Despite everything that’s gone on in the world over the last few years, Finland has remained a very happy place to be. It’s claimed the top spot in the UN’s World Happiness report for the last six years, and for the second year in a row, the country is preparing to let us in on its happiness secrets.
If you’re keen to learn how the Finns stay so content, now is your chance. Visit Finland and Helsinki Partners are welcoming some lucky guests to a five-day happiness masterclass from June 9 to 14, led by the Helsinki Happiness Hackers. Best of all? The whole trip – return flights included – will be completely free.
The happiness hackers consist of Lena Salmi, a 70-year-old former swimmer and sports journalist who skateboards around Helsinki; Adela Pajunen, a biologist and writer who advocates nature-focussed wellness; and Luka Bala, a restaurateur whose ethos is rooted deeply in sustainability. If you’re gonna learn about happiness, it sounds like this is the lot to teach it.
So, what does the masterclass entail? Well, a couple of examples of what you’ll get up to include wild swimming, which is a year-round activity in Helsinki, made ridiculously easy by the stunning nature that surrounds the city. Taking a walk through the woods is also on the cards, as it’s a great way to improve your mood – it’s even recommended by local doctors to alleviate stress.
If you’re intrigued or keen to learn more about the best ways to stay happy, you can find more information, and apply to the trip right here. Applications close on April 4, 2024.
In the meantime, here is a list of the very best things to do in Helsinki.
Read more: Cold and miserable? This is how the Finns stay happy in winter
Did you see that this street has just been named the coolest in the world?
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