Finland Gave 12 Travelers a Free Trip to Learn About Happiness
If you have ever wondered why Finland keeps being named the happiest country in the world, 12 travelers recently got the chance to find out. The company Visit Finland selected some lucky people for a free trip earlier this summer.
The seven-day experience, called Chill Like a Finn, took place in the Finnish Lakeland in June. Six people were chosen, and each one was allowed to bring someone with them for the vacation.
The guests stayed near the water and learned how Finnish people spend their summer vacations.
Visit Finland has now shared the activities so other travelers can plan a similar vacation if they want a true Finland experience that isn’t just about visiting tourist attractions.
Visit Finland Selected 6 Pairs of Travelers
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People from around the world were invited to apply for the all-expenses-paid trip. According to Visit Finland, the application had two parts.
Travelers first completed a form on the campaign’s website. They also posted a short video on Instagram or TikTok introducing themselves and explaining what a week in Lakeland would mean to them.
Happiness Meant Saunas and Lake Swims
The week focused on how many Finns relax during the summer. That included living in a lakeside cottage, using a sauna, swimming and spending time in the forest.
Other possible activities included hiking in Kolovesi National Park, fishing on Lake Saimaa and gathering food in Koli National Park. Guests were also encouraged to put away their phones and take a break from being online.
The campaign followed another good year for the country. Finland finished first in the World Happiness Report for the ninth year in a row in 2026.
Anyone Can Follow the Same Guide
The free trip is over, but the Chill Like a Finn website now explains how other people can try the same activities.
The guide recommends renting a cottage, eating local foods and visiting one of Lakeland’s national parks. Travelers can also go kayaking, pick berries or spend the day moving between a sauna and the lake.
You will have to pay for your own trip, but it certainly sounds like a great way to have a happy vacation.
