Helsinki, Finland

• Helsinki sits on a peninsula in the Baltic Sea, so you're always close to water. The Finnish approach to personal space is noticeable - people keep their distance on public transport and in queues. If you're used to chatty strangers, this can feel odd at first, but it also means nobody bothers you.
• Finns drink more coffee per capita than anywhere else, and cafes are set up for people to sit alone for hours with a book or laptop. English is widely spoken in central areas and tourist spots, though less so in residential neighborhoods. Service can be efficient but not particularly warm.
• Crime is low compared to other European capitals. Main concerns are pickpocketing around Central Railway Station in summer and some eastern suburbs you should avoid at night. Street lighting is good in central areas, and police are around in tourist zones.
• Public transport uses an honor system - you're supposed to buy tickets before boarding through the app or machines, with random inspections. Works well and feels safe even late, though in summer when it stays light until after 11pm, many people just walk instead.

Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken especially among younger people, in hotels, restaurants, tourist areas, and by emergency services. The 112 emergency line has English-speaking operators. Most signs in central Helsinki include English translations.

• Finns take personal space seriously - keep distance in lines and on public transport. They don't do small talk with strangers. Silence isn't awkward here, it's normal. Don't try to chat people up on trams or buses.
• Take your shoes off when entering homes and some public spaces like libraries. Punctuality matters - even 5 minutes late needs an apology. Tipping isn't expected since service is included in prices, but you can round up or leave 10% for really good service.
• Sauna culture is important. Public and hotel saunas are usually gender-separated and nudity is standard - swimwear is considered unhygienic. Keep quiet in the sauna, no loud talking. If you're uncomfortable being naked, you can wrap in a towel but people might look at you oddly.
• Finns are direct - they say what they mean without softening it. It's not rudeness, just their communication style. English is common especially with younger people and in service jobs, but learning a few words helps: 'kiitos' (thank you), 'anteeksi' (excuse me), 'hei' (hi).

• The city center is small enough to walk - most attractions and neighborhoods are 20-30 minutes from each other on foot. Sidewalks are kept clear year-round. If you're walking in winter darkness, locals wear reflectors so drivers can see them.
• Public transport has trams, metro, buses, local trains, and ferries run by HSL. You need to buy tickets before boarding through the HSL app, machines at stations, or R-kiosks. It's honor system with random inspections - if you're caught without a ticket, the fine is €100. Runs efficiently and late into the night.
• City bikes run April through October - 4,600 bikes at 460 stations. Day pass is €5, weekly €10, seasonal €35. There are 150km of bike lanes and shared roads. Biking is common and generally safe, though watch for tram tracks.
• Uber and Bolt both work here with licensed drivers. Compare prices on both apps. Don't hail taxis from the street - they charge more. Book through apps or call. A 20-minute ride runs about €25, which adds up if you use them regularly.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Helsinki with local guides and curated experiences.