Our blog series offers a peek into the lives of the local Finnish community. Today we meet Saara who resides in Upper West Side and has a thing for expensive shoes and vintage stores. Saara is also an aspiring photographer and she can be seen in many of our events with her camera taking some great shots for our albums. Check out Saara’s blog Diamonds and Pearls and she can also be found and friended here.

Q: How long have you lived in New York?

Since October 2008.

Q: Why did you move to New York?

I love big cities. It was a natural move after living in London for seven years.

Q: What are your three favorite places in the City?

Central Park, Soho, and South Street Seaport.

Q: Favorite restaurant? 

Koi at Bryant Park Hotel.

Q: Do you have a favorite store?

Housing Works thrift shops for those vintage treasure hunts.

Q: What are your favorite things to do on your free time?

Go to Broadway shows and nice restaurants. Wandering around the city.

Q: What do you think is the best thing about living in New York?

Diversity and possibility. You can do anything you could possibly think of at any given time.

Q: What do you miss from Finland?

Sauna, family, and friends.

Q: Describe New York in three words

Vibrant, diverse, and exciting.

Q:  Describe Finland in three words

Clean, quiet, and safe.