Travel - a source of inspiration

It is once again that time of the year when thousands of Finns are eagerly planning a holiday abroad to espace the dark, long Finnish winter. They are inspired by the mere thoughts of sandy beaches, swimming pools and hot, sun-filled days as far from the North as possible...

Embrace the winter I say! Instead of escape, just appreciate the Norhern nature and all it has to offer during the winter months. Why travel far, when all you need is so near? I love the Finnish winter – especially in Lapland where the magic is just about to happen again. When the first snow falls, everything changes overnight. Nature – it seems – is suddenly covered in millions of snowy crystals glistening under the stars. Northern Lights dance in the sky with colours of green, blue and red, creating a visual feast for the senses. Temperatures start to drop and the air is crisp and clear. After enjoying a refreshing walk outside it is time to retreat to a comfy couch under a blanket, with a cup of hot tea and candles lit. In the mornings the subtle darkness wraps around you like a comforting hug until the daylight appears uncovering yet another kind of beauty. Forests and fells are covered in white and trees seem to sway under the weight of the powdery snow. You can see impressions in the snow... was it maybe a hare or a fox who made their way into the wilderness.

The sun appears slowly, colouring the horizon in shades of pinks and blues. This is the perfect time to try some of the fun outdoor activities; cross-country skiing, snowmobiling or an exhilirating sledge ride with huskies and reindeer. The key to enjoy the activities is to dress warmly... in Lapland it’s not about looking good but feeling warm.

And after a day of fun activities, it’s time to relax your body and soul. Sauna has been warming up and awaits to soothen your tired muscles. The gentle steam and scent of wood nourish the soul. Clear your mind and you’ll emerge from the sauna as a new person. Afterwards, a plentiful serving of local delicacies and drinks is the way to go. As the temperature drops even lower with the moon and stars filling the nothern sky, it’s time to sleep. There is nothing quite like climbing into the bed and under warm covers with the blissful darkness guarding your sleep. Let the winds and snow blow outside. Maybe in the silence of the night you hear the distant cries of a wolf.

It is these small, unhurried moments which make you appreciate the simple things in life. I, as a Finn, love those moments and can only imagine what they would feel like for a first-timer - a traveler who comes from a busy, hectic environment and is in need of a slower way of life...

Have I painted a picture to your liking? Why not plan your own northern winter holiday right away. Experience the magic of winter firsthand and fall in love with the North. Visit us at www.stlapland.fi to get ideas and to create your own wish list for a holiday of a lifetime. Come and visit us in Lapland - we’ll surely make a new friend in you!

Henna