What I Learnt From My Visit To Lapland

Lapland – A vast magical region made up of the northernmost parts of Sweden and Finland, best known for its pristine winter landscapes, dancing northern lights, wandering reindeer, and of course, Santa! A place I’ve been dreaming of visiting ever since I was little, so when I got the chance to visit Finnish Lapland last month I couldn’t wait! Lapland is definitely not just for children hoping to meet Santa but for all walks of life who enjoy the great outdoors! If you can think of a winter outdoor activity, you can probably find it here, including reindeer and dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. There are also plenty of opportunities to experience the culture and traditions of the Sami, the native people of Lapland. Read ahead to find out what I learnt from my time in Lapland.

It’s cold but not UK cold

Hear me out… Obviously, the Arctic is much, much colder than the UK but thanks to its dry, crisp air you don’t experience that clingy damp chill that the UK is famous for, making the cold a lot more enjoyable here than back home. That being said it’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach – 30 °C therefore thermal layers are key to keeping you cosy and warm. A good wooly hat, thick gloves, and insulated boots kept me going on our days outside, and of course a ridiculously padded sleeping bag coat.

Husky sledding is wonderful…

But expect to be sledding into a cloud of stinky dog toots if you catch my drift… Due to their high protein diet and overall excitement for running, they are prone to letting off some serious air biscuits as they race you around the forest. Don’t let that put you off having a go though! This was probably my most favourite activity during my time in Lapland. It was such a surreal experience whizzing through the most perfect wintery wonderland and I absolutely adored getting the chance to meet all the enthusiastic pups that are not quite big enough to run yet. I must mention here that there is always a worry when it comes to anything involving animals in the tourism industry but after meeting the owners of All Huskies it was clear to see how much they love, respect, and care for their dogs.

You’re never too old to visit Santa’s home

Situated next to the Arctic Circle line, you’ll find the one of the most magical place on Earth… the Santa Claus Village! The village is open all year round but visiting so close to Christmas was a real treat even for scrouge like myself! With snow-dusted trees, twinkling light displays, and everything Father Christmas related it’s hard to escape that festive feeling is inescapeable so let your inner child run free while you’re there. For something a little different I definitely recommend swinging by the world’s most northern post office and sending a postcard to your loved ones. Santa Claus Village is also a great place to shop for souvenirs at the various handcraft shops or learn about Finnish Christmas traditions at the Christmas exhibition. You could even have your photo taken with Father Christmas himself if you feel so inclined! – As a 30 year old childless woman I skipped this part… Regardless of age, the Santa Claus Village offers a festive holiday unlike no other, so warm up your Grinch heart and immerse yourself in this magical wonderland.

Don’t be afraid to try the local cuisine!

Lapland has always lived with a strong reliance on nature. Sustenance and food have been obtained from the offerings the wild could provide, such as berries, fish, and larger animals like reindeer. So it’s no surprise that Reindeer are an integral part of Lappish culture and cuisine. The Sámi signature dish of lightly-smoked reindeer meat is called Souvas and is traditionally prepared over an open fire and served with lingonberries and mashed potatoes, but the delicacy is also available as pizzas, burgers, and even sushi! If you aren’t too keen on eating Rudolf and his friends then I suggest the freshly caught salmon. Lapland is home to some of Europe’s best salmon rivers so what better place to eat it than here! For afters try the Lapland bread cheese dessert. Known as leipäjuusto in Finnish, this creamy cheesy dish is traditionally accompanied by cloudberries giving it a sweet but tart flavour. Being a more savory kind of girl when it comes to desserts, Leipäjuusto was perfect for me!

Wild Reindeer are everywhere

Here’s a fun fact for you! Did you know Finnish Lapland is home to about 200,000 wild reindeer, making that 20,000 more reindeer than people! So keep your eyes peeled when you’re driving in Lapland as there’s a high chance you’ll spot a group of them grazing by the side of the road. Not only are reindeer an important symbol of Christmas but are a crucial part of the indigenous Sámi people of this region, providing transportation as well as warmth and nourishment in the challenging Arctic climate. These remarkable creatures have adapted perfectly to the unique and oftentimes harsh conditions the Arctic climate has to offer. Another fun fact! – Did you know the farther north you go, the paler and more ethereal the animals’ coats become? That’s pretty magical if you ask me! Guests staying at the Northern Lights Ranch get the chance to feed their fellow reindeer residents each morning with a bucket of tasty lichen giving you a chance to get up close to them. Loved by the locals and advored by visitors, these real-life reindeer might not fly but there’s something so magical about seeing these creatures, especially out in the wild.

