“Santa, oh my God! I know him!”
And isn’t he some man for one man?!
A couple of years ago I was lucky enough to win a trip over to Lapland to visit the man in the big red suit at his grotto in Lapland.
And it was nothing short of magic.
From the icy-weather to the reindeer, to the real-life elves (or so I thought), it was too much for little nine-year-old me to handle.
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Spanning several different countries, including Sweden, Norway and even Russia, I visited Kittilä in Finnish Lapland.
Coated in a blanket of powdery-white snow, lying under the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, it’s every bit the winter wonderland.
Don’t worry if you didn’t pack the thermals, because on arrival you’re fully kitted out in a ski suit, boots and balaclava. All necessary attire for the freezing conditions.
Activities to keep you busy include toboggan rides, reindeer-drawn sleigh rides, snowball fights and the chance to drive your own (child-friendly) skimobile.
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The place is dotted with dotey wooden cabins selling souvenirs, from teddies to handcrafted earrings and postcards. A stop off in one of the lodges will give you enough time to warm up your hands around a mug of something hot and write a few letters.
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An audience with Santa is an absolute must and let me tell you, the Finnish put on a VERY convincing show. Rosy-cheeked elves (with characteristic pointy ears and jingling slippers) lead you into Santa’s grotto where you’ll find a roaring fire and one of the most realistic Santa’s you can imagine.
No artificial beard, no pillow stuffed suit, no nonsense. Bring your wish list to deliver in person and you’ll even leave with a small gift. It’s honestly one of the most special experiences.
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I do believe in magic. I do! I do!
