Winter 2012 -2014 Aurora Borealis

winter 2012-2014

GREAT WAYS

TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

Scandinavia Finland Greenland Iceland Russia The High Arctic Antarctica

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CONTENTS

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OUR WORLD AURORA BOREALIS FESTIVALS AND MARKETS AURORA, HUSKIES & WILDERNESS TROMSØ & LYNGEN ALPS NORDIC WINTER ODYSSEY NORDIC WINTER ADVENTURE SEARCH FOR THE LIGHT IN LOFOTEN NORDIC WINTER JOURNEY - Small group MOUNTAINS, FJORDS & CLASSIC COASTAL VOYAGE

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FAMILY SKI HOLIDAY IN GEILO DOGSLED EXPEDITION TO THE SHIP IN THE ICE ICE & AURORAS IN SWEDISH LAPLAND ICE, IGLOOS AND ARCTIC CIRCLE NORTHERN LIGHTS WEEKEND IN FINLAND CHRISTMAS IN FINLAND KINGDOM OF VOLCANOES & GLACIERS FIRE, ICE & THE BLUE LAGOON LAVA, HOTSPRINGS & GLACIERS AURORA BOREALIS ADVENTURE IN GREENLAND RUSSIAN WINTER EXPERIENCE LAPLAND TO LOFOTEN PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR SCANDINAVIAN BRICKS POLAR CIRCLE - ANTARCTIC PENINSULA ANTARCTIC BASECAMP FALKLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA ROSS SEA ANTARCTIC ODYSSEY PRACTICAL INFORMATION

WELCOME Tietse Stelma

Photo: CH/ Innovation Norway

For many southerners, our ‘northern’ world in winter might simply bring to mind darkness, freezing cold and snow. For us it is a snow-covered playground full of magical experiences. From exhilarating safaris on snowmobiles, to sled rides by teams of reindeer or huskies, to skiing, ice skating and tobogganing. It might be hard to believe if you’ve never experienced it, but if the thermometer dips below Zero degrees Celsius, the

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air tends to be dry and crisp with little wind, which makes it feel far more pleasant than you might imagine.

Scandinavians compensate for the winter darkness through various traditions that are all about bringing candles and lights to every window. We are brought up to make our homes and hotels as cosy and welcoming as possible, and it’s no accident that Scandinavian furniture

design appeals to so many. In winter, a cobblestoned city street with the warm inviting glow of the cafes and shops will leave a lasting impression.

unique beautiful blue ‘Polar light’. Gradually the days get longer and in March you can enjoy 10 hours of daylight with beautiful sunshine.

Above the Arctic Circle, the sun does not rise for a month or more during winter though it is not completely dark. Dawn and dusk are extended, and even during the shortest days you will experience around 3-4 hours of

So, what would you like to do? The northern winter awaits, let us show you ‘our world’!

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TRAVELLING WITH US Our Team

At our head office in Australia, we have a multilingual team that is very passionate about ‘our’ part of the world. We speak Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, Dutch and German and the majority of us are based here in Australia for love, of our adopted country and our partners.

Knowing the local lingo is very helpful when it comes to building strong relationships with our partners in the region and this ensures that we can offer you the very best and most interesting activities. We plan our itineraries carefully, based on first hand experience, and we continue to improve and perfect our itineraries based on our team members ongoing travel experiences.

If you have a question about any of the destinations we travel to, there will be a team member that’s been there. We know how to pronounce all our destinations and we are also very happy to share our intimate knowledge of our world

Specialist Knowledge & Expertise

At 50 Degrees North we like to call ourselves specialists! We don’t try to do everything - only what we know. As destination specialists, we are able to tailor make holidays to suit you, be that customising the itineraries shown in this brochure and on our website, or creating that special trip just for you. Therefore, if you cannot find exactly what you are looking for, tell us about your interests and budget, and we will get to work. We will do our utmost to make sure that your holiday is right for you.

Environment & Sustainability

Environmentally friendly and sustainable tourism is at the forefront of the 50 Degrees North philosophy. The area north of 50th parallel comprises some of the last true wilderness on Earth. We like to call it the ‘last frontier’ where sustainable tourism infrastructure in some places is still incomplete. In these areas our aim is to support our local partners in their already substantial efforts to decrease their environmental footprint and become more sustainable in their practices.

Safety

We are doing our utmost to ensure the highest safety standards are met on all our tours. With over 20 years experience in the industry we have chosen only the best local operators who have an excellent safety record. Good preparation is one of the keys to a safe and enjoyable trip and this is our priority.

Photo: Svein Petter Aagård/www.visitnorway.com

OUR WORLD

Draw a line along the 50th parallel North and look at everything above - that is ‘our world’. 50 degrees north is where mainland Europe ends and Northern Europe starts. It is where the Central Asian deserts meet the deep forests of the Siberian Taiga and where Canada freezes over.

long winter; it is where the Aurora Borealis will throw waves of purple and green light across the sky in an incredible spectacle.

The northern winter offers you snow, ice, fun activities and the magic of a white Christmas. It is also when we make our towns light up with candles, lights, cozy cafes and restaurants. Have a traditional glögg & a pepparkaka and allow yourself to be seduced by our winter wonderland.

It is an area of distinct seasons where light plays a more significant part of life than anywhere else. It is a region where we have a public holiday on the day the sun re-emerges back over the horizon after a

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“I may say that this is the greatest factor- the way in which the expedition is equipped... the way in which every difficulty is foreseen and precautions taken for meeting or avoiding it. Victory awaits him who has everything in order...‘luck’, people call it. Defeat is certain for him who has neglected to take the necessary precautions in time, this is called ‘bad luck’.”

From “The South Pole” by Roald Amundsen

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50 Degrees North is a full member of the Travel Compensation Fund and holds a full travel agency license.

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Photo: Toomas Volmer, Visit Estonia

AURORA BOREALIS When to go

main cause of the Northern Light is the number of dark spots on the surface of the sun, i.e. the more spots the better chance of Auroras.

The period between November and April are generally the best months to see the Northern Lights. The Northern Light emits more concentrated colours and longer experiences on the eve of a new moon. At full moon the lights may be less intense, but the effect of a full moon brings mysticism and romance to the region, and nothing beats a silent dog sled ride under a magnificent full moon.

These natural displays of green, white and purple light occur most frequently in the Polar Regions in a 2500 km radius off the geomagnetic pole. The zone with the most intense sightings of Aurora Borealis extends over Lapland in northern Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, Alaska and Siberia.

