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And where can you take your children on a winter holiday that they'll remember for the rest of their lives? For a real winter adventure, go to Finland (Lapland)! Lapland. When that word comes up in conversation, it immediately conjures up images of a fairy tale land: for children and adults alike. What are the attributes of this fairy tale? Northern lights Huskies and herds of reindeer all around A great glittering blanket of snow Ice castles The headquarters of Santa Claus (or more precisely, Yolupukki). … And the feeling that you are really on the edge of the globe, beyond the Arctic Circle. But the main advantage of Lapland is that in order to get there, you do not need to go through the wardrobe in Narnia or look for other portals. All you have to do is buy a simple plane ticket and choose a tour to Lapland that suits you. So, today we're sharing 12 useful tips on how to give your child a winter fairy tale in the home of the real Santa: Delight both your child and the child in you There are no carriages... See Santa before your children stop believing in him 7 reasons to visit Santa's homeland Get in touch with the wilderness New world of Finnish cuisine The sauna culture Catch the Northern Lights The Moomins Eco-friendly destinations The challenge for hardy parents Your own personalised winter fairy tale! 1. Delight your child and the child in you with a fairy tale adventure You can meet Santa Claus. Yes, yes, in the town of Rovaniemi, at his official residence. A bit of magic, a few dozen elf helpers and a sleigh with reindeer - and the children will be with presents by Christmas! The residence is open all year round, so its doors are always open to visitors young and old. Get the rhyme ready, tell Santa and ask for a present! 2. There are no carriages in Lapland, but there are dog sleds When travelling, tourists get an impression of the country and culture through the mentality of the people. You must also take into account the mentality of animals. There is a special attraction for tourists in Lapland: dog sledding. It is advisable to show the children the cartoon Balto, both parts, before this excursion. Then, under the influence of the cartoon atmosphere, children will enjoy the trip twice as much. 3. Make time to visit Santa before your children stop believing in him! Santa Claus is real, don't worry. In the full bloom of his powers (believe me, if we do an endurance battle between the Swedish Carlson and the Finnish Santa, the latter will prevail). Well, his office, located on the Arctic Circle, is open to visitors. A visit to the real Santa and his elves in the fairy palace will be an unforgettable experience! And don't forget to smile! You'll be handed a Christmas photo with Santa. There will be lots of snow, so dress warm! 4. Winter holiday with a child in Finland: 7 reasons to visit Santa's homeland A winter holiday with a child in Finland is an opportunity not only to meet Santa Claus and his elves, but also to discover new kinds of winter activities. How about a dog-sled ride? How about snowmobiling? How about going snowboarding for the first time? Skiing, sledging, ice skating: everything is perfect for outdoor activities. Kids will love it! Finland in winter for your child: a great way to get in touch with the wilderness Open up new horizons with Finnish cuisine Indulge your child in the sauna culture Catch the Northern Lights in Finland Discover one of Finland's national icons: the Moomins Embark on a trip to one of the world's most eco-friendly destinations! Another task for caring parents is to teach their child good taste 5. In winter, Finland with your child is a great way to get in touch with the wilderness Finland in winter is a great way to get in touch with the wilderness when your child is too small. In the country's national parks you will see bears, lynxes, reindeer, moose and dozens of other bizarre animals in their natural habitat. 6. Discover new gastronomic horizons of Finnish cuisine Open up new horizons for your child - another reason to go on a winter holiday with children in Finland. Finland has a surprising array of berries and mushrooms, as well as delicious fish and game dishes. The culinary world of Lapland is vast and unusual! 7. Introduce your son or daughter to sauna culture Finland is an ideal place to introduce your son or daughter to the sauna culture. In Lapland children are introduced to the sauna bathing culture from a very early age. For Finns, it's also a great way to spend time together as a family. 8. Catch the Northern Lights in the home of Santa in Finland Finland is the place to celebrate New Year's Eve with the kids 2023 to get a chance to see the northern lights. We'll be sure to give you all the keys and passwords to enjoy this amazing natural phenomenon as a family. The shimmering lights in the sky will make your heart skip a beat! It's worth a trip to Finland (Lapland), the home of Santa. 9. Find one of Finland's national symbols: the Moomins You'll be even more fascinated by the Moomins (Moomintrolls), one of Finland's national symbols. Make sure that your kids have read the Tuve Jansson stories and been fascinated by these cute little behemoth-like animals. There are plenty of pictures, cartoons and plays featuring these fascinating characters. And souvenirs in the form of mummy trolls are plentiful! 10. Go to one of the most eco-friendly places in the world! According to the World Health Organization, Finland's Lapland is one of the most eco-friendly places in the world. A healthy glow and a good appetite for your children is assured! 11. Another parent's job is to provide their child with good taste Another parent's job is to provide their child with good taste. You can easily do this in Finland, which is known for its functional furniture, neat architecture and shapely, high-quality clothes. Trust us, after such a cultural experience, your daughter will never in her life buy leopard-skin leggings and your son will never wear white socks under a classic suit! 12. Finland in winter with children: book a tour & get a personalised New Year's fairy tale! Are you convinced that Finland is the best choice for you and your kids on New Year's Eve, 2023? Well done! Finland in winter with children: book a tour with Scandinavian Travel Group and get a personalised New Year's fairy tale! Here are some arguments why we recommend Scandinavian Travel Group as a Scandinavian adventure: A wide range of entertainment programs in Finland. A trip to Santa's, the Chase of the Northern Lights, winter entertainment, interesting excursions - you can choose whatever you like! Individual approach. STG will gladly calculate tour price for suitable dates, number of days, itinerary etc. In a word, we will do everything to make your winter holidays in Finland with a child really unforgettable and super comfortable. The organization of trips "turnkey". Ticket booking, accommodation, cars, excursions - all in one place and at the most affordable prices in Scandinavian Travel Group. Just celebrate New Year's Eve with the kids at your own pace. If you're looking for a great place to celebrate New Year's Eve with the kids in peace and quiet, Scandinavia is the place to go. The Finns will infect you with their thoroughness, leisureliness and cheerfulness. If you get into the Christmas spirit, love huge cups of cocoa and believe in Santa Claus, a trip to Finland with a child at Christmastime will be a good idea. With the backdrop of stunning Scandinavian nature, the family trip will be more heartwarming than ever. And you're sure to have plenty of great shots with the family, so load up the camera!

