Dreaming of a white Christmas ... in Santa's Lapland
Lapland, Europe
Reindeers, huskies, tobogganing, lots of snowy activities - ice fishing, snow hockey and riding mini skidoos, elves around every corner, spectacular shows and a sleigh ride venturing deep into the forest to visit Santa’s secret hideaway for an unforgettable private visit at his workshop. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas …this is Christmas in Santa’s homeland, Lapland.
Most Christmas tours will take you to Rovaniemi, where you’ll find Santa Claus’ Village, if you travel a little further north to Saariselka you’ll discover a little less ‘touristy’ yet still all the ingredients for a truly magical white Christmas experience.
Four or five nights is a good time to spend in Lapland, allowing you to enjoy all the activities and increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights too. In December there is approx. only two and a half hours of daylight – it takes a bit of time to acclimatise to the constant dark skies.
As part of your Lapland experience you will be provided with the appropriate thermal snowsuits and outdoor boots as well as woollen socks and thermal mittens you’ll need to keep warm in the below zero temperatures, so you don’t need to worry about your suitcase being full of all the bulky stuff!
The lead-up to Christmas is the most popular time to visit Lapland - you will need to book early (at least a year in advance), this also includes pre-booking your activities. Alternatively, if you’d like a little more flexibility and pay slightly lower prices, you can still enjoy your Lapland ‘Christmas’ in late November/early December, instead of travelling at Christmas itself.
Jason McKay
House of Travel Nelson
As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.
I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!
Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must!
Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips
in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich
history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.
Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.
Sarah Martelli
House of Travel Rotorua
Lovely to meet you! My love for travel began early—at 19, I
left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I’ve never
looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible
years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my
heart!)
I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and I knew I’d found my dream job. Even now, I still smile every day coming to work—I truly LOVE what I do.
Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy.
I specialise in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I’m especially
passionate about tours and cruising. Whether it’s your first trip or your
tenth, I’m here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from
start to finish.
I’m known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I’ll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be.
Now based on a dairy farm in Reporoa with my husband and our three young children, I understand the #mumlife juggle—and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday! Having travelled to over 40 countries, I can’t wait to share my experience with you.
Sarah
Linley Pearce
House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square
I have travelled to many countries & experienced many forms of travel - plane, train, river boat, coach, helicopter, longtail boat ....... I love to travel to old cities as I love buildings & architecture, food, wine, people watching & taking photos.
Travel constantly challenges me, I especially love interesting flight itineraries. I have over 35 yrs experience in this complex and dynamic industry, I can use my knowledge to work with you to create your journey no matter the destination.
Linley
Charlotte Campbell
House of Travel Papamoa
Travel
has been an integral part of my life for over 20 years, and I can't imagine
pursuing anything else. This year, I proudly celebrate my 17th year with
House of Travel Papamoa, where I truly love being a 'hottie.' Our store boasts
a fantastic team culture that makes coming to work a joyful experience every
day.
I find immense satisfaction in crafting bespoke itineraries that
transform my clients' dreams into reality. While the USA remains my favourite
destination, my travels have also taken me through the stunning landscapes of
New Zealand, the enchanting South Pacific, vibrant Australia, diverse Europe,
and picturesque Canada and Alaska. This year (2024), I had the incredible
opportunity to experience the magic of South Africa, where witnessing wildlife
in their natural habitat is nothing short of breath-taking. Being on safari
brings you so close to majestic animals, just meters away, creating
unforgettable memories.
Remember, your holiday begins the moment you step through our
door. I invite you to share your vision of the perfect getaway—how it looks and
feels, any research you've conducted, and your essential must-haves. The more
we delve into your aspirations together, the more extraordinary your holiday
will be!
Charlotte
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