Moon phases Northern winter 2012/13 New Full New Full New Full New Full New Full New Full

13 November 2012 28 November 2012 13 December 2012 28 December 2012 11 January 2013 26 January 2013 10 February 2013 25 February 2013 11 March 2013 27 March 2013 10 April 2013 25 April 2013

The science and legends

2013/14 New Full New Full New Full New Full New Full New Full New

Aurora happens when the sun sends off particles into space. These particles are charged, and form what is called ‘solar wind’. When solar wind hits Earth’s magnetic field in the Polar areas, where the magnetic shield is less powerful, it collides with particles in our atmosphere and creates electricity and light. It is this light that we see as the Northern Light, or Aurora Borealis. An Aurora can also occur when the charged particles rip through the electromagnetic field because of their power.

3 November 2013 17 November 2013 2 December 2013 17 December 2013 1 January 2014 15 January 2014 30 January 2014 14 February 2014 1 March 2014 16 March 2014 30 March 2014 15 April 2014 29 April 2014

The Aurora awed the ancient people. Aurora was the Roman goddess of the dawn. Boreal is a Latin word, meaning ‘north’ - thus, the northern lights. The Finnish name for the lights, ‘revontulet’, comes from a Sami legend whereby the tail of a fox running along snowcovered fells strikes the snow drifts, sending a trail of sparks into the sky. Revontulet literally means ‘foxfire’. The Vikings believed the Aurora was the beautiful maidens called Valkyries, which escorted those killed in battle to the gods. The Sami people of Lapland believed they had power over the lights, and whistling under them would cause them to come closer. Many ancient peoples would not stare at or speak of the Aurora, due to a fear of insulting their divine nature.

The brochure you are now holding in your hands is unique. It is partly dedicated to the phenomena of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). This is because the northern winters of 2012/13 and 2013/14 are predicted to display some of the most intense occurrences of Aurora Borealis, as the 11 year cycle of the sun comes to its peak. The

FESTIVALS & MARKETS Sunlight hours & average daytime temperatures

Tromsø

Reykjavik

Stockholm

Rovaniemi

Longyearbyen

Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr

4 hrs / -2.5°C 0 hrs / -3.2°C 2 hrs / -3.7°C 8 hrs / -7.3°C 9 hrs / -4.2°C 16 hrs / 1.6°C

6 hrs / 1.3°C 4 hrs / -0.1°C 5 hrs / -0.6°C 9 hrs / 0.1°C 11 hrs / 0.3°C 15 hrs / 2.8°C

7 hrs / 2.8°C 6 hrs / -0.4°C 7 hrs / -1.7°C 9 hrs / -1.9°C 12 hrs / 0.8°C 14 hrs / 4.9°C

9 hrs / -6.1°C 5 hrs / -10.0°C 3 hrs / -11.7°C 8 hrs / -11.0°C 11 hrs / -6.1°C 15 hrs / -1.0°C

0 hrs / -11.0°C 0 hrs / -11.6°C 0 hrs / -15.2°C 4 hrs / -10.3°C 10 hrs / -16°C 19 hrs / -7.7°C

Temperatures are average for the cities listed, and note that inland temperatures will be lower than coastal.

E.g. Tromsø is further north than Rovaniemi, but Tromsø is coastal.

On days that indicate very short time of actual sunlight, it is important to note that as the sun trajectory is fairly flat there is a long dawn and a long dusk. The actual time of daylight hours, therefore, are considerably longer.

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If you are lucky enough to be in the region for New Years Eve, you are in for a treat. We love our fireworks and when midnight on 31 December arrives, you will find most of the population in one of our many squares, watching the local fireworks and the neighbour’s best efforts! New Years Eve is an actual bank holiday so the celebrations start early!

Winter in Scandinavia is full of lights, warming drinks and hearty food.

We celebrate Christmas on the 24th of December (this is when Santa delivers the presents) so the mad rush of Christmas tends to finish on 23 December. We also celebrate Advent and you will see candles in every window leading up to Christmas.

Saint Lucia day on 13 December is a sight to behold and a unique experience (tasty too with special saffron buns and Glögg aplenty).

If you are travelling in the region in November & December, then you have many options for Christmas Markets. Stockholm’s Skansen market is on weekends in November & December, Gothenburg’s Liseberg Christmas market starts mid November and continues to the day before Christmas Eve. Oslo has many markets in December, one of the larger ones in the Oslo Folk Musuem. Copenhagen’s Tivoli gardens is home to the Danish capital’s Christmas Market. Helsinki’s Christmas Market in Old Student House starts in the second week of December and Tallinn starts late November and continues through to January.

Throughout winter you will find other festivities that bring light to dark winter nights. Helsinki’s LUX, Reyjkjavik’s Winter Light Festival and Kiruna’s Snow Festival are highlights of January and February.

Scandinavians certainly don’t put their active lifestyle on hold during winter, Vasa loppet in Sweden, Finland’s Finlandia Ski Marathon and the Lahti Ski Games are very popular events in February and March.

There are many other local highlights in winter, such as the Cod fishing festival in Lofoten, held in the last weekend in March.

Call us to help plan your winter holiday to fit with your favourite festival or market!

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AURORA, HUSKIES & WILDERNESS

A perfect Winter Adventure to see the Aurora Borealis! Experience the incredible wilderness of Norway, have fun commanding your own husky team, ride a snowmobile, a reindeer sled and learn more about the Sámi, the indigenous people of Lapland.

Sámi people. Relax over lunch by an open fire. In the late afternoon, head off for a snowmobile safari up mountains and along frozen lakes. Transfer back to your hotel in Tromsø.

Day 4: Good Bye

After breakfast, say farewell to Tromsø and take a taxi back to

the airport for your departure flight.

Day 1: Welcome to Tromsø, the Capital of the Arctic

Tromsø, is a city packed with culture, history, fresh food in its

numerous restaurants & amazing architecture. It is also

surrounded by mountains, fjords and islands, you won’t get

bored here!

INCLUSIONS

Day 2: Dog Sledding under the Northern Lights

After breakfast, explore Tromsø with a sightseeing tour

including Polaria, the Arctic Experience Centre, and the Arctic

Cathedral. In the afternoon, transfer to a Wilderness Camp

located in the beautiful Tamok Valley. Enjoy the magic of an ‘After

dark’ dog sled ride followed by a hot meal by an open fire in a

‘lavvu’ (Sámi herdsmen’s tent).

Day 3: Sámi Culture, Reindeer and Snowmobiles

Experience a reindeer sled tour through amazing mountain

landscapes. Have a go at lasso throwing and learn more about

TROMSØ & LYNGEN ALPS

Tromsø is the gateway to the Arctic and is located in the middle of the Aurora zone. Following the planet’s rotation, Tromsø moves into the Aurora zone around 6 pm until midnight. Just east of Tromsø lies the Lyngen Alps, home of the Lyngen Lodge, a traditional timber lodge beautifully located on a fjord. This is a perfect and tranquil place to observe the Northern Lights, combined with daytime activities such as dog sledding, snowmobile riding or skiing.