Finland travel guide: introductory information, weather, how to get there, food and drink, travel expenses, accommodation, transport, and more. In 2019, Finland topped the United Nations' ranking of the world's happiest countries for the second time in a row. The reason for this is its high standard of living, good environment, beautiful nature and many opportunities for travel and leisure. Begin your exploration of Finland with Helsinki, its capital and largest city. Further afield you may wish to visit one of the 190,000 lakes, take a walk through the pine forests, spot the Northern Lights, or just listen to the silence. In this current review, we're telling you how to organise the best and most original itinerary in Finland. 12 things & tips in our guide to Finland: Introductions to Finland Weather Cities and sights Map of must-see cities in Finland Food and Drink Money Flats and hotels Internet How much does it cost to celebrate New Year's Eve in Finland? Safety How to get there The cost of travelling to Finland by train 1. Introduction to Finland When visiting season: all year round. Currency: EUR Language: Finnish, Swedish, almost everyone speaks English. Visa: Schengen Sea: Baltic Sea Where is it located: Finland is situated on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. It borders Russia to the east, Norway to the north and Sweden to the west. 2. Weather in Finland In the south of Finland, the climate is similar to that of northwest Russia. Summers in Finland are usually cool, although it can be up to +30°C. In July, the average temperature in the south is +17°C. In June, there are white nights across the country. The daylight hours are up to 18-20 hours and nights are short and bright. In August: it's already cool, you can pick berries and mushrooms, enjoy quiet, warm evenings, go fishing and swim in the lakes at sunset. Autumn is called golden autumn in Finnish. The most beautiful landscapes at this time are in the tundra. If you want to see colourful trees, go to Finland in late September or early October. In winter there is a lot of snow and the daylight hours are very short: from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. But it's a time of beautiful pink sunsets, northern lights, skiing and ice-hole diving. In winter, it's the polar night: the sun stays above the horizon for 51 days and in summer it's the polar day: 73 days of sunshine around the clock. The average temperature in the south in February is -6°C. In northern Lapland, it's colder, averaging -14°C. Temperatures can drop to -35°C at night. Springtime in Finland is particularly intense. We love April, when the sun and warm air literally burst into the cities. A Finnish woman we know likened the arrival of spring in Finland to a storm. 3. Cities and sights Finland is a sparsely populated country. Only 5.5 million people live there. There is only one large city in the country: Helsinki. The other towns are similar in layout and architecture. For example: Savitaipale, Sussmaa and Pieksämäki: they all consist of 2-3 streets. Some people say there's nothing to do in Helsinki for more than a day. In our opinion, it should take at least 2-3 days to see the main sights in the city centre. #1. Helsinki #2. Tampere #3. Rovaniemi #4. Levi #5. Inari #6. Turku #7. Lahti #8. Lappeenranta #9. Joensuu #10. Savonlinna #11. Oulu #1. Helsinki Helsinki has some interesting museums, such as the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. Tickets to Kiasma cost between €13 and €15 for adults, while children and teens under 18 are free. If you don't want to spend too much, check out the Helsinki City Museum: admission is free. The Kamppi Chapel of Silence on Helsinki's Square of the same name. This futuristic egg-shaped wooden structure has no particular religion attached to it. Admission is free. The new Oodi Library is the largest library in the city. It is a new public space in the centre. You can read there, surf the internet, work or just admire the city while lying in an armchair. Admission is free. Helsinki Market Square. The Helsinki Market Square is a place where you can buy national food, souvenirs and handicrafts, such as animal skins. Allas has three pools: heated, children's and in the open Baltic Sea. There's also a sauna, a cafe and a shop. You can swim year-round in the Allas, three outdoor public pools in Helsinki. One is heated, the other is for children and the third is an enclosed area in the Baltic Sea. A ticket to the public pools costs €14 for an adult and €7 for children aged 7 to 13. #2. Tampere Tampere is Finland's second-largest city, after Helsinki. You'll want to stay here for at least a couple of days: there's plenty to see in Tampere. The city is situated between two large lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. The main attraction is the Näsinneula Lookout Tower, which is 168 metres high and can be reached by climbing to a view of the city and the lakes from above. The cost of the attraction is €5.9. #3. Rovaniemi Rovaniemi is the largest city in Finnish Lapland, i.e. the northern territories of Scandinavia. It is home to Santa Claus, or Joulupukki in Finnish. He is visited by tourists from all over the world. Joelupukki lives in the village of Father Christmas, 8 km from the city. There is a school for elves, Mrs. Claus's gingerbread kitchen, Santa's office, an ice gallery and a famous post office. You can learn from the elves how to make gingerbread, look at the ice statues and send a letter home. Visiting the village itself is free, but you'll have to pay for other services: A photo with Santa costs: €60 Snowmobile rides: €120 Visit a reindeer farm: €15 But for the lowest prices and best deals on all Lapland tours and packages, check out the Scandinavian Travel Group website. Also, children may like the Ranuan Zoo in Lapland. It is open all year round and has reindeer, polar bears and 50 other Arctic animals. Prices depend on the season. Ranuan Zoo entrance fees On average admission for an adult will cost €17, for a child €14. It is advisable to check prices before travelling. Rovaniemi is the starting point for travel in Lapland. From here you can reach the northernmost national parks and 11 separate areas which Finns call "wilderness areas". There you can go camping, camp overnight and probably won't encounter a single living soul. #4. Levi Levi is one of Finland's biggest ski resorts. There are enough pistes for beginners and advanced skiers alike. Of the advantages of Levi: Free ski lifts for kids under 6 years old. Large selection of family fun activities Opportunity to see polar day and polar night Unconventional summer holiday. Great facilities for active family holidays High-class hotels and comfortable cottages Large number of organised trips and events Levi is not just a town, it's a mountain. By Finnish standards, it is quite high: over 500 metres. For six months a year, the mountain is blanketed in a thick layer of snow, and the monochrome landscape is broken only by the hotel lights and the bright overalls of skiers. So it looks like Levi, Finland's largest and perhaps the coldest ski resort, above the Arctic Circle. An exotic place for a family holiday, isn't it? But it's a trip you'll remember for a long time. This review is about why it's so pleasant to remember Levi with children. #5. Inari Inari is a small village and the centre of Finland's largest community. The Lapps, an indigenous people of the High North, live there. The main attraction of Inari is the Siida Nature Park and Open Air Museum. Inari, you can get acquainted with the culture, traditions and everyday life of the Sámi people. For instance, reindeer in the park are not fun for tourists, but animals still kept on farms by the Saami people. Entrance fee to Inari Park: Adult ticket costs €10 Сhildren's ticket: €5. #6. Turku Turku is the first capital of Finland, located in the southwest of the country on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Turku is home to a large seaport from which you can take a cruise ferry to Sweden. The main ferry companies are Tallink Silja Line and Viking Line. #7. Lahti Lahti is the sports capital of Finland, especially skiing. The city has hosted seven World Ski Championships and several international biathlon championships. Lahti is home to various ski jumping hills and a number of cross-country skiing trails. Lahti is home to the world-famous folk-metal band Korpiklaani. #8. Lappeenranta Lappeenranta is the closest major city to the Russian border and the capital of South Karelia province in Finland. There are several large shopping centres in the city, e.g. Galleria, Iso Kristiina, Armada. They are centrally located within walking distance of each other. #9. Joensuu Joensuu is the capital of the Finnish province of North Karelia. It is the closest city to Russia's Sortavala: from there it takes 2-3 hours to get to Joensuu, from Petrozavodsk - 5-6 hours. The city is small but cosy: it stands on a lake, there are a lot of greenery, parks and opportunities for outdoor activities. #10. Savonlinna Savonlinna is one of the most popular Finnish cities among tourists. 40% of the city is made up of lakes and rivers, and parts of the city are connected by bridges. There are ferries on the rivers and dozens of white-water yachts moored in the ports. #11. Oulu Oulu is the capital of Northern Finland. It stands on the Ouluijoki River, which flows here into the Gulf of Bothnia on the Baltic Sea. The city has many interesting museums: a vintage car museum, a geological and zoological museum and a botanical garden with plants. 4. A unique itinerary: the map of must-see cities in Finland Helsinki Tampere Rovaniemi Levi Inari Turku Lahti Lappeenranta Joensuu Savonlinna Oulu 5. Food and drink The Finns have a simple and delicious national cuisine, somewhat similar to that of Russia. Let us tell you about the main dishes and drinks. Kalitki are open piroki originally from Karelia. You won't find them almost anywhere else but in Finland and Karelia. Buckwheat pancakes. Buckwheat is not favoured in Finland, but buckwheat flour is used to make pancakes. Rye cake with fish and lard. Fish soup. The most popular is salmon soup, or lohikeito. Fish. There are dozens of kinds of fish on the shelves in Finnish shops, but the most popular is salmon. Venison. The most common way to serve venison is with potatoes and lingonberry jam. Lapland cheese: a soft, almost unsalted cheese with a rubber-like consistency. Milk and yoghurt. Milk is very good and tasty in Finland. The most famous producer is Valio. Bread and pastries. Finns are fans of bread and bakery. Mushrooms. In the season, Finns eat mushrooms every day and preserve them for the winter: drying, pickling and salting. Sweets. Finns are fond of sweets: sweets, marmalade, local Fazer, Tupla and other delicacies. Drinks. The most popular drinks in Finland are coffee, vodka, liqueurs, apple cider and beer. 6. Money The currency in Finland is the euro. You can pay with an international Master Card, Visa, Apple Pay and Google Pay almost everywhere. Cash comes in handy in small shops, markets and in sparsely populated areas. 7. Flats and hotels You can search for accommodation on Airbnb, booking.com and Scandinavian Travel Group for Levi. The most expensive city in Finland is Helsinki. In the other cities it's cheaper, but not by much. Pleasant areas to live in are Kallio, Katayanokka, Teele. Rooms start from €50 per night, flats from €85 Detached houses and cottages in the countryside: from €140 Of the hostels, the best is Eurohostel. Large and spacious, almost like a hotel, and located in a beautiful harbour district in the centre of Helsinki. A room in a shared room costs €25, but the rooms are small (doubles or triples). Cottages. There are numerous cottages all over the country, usually on lakes. They are often built so that there will be no neighbours around. 8. Internet The Internet in the country is excellent and fast. However, cafés may not have wifi, or you have to ask for it. Free wi-fi can be found in one of Helsinki's 69 libraries, the largest and newest of which is Oodi. You can buy mobile Internet in Finland from local operators DNA, Saunalahti and Sonera. In addition, DNA has good unlimited rates for 4G internet: €7.9 per week or €24.9 per month. International operators in Finland include Vodafone and Orange. 9. How much does it cost to rent a house in Finland? A medium-sized cottage costs from €80 per day. A tiny cottage will cost €60 per day if you are lucky enough to get a discount. You can rent them in both summer and winter. The cottages usually have everything you need for your vacation: a living room, several private rooms, a barbecue area, a sauna, easy access to the water and a boat. The boat is typically included in the accommodation price. In the kitchen there's always the essentials: salt, sugar, coffee, spices and sometimes oil. 10. Safety Finland is one of the safest countries in the world. It was ranked third in 2019 by Global Finance magazine, behind Iceland and Switzerland. Nevertheless, stick to general safety precautions when travelling. In cities. Don't walk around at night in areas where immigrants live. Avoid drinking and partying: Finns like to drink and party. Be careful on roads. Outdoors. Dress for the weather, especially in winter, to keep warm. When camping in the forests between May and August, wear mosquito nets and repellent against mosquitoes, ticks and other insects, and beware of snakes and other wild animals: bears, wolves and wild boars are common in Finland. Don't sit in the sauna for hours on end: it can overheat. Do water sports on the water and fish with a life jacket: on large lakes there can be waves. 11. How to get there There are almost all possible ways to reach Finland from any European country: by air, by water and by land. If you are not a resident of the European Union, you need a Schengen visa to travel to Finland. By plane. Finnair and other airlines operate direct scheduled flights to Finland throughout the year. A roundtrip ticket to Helsinki with baggage and hand luggage costs from €250. Finnair, its low-cost carrier Norra and other Finnish airlines fly to all major cities in the country from Helsinki. From Helsinki, Tampere and Lappeenranta you can travel to other European cities by low-cost airlines Norwegian and Ryanair. Sea liner. From coastal cities in Estonia, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania and Germany there are liners to Finland, which you can take on the Baltic Sea. By train. The railway network in Finland covers the southern and central part of the country as far as Oulu, from where two lines run north to Lapland, to Kolari and Kemijärvi. 12. The cost of travelling to Finland by train The standard daily fare on the long-distance train to the north is about 100 euros. The European InterRail travel card is valid for all trains within the country. Advance reservation is required for night trains and Pendolino trains; reservation is possible for InterCity trains. InterRail also provides free travel on the Finnish part of the route on Allegro trains. Passenger trains are divided into 5 types: Suburban trains (Lähijuna, indicated by the letter H in timetables) Fast trains (Pikajuna, letter P) Three versions of express trains: InterCity, InterCity2 Pendolino (designations IC, IC2 and S). Night trains (also P-litre). The metropolitan area has a well-developed network of electric trains and express trains predominate between cities. The railways are operated by state-owned VR (Valtion Rautatiet, 'state railways'). We wish you a pleasant trip to Finland! See activities in Finland, Lapland.

