Andrew, Ålandsambassadör.

Calm, yet lively – that's why Andrew stayed in Åland

Andrew is from England and has lived in Åland for 22 years.
– I fell in love with and got engaged to a woman from Åland whom I met when I was studying at university in England.

When his fiancée became pregnant, the couple felt that Åland was the best place to have the child.

– I also wanted to learn her mother tongue.

A new balance

Andrew came to Åland for the first time in the summer. It was the light and the long summer days that made the greatest impression.

– Today, it is the sense of security, the proximity to everything and the balance between work and leisure that I appreciate most about living here.

He describes Åland as a paradise for children, where life has a more relaxed pace.

– At the same time, it is incredible how much activity there is – businesses, associations and driven, creative people. Especially considering how few people live in Åland.

What has kept him there, even during periods when he has considered moving away, is how good Åland is for children and family life.

Learn Swedish

For newcomers who do not speak Swedish, Andrew recommends taking an SFI course at Medis, where he himself is a teacher.

– The language provides a very good foundation for being able to thrive in Åland.