Memorable experiences and great work opportunities

Angelika Zierl moved with her family from UK to Kuopio in 2023. Her husband got a great opportunity to work in the cutting-edge bio-tech industry. The whole family has enjoyed the life in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland.

Angelika Zierl is thrilled of the great leisure opportunities which Kuopio has to offer and appreciates that lots of investments are being made in the city for the benefit of its residents. Kuopio really strives to be the ‘Capital of the Good Life’!

What is the life like in Kuopio?

The community is very nice and child friendly. It is great that Kuopio is overall very safe. We appreciate the unspoiled nature. Fins overall have a very friendly attitude and are very welcoming to children. And, as we really enjoy the culinary experiences, the restaurants here often have a whole section for children to play in. That is unique compared to other countries.

I am also very intrigued by the Finnish culture. Even though we have not spent much time in Finland yet, I have already learned a lot about the Finnish history.

How do you see the leisure offerings at the area?

The leisure offerings are excellent. My husband, our son and I love the outdoors. There are lots of things we have already enjoyed, such as swimming in the lakes in summer and mountain bike tours through the forests.

There are also lots of things we are very much looking forward to, such as cross country-skiing in the winter once Kallavesi lake freezes over. We also enjoy hiking and therefore highly appreciate the pristine Finnish nature.

What kind of experiences the region has provided?

We have had lots of memorable experiences so far. Our favorite bike tour goes in a loop around the Southern part of Kallavesi lake. The scenery along the way is beautiful and the ferry crossing at Puutossalmi is a nice highlight every time.

As for our son, he loves Moomin Ice Cave and Vehmasmäki Animal Park. And we look forward to discovering the sport possibilities which Kuopio-Tahko have to offer year round.

Is it worth visiting Finland or living here?

I believe that Finland is on the bucket list for many people as a destination to travel to. It is worth a visit, and I hope more people will discover that Finland is a hidden gem. And personally, I would like to learn more about the Finnish “Sisu”.

This article was publiched in Kuopio by Nature 2024 magazine.

Teksti: Minna Akiola
Kuvat: Angelika Zierl