Saariselka Ski Resort (Saariselkä) is one of the most popular sports resorts in Lapland. The vast, hilly region is situated in the very north of Finland. It boasts magnificent scenery, clean air, great ski trails and an excellent level of service. As well as cross-country skiing, alpine skiing in Saariselkä is also popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Saariselkä Ski Resort is one of the most popular sports resorts in Lapland. The village of Saariselkä is located in Urho Kekkonen National Park in the middle of unspoilt nature in Lapland. It is the northernmost and one of the most exotic ski resorts in Finland. Saariselka is 233km from Kittilä airport and 25km from Ivalo. In this article we share 5 facts and tips about the Finnish ski resort Saariselkä: 1. All about Saariselkä ski resort 2. Saariselkä ski slopes 3. Saariselkä downhill courses 4. The best place to see the Northern Lights 5. Angry Birds theme park Saariselkä 6. Interesting things to see in Saariselkä 1. All about Saariselkä Ski Resort The village of Saariselkä is located in Urho Kekkonen National Park in the middle of unspoilt Lapland. It is the northernmost and one of the most exotic ski resorts in Finland. Each season a network of 250 km of well-equipped cross-country skiing routes welcome tens of thousands of skiers from all over Europe. Saariselka offers tours for skiers of varying skill levels, but everyone can choose from a wide variety of slopes of any difficulty level and for any age. 2. Saariselkä ski slopes The Saariselkä slopes are a paradise for budding skiers, children and their parents. There are 12 slopes in total, the highest height difference is 180 metres and the longest slope is 1500 metres long. There are a variety of slopes of varying difficulty levels. A network of well-equipped slopes. Free shuttle bus service for skiers from mid December to early May. Magnificent scenery. Lively nightlife. For those not keen on skiing, there are 200km of cross-country trails, 34km of which are lit. Saariselkä also boasts Europe's longest toboggan slide (1.2 km)! Want to find out more? Click on the picture. Height of the resort: 257 m Season duration: mid-November to mid-April, around 150 days Height difference: 257 metres / 437 metres. 5 ski lifts. Ski-pass price: Adults: 43.00€. Children: 28.00€ If you like cross-country skiing, you can enjoy a variety of trails that go through forests and lakes. You'll particularly enjoy the long, winding descent from the top of the mountain to the town. One of the trails will take you to a gold mine, while the other involves a journey from the igloo to Saariselka, accompanied by reindeer. 3. Saariselkä downhill courses The Saariselkä slopes are a paradise for budding skiers, children and parents. There are 12 slopes in total, the highest height difference is 180 meters and the longest slope is 1500 metres long. For those who are not keen on skiing there are 200 km of cross-country tracks, 34 km of which are lit. Saariselkä also boasts Europe's longest toboggan slide (1.2 km)! Want to find out more? Click on the picture. 4. The best place to see the northern lights from igloo Saariselkä is located in the polar region, where the northern lights (Aurora Borealis) are the most active in all of Scandinavia. Statistically it can be seen for 200 days during the active season: September to April. This means that there is up to an 80% chance of the northern lights appearing there. The only thing that can prevent you from seeing the northern lights is cloudy weather. However, there is a good chance of catching a cloudless night during the week. 5. Angry Birds theme park in Saariselkä If you know the Angry Birds game and have young children, then you should definitely visit the Angry Birds Activity Park in Saariselkä! The Angry Birds Activity Park is special in that all of its guests and locals are fully immersed in the fascinating atmosphere of the world-famous Angry Birds game that was created by the Finnish company ROVIO. Children and adults alike are sure to find something fun to do and enjoy. 6. Things to see and do in Saariselkä If you think skiing, snowboarding and sledging are all there is to do in Saariselkä, you're wrong! Even though the village is small, there is plenty to see and do here. For instance, you can try out geocaching as an outlandish new pastime, or you can climb the triangulation tower that overlooks all of Lapland! For those interested in mysticism, you'll find a haunted house, where you can even stay for a coffee. There's also the extraordinarily beautiful St. Paul's Chapel in Saariselkä, where you can listen to Sunday Mass. Interested?

