In the twilight world inside the Arctic Circle you can't stop smiling as you ride a reindeer sleigh, marvel at hardworking husky teams, grab a handful of thrills on a snowmobile, or go snowboarding or skiing. You listen to folklore myths from friendly people in colourful local costume. It's magic - and you'll come to believe it!
Is
it like visiting an Amusement Park?
Most certainly not!! If you are seeking commercialisation, lots of artificial
electric lighting, these are not the tours for you. Everything is kept as
natural as possible. Lighting for example, is by fire and candle, and activity
programmes where possible are not at tourist centres.
Do
they speak English?
Surprisingly the answer is yes!!
Will
it be cold?
Naturally you are visiting an environment where temperatures regularly fall
to -15°C and have been known to reach as low as -45°C. Whilst variations
in Arctic weather conditions make it totally impossible to provide an guideline
to temperatures on any given day, as a general guideline we would say that
it tends to be warmer towards the end of November and beginning of December
than later in December.
What
are the passport & health requirements?
For British/Irish citizens a full 10 year passport is required for entry into
Finland (5 year passport for children, when not included in accompanying parent's
passport). Other passport holders should seek advice from the nearest Finnish
Embassy. Passport should be valid for at least 6 months following the return
date from Finland. There are no vaccination requirements imposed by the authorities,
but nevertheless when travelling overseas it is prudent to advise your doctor
of your destination and secure the latest professional advice as to any precautions
that may be necessary.
What
is the food like?
The choice ranges from traditional Lappish food, such as salmon, Arctic Char
and reindeer meat, to conventional international cuisine including chicken
dishes and pizzas.
How
safe is it?
Perfectly, provided you follow the instructions of the arctic guides. You
will appreciate that you are visiting an area where arctic conditions prevail.
Provided you are sensible and accept guidance when given no problems will
arise. We do stress that parents and guardians are responsible for the supervision
of their own children and those within their own party for the duration of
the tour.
Will
it be dark during our stay?
An average Lapland day will provide 4 - 5 hours of what is termed 'greylight'
( generally between 10am and 2:30pm Finnish time, although this will vary
up to one hour based on location). When the sky is clear this can be clear
blue skies with the most amazing colours.