Day 1: Welcome to the Capital of the Arctic

Arrive in Tromsø and enjoy an afternoon private walking

tour including visits to the Polar Museum and the Polaria,

the Arctic experience centre.

Day 2-4: Lyngen Alps

In the morning, we will pick you up in Tromsø for the 2-hour drive

to your base in the Alps, Lyngen Lodge, located above a fjord

with a striking mountain backdrop. Enjoy nature and snow

activities or just laze around by the open fire in the lodge.

Each evening, be prepared to marvel at the Aurora Borealis.

2 nights in comfortable 4 star hotel on Tromsø harbour 1 night in wilderness cabin Daily breakfasts Full board when at wilderness camp Return transfer from Tromsø to wilderness camp Private guided Tromsø city walk Dog sledding excursion ½ day Sami reindeer experience ½ day Snow mobile ride 1/2 day

Day 5: Dinner Cruise under the Northern Lights

In the early evening transfer to Skjervøy where you will board

the Hurtigruten ship for a 4 hour cruise along the coast back

to Tromsø. Feast at a buffet dinner on-board while keeping

a watchful eye out for the Northern Lights.

Day 6: Farewell to the Arctic

In the mid-morning make your own way to the airport for your

flight out.

INCLUSIONS

Lyngen Alps Tromsø

QUICK FACTS

QUICK FACTS

Tromsø

˚ 4 days/3 nights ˚ Easy tour with some adventurous winter activities ˚ Independent tour – departs any day from November to early April ˚ Start Tromsø (TOS) ˚ End: Tromsø ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

˚ 6 days/5 nights ˚ Easy tour with some adventurous winter activities ˚ Independent tour – departs any day from November to mid February ˚ Start Tromsø (TOS) ˚ End: Tromsø ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

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Photo: Terje Rakke/Nordic Life/www.visitnorway.com

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2 nights in comfortable 4 star hotel on Tromsø harbour 3 nights at high end and remote wilderness lodge in the Lyngen Alps Daily breakfasts, and full board at Lyngen Alps Transfer from Tromsø to Lyngen and to Skjervøy Private guided Tromsø city walk Dinner cruise from Skjervøy to Tromsø

Photo: Graham Austick, Lyngen Lodge

NORDIC WINTER ODYSSEY The Nordic Winter Odyssey is designed to optimise the chances to see the Aurora Borealis. It combines a short stay in the winter capitals of Oslo and Stockholm with a voyage around the North Cape, a stay in the Lyngen Alps and Tromsø, before heading to Swedish Lapland for a night to remember, sleeping on a reindeer fell in ICEHOTEL. It includes boutique hotels and lodges, local transport and gives you access to all the activities that make chasing the Aurora so wonderful.

Day 13 & 14: Stockholm

Mid morning transfer to the airport for your flight south to

Stockholm. Day 14 is free to enjoy Stockholm, and you can spend

it strolling through the Swedish capital, and/or join an optional

city tour of Stockholm visiting the Royal Palace, the Parliament

Buildings, the island of Djurgården and the Old Town

(Gamla Stan).

Day 1 & 2: Oslo - a fairy tale winter town

Oslo is cozy and inviting with lots of winter lights and coffee

shops to visit. Ice-skating in the centre, snow skiing on the

fringes, Oslo has lots of winter activities to enjoy.

Day 3: Fly to Kirkenes

In the morning make your way to the Oslo airport for

a 2-hour flight to Kirkenes.

Day 15: Depart from Stockholm

Our services end after breakfast.

Day 4 & 5: Coastal voyage over the North Cape.

In the morning make your way to the pier and board the

Hurtigruten ship for an overnight voyage over the top of Norway

rounding the North Cape and the beautiful North Norwegian

coast. Arrive Skjervøy in the evening of day 5 and transfer

to your base in the Lyngen Alps.

INCLUSIONS

Domestic flights Oslo - Kirkenes & Kiruna - Stockholm

including taxes

12 nights in comfortable hotels and lodges (4 to 4.5 star)

1 night in twin outside cabin on coastal voyage

1 night in ICEROOM at ICEHOTEL

Daily breakfast

Full board on coastal voyage & in Lyngen Alps

Half board at Abisko

Exclusive Nordic dinner at Aurora Sky Station including entrance

and cable car

Coastal voyage on board Hurtigruten ship from Kirkenes

to Skjervøy

Transfer Skjervøy – Lyngen - Tromsø

Express boat Tromsø to Harstad

Private transfer Abisko – Harstad

Train tickets Abisko - Kiruna

City passes 24-hours for Oslo & Stockholm

Activities/excursions: Reindeer sledding & Sami experience in Abisko including small lunch Dogsled excursion including lunch at ICEHOTEL Aurora Snow Mobile safari including dinner at ICEHOTEL

Day 6-7: Lyngen Alps

Your lodge sits in a natural forest clearing above a fjord with

a striking mountain backdrop. High in the Arctic Circle, it’s as

remote a spot as you could hope to find. It is a place to enjoy

nature, dog sledding, skiing and other snow activities. Or you

can just laze around with breathtaking views across the fjord

and the Alps.

Day 8: Tromsø

After breakfast transfer by road to Tromsø for a free

afternoon to explore the city.

Day 9: Travel to Abisko

Take the fast boat south along the coast to Harstad and drive

through winter landscapes to Abisko in Sweden. Enjoy an

exclusive dinner at the Aurora Sky Station in the evening.

QUICK FACTS ˚ 15 days/14 nights ˚ Easy journey through northern Scandinavia with some adventurous activities ˚ Independent – departs any day from November to mid April ˚ Start Oslo (OSL) ˚ End Stockholm (STO) ˚ Minimum 2 people to run – single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list Oslo

Lyngen Alps Tromsø Abisko Jukkasjärvi

On day 12 we have organised an exclusive excursion where you get an insight in a dog musher’s exciting everyday life. The journey will take you by dog sled through the snow covered, arctic landscape to a wilderness camp far from civilisation. In the evening we depart on a guided snowmobile excursion in search of the Northern lights.

Abisko, in the middle of the Aurora zone, is considered to be the best place on earth to see the Aurora Borealis. With its fresh, clean air and its practically permanent cloud-free sky the prerequisites in Abisko are optimal. More or less active northern lights can be seen almost every night, however, can never be guaranteed.

