an expensive city, but also a way to spend it on worthwhile things.

What is the student lifestyle like in Helsinki?

There are thousands of students in the city. Therefore there is an abundance of activities and associations to join. A budget location for many cultural happenings is definately Kallio. Anyhow, you will find student cantines, bars, cafes all around the city proper. Otaniemi in Espoo, not far from the center of Helsinki, is home to thousands of students and secret bars (Aalto University campus).

How much does it cost to live in Helsinki?

You will pay 400-500€ for a room. Even more in the center.

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

From experience I can say that finding a flat is quite hard. If you find a private person it may be easier to organize. However, such networking is a hard task as a newcomer. Finding flats through agencies is difficult because there are always many people interested if the flat is in the central area. Unlike many cities, the landlord decides who he/she wants to rent a flat out to instead of actually the tenant offering to pay the rent.

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

Good pastries, meat dishes and soups. A harsh winter makes heave dishes popular. Nothing is really fancy, rather practical.

What places would you recommend visiting in Helsinki?

Kallio bars/clubs, Suomenlinna, Kaivopuisto (summer), Underground parties by many organizers in the city (look for fliers around the city).

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

Expensive for the wider choice. Otherwise, student cafés are excellent and cheap. For the late nights the offering is grill-stands, pizza and kebab like in most towns. Finland doesn't host too many popular franchises other than McDonalds, so you'll have local options to choose from.

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

Nightlife is great. Mainstream clubs are found everywhere around the center, but they are very expensive. Entrance can vary from 5 to 15€. The density of bars is big; you can bar crawl for 100 meters and visit 10 bars. However, Kallio is the place for more casual and cheaper events. There is everything depending on what you like. Recommend Underground events. Check fliers around the city.

What advice would you give future students heading to Helsinki?

Don't be strapped for cash. Without money it will be tough to do many things. Try everything. Go to Nuuksio nature park in Espoo, a pub crawl in Helsinki, and hike around the islands on the coast... Helsinki is the best.

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