| Finnish Custom |
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| Wednesday,August 15,2007 Posted: 19:12 BJT(12 GMT) |
| From:Finland Article type:Reproduced |
"Behave in every country according to their customs."
(Finnish saying)
People who have already lived in Finland for a while have observed certain Finnish customs. We have collected some of those observations here.
• Punctuality is very important to the Finns. Never be late for meetings, as this is considered very impolite in Finland. Be on time!
• Do not raise your voice when you talk to Finns, especially not in public! Speaking in a loud voice is considered rude, as Finns themselves are quiet.
• Remember to look Finns in the eye. Looking down or to the side is a sign of dishonesty in Finland.
• If you want to visit a Finnish friend, always let them know in advance. Privacy is very important to the Finns.
• When you visit a Finnish home, always take off your shoes or bring a pair of shoes you can wear indoors with you.
• Always remember to say ‘Thank you’ after a meal if you have been invited for a dinner.
• It is usual for all Finns to pay for their own meal in a restaurant. You can still politely suggest that you would be happy to pay for your companion’s meal.
• Finnish people drink coffee all the time and everywhere, for instance meetings always begin with a cup of coffee.
• Do not be surprised if no one comes to sit next to you on the bus. Remember privacy!
• Dishonesty is the worst sin of all to the Finns.
• Going to a sauna in Finland, even without clothes, has nothing to do with sex – a sauna is a sacred place for the Finns.
• Remember to respect the nature. Nature is very close to a Finn’s heart.
• Finnish society is very organised. Also, remember to queue!
• Avoid commenting on the Finnish way of life. You may get your fingers burned!
• Silence at night is required in tower blocks normally after 10pm. The communal hallways usually have information on the times of silence. Do not disturb!
Updated: August 2007 |
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