A Glimpse of Finland
Finland, widely recognized as the happiest nation on Earth, offers an array of captivating experiences for any explorer. From pristine, snow-capped vistas
and the enchanting Santa Claus Village to the breathtaking beauty of the Lakeland region, perfect for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, the country provides a diverse tapestry of attractions. To commemorate its esteemed title, Visit Finland, the national tourism board, has launched an innovative initiative inviting individuals to personally encounter the Finnish way of life. This special 7-day challenge, centered around the concept of 'chilling like a Finn,' aims to provide a profound connection with the tranquility and joy that defines this Nordic gem.
Lakeland's Serene Escape
This exceptional program centers around the Finnish Lakeland, a region renowned for its unparalleled natural splendor. Envision a landscape dotted with shimmering lakes, expansive, verdant forests, and gently undulating hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. Dubbed 'the coolest lake region in the world' and noted as Europe’s largest lake district, it represents the ultimate summer sanctuary for the nation that consistently ranks highest in global happiness indices. Heli Jimenez, senior director of international marketing at Business Finland, highlighted that while many tourists seek Finland's happiness formula, Lakeland remains a relatively untouched treasure for numerous international visitors. She elaborated that it's the very destination Finns themselves retreat to for genuine relaxation, making it an ideal locale for anyone yearning to escape the pressures and cacophony of daily existence and reconnect with a more peaceful rhythm of life.
Embracing the Finnish Summer
Accompanying this captivating campaign is a compelling video that artfully encapsulates the spirit of a Finnish summer and the unique ways locals celebrate this cherished season. The narrative emphasizes that Finland, as the world's happiest country, cherishes all four distinct seasons, but summer holds a particularly special place in their hearts due to the traditional summer holiday period. The video vividly describes the ritual of packing and heading to lakeside cabins, which serve as personal havens for discovering one's 'state of happiness' and achieving a natural 'flow.' Mornings are characterized by leisurely wake-up calls, followed by outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or visiting friends. The day culminates in shared meals, often involving grilling, followed by the revitalizing experience of sauna and a refreshing dip in the lake, before a period of relaxation, only to repeat this idyllic cycle. This portrays a lifestyle deeply connected to nature and communal well-being.
How to Apply
For those eager to participate in this exclusive 7-day Finnish adventure, the application process is designed to be straightforward yet engaging. Open to individuals worldwide, the challenge requires applicants to complete two key steps. Initially, you and a chosen partner must produce a video for either Instagram or TikTok. This video should introduce yourselves and creatively answer the prompt: 'What do you imagine a Finnish summer holiday in Lakeland looking like?' Subsequently, you'll need to fill out the official application form on the designated website, ensuring you include a link to your social media video submission. Importantly, you can team up with anyone you wish – a romantic partner, a close friend, a family member, or even a neighbor – provided both individuals are at least 18 years of age. The window for submitting applications closes on March 29, 2026, at 11:59 pm EEST, which translates to 3:29 am IST.
