Traveling to Lapland: Will English be enough in Finland?

Are you planning a trip to Lapland? One of the first things you may wonder is whether you can get by speaking English. This is a common concern among tourists visiting Finland, as the country has two official languages: Finnish and Swedish. However, English is widely spoken and understood in Finland, especially in the cities and major tourist areas like Lapland. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.

Can I Speak English in Lapland?

If you are a native English speaker, you can rest assured that you will be able to communicate with most people in Lapland, as well as in other parts of Finland. According to a recent survey, more than 70% of Finns speak English, and most of those who do speak it fluently.

While Finnish and Swedish remain important languages in Finland, English has become the language of international commerce and tourism. Signs in public places, including airports and train stations, are usually in Finnish, Swedish and English. Almost all hotels, restaurants, and shops have staff members who speak English. Even some of the local people in Lapland speak English fluently.

English Language Education in Finland

One reason why English is widely spoken in Finland is the education system. Finnish children start studying English in elementary school, and they continue to study it until they finish high school. In addition, English is often used as the language of instruction in Finnish universities, particularly in master’s and doctoral programs.

As a result, most Finns have had numerous years of English instruction, giving them a solid foundation in the language. Many have also traveled extensively or studied abroad, further honing their English skills.

Other Languages Spoken in Lapland

While English is the most commonly spoken foreign language in Lapland, it is not the only language you may encounter. Russian is also quite prevalent, particularly in Rovaniemi and other areas near the Russian border. This is due to the fact that Finland shares a 1300-kilometer (800-mile) border with Russia, and there is extensive trade and other ties between the two countries.

In addition, there are many other languages spoken by tourists and expats in Lapland. Scandinavian languages like Norwegian and Danish are often heard, as are German and French. However, it’s important to note that English is by far the most useful language for non-native speakers in Finland.

Tips for Communicating in Lapland

While you can certainly get by with English in Lapland, there are a few tips to keep in mind to help you communicate more effectively:

• Learn a few basic Finnish phrases, such as “kiitos” (thank you) and “hei” (hello/goodbye). This will show that you are making an effort to communicate and will be appreciated by the locals.
• If possible, try to contact hotels, restaurants, and other service providers in advance to confirm that they have English-speaking staff. This will save you some potential hassle later on.
• Be patient and speak clearly. If you are having trouble understanding someone or making yourself understood, try to slow down and simplify your language. Avoid using idioms or slang that may not be familiar to non-native speakers.
• Carry a small English-Finnish phrasebook or use a translation app on your smartphone. This can be helpful in situations where you need to convey something more complex than “yes” or “no.”

In Conclusion

Overall, you should have no trouble communicating in English during your visit to Lapland. While Finnish and Swedish are still important languages in Finland, English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in tourist areas like Lapland. By following a few simple tips and being patient, you will be able to navigate your way around and enjoy all that Lapland has to offer.