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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.

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Deepti Mehta

House of Travel Hobsonville

As someone who loves to explore the world, I've been to many places and learned a lot along the way. Now, I use that knowledge to help others plan amazing trips. Whether you want excitement, relaxation, or cultural experiences, I make personalized travel plans that suit your needs. What sets me apart is my genuine dedication to top-notch service. I've been in the travel business for a while, so I know how to make your trip extraordinary. When you choose me as your travel advisor, you're not just booking a trip, you're starting a journey with someone who truly wants to make it unforgettable. So, if you're ready for your next adventure, let's talk!

Deepti

Maree Thompson

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!

I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!!

I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!

I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm.

I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled.

I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general.

I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.

My Travel Tips

* I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad.

*Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!

*Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.

*Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel.

The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.

Maree