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Finnish Etiquette

We are going to be staying with friends in Helsinki for a few days. How do we thank them for hosting us? Is treating them to dinner sufficient? Or are flowers sent to their home more the norm? Or both?
Oh, and I believe they have a home sauna. Please tell me I can wear a bathing suit!?! Want to be invited back ;-)

Posted by
7706 posts

Is treating them to dinner sufficient?

That sounds like a nice gesture.

Oh, and I believe they have a home sauna. Please tell me I can wear a
bathing suit!?! Want to be invited back ;-)

Every family has their own traditions and norms and the best thing is to ask them. But in general, you don't wear bathing suits in a sauna in Finland. If you feel shy, use a towel. I'm not a sauna person, but from what I've heard from Finnish friends there is a big reason for that. Bathing clothes in a sauna get wet and hot and stick to your skin which can be uncomfortable, towels are much better for that reason.

Mandatory sauna music.

Posted by
25 posts

Thank you for your quick responses. Will be hoping for a big towel ;-)

Posted by
1489 posts

My Finnish friends also have a sauna. We went in same sex groups, so all the women took a sauna, and then afterwards then men. I was nervous before hand, but it was fine!

Posted by
583 posts

Remember that you're usually asked to take a shower first and get thoroughly clean before you go in the sauna.

At least that's been my domestic experience.

-- Mike

Posted by
1489 posts

Yes definitely a shower before the sauna. Your friends will explain everything to you and ensure you are comfortable. But definitely no bathing suits.