Sandrine looks at Helsinki also through her childrens' eyes. According to her and many others, the city is very honest and safe for the whole family. The kids can move around quite independently either by foot, bike or public transport.
“We have children aged 10 and 13, and Helsinki is just the perfect place for them to grow up. They can bike or walk on their own to their friends’ houses and school. Even the city centre is safe and quiet.
I am amazed by how Finnish people treat kids. One time, my son took the tram in the wrong direction. When he realised he was going the wrong way, a total stranger helped him. She finally took him to the right place! Our family likes to go on strolls by the seaside and go swimming at the Allas Sea Pool beside Kauppatori, the main market square. I do my weekly shopping at the Hakaniemi Market Hall where I can get fresh ingredients for cooking. In our free time my daughter and I love to go to the opera.”
Society that works – also in English
Sandrine talks a lot about her appreciation for the society and services of Helsinki. There is very little bureaucracy, people are polite and almost all services are available also in English.
“I am still astonished by how organised and well-functioning Finland is. Public transport is always on time and there are rarely any strikes. Also in general I like how there are certain rules that apply to everyone. As a French person, I have learned completely new skills here, such as being patient while queuing. Once you break the ice, Finns are very warm-hearted people. We made many good friends during our first stay in Helsinki, from 2007 to 2012. They were definitely one of the reasons why we wanted to move back here. Our children have made many friends, too. Finland might be a cold country, but the people are warm inside!”
Wellbeing from the nature and urban activities
Wellbeing was one of the reasons why Sandrine wanted to return to Helsinki. The size of the city is perfect for them, offering both urban services and clean nature.
”Our family likes to spend time in nature and we go mushroom and berry picking right next to our house. You can reach the Central Park or other forest-like parks very quickly, so it’s no exaggeration to say nature is nearby. But even though nature is right there around you, Helsinki is still truly urban! There are lots of activities to choose from, and the public transport network covers the whole city. My daughter is a figure skater and my son plays ice hockey - I love how there are so many hobbies for children to choose from.”