Finland

Contrary to popular belief, Finland has relatively warm summers. Finnish Lapland is home to the Midnight Sun, when the sun doesn't set at all for two months! The snowy Finnish winter provides an excellent opportunity for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey throughout the country.

Finnish people identify strongly with the beautiful nature that surrounds them. The blue and white of the Finnish flag echo the thousands of lakes and the lush winter snow. Although there are many urban areas, you are never too far from green forests, bright blue skies, and fresh air. Finns truly appreciate nature as a source of tranquility and energy which brings balance to their busy lifestyles.

Although both parents often work, Finnish families get together on weekends to visit their lakeside summer cottages or to watch and participate in sports. The most popular sports are ice hockey, skiing, soccer, and track and field. Young Finns are often given quite a bit of freedom, but they also have a lot of responsibility. Loyalty and reliability are essential ingredients of Finnish families, and Finnish children usually come and go by themselves, thanks to a safe country and a good public transportation system.

Language

Finnish and Swedish. Previous language study is not required.
Host Family Placement
YFU host families live throughout Finland.

School

School begins in mid-August, breaks for a Christmas holiday, resumes in early January, breaks for a one-week winter holiday, and ends in May. 

Pastimes

Sauna, outdoor activities, internet, sports, reading, theatre, movies, music, and concerts.

Program	Departure	Cost (CAD)
Summer	Late June	$6735
Semester	August	$8500
Semester	January	$8250
Year	August	$8950