From Mika Häkkinen to Helsinki: My Story.

Hello! My love affair with Finland started back in 1998, when Mika Häkkinen became Formula 1 World Champion. I became fascinated by this small country in the north, and what started with admiration for a Finnish racing legend soon grew into a genuine passion for Finland. But it wasn’t only Formula 1 that drew me closer to Finnish culture. I also discovered the Finnish rock scene, and I became a particular fan of HIM and Ville Valo. Their music gave me another fascinating window into Finland and its unique atmosphere. Then there was the snow, the peacefulness, the tranquility and, of course, the sauna — all those things that make Finland feel so special to me. Do you know that Finland has around 5.6 million inhabitants and approximately 2.5 million saunas?! In 2010, I finally moved to Finland, and I have now lived and worked here for more than 15 years. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to experience Finland not simply as a visitor, but as someone who has made it my home. I love Finnish history, culture and everyday life, and I especially enjoy discovering the stories behind the places we walk past every day. On my Helsinki walking tour, I want to show you more than just the famous sights. We’ll walk through the streets of the city, discover its history and architecture, and I’ll share plenty of anecdotes and personal stories along the way. I’ll also tell you about the Finnish way of life — the traditions, mentality and little details that make Finland so unique. And perhaps, along the way, you’ll understand why someone who first discovered Finland through Mika Häkkinen, Finnish rock and snowy landscapes eventually decided to call this country home. My goal is simple: I want you to finish the tour feeling that you have not only seen Helsinki, but actually got to know it. So, if you’re curious about Helsinki and would like to discover the city with someone who genuinely loves Finland, I’d be delighted to be your guide. Welcome to Helsinki — I’m looking forward to showing you around!