Levi Ski Resort, located in Kittilä in Lapland, is the most popular ski resort in Finland and the northernmost ski resort in Europe. The resort is equipped with lifts, slopes, and services that make it possible to learn how to ski or snowboard at any age. In this article we share 4 useful tips about Levi for skiers and snowboarders: The skiing season What is the Levi Ski Resort famous for? What level of training do you need for skiing? Levi is the most popular ski resort in Finland With a wide array of slopes for every skill level and difficulty, it's easy to find something suitable for your needs. Levi Ski Resort received the World's Best Ski Resort award from World Ski Awards for three years running from 2015 to 2017. Most of the slopes in Levi are suitable for beginner skiers, but there are four slopes for experts as well, with a maximum drop of 325 meters. The longest ski slope is 2.5 km long, and the longest lift is 1,636 m. The slopes in Levi have seven restaurants, a snow park, 10 kids' slopes, a half-pipe and a super-pipe. 1. The skiing season in Levi and the slopes The ski season in Levi usually lasts about 8 months (from mid-October to early May). For those who love outdoor activities, there are 850 km of snowmobile tours in Levi, cross-country skiing with a total length of 230 km, dog and reindeer sledging, hiking up Mount Katka (Finnish: Kätkätunturi), paddling and fishing. 2. What is the Levi Ski Resort famous for? Levi was established in 1953 and has hosted many international Antarctic snowboarding championships. The resort is located in Kittilä, Finland, which is the most popular ski resort in the country. Levi offers a wide array of slopes for every skill level, including a separate children's area with two skier-only slopes and one for snowboarders only. The hotel and restaurant services have been carefully designed to match the needs of a demanding clientele: there are three restaurants (one on each mountain), and several bars serving local beer and wine (Levi was named after an alcoholic beverage made from juniper berries). An indoor pool complex with sauna facilities as well as an outdoor ice rink where you can play hockey or figure skating if you don't feel like skiing or snowboarding that day. 3. What level of training do you need for skiing in Levi? Levi offers plenty of options for people who have little or no experience with skiing or snowboarding. One of the things that makes Levi such a great resort for beginners is its wide range of slopes for all skill levels. There are three main types of skiing and snowboarding: alpine, cross-country and snowmobiling. Levi's base area offers everything from gentle beginner runs to steep intermediate runs, making it easy to find a slope that fits your comfort level. The resort also has several ski lessons available to people with little or no experience with skiing or snowboarding. Skiing lessons are available for adults and children alike, so even families with young kids can get in on some fun on the slopes together! If you're looking for something different from what you've seen before at other resorts, then Levi might be just what you need — it offers both downhill alpine and cross-country skiing opportunities throughout its terrain parks. You'll be able to enjoy everything from exhilarating downhill rides down snowy mountain peaks during winter months to pleasant summer days spent walking along nature trails just feet away from rushing waterfalls (or even jumping into them!). GetYourGuide: go hiking, snowboarding or ice skating. #Skiing #Levi #Finland #WinterSports #AdventureTravel #WinterEnchantment #LaplandBeauty #FinlandWinter #ArcticParadise #SnowyLandscapes #WinterMagic #Lapland #ScandinavianTravelGroup #AuroraBorealis #MagicOfNature #Finland #Adventure #SnowyLandscapes #ArcticWonders #ArcticExperience #ScandinavianTravel #FinlandTravel #AdventureTravel #WildernessExperience #NatureExploration #NorthernLapland #TravelExperience #WinterWonderland #Levi

Meet Santa Claus and get your picture taken with him at the Claus Holiday Village in Finland! If you've got young kids then this is one place you don't want to miss visiting. Have your children's picture taken with Santa and let them pick out a present from his workshop! There are many other activities included at the village such as meeting Princess Snow White and Pinocchio, visiting The Snow Queen's castle, or reindeer! In this article we share 9 useful tips for those wishing to travel to Lapland: The Grand Opening of Christmas Season A great place for families The Magic of Christmas If you want to enjoy an authentic Christmas The Official Hometown of Santa Claus Where can you meet Santa? When Santa's Office is open? Advantages of the village Welcome to Santa Claus Holiday Village! 1. The Grand Opening of Christmas Season 2023 in Santa Claus Holiday Village There are opportunities to meet Santa Claus, who lives at the village year-round. The Grand Opening of Christmas Season 2023 will be held on November 1st and 2nd, 2023. Santa Claus Village is an official home of Santa Claus in Lapland, Finland. It was opened on December 6th, 1998 and has been welcoming thousands of visitors every year since then. There are many activities for kids during the Christmas season including visiting Santa's workshop and getting their picture taken with him! The village is open every day during December from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Children can visit Santa's workshop for free after paying admission to the village. There are also many other things that visitors can do at the site including seeing their favorite characters like Snow White or Pinocchio in person! 2. Santa Claus's Holiday Village is a great place for families! Santa Claus's Holiday Village is a great place for families looking to have some quality time together. There is also a small zoo where local animals like reindeer and elk can be viewed. Visitors can enjoy different kinds of activities while they are here including attending Christmas Mass with the locals! 3. Santa Claus And the Magic of Christmas 2023 Santa is the most famous person in the world. He's a symbol of Christmas and its magic, generosity and kindness. Father Christmas brings joy to children all over the world, especially during Christmastime. To be honest, we are quite skeptical about visiting this place so close to Christmastime because we thought it would be extremely crowded with people. However, when we visited on a weekday afternoon (Tuesday) there wasn't much of a crowd at all! Most shops were closed, but there were still enough things to see and do here if you're into Christmas celebrations like us! 4. If you want to enjoy an authentic Christmas in 2023, you must visit Santa's Village on this tour! This magical village is the official home of Father Christmas and is open all year round. There are more than 600,000 visitors every year who come to meet Santa and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. You can also see reindeer, participate in various activities or just walk around the town to see how your favorite characters are celebrating the holidays! If you want to make this experience even more authentic, we recommend you stay at one of the hotels nearby Santa's Village Park! 5. The Official Hometown of Santa Claus Rovaniemi is the city that Santa Claus calls home. The official residence of Santa Claus is located on Korvatunturi Mountain, which lies in Finnish territory. For over 100 years now, Father Christmas has been living in Rovaniemi and visiting children all over the world during their dreams. The houses are open to visitors from mid-December until Christmas Eve, while they are decorated with festive lights and music. You can even visit Santa’s house! The address is Korvatunturintie 37 A (90100) Rovaniemi. 6. There are opportunities to meet Santa Claus, who lives at the holiday village year-round Santa Claus Holiday Village is the home of an actual Father Christmas. He’s the official Santa Claus of Finland and lives year-round at this magnificent Christmas village, which has been featured in many films and TV shows over the years. You can see him during Christmastime, but he also lives and works there all year round! 7. Santa's Office is open every day all year round Santa's Office is open every day all year round. Santa will be there to greet you, and you can meet him in person! Located in the heart of Rovaniemi Santa Claus Village, you'll find an office for Santa Claus and his elves, where visitors can take a photo with them. 8. The village has more than 50 shops, restaurants and cafés Let's not forget that S. Claus is a man of the people, and it's only fitting that he should have his own village. The Rovaniemi Santa Claus Village has more than 50 shops, restaurants and cafés where you can buy souvenirs or eat traditional Finnish food. Along with all of these stores, there are also 16 different restaurants to choose from! You can even watch Santa at work in his office if you're lucky enough to catch him on a day off. 9. Welcome to Santa Claus Holiday Village! Have you always wanted to meet Santa? This is your chance! Come and visit his Village where he lives with his wife Mrs. Claus, elves and reindeers. There are also plenty of other activities available, such as visiting the North Pole town or taking part in activities such as gold prospecting or husky and reindeer sledding. Santa Village is a theme park in the Arctic Circle, located in Rovaniemi, Finland. Here you will find the most authentic winter experience in the world! Hurry up and book the best value and hottest winter tours in Finland from Scandinavian Travel Group at the best prices in all of Lapland! This article contains photos used with permission from ©Visit Rovaniemi and @ScandinavianTravelGroup.