Make sure you visit the Arktikum museum

Being in such an outdoor activity-focused destination it’s easy to skip out on the more mundane cultural sites, however I highly reccomment you don’t miss this. Boasting a beautifully designed glass tunnel stretching out to the Ounasjoki river, Arktikum is one of Finland’s most impressive museums. Here you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Arctic and Finnish Lapland! Discover the northern regions and their specific characteristics that help to shape and tell the stories of everyday life in the Arctic. Read about the people that inhabits this part of the world, and the new challenges facing the region, such as climate change and globalization. The Arctic in Change is a permenant exhibition that highlights the multidisciplinary research of the Arctic, including photos, videos and a scale model making it great for adults and kids alike. Even if you’re not into museums, the building in itself is definitely worth the visit!

Don’t be too disheartened if you don’t see the Northern Lights

Lapland is one of the best places to spot the Northern Lights, But like many things in life, it’s never guaranteed. They depend on natural factors such as solar winds and charged particles in the earth’s upper atmosphere but if you come between October and March, the near-total darkness means you’ll have more time to witness them in the dark sky! So if luck is in your favour, and the sky is clear, you can often see Northern Lights. With heavy snow clouds lingering, luck was definitely not in my favour this time around, however that didn’t stop me from enjoying my time there because even if you don’t manage to catch the Northern Lights, chances are you still get to experience some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes Earth has to offer! Think the whitest of white snow you’ve ever seen, twinkling blue-hour at sunrise and dreamy pink skies at sunset…

Lapland was one of the most surreal places i’ve ever had the chance to visit and while I didn’t catch the Northern Lights this time around, the rolling landscapes, cute animal encounters and the unavoidable festive feeling certainly made up for it. If you’d like to experience your own Lapland adventure, check out all our available dates here!

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

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This Christmas’s Most Festive Quiz

Prove that you are the king or queen of Christmas with this festive fun Christmas quiz! See how people from around the world celebrate

TAKE THE QUIZ!

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from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/this-christmass-most-festive-quiz/

What to do with a Day in Dubrovnik

Soaking in the sun for over two-thirds of the year, Dubrovnik is always a pleasure to visit. And whether you’re a regular visitor or exploring the beautiful cobbled streets of its old town for the first time you’ll always feel a sense of wonder as you navigate through its narrow streets. It has both the evidence of its real past in the form of fresh reconstruction that was required after its attacked in 1991 as well plenty of parts that Game of Throwns fans will recognise as Kings Landing, the make believe setting from the series. Below we take a look at what to do and where to eat and drink if you want yourselves in this uniquely stunning place.

Explore the Old Town

Stroll around Dubrovnik’s Old Town cobbled streets and marvel at its beauty. Wonder through the shiny Stradun which has been polished by the volume of people walking it daily – what your step though, it’s slippy! Be sure to visit the Cathedral and city gates.

Walk the Wall

Possibly the best vantage point to see Dubrovnik is by walking the old town wall. It will give you an idea of the layout of the old town. A full circuit of the wall is just under 2000 metres but there are various points where you can exit should you wish. Entry costs 50 kn which is about £5-6.

Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car

Obviously one of the more touristy things to do, however, the views it offers of the Old Town and the surrounds are unparalleled. It’s not cheap though at 200 kn return which is about £11, however, you walk up/down which takes 1.5 hours up and 1 hour down.

Relax on a nearby Beach

If you have more time or have visited Dubrovnik before you may wish to relax and catch some rays. Banje Beach is the most convenient but during peak periods it’s unbearably busy. We recommend Sveti Jakov Beach which is 25 minute walk or 5 minute taxi ride from the Old Town.

Cafes

With two locations, by the Ploče Gate and in the Old Town, Cogito Coffee, is ideal for a break. Both with a few stools and benches, making for a great little spot with coffee from East Africa. For those looking for a proper local hangout, Pupica has an authentic Old Town vibe with a small grocery store. Pair your caffe latte with delicious, flavour-filled homemade cake.

Kopun

This is a family-owned traditional but unique Croatian restaurant located in Bošković Square making it ideal for a long lunch or a romantic dinner. Kopun presents authentic local cuisine using the best old school recipes. The flavourful signature kopun is recommended, along with šporki makaruli which is homemade pasts with beef, cinnamon and red wine sauce.

Moskar

This small but charming eatery serves a small menu but with all the food you should try on a visit to Dubrovnik. Try the delicious pašticada which is a slow-cooked stewed beef with smoked bacon, cloves and cinnamon. The Busaza style mussels in a homemade tomato and white wine sauce are also incredibly tasty. Given the size Moskar, we advise booking.

Bars

Carved into a stone cliff, Beach Bar Dodo offers access to crystal-clear waters, a beach and incredible sunset views making it the ideal place for sundowners. Alternatively for those wishing to sample some of Croatia’s best wines, D’vino, is the place to go. Offering wine tastings as well as nibbles which creates a lovely, relaxed atmosphere.

If you want to visit Dubrovnik you’ll have the opportunity to on our 4-night Mini Bosnia Experience or you could tag a night onto any of our Montenegro Experiences, both countries of which are both well worth visiting. For further information please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

Written by James Chisnall

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from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/what-to-do-with-a-day-in-dubrovnik/

Someone Different: Introducing Lucy

Here is a long overdue introduction of Lucy, we’ve been so rushed off our feet as we re-build the business and managed the increased appetite for travel since the lockdowns and travel restrictions have been lifted. Lucy actually joined us in April 2022 and she oversees the marketing side of the business and also helps out wherever needed. As we have some old faces and some new faces joining us real soon we wanted to let you all know about the latest addition to our small but mighty team so we put a few questions to her and here is what she had to say!

