Most Helsinkiites speak foreign languages and are well-educated. At work they get straight down to business, but are relaxed in their spare time and quite friendly once they get over their natural reservation. It is not at all unusual for them to invite complete strangers to visit their homes for a meal. The seasonal influence on life is strong. Helsinki's changeable weather calls for care in the choice of clothing.
Life is lived indoors much of the time in winter.
The centre of Helsinki has very extensive underground arcades , which enable people to get around without getting wet or cold, no matter how bad the weather is. A whole complex of tunnels and underground arcades connects the railway and metro stations with the Sokos and Stockmann department stores and the Forum shopping mall, which is right beside the Bus Station. Summer brings a complete transformation of the city. Lunch and a lot of oxygen in one or other of the many parks with which Helsinki is endowed fit neatly into any day, whether you are working or on holiday. Exercise amenities are everywhere in the form of everything from gyms and fitness centres to tennis courts, golf links and riding stables.