Joensuu is not a completely unfamiliar city to Jarno Leppälä, better known as Jarppi from Dudesons. Previous visits have mostly been holidays, like visiting his spouse’s relatives or attending events such as Ilosaarirock. This time, however, Jarppi had the chance to experience the city’s daily life and its possibilities in a whole new way. The aim was to see how life is in Joensuu — not only during holidays, but also in everyday life.
More time for life
– This week was the closest to everyday life I’ve ever spent in Joensuu, Jarppi describes. The accommodation was in the Penttilä Lighthouse with its magnificent river views over the city. A workspace reserved at Tiedepuisto enabled remote work during the mornings, while afternoons and evenings were dedicated to activities.
The week was brought closer to everyday life by the presence of older son Urho, whose hobbies also structured Jarppi’s days. At the same time, the week was an important time for father and son to spend together.
When everything is so close, you don’t have to skip the theater just because someone has hobbies
Jarppi was particularly delighted that everything needed was within easy reach in Joensuu. Cycling and walking get you where you need to go. At home in Vantaa, commuting typically takes anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, but in Joensuu, more time is left for actual living.
The smoothness of everyday life was evident as Jarppi’s son attended daily swimming practices with Joensuu swimming club. Taking him to and from practice was effortless, and there was still time for other activities afterward.
– When everything is so close, you don’t have to skip the theater just because someone has hobbies, Jarppi notes. He describes Joensuu as a city where everything you need is there and easily accessible.
A sense of calm brings time for connection
The unhurried and relaxed nature of Joensuu residents deeply moved Jarppi. However, he had expected this, since he comes from Seinäjoki, a slightly smaller town, even though he now lives in the capital region.
– I understand why people enjoy living in Joensuu – the sense of rush is gone, he describes.
Jarppi shared that as he walked around the city, locals approached him to ask how he was enjoying his time and warmly welcomed him to the area. When people aren’t in a constant hurry, they have time to interact with those they meet.
I understand why people enjoy living in Joensuu – the sense of rush is gone
The friendliness and talkativeness of North Karelians were already familiar to Jarppi. While he himself might remain quieter in conversations, there are no quiet moments when the chatter fills the environment.
Joensuu is full of new experiences
Jarppi was able to influence the afternoon and evening activities in advance, but the week also included completely new experiences.
– Although I’ve spent a lot of time in Joensuu over the years, I didn’t even know there was a botanical garden there, he is surprised. The Botania Winter Garden, with its impressive ice sculptures, left a lasting impression.
During the week, Jarppi tried winter swimming at Saunamaailma in Ilosaari, watched the Isot Pojat theater performance, participated in a skiing school, and cheered on the ski competition at the opening of the Snow Park. The schedule also included a skiing trip to the iconic Koli national landscape.
I enjoy mountain biking, and Joensuu surely has amazing cycling routes
Jarppi was particularly excited about the Winter Classic students’ ice hockey event. He described the atmosphere at PKS Arena as fantastic and was thrilled that such events are organized. The annual tradition of the event was particularly impressive.
– When you think about everyday life realistically, this week was hyperactive. I don’t know if I’d have the energy to go out every single evening if I actually lived there, Jarppi laughs.
The week sparked an interest in exploring more of what Joensuu has to offer. Instead of repeating familiar activities during future vacations, he would like to try new ones.
– I enjoy mountain biking, and Joensuu surely has amazing cycling routes, he says. The opportunities offered by the river and lakes, such as cruises, are also interesting summer activities.
What would it be like to live in Joensuu?
During the week, Jarppi noticed that everything he needed was close by, making everyday life much easier. The city has an airport and train connections, making travel effortless. This, combined with the closeness to nature and the unhurried atmosphere, makes Joensuu an attractive place to live.
Joensuu is a beautiful place, there’s no denying it
However, work and life circumstances keep Jarppi and his family firmly rooted in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Spending a week in Joensuu provided a taste of what life in North Karelia could be like.
– Joensuu is a beautiful place, there’s no denying it. The presence of water and nature is definitely a bonus, he describes. If the future ever brought Jarppi to live in Joensuu, he would see his home by the water.
Artificial intelligence has been used in the translation of the article.
