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Each year, international congress delegates visiting Finland are asked a simple question in our annual delegate survey: what was the highlight of your visit? Their answers go far beyond conference halls and meeting rooms. They paint a vivid picture of Finland as experienced through moments of nature, culture, everyday ease and human encounters. Together, these delegate insights offer a compelling view of what leaves a lasting impression on international visitors and why Finland stands out as a congress destination long after the event has ended.
International delegates most frequently praised the high-quality conference content. The academic and professional value of the congresses (presentations, sessions, symposiums, and discussions) was the single most-mentioned highlight. Many delegates emphasized the interesting talks and speakers and noted the high academic level of the programs. In fact, about 20% of respondents specifically cited the conference program itself as a highlight of their trip, underscoring the importance of delivering strong content.
Finland’s natural beauty stood out to many delegates, particularly the lakes, forests, beautiful landscapes and unique phenomena like the midnight sun. Many were enchanted by the long summer days with “sunlight until late night hours” and scenic wonders such as lake cruises, sunsets, national parks, and the archipelago. For example, one attendee described watching a “beautiful lake sunset” as a trip highlight, while another loved a “boat ride, sauna and swimming in the lake” under the midnight sun.
Many delegates were impressed by Finnish cuisine and dining experiences. Attendees talked about the “excellent food” served during conferences and local specialties to even sampling reindeer or bear meat, and memorable gala dinners at unique venues. One respondent highlighted a “gala dinner at Näsinneula with great food and superb views of the city” as a top memory. Others mentioned the overall quality of restaurants and cafe culture.
Participants also highlighted Finland’s culture and sightseeing opportunities, often by extending their stay or participating in organized tours. They enjoyed visiting museums, exploring Finnish architecture and design, and touring historical landmarks like Suomenlinna Sea Fortress in Helsinki. Some conference programs included city tours or excursions, which delegates appreciated. Cultural performances also left an impact; for example, a Finnish kantele music performance was singled out as a memorable moment by an attendee.
Opportunities to meet and exchange with peers were a key highlight for many. Delegates frequently mentioned “meeting colleagues and friends” and “networking with scientists in my field” as memorable parts of their trip. The social events surrounding the conferences, from coffee breaks and poster sessions to evening receptions and even impromptu karaoke nights, were valued as chances to build international connections in a relaxed setting.
Many of respondents specifically mentioned the friendly, welcoming nature of the Finnish people and the hospitality they experienced. Delegates consistently commented on how “people in Finland are very friendly, welcoming and helpful”. Many felt a warm welcome at conference venues and in host cities – from helpful staff and volunteers to friendly locals. This positive human interaction often enhanced their overall experience, as evidenced by comments like “a great country with great people” and “very helpful people”.
Finland’s excellent infrastructure, including the ease of getting around was also highlighted in the survey. Visitors were impressed by clean, efficient public transportation, the walkability and bike-friendliness of cities, and smooth connections. Many respondents noted the convenience of traveling by train between cities and the overall sense that cities like Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, and others are easy to navigate for foreigners.
Among the cultural highlights, the sauna experience deserves special mention. Some delegates explicitly cited visiting a sauna as a top highlight, and many more referenced it alongside other activities. For many, trying a Finnish sauna, sometimes followed by a dip in a lake or the sea, was an unforgettable, quintessentially Finnish experience. Respondents mentioned saunas in various contexts – from enjoying the Allas Sea Pool in Helsinki, to a “sauna party” during the conference social program, to an authentic wood sauna at a lakeside villa.
The delegates were delighted by Finland’s unique natural phenomena, notably the “midnight sun” during summer. Attendees from lower latitudes marveled at the long days and 24-hour daylight in Finnish summer, with some highlighting “sitting outside with friends from 5pm to midnight during the long twilight” as a cherished memory. Similarly, experiencing snowfall, especially for those from warmer countries, was exciting – one participant simply answered “snow in April” as their highlight. These comments underline how Finland’s northern climate, whether the summer sun or winter snow, can be a memorable novelty for visitors.
Read more: https://fcb.visitfinland.com/en/discover/news/finland-leaves-a-lasting-impression/