Is it possible to believe in Christmas? As seen in the most beautiful pre-Christmas films, with the same fabulous atmosphere, kind Santa Claus, smiling elves, cute reindeer and other trappings of winter happiness? The fenix.info team travelled to Lapland and is ready to tell you about all the local wonders. And also about prices and personal stuff. In general, it will be interesting! In this article we share 8 useful tips for those wishing to travel to Lapland: The best time to visit Lapland is during the Christmas season When Is It Better to Go Celebrate Christmas in Lapland Celebrate Christmas in Lapland in winter 2022 - 2023 Trip with children to Lapland What itineraries are available to visit Santa at Christmas time? What can a child do in Lapland? A family trip to Lapland for Christmas Enjoy perfect Northern Lights and festive Christmas in Lapland 1. The best time to visit Lapland is during the Christmas season There are many reasons why you should go there in winter, including: Santa Claus! Northern Lights Snowshoeing tour Safari Lapland Husky Sledge Ride Reindeer Safari Snowmobile Safari Snow village Snow Igloo 2. When Is It Better to Go Celebrate Christmas in Lapland Officially, there is no country called Lapland. It is the name of a cultural region that today spreads across four countries: Finland, Norway, Sweden and even a little bit of Russia (on the Kola Peninsula). It was once a wilderness area inhabited by the Lapps. Today Lapland is known as a place of residence of the most famous person in the world, who every year gives thousands of children that very feeling of a holiday, beauty, cosiness and kindness. Officially, Santa Claus is domiciled here in Lapland. To be more precise, in its capital, Rovaniemi, Finland. All tourists in Lapland travel here without exception. Right away, almost from the plane. So did we. There are many reasons to visit Lapland around Christmastime. The most obvious one is that this is the best season to see Santa Claus and his helpers, who are dressed in their traditional costumes and will perform songs, dances and parades for you. The second reason is that it’s a great time of year to enjoy snow activities such as husky sledding on the snow-covered forest trails or reindeer safari in your own sleigh over frozen lakes with magnificent views around you. The third reason why you should go there during cold winter months is that this period transforms Lapland into a winter wonderland – making it look like something out of a fairytale book! 3. Celebrate Christmas in Lapland in winter 2023 - 2024 Lapland is a great place to celebrate Christmas. The best time to go is between November and January, because this is when the Northern Lights are most visible. The most eventful period falls on December, especially from December 1-14th when Santa Claus himself visits Lapland! In addition to experiencing the magic of Christmas in its true form, you will also have an opportunity to explore some of the world’s most fascinating natural phenomena. You can enjoy a snowmobile ride on the open plains, visit Santa Claus’s home at Rovaniemi, see reindeer herds and ice caves. You can also go dog sledding through the mountains or just sit in front of your fireplace drinking hot cocoa while listening to Christmas carols! If you are planning a trip to Lapland, then you should keep in mind that it’s not just about experiencing the magic of Christmas. It's also an introduction to some of the world's most spectacular natural phenomena, the Aurora. You can enjoy snowmobile rides across the open plains, visit Father Christmas' house in Levi and Rovaniemi, see herds of reindeer, snow igloos and ice caves. 4. Trip with children to Lapland The beautiful snow-covered landscape, the cosy log cabins, and the husky dogs will make everyone feel warm and cozy. Luckily, there are many ways to make sure that your trip with children is as pleasant as possible. Here are some tips on how to plan a trip to Lapland with kids: Contact Scandinavian Travel Group and ask them for advice on what to see in Lapland, which places are suitable for children, etc. You'll be surprised how helpful they can be! Book accommodation and activities well in advance for Christmas: most hotels have limited availability at Christmastime because of all the tourists who want to visit this magical place at this time of year. If you don't book your room or tour well in advance, there is a chance that there won't be availability for the dates you want. The best time to book tours and hotels in Lapland (Finland) is early October! 5. What itineraries are available to visit Santa at Christmas time? Any self-respecting family should consider a trip to Lapland for Christmas. But what can a child do in Lapland? What should he/she see? Where can you stay with a child? 1) The first stop on our itinerary might be Levi, Finland Levi is Finland's largest ski resort, and is situated in the village of Sirkka in northern Lapland. Well-developed infrastructure, compact architecture, convenient transport links and no queues complete the peaceful family-friendly spaces for recreation and winter fun. The ski resort of Levi is the only place in Finland with the Levi Gondola 2000 gondola lift. There are more than 140 family hotels in Levi, including: Northern Lights Village Levi Resort Hotel with a garden is located in Sirkka. The Northern Lights Huts resort hotel is located on an old reindeer farm that has been owned by members of the same family for more than 170 years. Hotel Golden Crown: Levi Iglut is situated on the Utsuvaara hills in the Finnish province of Lapland and is perfect for a quiet holiday. Featuring garden views, Raanakka House: Premium Villa at Levi offers accommodation with a terrace and a kettle, around 3 km from Spa Water World, Levi. Numerous cosy apartments close to the ski slopes and the lifts are at your disposal for a comfortable stay with children. The apartments offer a private sauna, a balcony and other facilities. Levi has everything you need for a great Christmas holiday with the kids: Several shops that sell all sorts of Christmas-related gifts Restaurants, including local ones serving Lappish specialities. Local Santa Claus in his secret hideaway! The highlight for a child might be meeting Santa himself in Levi! He is very kind and generous, and will give your child the best time of his life! Be sure to visit Santa on your trip to Levi! Your child will be able to talk to Santa, see his reindeer and elves and ask him for something special... And after a hospitable evening, Santa Claus will give your child a gift from his bag of fairy dust! :) Believe us, it will be an unforgettable Christmas for him! 2) The second stop on your family itinerary could be Father Christmas Village, located near Rovaniemi This place is like an indoor theme park, but it's only open in summer. In winter, it turns into a hotel and conference centre with large queues... You can take a trip to Santa Claus Village and Santa Park on your own or use the Scandinavian Travel Group service. In this programme, they offer to visit Santa Claus and organise a transfer from Levi to Rovaniemi. The advantage of the latter option is the ability to avoid large queues, if any, as the company has its own arrangements. It's also convenient if you're holidaying in Levi, a popular ski resort in Finland, for example. 6. What can a child do in Lapland? In addition to meeting Father Christmas himself, there are plenty of activities for the child in Lapland, including: Husky Safari Reindeer Safari Snowmobile Safari Snowshoeing trip Building a snow igloo But let's take it one step at a time.... 1) Husky safari One of the unique aspects of Lapland is the husky safari. Your guide will take you out into nature with a pack of sled dogs, who will do all the work while you ride along in comfort. These programs provide an unforgettable experience and allow guests to see the huskies in their natural habitat as well as learn about them through the stories of local experts. If your children are interested in participating in this activity, Scandinavian Travel Group offers several packages that make it easy for them to enjoy this adventure as well! 2) Reindeer safari Reindeer safaris are one of the most popular activities in Lapland. These tours allow the whole family and children to take a trip to the fabulous forests of Lapland. Here you can see beautiful scenery and authentic reindeer farms. You can also go reindeer riding, which is a great way to spend time with family or friends. There are many other winter activities you can do in Lapland. There are guided snowmobile rides, husky sledding and more! Scandinavian Travel Group offers programs for children that include these exciting experiences too! 3) Snowmobiling: riding a snowmobile with your child! If you want to explore the Lapland nature, a snowmobile is the best way to do it. The Scandinavian Travel Group offers snowmobiling programs for children as well as adults. When riding a snowmobile, you can see both animals and plants that live in this area of Finland. Furthermore, the nature will be beautiful around you! The best time for snowmobiling is from November to March. It is also easier to drive on your own than when it's warmer outside (May-September). 4) Snowshoeing trip The snowshoeing trip we took was excellent. It’s a good alternative to skiing, being suitable for all ages and abilities, but you need to be fit. You should wear warm clothes and boots and have a good sense of direction! The Scandinavian Travel Group offers exceptional winter Snowshoeing programs that include everything you need – snowshoes, poles and even hot drinks at the end of your walk! Discover one of the amazing programs on snowshoes. If your child is at least 8 years old, this tour will be perfect for them! 5) Building a snow igloo Do you want to delight your child with a unique experience by creating the perfect winter refuge in Lapland? Snow Igloos are real shelters built by native Arctic people of Greenland, Russia, and Canada. In this program we will teach you how to make one yourself! You will be working in a team of 2 or 3 participants, under supervision of our professional guide. Ideal for active adults and children who want to learn something new and gain new skills while having fun outdoors in winter in Lapland. The snow igloo is able to provide shelter during blizzards! And you can enjoy a cosy interior warmth that will surprise you! If your child is at least 10 years old, this tour will be perfect for them! 7. A family trip to Lapland for Christmas While you're on the plane to Lapland, all excited, you're still a grown-up and fairly serious person. But as soon as you see... no, not even Santa Claus himself, but his elf helpers at Santa's Village in Rovaniemi (that's where we arrived), you become a child again with your eyes wide open, hunger for presents under the tree, desire to behave well at least until New Year and a strange naive smile. In general, you believe 100%, even when you realise with your head that elves work as, for example, acting students. It's hard to see how, but the Finns make the fairy tale come true. Fact! If you are looking for the best time to go to Lapland, it's better to fly in the winter. The airport is located in Rovaniemi, which is a popular place for tourists to visit. This city has unique attractions and events such as Santa Claus Village and Santa Claus's Post Office. The best time to go to Santa's village is from November to January, with the most eventful period falling on December. If you are planning a winter programme with a visit to Santa's Village, book your trip in October! The best time to book a Christmas tour to Lapland is early October, because that's when the best winter programmes are open and there are plenty of options to choose from. You can also check the rates online to see how much a per person or family Christmas tours to Lapland costs at Scandinavian Travel Group. If you're looking for the best time to go to Lapland, it's better to fly in the winter. The airport is located in Rovaniemi, which is a popular place for tourists to visit. This city has unique attractions and events such as Santa Claus Village and Santa Claus's Post Office. 8. Enjoy perfect Northern Lights and festive Christmas in Lapland If you are looking for the best time to enjoy perfect Northern Lights and festive Christmas in Lapland, then December is the right time for you. If you are interested in spending your holiday away from the city lights and jolly atmosphere, then consider visiting Levi (Finland) during Christmas! As we all know that Lapland has been known as Santa Claus' homeland since ages. This means that if you want your kids to experience something special this holiday season, then Levi is what they need! Lapland is the perfect destination for a family trip to celebrate Christmas. You can enjoy the winter wonderland with your loved ones, get ready for Santa's arrival, and make memories together. Find out more: Santa Claus! Northern Lights Snowshoeing tour Safari Lapland Husky Sledge Ride Snow village Snow Igloo Reindeer Safari Snowmobile Safari This article contains photos used with permission from ©Visit Rovaniemi & Scandinavian Travel Group.

