Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wireless internet access is very widespread; several cities have extensive networks and
nearly all hotels, as well as many restaurants, cafes and bars, offer free access to custom-
ers and guests.
Data is very cheap. If you've got an unlocked smartphone, you can pick up a local SIM
card for a few euros and charge it with a month's worth of data at a decent speed for under
€20. Ask at R-kioski shops for the latest deals.
Money
Finland adopted the euro (€) in 2002. Euro notes come in five, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and
500 denominations and coins in five, 10, 20, 50 cents and €1 and €2. The one- and two-
cent coins used in other Eurozone nations are not accepted in Finland. See Need to Know
for
exchange rates
.
Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted and Finns are dedicated users of the plastic even to buy a
beer or cup of coffee.
Using ATMs with a credit or debit card is by far the easiest way of getting cash in Finland.
ATMs have a name, Otto, and can be found even in small villages.
Moneychangers
Travellers cheques and cash can be exchanged at banks and, in the big cities, independent
Tipping
Service is considered to be included in bills, so there's no need to tip at all unless you want
to reward exceptional service. Doormen in bars and restaurants expect a cloakroom tip if
there's no mandatory coat charge.
Opening Hours
Many attractions in Finland, particularly outdoor ones, only open for a short summer sea-
son, typically mid-June to late August. Opening hours tend to shorten in winter in general.
Sample opening hours:
Alko (state alcohol store)
9am-8pm Monday to Friday, to 6pm Saturday
