Week 8: Food - Drinks - Alcohol

This week we went for a nice lunch at one of the many student food places in tampere.
Whist we were eating we we’re talking about activities that are out there for all the student. Since not everyone drinks alcohol and most events are accompanied with a little drinking here and there, the conversation ended up being a detailed explination of both the Dutch, German and Finnish drinking culture and legal age.
In Germany, the legal drinking age is divided into three categories. Individuals under 16 are not allowed to purchase alcohol, and consumption in public is only permitted if accompanied by a legal guardian. Once you turn 16, you may buy and consume beer or wine in public. At 18, you can legally purchase and consume all types of alcoholic beverages. Germany is known for its beer culture, with Bavaria being the heart of German brewing. In the Netherlands, the legal drinking age is set at 18 for all alcoholic beverages. Beer is especially popular, with Heineken being one of the most well-known Dutch brands. Additionally, unique drinks like Dropshot (a liquorice-flavored shot) and Stroopwafel liqueur (which tastes like the famous Dutch cookie) are enjoyed by locals. In Finland, the legal drinking age is also 18 for purchasing mild alcoholic beverages like beer and wine, but you must be 20 to buy stronger spirits from stores. Finland is known for its love of vodka and long drinks (a mix of gin and grapefruit soda), with brands like Koskenkorva and Finlandia Vodka being particularly popular. Beer is also widely consumed in Finland, especially during social events like sauna sessions or summer festivals.