Day10: Winter activities in Abisko

In the morning we take you to a Sami village where a local herder

shows us the homestead and offers us lunch.

Day 11 & 12: ICEHOTEL - a night to remember.

Take the morning train to Kiruna and transfer to ICEHOTEL

in the village of Jukkasjärvi. You will enjoy one cold night in an

ICEROOM followed by a warm night in the hotel. Inside ICEHOTEL,

the temperature is never colder than -5 °C to -8 °C, regardless

of how cold it may be outside.

Stockholm

Photo: ICEHOTEL, Vroom Vong Milling Terje Rakke/Nordic Life/www.visitnorway.com

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NORDIC WINTER ADVENTURE

The Nordic Winter Adventure is the more adventurous and cheaper alternative to our ‘odyssey’. You follow the same route from Oslo via Tromsø to Abisko, Kiruna and back down to Stockholm. Try yourself as a dog musher, a reindeer herder or a snow mobile driver – all under the magical Polar skies. This is a staff favourite, as we all long for the magical winter landscapes of Scandinavian Lapland.

Day 1 & 2: Oslo - a fairy tale winter town

Oslo is cozy and inviting with lots of winter lights and coffee

shops to visit. Iceskating in the centre, snow skiing on the

fringes, Oslo has lots of winter activities to enjoy.

Day 3: Fly to Tromsø

In the morning make your way to the Oslo airport for

a 2-hour flight to Tromsø.

Day 4: Tromsø & dogsledding in the Tamok Valley

Enjoy a morning in Tromsø to visit the Polar Museum and the

Arctic Cathedral. In the afternoon transfer to the Tamok Valley

for an evening of dog sledding under the Polar skies. You will

musher the dog sled by yourself into the beautiful white winter

landscape.

Day 7: Winter activities in Abisko

In the morning we take you to a Sami village, where a local

herdershows us the homestead and offers us lunch.

Tonight you will spend the night in our nicely heated timber cabin at our wilderness camp, which will give you the chance to experience the Northern Lights away from city lights.

Day 5: Reindeer sledding, snow mobile safari & Aurora Borealis

The day is packed with winter activities, starting with a reindeer

sled safari - the oldest form of transport in the north, and an

ancient part of Sami culture. You will also visit a Sami lavvu

(Sami herdsmen’s tent), and learn about Sami culture and

history. In the afternoon we take you on a fun and exhilarating

snow mobile adventure. On flat land and frozen lakes, you can

speed up, and if time and weather permit, you can try out ice

fishing on this lake. We transfer back to Tromsø in the evening.

Day 8: Snowmobile ride to search for the Aurora Borealis

Take the morning train to Kiruna make your way to the lodge.

In the evening we take the snowmobile out into the darkness,

and hopefully we will see the extraordinary Aurora Borealis.

Day 6: Travel to Abisko

Take the fast boat south along the coast to Harstad and drive

through winter landscapes to Abisko in Sweden. Enjoy an

exclusive dinner at the Aurora Sky Station in the evening.

Day 10 & 11: Stockholm

Mid morning transfer to the airport for your flight south to

Stockholm. Day 11 is free to enjoy Stockholm, and you can spend

it for a stroll through the Swedish capital, and/or join an

optional city tour of Stockholm visiting the Royal Palace, the

Parliament Buildings, the island of Djurgården and the Old Town

(Gamla Stan).

Day 9: Dog mushing

Today you have the opportunity to partake in an optional (not

included) excursion where you get an insight in a dog musher’s

exciting everyday life.

Abisko, in the middle of the Aurora zone, is considered to be the best place on earth to see the Aurora Borealis. With its fresh, clean air and its practically permanent cloud-free sky the prerequisites in Abisko are optimal. More or less active northern lights can be seen almost every night, however, can never be guaranteed.

Day 12: Depart from Stockholm

Our services end after breakfast.

INCLUSIONS

Domestic flights Oslo - Tromsø & Kiruna - Stockholm

including taxes

10 nights in comfortable hotels and lodges (3.5 to 4 star)

1 night in wilderness camp

Daily breakfast, full board in Tamok Valley and half board

in Abisko

Transfer Tromsø – Tamok Valley return

Express boat Tromsø to Harstad

Private transfer Abisko – Harstad

Train tickets Abisko - Kiruna

City passes 24-hours for Oslo & Stockholm

Activities/excursions: Reindeer sledding, dog sledding & snow mobile ride in Tamok Valley Reindeer sledding & Sami experience in Abisko including small lunch Northern Lights snow mobile chase in Kiruna

Tromsø

QUICK FACTS ˚ 12 days/11 nights ˚ Easy journey through northern Scandinavia with some adventurous activities ˚ Independent – departs any day from November to mid April ˚ Start Oslo (OSL) ˚ End Stockholm (STO) Oslo ˚ Minimum 2 people to run – single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

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Photo: Wolfgang Greiner, Visit Sweden

Abisko

Stockholm

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SEARCH FOR THE LIGHT IN LOFOTEN

Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson

You will stay at a Rorbu complex of self contained fisherman’s cottages built on stilts above the water. This will be your ‘home’ in Lofoten. Daily breakfasts are included.

The Lofoten Islands are located just north of the Arctic Circle.

The weather in Lofoten changes rapidly in winter, providing the islands with magnificent light conditions that have inspired many artists. The magical Northern Lights will often flicker across the night sky and during the day you can see the sun just flirting above the horizon creating a magnificent blue twilight.

Day 2-5: Enjoy Spectacular Lofoten

We have not packed your stay in Lofoten full of pre-arranged

activities. The reason being there is simply so much to see and

do and the choice should be yours. Try some of these activities:

visit to the impressive Lofotr Viking Museum, kayaking, ocean

rafting trip in a rib boat, try your luck at fishing on a traditional

fishing boat, snowshoe trekking along of the well marked paths

and alpine skiing.

Every autumn, herring and killer whales swim up the Tysfjord and Vestfjord to spend the winter here. From mid-October until midJanuary, sea mammal safaris set out from Lofoten in large passenger boats and rubber dinghies.

From mid-February until the end of April, the Arctic cod swims down from the Barents Sea in their millions, en route to the spawning grounds near Lofoten. Professional fishermen from the entire coast of Norway arrive in Lofoten to catch these cod. Come out to sea and try your luck at fishing whilst witnessing the magnificent Sea Eagles hunt for their share.

Day 6: Depart Lofoten

After breakfast and your last big breath of fresh Lofoten

Island’s sea air, transfer back to the Svolvær airport for your

flight out.

Watch the fish being hung out on the drying racks, enjoy the ‘hustle and bustle’ at the fishing villages, have a chat to the local fishermen in the pubs and taste some local delicacies.

