Finnish pair Samu and Heli Trade Finnish Saunas for Sunny Destination
In 2024, Heli and Samu, a Finnish couple, embarked on a new journey, leaving their homeland behind and settling in Spain. Their quest for a healthier lifestyle and entrepreneurial prospects led them to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean.
Manilva, their current residence, offers an excellent Mediterranean climate, a healthy outdoor lifestyle, and cost-effective quality healthcare for legal residents, providing a better quality of life. The rich culture, varied outdoor activities, and a relatively affordable cost of living have enhanced their lifestyle prospects.
As independent partners of the Scandinavian wellness brand Zinzino, Heli and Samu specialise in omega-based supplements and health tests. Heli, with a background in fitness and nutrition, previously worked as a psychiatric nurse within a children's special unit. Samu, who met Heli when he was her personal trainer, shares her passion for health and wellness.
Since moving to Spain, they have found most of their clients through word-of-mouth. Their most popular product, The Balance Oil, made from fish and olive oil, has been well-received. The couple's most popular test offered by Zinzino is the fatty acid test.
The Finnish couple has had to deal with administrative tasks, but they approach them with a positive attitude. They are learning Spanish using a translator app and Duolingo to navigate the language barrier in Spain's public healthcare system and everyday life.
Heli finds Spain's family-friendly culture welcoming and more relaxed. Since moving, they have built friendships with people from various countries, including Spain. The couple's children are more integrated into adult activities compared to Finland, which Heli appreciates.
Spain offers various visa options, including the Non-Lucrative Residence visa, for those with sufficient financial means. However, this visa does not allow working, so an alternative entrepreneur visa or business permit may be needed. Navigating Spanish visa types and requirements for work or business permits can be complex. The couple must ensure proper permits for entrepreneurship to avoid any legal complications.
Understanding Spanish bureaucracy, tax laws, and local market conditions can be challenging and differs from Finland’s more straightforward work permit process and strong social welfare. However, Spain’s business environment and connections within the EU provide attractive opportunities compared to Finland.
While Spain offers universal healthcare with good outcomes at low cost, the couple may need private health insurance initially or for comprehensive communication due to language issues. Housing and utilities costs vary by region and could impact finances, especially in sought-after areas like the Mediterranean coast.
Despite these challenges, Heli and Samu are thriving in their new home. They have found a supportive community, a fulfilling career, and a healthier lifestyle in Spain. Their journey serves as an inspiration for others seeking a change and new opportunities.
- Heli and Samu, following their move to Manilva, Spain, have expanded their lifestyle prospects by immersing themselves in the rich culture, engaging in diverse outdoor activities, and running their Scandinavian wellness brand, Zinzino.
- To bridge the language barrier and meet the requirements for Spain's public healthcare system and everyday life, Heli and Samu utilize a translator app and Duolingo for learning Spanish.
- As they navigate the complexities of Spain's visa types, business permits, and local market conditions, Heli and Samu seek to ensure proper entrepreneurship permits to avoid legal complications, all while exploring opportunities presented by the business environment within the EU.