The Northern Lights are one of nature's most spectacular light shows, and they're a real-life marvel worth experiencing. When conditions are right, the lights appear as curtains of colorful light that trick-or-treat across the sky in an ever-changing display. The Northern Lights are most visible from the Arctic region during winter months when there's little sun activity (September to March). We've prepared answers to the 10 most popular questions about the northern lights in this post: Why Are the Northern Lights So Special? Causes Where to See When is the best time to see it? How to take photos of the Northern Lights? Aurora Borealis Forecast Top places to see the Northern Lights The Best Places in the World to See it The top things to do under the Northern Lights One of earth's most spectacular light shows 1. Why Are the Northern Lights So Special? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from space hit our atmosphere. As these particles collide with gas molecules in our atmosphere, they excite them and cause them to glow. The lights you see in the sky are collisions between particles of solar wind and atoms in the air on Earth's upper atmosphere (the ionosphere). In short, this means that if you go outside on a clear night and look up at the sky, you will see the light show — the most spectacular light show on earth! 2. What Causes the Northern Lights? The Northern Lights are created when solar winds collide with atoms in Earth's atmosphere. The sun emits a stream of charged particles, which are called solar wind. When these particles reach Earth and collide with atoms in our atmosphere, they create a glow that we see as the Northern Lights. The aurora borealis is caused by electrons colliding with oxygen and nitrogen molecules in Earth's upper atmosphere (at altitudes between 100 km to 400 km). The collisions slow down electrons from solar winds and cause them to fall back toward space at high speeds or accelerate positive ions or both. This movement releases energy which creates an electromagnetic field — and you guessed it — the northern lights! 3. Where to See the Northern Lights? The Northern Lights are visible in the Northern Hemisphere and are best seen from Norway, Finland, Lapland and Greenland. In Canada, you can see them as far south as Alberta and Saskatchewan. The farther north you go, the better chance you have of seeing them; they're also more common between September and March when days are shorter than nights. 4. When is the best time to see the Northern Lights? If you want to witness the Northern Lights, winter is the best time. The sun remains low in the sky and doesn't interfere with viewing. The next best time is during a new moon when there's no moonlight at all. The further north you are located, the better your chances of seeing them as well as some places being more reliable than others. The aurora borealis (northern lights) have fascinated people for centuries and continue to do so today, but what exactly causes this spectacular phenomenon? 5. How to take photos of the Northern Lights? Taking photos of the Northern Lights is a tricky business, but with a few tips, you can be sure to get some great shots. Use a tripod and remote shutter release. The Northern Lights move fast, so your camera needs to be steady if you want sharp images without any blurriness. A tripod will help ensure that it stays still as you shoot long exposures (typically longer than 30 seconds). If there’s someone with you who can take care of this task for you, even better! Use a wide-angle lens and set it to f-stops around f/4 or lower (the higher the number, the narrower your aperture). This will allow in as much light as possible so that even though there are long exposures involved, your camera won't have problems with exposure during those moments when there's no activity with the aurora overhead because our brains are used to seeing things quickly moving across our field of vision all day long: otherwise known as «fast motion». If something moves slowly enough for our eyes to see individual pixels rather than smooth motion between them then we perceive it as "slow motion." Because most Northern Lights photography involves extended periods where nothing is happening on screen but darkness or other elements from nature like sky stars clouds etc., having an open aperture will allow more light into each frame thus making sure none of those frames go dark due to lack thereof illumination! Don’t forget about ISO settings too! While most photographers think about shutter speed first when setting up their cameras for low-light situations like this one here at Aurora Village Northland Adventures during winter months when temperatures drop below zero degrees Celsius (-18 °Fahrenheit), these settings can also impact how well they capture detail within their pictures while using longer exposure times too — so don’t forget about changing those too if necessary before pressing record button after adjusting focus point according! 6. Is it truly possible to predict the Aurora Borealis Forecast? It is not possible to predict the aurora borealis forecast with any certainty, but you can check the aurora forecast online. There are several sources for checking the aurora forecast. For example, on the Finnish Meteorological Institute website if you are in Finland and are going to catch the northern lights. 7. Top places to see the Northern Lights in Lapland Where to see the Northern Lights: Lapland (Finland) is the best place to see the northern lights. There are many places in Finland where you can watch the Northern Lights, but Lapland is regarded as one of the best spots. The Aurora Sky Station offers visitors a chance to watch this natural phenomenon from a glass igloo, while in Abisko National Park there’s also an opportunity to stay overnight at a special cabin with windows that allow you to capture every moment of your experience on camera without leaving your bed. The Scandinavia Travel Group are the best places and programmes to see the Northern Lights: they are veterans in this business, trust us! Cosy family and exclusive programs, group tours including overnight safaris and much more, just look at the incredible selection and all at the lowest prices in Finland! 8. The Best Places in the World to See the Northern Lights The best places in the world to see the Northern Lights are in the Arctic Circle, where they can be seen from September through March. 9. The top things to do under the Northern Lights in Lapland Reindeer sledging: This traditional winter sport is all about getting close to nature, and it’s great fun for families with kids. Dog sledging: Another way to experience Lapland’s unique wilderness is by riding through it on a dog sledge, so you get to see everything from up close. Skiing/Snowmobiling: Whether you prefer skiing or snowmobiling, you can enjoy these activities day or night under the Northern Lights. Ice fishing: The best way to experience the Northern Lights is from a fishing cabin on the frozen sea — and that’s exactly what you can do in Finland. 10. One of earth's most spectacular light shows It occurs when electrically charged particles from the earth's magnetosphere collide with atoms in our atmosphere. The natural phenomenon of northern lights (aurora borealis) is a light show put on by mother nature that creates curtains of colourful lights that trick-or-treat across the sky. Northern lights are the result of electrically charged particles from earth's magnetosphere colliding with atoms in our atmosphere. These collisions excite the atoms, causing them to emit light at specific wavelengths and temperatures. The resulting light shows take on different hues depending on how many electrons are present in an atom and what type of element it is. Northern lights occur when charged particles from the solar wind collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms in our atmosphere. The interactions between these ions and electrons cause them to emit light at specific wavelengths and temperatures, which results in the colourful displays we see as northern lights. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that is truly one of nature's greatest shows. If you're looking for something to do while in Finland or Lapland, then look no further than booking yourself on a tour with Scandinavian Travel Group! Our experienced guides will take you on an adventure that will certainly be one unforgettable experience. This article contains photos used with permission from the Scandinavian Travel Group.

A week-long yacht cruise will take you to many unique places you never knew existed! Imagine sleeping in a new location every day. It could be a coastal town or a wild cove. In this review we will look at 5 reasons to take a week-long yacht cruise on the Côte d'Azur: The program and itinerary On a week-long yacht cruise Vacationing on a yacht Active and passive leisure A private holiday So, scroll on! 1. The program and the itinerary of the cruise will be up to you, and you can change your plans at any time On a yacht cruise, you will travel to places that are truly unique and often inaccessible to classic tourists. Each day you will spend the night in a new place. It could be a coastal town or a wild cove. You'll visit places that are hard to reach, enjoy the beauty of the sights without the crowds of tourists, enjoy the movement of a yacht under sail and discover holidays in a completely different way. This is how guests describe their experiences after a yacht cruise on the Côte d'Azur. 2. On a week-long yacht cruise, you travel to unique destinations On a yacht cruise, you travel to places that are truly unique and often inaccessible to classic tourists. Each day you will spend the night in a new place. It could be a coastal town or a wild cove. 3. A yacht holiday is quite comparable to a stay in a good hotel Why week-long yacht cruises are becoming more and more popular? Cruising on a yacht or sailing a catamaran is a new destination that has become very popular in the last few years. More and more people are opting for a yacht cruise instead of a hotel holiday. Especially when it comes to the French Côte d'Azur and cities such as Monaco, Cannes, Nice or Saint-Tropez. Just five years ago a yacht cruise seemed like something out of the question and very expensive. But that was no more than a stereotype. Today the yachting business is not just the luxury mega-yachts of millionaires but also a fairly sporadic fleet of yachts. What's more, the quality of recreation on a new sailing catamaran is incommensurably higher! Every coastline on the Côte d'Azur with all its beautiful scenery will complement your trip. For example, a modern and fashionable yacht or a sailing catamaran equipped with the latest technology. Inside it is a real suite with a modern design: galley (kitchen), large saloon, 5 or 8 cabins, and much more. However, there are a fair number of double cabins (usually two to four) and toilets. Externally, she is a true category A seagoing vessel, i.e., capable of crossing the ocean in autonomous mode. The yacht can be sailing or motorized. But for certain reasons, sailing yacht cruises are the most popular. 4. Travelling on a yacht you can combine active and passive spend time A sailing cruise is a unique opportunity to combine active and passive relaxation, for example: try kayaking or snorkeling right in the open sea! It is a great experience. Or disembark on the coast for a stroll around the coastal town and dine in a new location with beautiful views. What could be more wonderful than sampling the different cuisines offered by the best restaurants on the Côte d'Azur! 5. A secluded family holiday or holiday with friends We think that week-long or 14-day yacht cruises are great for families, friends or work colleagues (as a team-building activity). The concept behind this type of holiday is to go on an individual week-long catamaran cruise with a crew of 3, where you will feel completely comfortable and secluded. The crew may consist of the captain, a stewardess and a chef. The captain will set a course for your itinerary, so you can enjoy the unique and enchanting Mediterranean coastline to the fullest. He will take care of your safety and provide you with seaside entertainment equipment to spice up your holiday with activity. The chef will surprise you with a Mediterranean menu created just for you. And a stewardess will make sure you feel comfortable. Travelling on a modern yacht is characterised by comfort. There is a private beach, a house and transport. Forget about packing for tiresome mass excursions, now all excursions are just for you and under your guidance! We hope you like our ideas. We wish you a pleasant cruise!

