10 Things We Learned in Finland (KK/LL)

1. Black licorice is a big deal in some countries. This is one of them.

2. Every reindeer in Finland has an owner (like cattle) There are about 220K in Lappish, Finland (vs 180k people), and the government controls the herd (#s to cull for meat, etc) Reindeer meat is sold in all the restaurants from low-end Reindogs to high-end Reindeer steak.

3. The government owns all the liquor stores and the casinos. They control the "vices." That said, Finland has excellent government subsidized healthcare and employment programs. Connection?

4. Nightclubs are lit in Finland. The "night"life goes all night. We could feel the pulsating beat coming from all around at night. Guess there's not a lot to do up near the Arctic Circle.

5. Sami clothing (4-star hat and silver/gold bows) signifying a man's maritial status

6. The Northern Lights do not like to be photographed.

7. Santa's level of capitalization on his name and image in Rovaniemi, Finland is astounding. He must have good representation.

8. Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, a sparsely populated area bordering Sweden, Norway, Russia and the Baltic Sea. It’s known for its vast subarctic wilderness, ski resorts and natural phenomena including the midnight sun and the Northern Lights.

9. The Finnish love their fresh berry juices, especially blueberry juice which they drink warm and cold. It's served in lieu of orange juice on FinnAir. They appear to be very nature-focused, with a relaxed and peaceful pace that is refreshing.

10. Finland has the distinction of being the first country in the world (1907) to grant women the right to vote! The following year 19 women were elected to their newly established 200-member parliament. Way to go Finland!