Cuban dancer Mel Hidalgo, 29, has attracted attention in Finland due to her relationship with notorious criminal Niko Ranta-aho, a man many locals despise. Initially surprised by his Instagram message, Hidalgo revealed that she never thought she would end up in Finland or engage with someone having a controversial past. She has now opened up about her feelings regarding Ranta-aho's criminal activities and discusses their life together as a couple.

Hidalgo has adjusted to her new surroundings in Finland, where she once believed the concept of prisons was limited to movies and TV shows. Having traveled to visit Ranta-aho in a prison setting, she expressed her uncertainty before entering, fearing the harsh realities of prison life. However, her experience turned out to be unexpected, as she described arriving at Jokela Open Prison, where she was met with surprising sights instead of her anticipated grim reality.

The couple's relationship is complex, filled with challenges stemming from Ranta-aho's criminal background, but Hidalgo is open about her feelings and the conditions under which she would consider leaving him. This added personal insight not only highlights her connection with Ranta-aho but also sheds light on societal views regarding relationships involving individuals with criminal histories in Finland.