Dear child, we have decided to tell you the truth: Santa Claus is real. The phrase seems to be pronounced differently... Yes, it is pronounced differently, but only until parents find out for themselves that a grey-bearded wizard in a red hat lives in colder climes, that he listens carefully to all children's wishes and that a family of acquaintances has already been to see him. Do you also think it's high time to separate the truth from the idle fiction and check where Father Christmas lives and what he can do? So, in this overview we answer the most popular questions children have about Santa Claus: Where does Santa Claus live? What does Santa do in the summer? What is beyond the Arctic Circle? The weather above the Arctic Circle A magical letter Santa's helpers What does Santa Claus eat for breakfast? How many reindeer does Santa have? The Christmas exhibition Making a snowman Is it possible to build a snow igloo in Santa's village? Santa's private transport 1. Where does Father Christmas live? The beloved wizard of all children could live at the North Pole. But wouldn't he be bored without visitors? That's why Santa is based in Finland, a cold but very hospitable country. Find Rovaniemi on a map of Finland. Yes, it's not a short drive, and Santa Claus' village is even further away, where the Arctic Circle dotted line runs. Two km from the wizard's residence is the official airport of Santa Claus, and an express bus runs from Rovaniemi to the fairytale village. And just imagine, there's even a major European motorway, E-75, that leads to the area. There's a little secret: Santa's real home (or Joelupukki, as Finnish children call him) is located on Mount Korvatunturi, but its location cannot be revealed, otherwise all the magic would be lost. You can visit him. Take advantage of a unique program from Scandinavian Travel Group. 2. What does Santa Claus do in the summer? It turns out he does the same thing he does in winter: prepare presents and receive guests. What's more, he has the longest working hours in the summer. From morning to evening, the magician holds the reception, listening to the wishes of children (and sometimes adults) from all over the world. If you visit Santa Claus' village in Summer, professional photographers will capture the moment your child whispers to the wizard. And then you'll look at the photos for a long time and find details that you didn't notice right away... For example, you'll discover that even in summer Joelupukki's shoes are powdered with snow, and the fire in the fireplace is crackling. By the way, you can find little signs of winter in Santa Claus's village, even if it's summer on the calendar. 3. What's out there, beyond the Arctic Circle? Are the icy winds whistling there? Are there frosts blowing? Now you can answer these questions with knowledge for your children! All you have to do is cross the line marked 'Arctic Circle'. The line runs through Father Christmas village and every brave person who crosses it will get a special certificate. 4. What is the weather like in Lapland above the Arctic Circle in summer and winter? There are no frosts in summer, when the temperature stays between +15 and +18°C. In July and August it may even be hot and humid. July and August can be hot, with temperatures in excess of 30°C and even 35°C. In late September, however, the weather can get cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Frost peaks in the winter months, with temperatures dropping to -15°C. The warmth won't arrive until May. November to December sees temperatures dropping to -7 and -12°C. From December to February, you can catch -20 and -30°C. 5. How to write a magical letter to Father Christmas? Which child hasn't written a letter to Santa (Joelupukki, Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas, Peru Noel? The magician has many names :) All this correspondence arrives at the main post office of Santa Claus. The work there is excellent, and no child's request goes unheeded. It often happens that children don't ask the magician for anything, but they wish him a Merry Christmas and a long and happy life. Such letters especially touch Father Christmas. You can also buy colorful greeting cards at the post office and send them out to family and friends. Each card has a stamp with an image of Father Christmas on it and his company stamp. Do you want your recipient to receive a Christmas card just in time for Christmas? Put the card in the red letterbox at the post office. 6. Santa's helpers The winter wizard has so much to do that he couldn't do it alone. That's why he has the help of elves. They are industrious, ubiquitous and cheerful, and they do the cleaning, make the souvenirs and cheer up the guests. They work the whole year round, just like Santa, and get ready for Christmas: they choose presents, wrap them and prepare the grandfather's sleigh for the journey. And when a grown-up child realises that Santa's helpers are not only elves, but also all the parents in the world, he will not feel disappointment, and warmth: One day he himself will join the ranks of winter wizard helpers! 7. What does Father Christmas eat for breakfast? Does Santa like to eat good food? And his wife, Mrs Claus (known as Maori in Finland), is lucky to be a good cook. Her treats are plentiful for her husband, all the elves and visitors to the village. In summer, she bakes berry pies, in autumn she makes mushroom soup and on winter holidays she cooks traditional rice porridge with almonds. Maori uses an elf's cap as a measure of volume, measures time in Santa's Quiet Hours and her main spice is... love. You can sample Mrs Claus' delicious treats in any restaurant in the village. 8. How many reindeer does Santa have? Everyone knows Father Christmas' nine flying reindeer by name. But the old man also has other reindeer that he saddles up in his sleigh when he goes for a walk in the woods. These seemingly ordinary animals can be seen at Santa's farm in his village. During a tour, you can learn about reindeer husbandry traditions and be allowed to meet and feed the animals. Of course, each reindeer has a nickname. I wonder if you'll be lucky enough to meet Rudolf, Dasher and Cupid. But not everyone knows about the fabulous reindeer that live on an ancient reindeer farm! This ancient farm is over 150 years old! The farm lies on the banks of the longest river in Lapland and is surrounded by a taiga forest. It's these reindeer that can take you for a ride in Santa's magical forests! Are you looking for an unforgettable experience and culture of Lappish reindeer herders, Santa's helpers? We have a fun program for the whole family from Scandinavian Travel Group: Reindeer Safari in Lappish Village, Finland 9. Christmas exhibition in Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi It's summer, and you can't get in the mood for winter? Then you need to visit the Christmas House. There you will remember how good your spirits get in anticipation of the holiday. In the Christmas House you can see an exhibition about Christmas traditions from Finland and abroad. It is also the largest gift shop in Santa's village. You can buy Christmas decorations, toys, dishes, clothes... just about anything you might need. The shelves are lined with items from the local elf factory. 10. Making a snowman in Lapland In late November, when Rovaniemi's Father Christmas village is covered in snow, the Santa Park begins. Join in the fun: ride the winter-spring-summer-autumn train, take a walk through the Ice Gallery, sample freshly baked goods at the Christmas Bakery, work with elves in the workshop and learn what Santa's helpers need to know at the Elf School. The snowmen (who also serve Father Christmas), annually build a playground in Santa's village where you can go sledding, play snowballs or build forts. And here's the amazing thing: Santa Park is also open in summer. Why not learn at the elf school during the school holidays? And you can see the ice sculptures: Grandpa enchanted them so that the ice doesn't melt. But visitors won't feel the cold and can walk around the gallery in summer clothes. 11. Is it possible to build a snow igloo in Santa's village? There is no such possibility in the village itself. But we know places where you can build a snow igloo! What's more, you can learn how to build a real snow igloo as a team if you take advantage of Scandinavian Travel Group's «BUILD YOUR OWN SNOW IGLOO» program. What could be more exciting? And your teacher will be a professional Arctic wildlife guide! The construction site of the snow igloos is located in a quiet and beautiful natural area. Each snow igloo built contributes to the snow igloo park, which is visited by many tourists in Levi (in the town near Rovaniemi, Lapland). The names of the builders and their home country can be found on a plaque next to the igloos. Your guide will prepare warm drinks and snacks for you inside the snow igloo you built! 12. On the road in Santa's private transport! Father Christmas may well have received letters from children asking if they could take a ride on a magical reindeer. Well, Santa decided that all visitors to his village should have this opportunity. Now you too can take a journey across snowy roads on a sleigh pulled by reindeer. We recommend you the best reindeer safari programs in Lapland from Scandinavian Travel Group: Reindeer Safari in Levi Super Reindeer Safari Finland You can also take advantage of husky safari programs. In this case the sled will be pulled by a dog sled. We also recommend the best husky safari programs in Lapland by Scandinavian Travel Group: Husky kennel & Safari from Levi Husky riding in Levi Did you know that Father Christmas is very handy with modern technology, and has a fleet of snowmobiles! There are small snowmobiles for the kids. We also recommend the best snowmobile programs: Snowmobile Safari in Lapland You haven't had a chance to tell your children about Santa's village yet, but already you hear someone's voice saying "I want to go there"? Of course, it's your own voice! Grown-ups love holidays and miracles too. Don't be afraid of being too late for the fun: family tours to Father Christmas in Lapland are exciting at any time of year, well, our children's routes in Lapland will show you what to show your child in this magical corner of our planet! This article contains photos used with permission from ©Visit Rovaniemi and @ScandinavianTravelGroup.