INCLUSIONS

Day 1: Welcome to Your Private Fisherman’s Cottage

Arrive in Svolvær and transfer from the

airport to your own fisherman’s cottage (rorbu).

Arrival transfer from Svolvær Helle Airport (SVJ) 5 nights in a self contained Rorbu Daily breakfast

Optional car hire is available for exploring the archipelago

NORDIC WINTER JOURNEY - Small group

Kiruna

QUICK FACTS ˚ Small group adventure, max group size is 16 ˚ 10 days/9 nights ˚ Easy itinerary with fun and active winter activities ˚ Start Tromsø (TOS) ˚ End Kiruna (KRN) ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Day 7: In the Aurora zone at Abisko

We have a full day available in Abisko with lots off opportunities

to join optional activities such as snow showing, or more

snow mobiling and dogsledding. You are in the middle of a winter

wonderland and can also go ice fishing, or skiing at the

Riksgränsen ski resort. The day is yours.

Day 8-9: Activities in Kiruna

On arrival in Kiruna we check in at Camp Ripan. You have the

afternoon and the full next day to explore Kiruna. This may

include an excursion to see the infamous ICEHOTEL, built out of

ice blocks carved out of the Torne River, or you may enjoy yet

more winter activities.

Day 1: Arrive Tromsø

Arrive Tromsø, the Aurora Borealis heartland. We will hold a

group briefing in the reception area of the arrival hotel at 18:00

this evening.

Day 2: Explore Tromsø

You have the most of the day free to explore the city together

with your tour leader. Tromsø is the main town in northern

Norway and home to the Polar Institute, which is Norway’s

national institution for polar research.

Lofoten

Oslo

˚ 6 days/5 nights ˚ Easy week of adventures or relaxation in Lofoten ˚ Independent – any day all year ˚ Start Svolvær (SVJ) ˚ End Svolvær ˚ Minimum 2 people to run – single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Day 10: Tour ends

Most flights down south to Stockholm leave in the mid morning.

You may also chose to take the overnight train back down to the

Swedish capital.

Day 3: Camp Tamok

Winter activities at Camp Tamok, including dog sledding and

a snow mobile adventure.

INCLUSIONS

Day 4: Overnight in lavvu

You have a full morning to enjoy the serenity of Camp Tamok.

In the afternoon we go reindeer sledding and sleep in a

traditional Sami lavvu Day 5: Express boat along the coast

In the mid morning we will make our way back to Tromsø and

straight to the port and board the express service along the

coast south to Harstad.

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Photo: Andrea Giubelli/www.visitnorway.com

Stockholm

Day 6: Arrive Abisko

Abisko, in the middle of the Aurora zone, is considered to be the

best place on earth to see the Aurora Borealis.

Join our only Nordic winter small group Journey to Northern Scandinavia. We will take you snow mobile riding, dog mushing and reindeer sledding; all under the spectacle of the Northern Lights.

We travel through beautiful winter landscapes, blanketed in snow from Tromsø in the far north of Norway to Swedish Lapland.

We stay in cosy family run lodges, central hotels and wilderness cabins, enjoying winter activities and hot chocolates by the fire.

Experience a Nordic winter accompanied by one of our experienced Scandinavian staff.

QUICK FACTS

Oslo

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All transportation as described Full board at Camp Tamok Half board at Abisko All accommodation in twin share rooms including breakfast Reindeer sledding, dog sledding & snow mobile ride at Camp Tamok Reindeer sledding & Sami experience in Abisko including small lunch Northern Lights snow mobile chase in Kiruna

No forced single supplements

This classic journey begins in Oslo and takes you across the mountains to the western fjords of Norway. You will enjoy a ride on the famous Flåm Railway, as well as a fjord cruise under towering cliffs. The coastal voyage begins in Bergen and calls at 34 ports as you make your fascinating journey north.

Day 1: From Oslo to the Mountains

Early morning train to Myrdal. Flåm Railway through wild and

beautiful scenery with waterfalls and steep mountain cliffs

to the Sognefjord. Continue by boat to Gudvangen and further

by coach up the steep and spectacular hairpin bends to Voss.

Day 5: The Royal City of Trondheim

Early morning arrival in Trondheim. Free time to explore Norway’s

first capital. Cross the old city bridge to see the restored

wooden buildings in Bakklandet and the great gothic cathedral

of Nidaros.

A winter expedition along the coast of Norway, when the landscape is covered in pure white snow, is a beautiful and refreshing experience. During the winter, the sun is low on the horizon and north of the Arctic Circle it remains below it for some weeks. This creates fascinating shades of light ranging from blue to purple and yellow tones. The highlight for many , of course, is the appearance of the majestic Northern Lights. During your journey into the Arctic you will also learn more about the local culture and history. You have the chance to enjoy interesting presentations and activities will be arranged both on board and land.

Day 2: The Capital of the Fjords

Morning train to Bergen, the capital of the fjords. Free day

to explore this old Hanseatic harbour city.

Day 6: Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands

After crossing the Arctic Circle, the ship sails through islands

and skerries with majestic rock formations. Then further across

open sea to the Lofoten Islands.

Day 3: The Coastal Voyage begins

Free time in Bergen before embarking on the coastal voyage

in the late afternoon.

Day 4: Sail through Skerries and Islands

After stops in the beautiful Art Nouveau town of Ålesund and

Molde with its magnificent view of the Romsdal Alps, the ship

will carefully navigate a belt of islets and skerries, before

docking at Kristiansund.

MOUNTAINS FJORDS & CLASSIC COASTAL VOYAGE

Day 9: Kirkenes

Disembark in Kirkenes and fly to Oslo where your tour ends

INCLUSIONS

Day 7: Tromsø - Gateway to the Arctic

This morning you’ll pass the medieval Trondenes church before

calling at Harstad for breakfast. Later you’ll stop at Tromsø,

the “Paris of the North”.

2 nights comfortable 3.5 to 4 star hotels 6 nights twin outside cabin with private facilities on coastal voyage Daily breakfast, and full board during voyage Norway in a Nutshell package from Oslo to Bergen via Flåm, including seat reservation 24-hour Bergen city card Classic Voyage North with Hurtigruten Flight Kirkenes – Oslo including taxes

Day 8: Honningsvåg and the North Cape

Watch for rookeries of puffins and gannets along the cliffs and

pods of orca hunting for herring. After calling at Honningsvåg,

the capital of the North Cape, the ship heads east toward the

pretty fishing villages of Kjølleford, Mehamn, and Berlevåg.

