1. Darkness requires its own special tactics
In December and January, the sun sets in Helsinki soon after three o’clock in the afternoon. Although the darkness affects even the locals, most are used to it. You just have to figure out how to be seen.
The safety reflector is a Finnish invention that can found these days on everything from reflective vests to headlamps and even tiny reflective balls that can be attached to shoelaces. The reflective equipment is worn over other outdoor clothes to make it easier for motorists to see where you are walking.
According to Finnish road traffic law, it is in fact compulsory for people moving in the dark to use the appropriate reflectors. Information campaigns are held regularly to make sure everyone understands the importance of being seen in the dark.
2. Public transport will get you there
Have you seen in the news how blizzards have paralysed traffic in some of the world’s biggest cities? Things are different in Helsinki. No matter how much snow falls, drivers in Helsinki confidently set out on the road and trust that they will get to their destinations.
Of course, cars are relatively little used in Helsinki: 46% of journeys are made on foot, 24% using public transport and 9% by bike. Considering the challenging conditions in wintertime, public transport is hardly affected. Buses, trains and the metro will get you to your destination efficiently even when it is freezing outside.
If anyone accidently blocks the tram tracks by parking their car badly, a towing truck will soon arrive to resolve the problem – though the owner of the car will have to pay a fine for having their vehicle moved!
3. Hit the slopes
Helsinki has been named the most active municipality in Finland, and 74% of locals enjoy healthy recreation during their free time. As soon as there is enough snow on the ground, they will take out their sleds and skis and hit the slopes.
It is not uncommon to see Finns on trams holding their skis, as the trails in Central Park can be accessed almost from the city centre. Excellent cross-country skiing trails can also be found in nearby Tali and Herttoniemi. There are also plenty of sledding opportunities in the city, especially in the Kaivopuisto and Sinebrychoff parks. You can find a comprehensive list of sledding hills in Helsinki here.
You can even rent a sled at Paloheinä, but if you can’t get your hands on one, you can always go down the sledding hills sitting on a plastic bag!
4. Black on black
Locals in Helsinki take winter seriously, and you can tell by the way they dress. Every self-respecting Finn has proper winter boots that prevent them from slipping on the ice while keeping their toes nice and warm.
Their typical wardrobe also includes a decent overcoat, gloves and a woollen hat, which they also love to wear. The everyday clothes of most locals are usually earth-toned or dark in colour (if not completely black), but this just makes all the wonderful colour accents stand out better. Helsinki is also known for its vibrant street style, including the prototypes of internationally recognised young designers, bold do-it-yourself creations and, of course, lots of Marimekko!
5. Hop on your bike
Most people in other countries would not even think of taking out their bicycles when it is snowing or freezing cold outside. Finns are different: according to one British newspaper, Finland leads the field when it comes to winter cycling. The popularity of winter cycling here is even growing, as locals seek easily accessible extreme experiences.
If you have never tried it before, just remember to ride slowly, always use lamps in the dark, and wear enough layers to keep you from freezing to your saddle!