What kick-started your love of travel?

I vividly remember being on a school trip when I was little and seeing a photo of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and being completely mesmerized by it. The way the roots snaked their way around the temples looked completely out of this world and like nothing you could find in the UK. I held on to that memory and always said one day I will visit there… I still haven’t been BUT it did inspire me to get out there and see what other wonders I could find!

How did you end up joining Untravelled Paths?

I actually went on a press trip to Transylvania with Untravelled Paths for my old job back in 2017. My initial thought was why are we going to Romania? Is Transylvania even a real place? What is even there? The whole trip blew me away from start to finish. I couldn’t believe how beautiful this part of the world really was! It really is a true hidden gem and I still to this day tell everyone about it. Fast forward to January 2022, I had just lost my job working at a jigsaw puzzle company due to the pandemic – it was right before my 30th birthday (how tragic!) when James reached out with an opportunity to join the team! Obviously, I jumped at the offer right away and here we are! I feel so incredibly lucky to of been given a chance to work at such an interesting company and I’m excited about the future for both myself and the team. You can watch the video we created here. It might just inspire your next trip!

What did you want to be when you grew up and is it similar to what you do now?

I was a bit of a weird kid growing up and was fascinated by reptiles, insects and bats! So naturally, my future job growing up was working in the bat cave at Chester Zoo one day. I was OBSESSED with bats when I was little and the thought of working there and interacting with them was such a dream. I love animals and nature and always hoped I’d end up doing something that involved them somehow but honestly, working in the travel industry has been my ultimate life goal for the past few years and I finally made it.

Keeping with the animal theme, are you team cat or team dog?

I grew up with cats, I love how weird they are and how independent they can be but I always wished for a dog too but the timing was never right. Last year my boyfriend and I welcomed home a little puppy called Whiskey, it sounds so cliche but he’s honestly changed my life so much! He gave me a purpose when I felt so lost and he’s the perfect hot water bottle in winter. But to answer your question, I’d have to say both!

How has travel changed you throughout the years?

I grew up with crippling anxiety that affected pretty much every aspect of my life and stopped me from pursuing things I was interested in. When I turned 21 I decided I was done living in my small-town bubble and booked a one-way ticket to Canada. When you travel, especially when alone you are forced into uncomfortable situations that I would usually have avoided back at home… having to make new friends, finding a job, somewhere to live, etc. For the next 2.5 years, I nervously navigated my way through life and grew so much in confidence. I went from barely coping with the smallest of tasks to successfully living in a completely different city in a completely different country and managed to make some amazing friends and even more amazing memories! I even got my very own surprise leaving party which was the sweetest thing ever.

Tell us what is your favourite destination and why?

It’s a toss-up between Vancouver and Lisbon. Vancouver because it helped shape who I am today and it’s absolutely stunning and Lisbon because it was the first trip I took with my boyfriend where we completely fell in love with the city… and each other (awww!) I highly recommend both places to everyone I meet.

What have you tried on your travels that you’ll never try again?

Skydiving! I’m not the best with heights but for my 25th birthday I booked myself in to skydive in Auckland as a sort of bucket list thing. It was hands down the scariest thing I’ve ever done and I got really bad motion sickness and nearly fainted when we landed… Not cool! I then had to do it all over again for a video I was filming in Queenstown and while it was absolutely stunning falling from the sky over the snowcapped mountains I still ended up with really bad motion sickness and feeling faint. I’m so grateful I got to do it (twice) in such a beautiful part of the world but I’ll stick to ground-based activities from now on…

You can take one possession on a desert island, what would it be?

A magic water bottle that is constantly full. I never go anywhere without my water bottle. At this point, I’d class it as an extra limb.

You seem to be very passionate about water… What else are you passionate about?

Sustainability and preserving the environment. There seems to be such a rush right now to conquer Mars but I don’t understand why when we have such a beautiful planet here? Why not focus all that energy and money on preserving what we already have? I’m currently doing a degree in environmental studies and so naturally wanted to find out a way to make this company as eco-conscious as possible. While travel isn’t the most friendly thing for the planet, we’ve teamed up with World Land Trust which plants a tree every time we get a booking!

Lastly, what do you enjoy the most about your job?

I’m learning so much through this job, I didn’t do the whole college, or university thing so I’ve never felt qualified enough to deserve such a good job so I’m just so thankful for this opportunity given to me and the constant learning and growing. I love researching countries and finding out about all of these weird and wonderful destinations and how each day is different to the last.

Written by Lucy Kaufmann and James Chisnall

The post Someone Different: Introducing Lucy appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/someone-different-introducing-lucy/