Travel Tips for Experiencing Finland's Traditional Smoke Saunas

1. Research and Choose a Sauna:

Look for traditional smoke saunas in Finland. Many local spas, resorts, and cottages offer this unique sauna experience. Do some research to find the best options and choose one that fits your needs and preferences.

2. Dress Appropriately:

Before entering the sauna, remove all your clothes and put on a towel or a robe. Finns typically go fully nude in saunas, but if you prefer more privacy, you can wear a swimsuit. Remember to bring your own towel for sitting on and drying off.

3. Preheat and Ventilate the Sauna:

When using a smoke sauna, it is crucial to preheat it properly. Start the fire early in the day, preferably a few hours before you plan to use the sauna. Make sure to ventilate the sauna properly before entering to get rid of any excess smoke.

4. Embrace the Experience:

Traditional smoke saunas offer a unique and authentic Finnish experience. Embrace the heat and slight smoky smell. The atmosphere is generally calm and quiet, so take this opportunity to relax and enjoy the solitude.

5. Take Breaks:

Remember that saunas can be incredibly hot, especially smoke saunas which can reach temperatures of 80-100 degrees Celsius (176-212 degrees Fahrenheit). Take frequent breaks outside the sauna to cool down, hydrate yourself, and relax.

6. Try Sauna Whisk:

During your sauna session, you can try using a sauna whisk or vihta. It is a bundle of fresh, leafy birch twigs used to gently whisk or pat the skin. This practice promotes blood circulation and adds an element of traditional Finnish sauna experience.

7. Practice Sauna Etiquette:

Respect Finnish sauna traditions by following sauna etiquette. It's customary to be quiet and avoid loud conversations or disturbances. Make sure to leave the sauna as clean as you found it. Also, remember to respect the privacy of others who may be using the sauna.

8. Rehydrate and Refresh:

After your sauna session, rehydrate yourself with plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages. Finnish saunas often have a lake or a cold shower nearby. Take the opportunity to cool down and refresh yourself by jumping into the cold water or taking a cold shower.

9. Understand Health Considerations:

While saunas are generally safe for most people, it's important to be aware of your own health condition. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as cardiovascular issues or respiratory problems, consult your doctor before using a sauna.