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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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Pauline Gooding

House of Travel Te Awamutu

My first big trip was off to Camp America many years ago. As soon as I stepped foot on the first big international plane, the travel bug bit me and I never wanted to stop! Eventually I had to get a "real job" and what better job than as a travel agent.

Since then I've enjoyed sending many more people on their first big exciting trip overseas, on family holidays, honeymoons, reunions, road trips, girls trips and any other reason you can think of for travel!

Pauline

Stacey Mullinger

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I’ve built a career focused on creating exceptional holidays through expert planning, attention to detail, and in-depth destination knowledge.

Stacey

Danny Hooper

House of Travel Johnsonville

I have been in the travel Industry for 20 years and am convinced that it is the most exciting industry to be a part of.

I still get excited about all things travel and love exploring new and exciting destinations or passing on the knowledge and ideas to customers to ensure they have the most amazing experience on holiday.

Danny

Reuben Goldingham Newsom

House of Travel Palmerston North: Broadway

Having visited 32 countries (and counting!), I’ve been lucky enough to turn my passion of exploring the world into a career helping others do the same. I specialise in travel across Australia, the Pacific Islands, Cruises, and bring a wealth of knowledge from a six-month backpacking adventure across Europe that gave me first hand insight into travelling on and off the beaten track.

Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a once in a lifetime adventure, I’ll take care of every detail so that you can relax and enjoy the journey. Your travel will be made easy, memorable, and be perfectly suited to you.

Some of my most memorable experiences include hot air ballooning over the desert in Dubai, island hopping along Croatia’s stunning coastline, and something a little closer to home - Fiji! - A destination every Kiwi should experience at least once.

Travel is constantly evolving, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way — from planning and booking to those special insider tips. Get in touch via phone or email to start planning your next adventure. Video consultations are also available for your convenience.

Reuben

Travel Consultant - House of Travel Broadway, Palmerston North