Finnair and Moomin united since 1995 – Moomin wisdoms to live by on Tove Jansson’s day
On 9 August, Finland celebrates the birthday of Tove Jansson, the creator of the internationally beloved Moomin characters. This day is also known as Finnish Art Day. To celebrate this special day, let’s dive into the wise quotes of the Moomin family that all travellers can relate to.
Finnair and Moomin started their collaboration in 1995, bringing together these two iconic Finnish brands and their similar values. The Moomin characters’ lively stories based in Moominvalley are filled with values such as adventure, love and tolerance, always powered with gentle humor and profound wisdom.
“There’s a lot of things one can’t understand. But why should everything be exactly as one is used to having it”
This quote comes from Moominmamma in the book Moominsummer Madness, published in 1954. The story unfolds during midsummer, when a flood forces the Moomin family to leave their home and end up in a floating theatre. The characters used to their cosy, familiar life in Moominvalley must suddenly adapt to a new environment and strange occurrences.
These wise words of adaptability and acceptance beautifully encapsulate the essence of travelling to other cultures. Whether it’s trying new flavours, participating in local festivities or simply observing the everyday life and customs of another culture, we gain insights that enrich our understanding of the world. It also invites us to experience the world as it is and a journey as it comes, rather than how we think it should be.
“The world is full of great and wonderful things for those who are ready for them.”
This legendary phrase comes from the one and only Moominpappa from the book Moominpappa at Sea from 1965, where the father of the Moomin family brings the whole family on a quest to find purpose and adventure on a remote island. During this quest to the unknown, the family members face their own challenges and fears and grow individually, all while learning what truly brings them fulfillment in life.
Just like in the story, the best discoveries and lessons in life tend to be born outside of one’s comfort zone, sometimes far away from familiar surroundings – maybe even in another country. Leaving for an adventure, near or far, can bring unexpected freedom and significance to life, as new experiences tend to shake up our old beliefs and bring up new perspectives.
As one of the world’s oldest airlines, Finnair has enriched people’s lives by connecting Finland to the world and the world to Finland for decades, creating thousands of unforgettable memories, eventful explorations and meaningful encounters.
“But one needs a change sometimes. We take everything too much for granted, including each other.”
This introspective quote from Moominmamma can also be found in the book Moominpappa at Sea. It is a part of Moominpappa’s decision to avoid taking life’s blessings, such as family, for granted.
Travelling is often at its best when shared with others, whether it's with a familiar fellow-traveller, a new friend met along the way, or even an encounter with a stranger. Experiences that are wonderful on their own—like breathtaking views or unforgettable events—become even more memorable when shared.
From time to time, even the most independent globetrotter needs a helping hand, wise words or a warm hug from another being. This message of shared moments and travel bringing us together can also be seen in one of our A350 aircraft liveries, where Moomintroll and Snorkmaiden share a warm hug. This duo has travelled with us since 2023 as part of our 100th birthday celebration but can still be spotted during 2024.
“So that’s winter too!” he thought. “You can even like it!”
This quote is from Moomintroll from the book Moominland Midwinter published in 1957. In this lovely adventure, Moomintroll wakes up alone in the middle of the winter and learns about snow and other magical things of the coldest season. Moomins usually sleep through the cold winter, but this time, Moomintroll gets the opportunity to experience this enchanting season in all its glory, even if the unknown season feels strange at first.
The story is truly an ode to the four enchanting seasons of Finland, especially its otherworldly winter. While the cold can be biting and the piles of snow never-ending, the Finnish winter is something to experience during one’s lifetime. The snow-covered trees, various winter activities, and the serenity of the landscape are just some examples of the beauty of the Northern winter.
“You must go on a long journey before you can really find out how wonderful home is.”
This quote full of wisdom is from the character Snufkin from the book Comet in Moominland, published in 1946.
This story is all about adventure and exploration, as Moomintroll and Sniff set out on a journey to learn more about a comet that is approaching the peaceful and beloved Moominvalley. Even though the adventure is full of thrilling moments and exciting encounters with friends, after all, coming back home is a feeling like no other.
Adventure and discovery are the spice of a fulfilling life, but in the end, there’s no place like home. Finnair’s blue and white wings have been bringing us together since 1923 by flying customers around the world and by bringing them home to reunite with loved ones. And often, home feels just a bit more like home after a little adventure.
Read more to find Moomin attractions and activities across Finland.