My first month at Arctic Direct has completely opened my eyes to Arctic travel – here’s what I’ve discovered about this incredible region.
The Northern Lights
I used to think the Aurora Borealis was active every night in the winter. Turns out, they’re not. You need clear, dark skies, solar activity, and a sprinkle of luck. But when conditions are right? The show is surreal – green and purple ribbons dancing overhead. Customers and colleagues describe it as life-changing, and I believe it. I’m hopeful to catch a show myself in the near future!
Pro tip I’ve picked up: Tromsø, Abisko National Park, and Finnish Lapland are top spots for northern lights hunting!
View our Northern Lights trips here!
Huskies
One of my favourite discoveries has been about husky sledding. These dogs are born to run. They live for the snow, and sledding isn’t just a tourist activity – it’s their passion. Each of our partners treat their huskies like royalty, and you can even help feed or harness them before your ride.
Saunas
In Finland especially, everyone – and I mean everyone – takes saunas seriously. It’s about relaxation and ritual. And yes, jumping into an icy lake afterward is part of the fun. Most of the rooms come with your own private sauna.
It’s not always snowy!
Here’s something that surprised me: the Arctic isn’t always covered in snow. In summer, the region transforms into lush landscapes, with 24-hour daylight (called the Midnight Sun). It’s a completely different kind of magic – hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. I am excited to experience the Lappish summer next month!
Wildlife
I finally learned that polar bears are only Arctic, and penguins live exclusively in the Antarctic (and some other places in the Southern Hemisphere).
That said, wildlife is certainly abundant in the Arctic – visiting means you’d have the opportunity to see reindeer roaming snowy forests, arctic foxes darting across the tundra, and, if you’re lucky, whales breaching icy waters or even a mighty polar bear in Svalbard. Birdwatchers can spot puffins along coastal cliffs, and seals often lounge on ice or play in the water near northern shores.
Final Thoughts
One month in, and I’m already hooked. Working at Arctic Direct isn’t just about holidays – it’s about helping people experience a part of the world that feels like another planet. I’ve learned so much already, and I can’t wait to keep exploring different countries and areas in the region!
Written by Liam – Sales Assistant
