It’s no mere coincidence that I was born on July 27, believe in Santa Claus, cherish silence, and adore the whimsical Moomins. Finland is truly the land of happiness! This year, the United Nations (UN) published its twelfth annual World Happiness Report, and once again, Finland claimed the crown as the happiest country in the world, a remarkable achievement for the seventh consecutive year. This enchanting place is home to Santa Claus, the mesmerizing Northern Lights, beloved Moomins, and tranquil nature, characterized by serene lakes, vast swamps, and lush dark green forests, all suffused with clean air and… silence.

First on the Wish List

I am almost certain that most travellers have a bucket list of dream destinations and experiences. Among these, the awe-inspiring natural phenomenon known as the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, often shines brightly. This breathtaking display can be seen in polar regions from September to April, though its visibility is influenced by various factors—like the star under which we were born and the favour of the Nordic gods. For me, the ethereal dance of green light against a backdrop of pink over the town of Rovaniemi in Lapland remains one of the most stunning experiences I’ve ever had.

Countless Shades of Green—In the Sky and on Earth

Finns believe that the secret to happiness lies in a deep connection with nature. Over 70 percent of Finland is blanketed in forests, brimming with a bounty of wild fruits. In summer, a short stroll through the woods can reward you with a basketful of fresh berries, while the embrace of towering pines, spruces, and birches brings smiles to our faces and enhances our sense of inner peace. Measurements taken in Finnish cities reveal that the air here is among the cleanest in the world.

As winter blankets the northern landscape, it transforms into a magical realm of snow-covered wonder. A thrilling yet romantic ride on a snowmobile or a dog sled through the endless snowy Lapland forests beneath an emerald-green sky is my personal path to happiness. Here, I find solace by a campfire, sheltered by the tallest spruces and pines I’ve ever encountered.

First Among the Happiest Inhabitants

Alongside his iconic name, the mystery of where the world’s most beloved man resides is equally famous and intriguing. Almost every northern country, from Greenland to Denmark, has contended for the title of Santa Claus’s homeland. For years, this was a closely guarded secret known only to the elves, who revealed that Santa resides on the Korvatunturi hill in the northeastern part of Lapland, close to the North Pole. To this day, how this well-kept secret surfaced remains somewhat of a mystery. Known as Joulupukki in Finnish, Santa leads a tranquil life with Mrs. Claus, the elves, reindeer, and his canine companions in a home that is accessible only to those who have the time to find it.

During the Christmas season, Santa is largely on the go, spreading joy around the globe. Yet for the remainder of the year, he resides in his office at Santa’s Village, a magical place where anyone can visit, share their wishes, chat, and even snap a selfie. This village is home to the world’s most enchanting post office, receiving millions of letters from around the world. You can even drop off a Christmas card in a special mailbox, ensuring it reaches its recipient by the next Christmas. The large building housing Santa’s office also features various workshops and offices for elves, a logistics centre for wish letters, and the delightfully aromatic room of Mrs. Claus.

More Saunas than Televisions

Estimates suggest that Finland boasts around 188,000 lakes and ponds, roughly the same number of islands, and over two million saunas—outnumbering televisions! Finland leads the world in the number of saunas per capita. For Finns, the sauna is not just a relaxation space; it’s a cherished part of their identity. It serves as a venue for socializing, unwinding, and even conducting business meetings. Regular visits are believed to bolster both body and mind, enhancing the immune system and reducing stress. If you ask a Finn, they might tell you that happiness can be found in the sauna, much like in a steaming cup of coffee. Finns are among the highest consumers of coffee globally, drinking an average of 12 kilograms per person each year—double the amount consumed by Italians. Interestingly, while Italians favour a concentrated espresso, Northern Europeans tend to prefer a lighter brew.

Forget “Hygge,” It’s Time for “Sisu”

While the Danes have introduced the world to the cozy concept of “hygge,” emphasizing comfort and the joy of small pleasures, the Finnish philosophy of “sisu” represents something different. It embodies determination, courage, and perseverance in everyday life, empowering individuals to achieve their goals and find happiness, even when faced with challenges.

The Festival of Sleepyheads in Moominvalley

Nestled just a two-hour drive west of Helsinki lies Naantali, a Finnish tourist hotspot. This charming coastal town is also the heart of Moominvalley, home to Finland’s most beloved cartoon characters, the Moomins. Created by Finnish-Swedish author and artist Tove Jansson, these whimsical, philosophical beings have captured hearts worldwide through books, comics, animations, cartoons, theatrical performances, and even opera. In Naantali, on the island of Kailo, you can visit the Moomin World theme park, and a Moomin Museum opened in Tampere in 2017.

The Moomins, who love to frolic and play, also enjoy hibernating through winter. They’ve witnessed the Northern Lights countless times and marvelled at the enchanting snowy landscapes. They understand well the importance of sleep for body and mind, as well as for happiness and “sisu.” In Finland, sleep is held in high regard alongside coffee, saunas, and heavy metal music. In fact, on July 27, they celebrate a national holiday known as “Unikeonpäivä,” or Sleepyhead Day, which is rooted in the legend of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus.