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Dreaming of a white Christmas ... in Santa's Lapland

Lapland, Europe

Reindeers, huskies, tobogganing, lots of snowy activities - ice fishing, snow hockey and riding mini skidoos, elves around every corner, spectacular shows and a sleigh ride venturing deep into the forest to visit Santa’s secret hideaway for an unforgettable private visit at his workshop. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas …this is Christmas in Santa’s homeland, Lapland.

Most Christmas tours will take you to Rovaniemi, where you’ll find Santa Claus’ Village, if you travel a little further north to Saariselka you’ll discover a little less ‘touristy’ yet still all the ingredients for a truly magical white Christmas experience.

Four or five nights is a good time to spend in Lapland, allowing you to enjoy all the activities and increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights too. In December there is approx. only two and a half hours of daylight – it takes a bit of time to acclimatise to the constant dark skies.

As part of your Lapland experience you will be provided with the appropriate thermal snowsuits and outdoor boots as well as woollen socks and thermal mittens you’ll need to keep warm in the below zero temperatures, so you don’t need to worry about your suitcase being full of all the bulky stuff!

The lead-up to Christmas is the most popular time to visit Lapland - you will need to book early (at least a year in advance), this also includes pre-booking your activities. Alternatively, if you’d like a little more flexibility and pay slightly lower prices, you can still enjoy your Lapland ‘Christmas’ in late November/early December, instead of travelling at Christmas itself.

Connect with a Finaland specialist

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Ellie Gallagher

House of Travel Hobsonville

Working within the Travel industry was always my dream, I'm passionate about experiencing different cultures and immersing ourselves in history; it broadens the mind. I look forward to connecting with you, and being a part of your next adventure.

Ellie

Cherry McGovern

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

Having worked in the Travel Industry for 9 years and counting, I am incredibly passionate about detail and no trip is too small!

I have lived in London & Perth, both opening destinations for me to explore! My favourite trips to date were Greece and Thailand.

Every part of the process excites me, from simple flights, group holidays, to your bucket list trips!

I enjoy getting to know my clients and I understand that no detail is too small and warm prompt service is key to delivering great customer experiences.

Cherry

Kyla Strahl

House of Travel Christchurch City

Kyla spent over 6 years crewing on luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Baltic, Adriatic, Caribbean, Pacific and North Seas; along with several Atlantic Ocean crossings. Moving to more adventure land travel Kyla has experienced India, South America and South Africa as a part of the whopping 57 countries she has explored!

"Whether it be cruising, OE's or travelling with a young family my first-hand knowledge will certainly be an asset when planning your winter break, European adventure, or once in a life time dream holiday!"

Years in the industry: 7

No. of countries visited: 57
Favourite place to visit: Italy
Next place on the list to visit: Plantation Island

"Life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better." - Simon Raven

Why I love travel:

Travelling takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to experience new things that we otherwise wouldn't in our normal day to day lives. It enriches your life from meeting new people from all walks of life, trying new food from different corners of the world, and humbles you to appreciate the small things in life.

My travel tips:

Always have travel insurance
Wake up early - whether it be to see the sunrise, or to skip a queue, or get a coffee at the local café.
Make a list of the things you want to experience and pre book as much as you can.
Stay local with everything easily accessible on foot.

My top 5 favourite destinations:

Italy - rolling hills and crystal blue waters, stunning villages and cathedrals, amazing food and wine.
South Africa - rich cultural experiences, amazing wildlife on safari, breath-taking landscapes.
Croatia - stunning beaches and unbelievable landscapes from the islands in the Adriatic to the Krka National Park.
Mexico - amazing food, fascinating Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and fabulous architecture from ancient temples to the colonial cathedrals.
Canada - my birth land! The people, the rich forests, lakes, mountains and wildlife.

What's in my suitcase:

First Aid kit as you can never be too prepared.
Travel Diary - make an effort to write down the highlights of your day, you will look back in appreciation.
Sarong or thin, long scarf - will come in handy as a towel or to cover your shoulders when need be.
Small change of local currency - whether it be to buy a bottle of water or a quick snack or to leave a tip.

Kyla

Toni Rendell

House of Travel Rotorua

As a 17 year old, I headed off to Finland on a student exchange for a year, my first ever overseas trip and the start of my passion for travel.

Whether it’s a quick jaunt across the Tasman, an adventure through Vietnam or a guided coach tour of Europe, I love working with you to create the perfect holiday.

Having been in the industry for over 30 years, I have an extensive knowledge of airfares, and travel providers, I combine that with the knowledge of my returning customers and the wisdom of the House of Travel collective to craft your travel.

There sure is a lot you need to know and I pride myself on keeping up to date with industry trends and changes. That may be new destinations to visit, beautiful places to stay or changes in travel requirements.

So get in touch and let me help make your travel dreams come true.

Toni