There are some trips that stay with you forever — and Hayley’s journey to Santa’s Lapland from our head office team was one of them.
Departing from Bournemouth airport on a crisp December morning, she set off for two nights and three days in a winter wonderland. What awaited was more than snow and sleigh bells; it was a reminder that shared experiences mean far more than material things.
The Journey Begins: Elves, Excitement, and an Early Start
Even the airport felt festive. Friendly elves greeted the party at check-in, turning the queues into games and laughter. Onboard, the atmosphere was pure joy — songs, surprises, and a few mischievous elves ensuring the little ones never lost their sparkle. The cabin crew joined in the fun, making the short charter flight feel like the start of something truly special.
Landing in Ivalo, the adventure continued. Elves kept the children entertained while waiting for luggage, before guiding the family to their coach for the transfer to Saariselkä — where the snow was soft, the air crisp, and magic in every moment.
Wrapped Up and Ready for the Arctic
Before reaching the hotel, snow suits, boots, gloves, and socks were collected. Everything was included and exceptionally warm — a welcome reassurance for parents wondering how cold Lapland really is. All that was needed from home were thermal layers, a hat, and a sense of wonder.
Hayley stayed at Santa’s Hotel Tunturi, a cosy retreat nestled among snow-dusted pines. The family room came complete with its own sauna — the perfect way to thaw out after an afternoon of tobogganing just outside the hotel.
Meeting Santa: A Moment to Remember
The day they met Santa will forever be etched in memory. The children handed their ‘Golden Ticket’ — the letter written weeks before — to one of Santa’s elves, who whisked it away to the cabin in the forest. Later, they climbed aboard skidoo sleighs, gliding through the snowy trees to meet the man himself.
Inside the cabin, time stood still. Santa already had their original letters in hand. Faces lit up in disbelief — and joy. Chat, laughter, and even questions about what he was getting Mrs Claus that year made it a truly magical moment.
Lunch was served at the central restaurant in Santa’s Village — a hearty spaghetti bolognese, simple yet delicious. Afterwards, mini skidoos, husky rides, and warming huts with berry juice created a sense of wonder that only Lapland can bring.
A Farewell Filled with Festivities
The final evening was spent back at the hotel for a Christmas buffet with live entertainment — a perfect end to a storybook day. On departure, there was time to browse souvenirs, return snow suits, and reflect on an unforgettable few days before boarding the flight home. As the elves waved goodbye and games began again on the plane, it was clear that travel isn’t about gifts under the tree — it’s about the memories made together.
If You’re Thinking About Lapland...
If you’re planning your own Lapland family holiday, the advice is simple: go. Don’t overpack — just bring layers, a torch, and your sense of wonder. Everything else — from the clothing to the magic — is taken care of.
And if you want a seamless experience from start to finish, speak to one of our Travel Consultants. Their expertise, trusted partners, and insider knowledge ensure your journey is effortless, curated, and extraordinary.
Because travel isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about creating memories that stay with you long after the snow has melted.