Optional extra:

OVERNIGHT IN A SNOW ROOM? Every room in the Snowhotel is like a small treasure. The rooms are five metres in diameter, and are equipped with everything needed for a comfortable night. The beds are framed with ice blocks, but inside you sleep on a comfortable mattress with thermal insulation on top. Around you wrap a warm sleeping bag graded for -35 degrees Celsius. And before you go to bed, join us for a drink in the ‘Icebar’ where you are served icecold Vodka in glasses made of ice. Welcome to the coolest bar in town!

Optional excursion includes: Transfer from Kirkenes city centre, 3-course dinner in wilderness restaurant, overnight in Snow room, warm sleeping bag, sauna and breakfast.

The Kirkenes Snow Hotel is open from 20 December to 20 April.

Kirkenes Tromsø

QUICK FACTS ˚ 9 days/8 nights ˚ Easy cultural tour/ voyage through Norway ˚ Hurtigruten voyage – departs any day all year ˚ Start Oslo (OSL) ˚ End Oslo Trondheim ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available Bergen ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our Oslo website or enclosed price list

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Photo: Hurtigruten

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Kirkenes Snow Hotel, Photo: Helge Staerk

DOGSLED EXPEDITION TO THE SHIP IN THE ICE

QUICK FACTS

Photo: Ute foto, Innovation Norway

˚ 6 days/5 nights ˚ Independent – departs any day January to April ˚ Start Oslo (OSL) ˚ End Oslo ˚ Family itinerary based on 4 people sharing a cabin ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list Geilo

Oslo

From the first of March until mid May, the 100-year-old schooner s/v Noorderlicht lies frozen into the beautiful Tempel Fjord in Svalbard waiting for todays’ adventurers! We offer a special program where you can learn how to mush your own team of Alaskan Huskies travelling from Longyearbyen to our comfortable Basecamp Ship in the Ice. Dogsledding at Svalbard is an experience that touches your soul, with the wide open landscape and the breathtaking scenery. Only the panting of the dogs and the scraping of the sled runners against the snow, break the complete silence. During this expedition you will look after your own dog team and have a chance to bond and feel the amazing connection between humans and dogs.

QUICK FACTS ˚ 5 days/4 nights Longyearbyen ˚ Moderate to strenuous adventure where you mush your own dog team ˚ Small group journey – departs in March & April only ˚ Start Longyearbyen (LYR) ˚ End Longyearbyen Tromsø ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Day 1: Arrive Longyearbyen

After arrival in Longyearbyen, take the airport shuttle

to Basecamp Trapper’s Hotel. Afternoon is free to explore

Longyearbyen.

Day 2: Dog sledding to the Ship in the Ice

Transfer to the dog kennels at the Basecamp Trapper’s Station

in Bolterdalen. After careful instructions on how to handle a

dog sled team, you are ready to mush into the white open

landscape and to the Ship in the Ice.

FAMILY SKI HOLIDAY IN GEILO

Geilo is the perfect winter holiday destination for families with kids.

As parents we have designed a ski holiday package that we are confident others will like. The accommodation is in self-catering log cabins close to the ski slopes, and the shops. This allows you to keep your family holiday stress free and affordable. Geilo offers a great variety of winter activities for the whole family.

the most beautiful mountain scenery with waterfalls and steep mountain sides reaching a height of 900 metres and down to the Sognefjord. You will be back in Geilo in the evening.

Day 6: Return to Oslo

At your leisure, you can depart to Oslo by train. Your don’t have

to worry about cleaning your cabin, to minimise the ‘boring bits’

for the kids, it’s included for you.

There are a total of 39 alpine slopes to enjoy, including everything from advanced black slopes to easy slopes for children and organised ski classes. In addition you will find terrain parks, crosscountry ski tracks and opportunities to enjoy the wilderness at the nearby Hardanger mountain plateau (Hardangervidda). You can also try dog sledding and a snow scooter safari through magical snow white landscapes.

INCLUSIONS

Day 1: Arrive Oslo, travel by train to Geilo

Depart from Oslo train station for the scenic journey to Geilo,

in the Norwegian mountains.

Train tickets Oslo – Geilo return Norway in a Nutshell with Flåm Railway and fjord cruise 5 nights in a self contained family cabin

Accommodation The ski in cabins are very spacious, with 10 beds, a large open living room with fireplace, fully equipped kitchen & 2 bathrooms. The cabins are idyllically situated, surrounded by nature with easy access to the ski slopes and cross-country ski tracks.

Day 2 & 4: Geilo - Skiing and Family winter adventures

You have three days to explore the Geilo ski slopes and

surrounding areas. Geilo has total 20 ski lifts of different kind,

and a large capacity! Due to this, you will hardly ever experience

long queues. Another great benefit of skiing in Geilo, there are

40 slopes of different types and levels.

Oslo

Day 3: Dog sledding around the Tempelfjord

A new day of exploring Tempel Fjord and its surroundings with

your dog sled.

Day 4: Return to Longyearbyen

After breakfast, ride your dog sled back to the Basecamp

Trapper’s Station, say goodbye to your dogs, and return to your

hotel at Longyearbyen.

Day 5: Tour ends

After breakfast, free time to relax & explore Longyearbyen and

its sights on your own. An early afternoon shuttle bus transfer

back to the airport is included.

INCLUSIONS

2 nights at trapper’s lodge in Longyearbyen 2 nights in twin cabin on board SV Noorderlicht frozen in the ice – yes, it’s nicely heated!

1 person per husky team Safety equipment, thermal suit, snow mobile boots, windproof mittens, facemask, goggles and hat.

Daily breakfast in Longyearbyen, and full board outside town

Extras: A three day adult lift pass in Geilo is approximately AUD150 per adult and AUD120 per child (7- 15 years). Children under 7 ride for free. A day of ski schooling for children is approximately AUD85.

Day 5: Explore the Fjords of Norway

Today you will experience Norway’s most popular round trip;

Norway in a Nutshell. The excursion takes you through some of

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Photo: Basecamp Explorer

ICE & AURORAS IN SWEDISH LAPLAND

QUICK FACTS ˚ 7 days/6 nights ˚ Easy tour with some adventurous winter activities ˚ Independent – departs any day from December to early April ˚ Start Kemi (KEM) ˚ End Ivalo (IVL) ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Day 3: In the Middle of the Aurora Zone

After breakfast transfer to Kiruna train station for an hour’s

train ride to Abisko. An evening visit to the Aurora Sky Station,

including an aurora exhibition and dinner.

The original ICEHOTEL is located 200km above the Arctic Circle, in the small village of Jukkasjärvi. As soon as winter begins, a team of snow builders, architects, designers and artists from all over the world gather to create each year’s version of ICEHOTEL. On average, 2000 tons of ice and 30,000 tons of snow are used in building this ‘monument’ of art and architecture.