When exploring the country's main attractions, don't miss out on the official residence of its rulers, the Palace of Monaco. It's a place with a fascinating history that can't fail to impress with its grandeur. 1. The Palace of Monaco The Palace of Monaco is located in the famous Monaco-Ville district. Interestingly, if there is a flag flying over the roof of the large public building, it means the prince is in his chambers. A special feature of the palace is the Italian Gallery, the room in which the throne stands, the salons of Louis XV and Mazarinis inside the palace. In the summer, concerts are often held in the courtyard. The palace is not entirely open to tourists; the Grimaldi chambers are in the south-west wing. 2. Casino Monte Carlo Monaco's attractions are not limited to its gardens and cathedrals. The casinos are the country's calling card, and the Casino of Monte-Carlo is one of the most respectable gambling houses in the world. It came into being after Prince Charles III sold the two towns to Napoleon III. He decided to use the proceeds to create an aristocratic resort. The French financier was asked to open a casino in Monaco, and the result was a very beautiful building. Until lunchtime it can be visited like a normal museum, you only need to buy a ticket to enter and there is no dress code. 3. Café de Paris Another Monaco attraction is in Monte Carlo's busiest location, namely the famous Casino Square. The Café is very popular with tourists because of the wax figures of the principality's subjects that can be seen here. The cuisine at Café de Paris is not only high quality but also varied. The chef manages to create the most original dishes with an unforgettable taste. Where to stay in Monaco? Many of the Principality's hotels are in chic, historic buildings, while the Hermitage and the De Paris are in palaces. 4-5 star hotels are predominant and cost from €500 per night. Three-star hotels are much less common. Mini hotels are an economical option: Monte Carlo has several options from 120 EUR per night for two people. Apartments start at 190 EUR per night. 4. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary The cathedral serves as the family tomb of the rulers of the state. 5. Port Hercule Port Hercule, one of Monaco's two most famous seaports, is a must for a day trip. The place is deservedly considered luxurious and modern. Today Hercule, the largest and oldest port in the Principality, is home to some 700 immaculate ships. It is home to some of the most luxurious yachts in the world. The view of the city of Monte-Carlo is magnificent from here. There are relatively affordable restaurants and hotels close to the port. Discover all the splendour of Monaco's vibrant life!

Monaco is a small sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, known for its luxurious lifestyle and glamour. It is a popular destination for the wealthy and famous and is often associated with flamboyance and gambling. 7 reasons to visit Monaco: Gambling Luxury Shopping Yachting Luxurious Hotels The Formula 1 Grand Prix The Opera The Royal Palace Gambling: Monaco is home to some of the most famous and luxurious casinos in the world, such as the Monte Carlo Casino. It is a popular destination for high rollers and offers a wide range of gambling options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. Luxury Shopping: Monaco is home to many luxury shops and designer boutiques. The streets of Monte Carlo are lined with high-end stores offering luxury goods, jewelry, and fashion. Yachting: Monaco is also known as a yachting destination, with the Monaco Yacht Show, held annually in September, which is one of the most important events in the yachting calendar. Luxurious Hotels: Monaco is home to many luxurious hotels, such as the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, which offers sumptuous accommodations, fine dining, and high-end spa services. The Formula 1 Grand Prix: The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most famous car races in the world and is held annually on the streets of Monte Carlo. It is considered one of the most prestigious and challenging races in the Formula 1 calendar. The Opera: The Opéra de Monte-Carlo is the main opera house in Monaco and is renowned for its acoustics and elegant architecture. The Royal Palace: The Royal Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco, and it is open to the public for tours during certain periods of the year.

The Principality of Monaco is a model of good taste and refined life. It has everything to do with luxury: casinos, expensive yachts and the famous Formula 1. This article is a guide to the major tourist attractions, shopping and fun things to do in Monaco. The catchy synonyms for Monaco are luxury and elitism A tiny monarchy on the border with France, measuring just two square kilometres, Monaco is a center of attraction for the rich and famous. The kingdom also attracts those who aspire to become one. What might your holiday in Monaco look like? Watch the oligarchs, politicians and celebrities lounge daily on the fashionable beaches of the Ligurian Sea. Driving around the sights in a convertible imagining yourself as Prince Rainier or Grace Kelly is a must for your holiday in Monaco. Stay in one of the chic hotels or have breakfast at a local restaurant overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Try your luck at the famous Monte Carlo Casino. Attend a Formula 1 Grand Prix. What is the best time of year to visit Monaco? The Principality has around 300 days of sunshine a year. The heaviest rainfall is in autumn and winter. The best time for sightseeing and beach holidays is from May to September. Would you like to book a cruise to Monaco? If you plan to visit the State in early spring or summer, it is best to do so in advance. For example, to get on a charter in May or June, book between January and mid-April. 5 Impressive areas of the Principality The state of Monaco does not have a capital, only districts. One of the main districts of the state is Monaco-Ville. It is the oldest of the Principality's 10 districts, and it is here that the most notable architectural monuments are concentrated. 1. Palace Square Monaco-Ville is punctuated by picturesque walkways that lead to Palace Square, where the official residence of the princely family is located. 2. The white stone princely palace of Monaco The old streets of Monaco-Ville descend to the main square with the white-stone Princely Palace, and many of the buildings balance on the cliff as even a thousand locals need somewhere to stay. 3. Monte Carlo Monte Carlo threatens to surpass the capital in popularity, sociability and concentration of entertainment. The highlight, of course, is the casino, founded by Charles III in the 19th century on the site of a sheep pasture. Monte Carlo is the place to enjoy the comfort of a luxury hotel and amazing cuisine at the best restaurants on the Azur Coast, shopping in couture boutiques, famous spas and cocktails at fashionable parties. 4. The Rock of St. Antoine Many tourists flock here to watch the changing of the guard, which consists of 12 perfectly matched soldiers. The area sits on top of the Saint-Antoine Rock 60 m above sea level. It was here that Francesco Grimaldi, founder of the dynasty that still reigns today, first arrived in the 13th century and took the town not in battle but stealthily: he disguised himself as a monk, passed unhindered and opened the gates for his soldiers. 5. La Condamine If you're tired of the hustle and bustle of the touristy districts, head to quiet, respectable La Condamine. This is an area of banks, offices, shopping and business centers. 7 Top attractions in Monaco A trip to this country is an experience to remember. The neighborhoods of the Principality are literally overflowing with monuments of cultural heritage. 1. Monaco Botanical Garden The Monaco Botanical Gardens have several names, but one thing is certain, this attraction should be one of the first. There are unique collections of cacti, succulents and other plants here. But the most important thing about this place is the stunning panoramic view! From here the whole of the Principality is at your fingertips. The Botanical Garden of Monaco covers an area of 1 hectare. A collection of plants has been brought here from all over the world. 2. Municipal beach in Monaco Monaco has the only municipal beach where you can have a great time. It's the Larvotto beach, which is sure to please you if you're looking for a glamorous beach holiday. Despite being a municipal beach, Larvotto is one of the most expensive beaches in the world. You can sunbathe topless on the beach. Keep in mind, however, that the lack of body adornment can be interpreted as bad taste. There is jellyfish netting all along the shoreline, which is especially appreciated by mothers with children. 3. Japanese garden This Monaco landmark is considered a true wonder. The Japanese Garden is located just off the beach, on Avenue Princess Grace. Once you get there, you realise that it deservedly ranks among the best in the world. It is known that the creation of the Japanese Garden was entrusted to architect and landscape designer Yass Beppe. It took the design team 17 months to meticulously tackle the technical challenges of designing the garden! And it was well worth it. The result is a masterpiece that to this day ranks among the best attractions not only in the country, but also in the world. The plants in the garden have been chosen and arranged according to the 4 seasons, representing the cyclical nature of human life. 4. Fort Antoine Built in the 18th century, Fort Antoine in Monaco is now used as a theatre. In the center of the fort you can see a towering pyramid of cannonballs. 5. Saint Nicholas Cathedral A tour of Monaco is almost never without a visit to the main church, the interior of which is decorated with paintings by Louis Brea. Saint Nicholas Cathedral is a Romanesque building constructed between 1875 and 1903. 6. Oceanographic Museum of Monaco Located on the coastal cliffs, the museum was founded by Prince Albert I. Today it hosts numerous exhibitions with a maritime theme. A special feature of the Oceanographic Museum is a huge aquarium that occupies most of the 1st floor. 7. Museum of old Monaco Here you will find a chic collection of paintings, antiques and ceramics. The Old Monaco Museum is furnished with preserved furniture from past centuries. The national costumes are also of interest, taking you back in time. The museum is open free of charge on selected days of the week from June to September.