They say that discussing the things you really enjoy comes naturally, and there is nothing more natural to me than writing about the city I love - Turku! It is a real pleasure to be able to share with you some of the things I cherish about living in this little city by the sea. From the breathtaking nature that wraps it's arms around the city like a brightly coloured blanket, to the fascinating people of Turku I get to meet everyday.

I have lived in the city for a little under two years now, and after a rocky first 6 months I can now honestly say this is really my home. I feel lucky to be able to contribute to the development and awareness of what is a wonderfully welcoming community. I am aware that most Finns are regarded as modest and self-deprecating and I would tend to go along with this stereotype. However, when it comes to getting a realistic picture about what Finland and Turku have to offer, this can be somewhat of a drawback. Whilst I have learned to avoid over-exaggeration, I feel it is my role to help highlight the beauty, character and charm of a place that just keeps on giving. With that in mind I hope you forgive my propensity for blogs that are peppered with superlatives, but you see I can't help it - 'Olen Turkulainen' as they say!

Before I sign off I will give you a few more clues as to why I came here and what you might expect from some of my future blogging. They say that the most beautiful women are from Turku and that most of the foreigners here have come for love. Suffice to say that I cannot evade the cliché and I also find myself in this Nordic wonderland due to a romantic attachment. Since arriving in Turku I have been studying business and running my own English consultancy (if you want to know more please visit www.othelloconsulting.com). Away from work and study I love gardening, writing poetry, playing sport and discussing politics, culture and history.

I hope you enjoy reading my blogs and I hope that my passion for writing will do justice to the passions of those I highlight during my cultural discourse!