Day 4: Feed the Reindeer

In the morning, visit the Sámi Village of Gabna and local

reindeer herder’s homestead. After lunch, feed the reindeers

and have a go at driving a reindeer sledge.

Abisko, in the middle of the Aurora zone, is considered to be one of best places on earth to see the Aurora Borealis. A visit to the Aurora Sky Station, accessible only by a chairlift which is high up above the lights of the village, allow you a great chance to experience the Northern Lights.

Ivalo Kakslauttanen Rovaniemi Kemi

Day 5: Good Bye

After breakfast transfer to Kiruna Airport.

Day 1: Overnight at ICEHOTEL

Upon arrival in Kiruna, transfer to ICEHOTEL. Be brave and

overnight in an ice room. You will sleep in thermal sleeping bags

laid out on reindeer skins above a special bed built of snow and

ice. A night to remember!

INCLUSIONS

Day 2: Dog sledding and Aurora Hunt

What better way to start the day than a dog sled journey

across the snowy landscape to a wilderness camp, followed

by lunch. Afterwards ride back to the kennel to learn more

about the Arctic dogs and their daily life. In the evening, rug up

for a snowmobile excursion in search of the Northern Lights.

Dinner included at a wilderness camp.

1 night in an ice room at ICEHOTEL 1 night in warm hotel room at ICEHOTEL 2 nights in cosy family owned lodge in Abisko Daily breakfast, and half board in Abisko Dogsled ride to wilderness camp with lunch Evening snow mobile ride with dinner (2 people per scooter) Dinner at Aurora Sky Station Visit reindeer farm including lunch Warm winter clothes at ICEHOTEL and in Abisko (not in between)

ICE, IGLOOS AND ARCTIC CIRCLE If you feel you’ve been everywhere and done everything, this is a trip for you! Start in Kemi, a port town on the northern Gulf of Bothnia, in Finland. Ride snowmobiles along the frozen sea to Icebreaker Sampo, which after thirty years of duty keeping the sea-lanes open for commercial vessels, has retired to the life of a cruise ship for ice adventurers. On board learn about icebreakers and try swimming in a waterproof thermal suit among the broken ice blocks. Then travel further to Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus on the Arctic Circle. Visit Santa’s home and take part in a special ceremony for crossing the Arctic Circle. Finish the trip in style with an overnight stay in a Glass Igloo. Spend the night admiring the starry sky and – hopefully - the dance of the Northern Lights above your bed.

Day 6: Huskies & Northern Lights

After breakfast meet the Huskies and join your own dog

team through the snow-covered wilderness. Lunch en route

by open fire. After dinner Reindeer sled tour in search of the

Northern Lights.

Day 1: Welcome to Kemi

Upon arrival in Kemi, transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: Icebreaker Cruise

Snowmobile ride along frozen sea to Icebreaker Sampo.

Onboard, tour the ship, enjoy lunch and swim among the

broken ice in special waterproof suits.

Abisko Jukkasjärvi

QUICK FACTS ˚ 5 days/4 nights ˚ Easy tour with some adventurous winter activities ˚ Independent tour – departs any day December to early April ˚ Start Kiruna (KRN) ˚ End Kiruna ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson

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Day 7: Depart Ivalo

Transfer to Ivalo airport.

Day 3: Train to Santa’s Home Town

Morning free to explore Kemi. Train to Rovaniemi. Free time to

visit Arktikum Museum and its exhibition about life in the Arctic.

INCLUSIONS

Day 4: Reindeers & Santa Claus’ Village

Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm to learn about reindeer

husbandry and Lappish culture. Take a reindeer ride and attend

a special Lapp ceremony for crossing the Arctic Circle. In the

afternoon continue by car to Santa Claus Village to enjoy lunch

and a chat with Santa.

Day 5: Igloo night

Take a 3-hour bus trip north of the Arctic Circle to

Kakslauttanen. Spend the night in your heated Glass Igloo.

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Arrival and departure transfers between airport and hotel day 1 and 7 4 nights in comfortable 4 star hotels 1 night in log cabin 1 night in Glass Igloo Daily breakfast and half board at Kakslauttanen Snow mobile ride and Icebreaker voyage including lunch Train tickets Kemi to Rovaniemi Visit Santa Claus Village Arctic Circle certificate & Lapp ceremony Bus tickets Rovaniemi to Kakslauttanen Dog sled excursion with lunch Reindeer sled excursion

NORTHERN LIGHTS WEEKEND IN FINLAND

QUICK FACTS ˚ 8 days/7 nights ˚ Christmas package with plenty of activities for children and adults ˚ 21 – 28 Dec only ˚ Start Kajaani (KAJ) ˚ End Kajaani ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Day 3: Reindeers & Snowmobiles

Visit to a local reindeer farm to learn about reindeer herding.

Try lasso throwing and reindeer sleigh riding. In the evening

a snowmobile safari to the nearby fell to watch the

Northern Lights.

Harriniva Hotel is located 230kms north of the Arctic Circle in the Finnish part of Lapland and offers a great range of winter activities.

A comfortable Scandinavian style accommodation combined with a wellness centre with a wide range of therapies and treatments, offers you a great weekend getaway. During the day time, you get to know huskies and reindeers and at night, our guides will take you out on snowshoes as well as snowmobiles to ‘hunt’ for the Northern Lights. This short tour is ideal for ’beginners’ and families with kids.

Day 4: Farewell

After the breakfast transfer to Kittilä airport.

Day 1: Welcome to Lapland

Arrival to Kittilä airport and transfer to Harriniva Hotel.

INCLUSIONS

Day 2: Huskies & Snowshoeing

In the morning enjoy a 2-hour Husky Safari. After dinner pack

up your snowshoes. Snowmobiles will take you to a perfect spot

to catch a glimpse of the elusive Aurora.

3 nights at Scandinavian hotel/wellness centre Arrival and departure transfer between airport and hotel Half board Warm winter clothing 2-hour husky safari Evening snow mobile safari (2 people per scooter) Visit a local reindeer farm Photo: Lapland Safaris

CHRISTMAS IN FINLAND Day 5: Christmas Day at Your Leisure

Christmas day is yours to spend at your leisure - optional

activities, resting. Dinner, and perhaps dancing if you like,

at hotel restaurant.

Take a landscape of snow and Finnish Christmas traditions, combine it with Santa and his elves and you have a recipe for a perfect family getaway. We provide snow, great family friendly accommodation, fun activities and simple pleasures such as hot drinks by the open air, freshly baked gingerbread, Christmas Carols at a local hall and a chance to pick your own Christmas tree in the nearby forest. All you need to bring is the kids!

