Moving to a new country often comes with its own set of challenges, from understanding local customs to navigating the bureaucratic necessities. Finland, known for its stunning natural landscapes and high quality of life, is no different. To make your transition as smooth as possible, there are several apps that can help you settle in and truly start enjoying your new life in Finland.
Navigational Tools
Google Maps: An essential app no matter where you are in the world. Google Maps offers detailed maps and navigational routes not only for driving but also for walking, cycling, and public transportation, which are popular modes of transit in Finland.
112 Suomi: A vital app for emergencies, 112 Suomi enables you to call the emergency services and automatically sends your location to them, ensuring quick response times.
Language Assistance
Google Translate: While many Finns speak excellent English, learning Finnish or Swedish (the two official languages of Finland) can be helpful. Google Translate can assist in translating everyday words and phrases.
Mondly: If you’re committed to learning Finnish, Mondly is a great tool. It offers daily lessons, conversational practice, and interactive exercises to improve your language skills effectively.
Weather Awareness
Foreca: Finland’s weather can be quite unpredictable. Foreca provides accurate local weather forecasts to help you dress and plan activities accordingly.
Yr.no: Known for its precision, this Norwegian weather app is popular in the Nordic countries, including Finland. It offers hourly weather updates, which are crucial during Finland’s long winter months or midsummer heatwaves.
Local News and Media
YLE Uutiset: As Finland’s national public broadcasting company, YLE offers news in English and Finnish. Keeping up with local news is important for understanding Finnish culture and issues that may affect you.
HS – Helsingin Sanomat: For those in the Helsinki area, this app provides leading news coverage. It’s also available in English, which can be a great tool for expats to get detailed insights into local affairs.
Financial Management
MobilePay: This app is widely used in Finland for making payments in stores, restaurants, and even between friends. It’s a must-have for cashless transactions.
Nordea Mobile: If you’re banking with Nordea, which is one of the largest financial services groups in the Nordic region, their mobile app will help you manage your accounts, make payments, and even handle loan applications.
TransferWise: Now known as Wise, this app is essential for expats who need to make international money transfers. It offers transparent fees and real exchange rates.
Social Integration and Community
Meetup: This app helps you find groups and events near you, organized around particular interests or activities. It’s a great way to meet new people and integrate into the community.
Internations: Specifically designed for expats, Internations offers community support, local events, and networking opportunities in Finland. It’s a valuable resource for making connections and getting acclimated.
Shopping and Services
Tori.fi: Think of Tori.fi as Finland’s answer to Craigslist. Whether you’re looking for furniture, a car, or even a flat, this app can be very helpful.
Foodie.fm: This app is linked to several Finnish grocery chains and allows you to order food and household items online, either for delivery or pick-up. It’s especially useful during the snowy months.
Wolt: For food delivery, Wolt offers services from a wide range of restaurants across Finland. Whether you crave local Finnish cuisine or something more exotic, Wolt can bring it to your doorstep.
Healthcare and Well-being
Mehiläinen: An app linked to one of Finland’s largest private healthcare providers. It allows you to book appointments, receive remote consultations, and even view your medical records.
Omaolo: This public health app provides symptom assessments and can direct you to the appropriate healthcare services based on your needs. It’s a valuable tool, especially when you’re still familiarizing yourself with the Finnish healthcare system.
Conclusion
Adjusting to life in Finland as an expat can be a thrilling adventure. By equipping yourself with these essential apps, you can ensure that your transition is seamless, leaving you more time to explore the beautiful landscapes, experience the unique culture, and make the most of your new home in Finland. Whether it’s through mastering the language, navigating local transport, or enjoying Finnish culinary delights at home, these apps will provide you with the support you need to thrive in Finland.
