Living in Slovenia and abroad offers a unique perspective on different cultures and lifestyles. In Slovenia, the landscape is diverse, from the majestic Alps to the beautiful Adriatic coastline. The people are known for their hospitality and love for nature. There’s a strong sense of community, and the pace of life feels balanced between the old-world charm and modern conveniences. Living in Slovenia also offers the opportunity to explore neighboring countries like Austria, Italy, and Croatia. However, living abroad brings about different experiences and challenges. Having been in Finland for two weeks now, I’ve had the chance to see life from a new perspective. The first couple of weeks were an adjustment, as I settled into the rhythm of Finnish life. Finnish culture is known for its simplicity and respect for personal space, which contrasts sharply with the more communal and open nature of Slovenians. The long, dark winters here are a stark difference from Slovenia’s milder climate, but the peaceful surroundings and beautiful snow-covered landscapes have a charm of their own. Public transportation in Finland is efficient, and the cities are designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind. In Slovenia, cities are smaller, and you often rely on your own car, but both countries have strong environmental awareness. Finnish food is simple yet hearty, often based on fish, root vegetables, and berries, and although it’s different from Slovenian cuisine, there’s a certain comfort in both. I’ve enjoyed learning the language, but Finnish is definitely challenging, a far cry from Slovenian, which shares more linguistic roots with other Slavic languages. Living abroad allows for personal growth, and I’ve been exposed to new ways of thinking, working, and interacting with others. It can be isolating at times, especially during the long nights of Finnish winter, but it also encourages self-reflection. The contrast between life in Slovenia and Finland reminds me that no matter where we are, the sense of belonging can be found through the people we meet and the connections we make.