Finns are said to be relatively quiet and shy, but straightforward and honest. Visitors who take the initiative will soon overcome the first difculties in becoming acquainted. The four distinct seasons mould the Finnishcharacter.

Life in geral is much more relaxed in the summer than in the winter. Bathing in the sauna and boating form an essential part of summer cottage life. In the autumn people also visit their cottages and go out into the forest to pick berries and mushrooms. The sauna is an excellent place forrelaxation and it is said that in the sauna everyone is equal.

Finnish families are typically small, few having more than three children. Single parents are not uncommon. It should be pointed out that there is a strong tradition of female emancipation in Finland. About 50 per cent of the women with children under 18 years have a regular job, and well over 50 per cent of the university students are female.

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