Your group chat is buzzing, your inbox is endless, and meanwhile, Finland is over here winning at life…again. The Nordic nation has officially been crowned the world’s happiest country for the ninth year in a row, and now it’s inviting travelers to try something radical (at least by New York standards): absolutely nothing.
To celebrate its latest win in the World Happiness Report 2026, Finland is encouraging travelers to ditch the doomscrolling and embrace slow living with a chance to win a free seven-day digital detox. Think: lakeside saunas, quiet forest strolls, and not a single Slack notification in sight.
The Science of Logging Off
The 2026 report takes a closer look at how social media and constant connectivity impact wellbeing–and spoiler: it’s not great. Research continues to show that too much time online can negatively affect mental health.
Finland’s solution? Log off and touch grass.
Often praised for its deep connection to nature and balanced lifestyle, Finland leans into the idea that happiness isn’t something you chase–it’s something you find in simple, everyday moments like swimming in a clear lake, heating up the sauna, wandering through the forest, or sharing a meal with friends at a summer cottage.
And now, they want you to experience it for yourself.
The 7-day ‘Chill Like a Finn’ Challenge
Through this new tourism initiative, six lucky duos will win a free seven-day summer stay in Finnish Lakeland, one of Europe’s largest lake regions known for its serene landscapes and cottage culture.
Instead of a jam-packed itinerary, the experience is all about slowing down and embracing the essentials of Finnish relaxation:
- Lakeside cottage living
- Traditional sauna and refreshing lake swims
- Time spent in forests and nature
- Seasonal food and good company
- Outside activities like biking, paddleboarding, kayaking, and river rafting
And, perhaps most importantly, you’re encouraged to do it all sans phone.
How to Apply (Deadline: March 29)
Applying is simple–and yes, it involves social media (ironically):
- Step 1: post a video on Instagram or TikTok with a partner introducing yourselves and answering the question “What do you imagine a Finnish summer holiday in Lakeland looking like?” (be sure to use the hashtag #ChillLikeAFinn and tag @ourfinland on Instagram or @visitfinland.com on TikTok!)
- Step 2: fill out the online application form so organizers can contact you if selected
Applications are open now through March 29, 2026 at 4:59 pm EST.
Who is Eligible?
Visit Finland is selecting six pairs of outgoing travelers ready to unplug this June. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Speak English
- Be private individuals (not brands or companies)
- Be comfortable filming, being filmed, and sharing their experience
- Have at least one person in the pair able to drive (valid license required)
Trip timeline
Selected participants will be notified throughout April, with a public announcement on Visit Finland’s Instagram and TikTok channels on April 21, 2026.
Here’s what the trip looks like:
- June 11: arrive in Helsinki, Finland
- June 12: travel to Lakeland for the experience
- June 17: return to Helsinki
- June 18: fly home
If you fall in love with the no-phone lifestyle (you probably will), you’re welcome to extend your stay at your own expense.
As one rep from Visit Finland put it: in Finland, happiness isn’t something you chase—it’s something you stumble upon in quiet, ordinary moments. And honestly, that might be the most refreshing travel trend we’ve heard all year.
