The world’s happiest country is giving away Finnish Lakeland trips

Last month, Visit Sweden announced it was “giving away” private islands (and a week-long stay) in a bid to introduce people to the country’s perspective on freedom and nature.

Now the Finnish tourism board is getting in on the action, too, by offering up all-expenses-paid trips where you will learn how to “chill like a Finn”.

Pointing to its credentials as the world’s happiest country, Visit Finland has said that a key part of being content in life is regularly resetting and recharging through time spent in nature.

Come summer, Finns flock to Europe’s largest lakeland region where they can bathe in saunas at waterside cottages, take cold dips in the lakes themselves, and head on forest walks.

“An increasing number of international tourists come to Finland searching for the secret to happiness, yet Lakeland is still an undiscovered gem for many,” Heli Jimenez, senior director for international marketing at Business Finland, said.

“It’s the region Finns themselves return to when they want to relax truly, and the perfect destination for anyone looking to step away from the noise of everyday life.”

Visit Finland is asking international tourists to apply to take part in the seven-day trip to the region, which is all about relaxation.

How to apply for a trip to Finnish Lakeland

Applicants will need to upload a short video on Instagram or TikTok introducing themselves and explaining what a Finnish summer escape in Lakeland would mean to them before filling out the form on ChillLikeaFinn.com.

You’ll need to submit details like your and your companion’s names, email addresses, social media handles and country of residence.

Only international tourists can apply, and either you or your co-applicant will need to have a valid driver’s license.

Applications are set to close at 10:59 pm CET on 29 March, and six duos will be selected for the trip, which will take place in June 2026.

Read the full article here