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Christmas is a time to spend quality time with your family. However, for some international students, especially those from outside Europe, it is very unlikely that they can travel back home to enjoy Christmas with their families. Alone at Christmas doesn’t sound too nice, but there are several activities you can do to keep you occupied through the holidays. Continue reading to learn how to make your Christmas season meaningful even when you’re away from home.
There are two ways that you can spend Christmas in Finland as an international student.
1. hang out with other international students
If you prefer not to spend Christmas on your own, you can hang out with other international students. Many of them might be in your situation and are opting to stay in Finland for Christmas. There are several fun things you can do with them.
Since all shops are closed, and there is no public transportation available on December 25, you should go grocery shopping beforehand. You can cook a Christmas meal together and invite everybody who would be spending Christmas alone. If the group shares the same hobbies, coming up with activities is not too difficult. If there is no common hobbies, it is not the end of the world. Watching movies, playing board games (Monopoly, Uno, Clue, and the list goes on), or drinking games (beer pong) are all entertaining and merry ways to celebrate Christmas. Spending time with the right people and having fun together creates good memories. You can also develop a stronger mentality by accepting the fact that your family cannot be with you.
2. Holiday games and leisure trips
If you want to spend time on your own, you can still make your Christmas meaningful for yourself. Now, pick up a pen and list out all the activities that you have been too busy to do before. The time you have now is all dedicated to yourself. You can go out for a walk and enjoy the silence and fresh air in peace. At home, treat yourself to good, nutritious food, as well as some of your favorite shows, movies, or books. Moreover, do not forget to make a phone call to your family, who are waiting for your call, and are always beside you when you are really in need. Good mental health is one of the most valuable gifts you can give to yourself during this most beautiful season.
Read more:
HOLIDAYS IN FINLAND EVERY INTERNATIONAL STUDENT WILL LOVE!
We wish you all a memorable holiday season!