Day 6: Boxing Day Activities on Frozen Lake

Spend Boxing Day by the lake: enjoy a ‘taster’ of outdoor

activities – sleigh rides with huskies, reindeer, horse and even

snowmobile. After dinner, gather outside by the open fire to

hear a story of ‘Sampo’ told by a ‘Kalevala Shaman’.

Day 1: Welcome by Santa’s Elves

You will be welcomed by Santa’s Elves at Kajaani airport.

Transfer to Kalevala Hotel. Welcome dinner.

Day 7: Day for Relaxing

This is a day for optional activities, shopping, relaxing.

Dinner with folklore program.

Day 2: Tobogganing, Reindeers & Christmas Carols

This morning is free for outdoor activities: tobogganing, kick sledding & visiting our reindeers. After lunch, help the elves to

make some Christmas pastries. In the evening, enjoy a

Christmas concert at the Kuhmo Arts Centre.

Day 8: Good Bye Finland

After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Kajaani.

Day 3: Fairy Tale Christmas Tour

An unforgettable experience awaits, a Fairy Tale Christmas

Tour in Christmas Village. You will bake Santa’s favourite

gingerbread and then try to find him with some help from his

elves and ‘forest animals’. A small gift for the kids is included.

Kittilä

Kajaani

QUICK FACTS ˚ 4 days/3 nights ˚ Easy family itinerary with fun winter activities ˚ Independent – departs any day December to early April ˚ Start Kittilä (KTT) ˚ End Kittilä ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

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INCLUSIONS

7 nights in the cosy Kalevala Hotel (100 rooms only)

Return transfer from Kajaani airport

Evening saunas and jacuzzi’s daily

All breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners and 1 Christmas Eve

Gala dinner

All activities; Fairy Tale Christmas tour in Christmas village Christmas concert Santa’s visit Short dog sled ride Horse sled ride Reindeer sled ride Snow mobile drive

Children’s activities at the hotel such as movies, play station,

children’s playroom, wireless internet, board games and library

Day 4: Traditional Christmas Eve Celebration

After breakfast, we go to a near-by forest to find the perfect

Christmas tree & bring it back to the hotel for decorating. In

the afternoon you can visit the local Church Yard to light a

candle for your loved ones far away. Santa Claus comes to visit

before the traditional Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner. This

evening, enjoy a traditional Christmas night church service.

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Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson

KINGDOM OF VOLCANOES & GLACIERS Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park – Skaftafell

In the Skaftafell National Park walk through a birch forest up

to the Svartifoss waterfall, famous for its black basalt columns.

On the way you will get fantastic views of Europe’s largest

glacier Vatnajökull and its highest peak Hvannadalshnúkur

(2110m).

This is an outstanding trip to one of Iceland’s most attractive areas, and includes the famous Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, Skaftafell National Park, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the famous Laki volcano. You will be walking through volcanic sceneries with breathtaking panoramic views over glaciers and spectacular mountain peaks. And if you are lucky, you might even witness the Northern Lights over the ice cap of Vatnajökull.

FIRE, ICE & THE BLUE LAGOON

Join us for a winter escape to the land of ice and fire in the middle of the North Atlantic. We will take you out to see the most famous sights around the Golden Circle and treat you to Lobster Soup under the spectacle of the Northern Lights. As a finale you will have a day and night at the Blue Lagoon for a soak in the warm healing waters.

Day 4: Soak in the Blue Lagoon

After a relaxing morning in the Icelandic capital transfer to

the Blue Lagoon for a therapeutic afternoon and evening in

the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon. Stay overnight at the

Blue Lagoon, which is just a stone throw from the international

airport.

Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik

Arrive into Reykjavik and take the door-to-door Flybus

to your hotel in the centre of town.

Day 5: Depart Reykjavik

Our services end after breakfast and a bus transfer to the

international airport.

Day 2: Golden Circle and Magical Nights

Enjoy a full day tour to the famous Golden Circle with a visit

to a geothermal spa with hot spring bathing, dinner and a

chance to enjoy the natural magic of the Northern Lights!

INCLUSIONS

Day 3: Glacier Walk – Lobster Soup – Northern Lights

Combine two amazing winter highlights in Iceland on a day

excursion to the south shore and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

On the way we pass impressive waterfalls as well as the world

famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. A safe and easy glacier walk on

crampons will take you up on to the ice field of Sólheimajökull

to discover a wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and deep

crevasses. To cap the day we head to one of Iceland’s most

renowned seafood restaurants for an unforgettable Lobster

Soup dinner.

Return airport transfers with FlyBus (efficient airport bus) 3 nights at centrally located 3.5 star hotel in Reykjavik 1 night at local inn by the Blue Lagoon Daily breakfast Golden Triangle day tour with geothermal spa and dinner Glacier walk with guide, and including safety equipment and Lobster soup dinner Entrance to Blue Lagoon

Day 4: Volcano Laki

Visit to the craters of Laki that are mostly covered with green

moss, making a huge contrast to the black and red colour of

the underlying lava.

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

Upon arrival make your own way to your hotel.

The rest of the day is free to explore the Capital of Iceland.

Day 5: Jökulsárlón – Slaga

Today you will visit the Öræfajökull and Breiðamerkurjökull

glaciers before arriving to Jökulsárlón lagoon with its

picturesque floating icebergs. In the afternoon, explore with

a walk at the foot of the Öræfajökull glacier, where you

can enjoy fantastic views over the vast sand plains of the

river Skeiðará.

Day 2: Geysers, Waterfalls and Glaciers

Visit to the Geysir geothermal area including Gullfoss, one of

Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls. Continue east through one

of the largest agricultural areas to a comfortable countryside

hotel where you will stay for the next 4 nights.

Day 6: Vík – Hot springs of Ölkelduháls – Reykjavik

Relax with a walk on the black beach in Vík followed by a visit to

the geothermal area of Reykjadalur. Enjoy a relaxing bath in a

warm stream before returning to Reykjavik.

QUICK FACTS ˚ 7 days/6 nights ˚ Moderate tour with 2 to 4 hours walks each day Kirkjubæjarklaustur Reykjavik ˚ Small group journey Vik – departs all year ˚ Start Reykjavik (REK or KEF) ˚ End Reykjavik ˚ Minimum 6 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Day 7: Depart Reykjavik

Your tour finishes after breakfast.

QUICK FACTS ˚ 5 days/4 nights ˚ Easy tour with some day walks and a glacier walk ˚ Independent – departs any day November to April ˚ Start Reykjavik (REK or KEF) ˚ End Reykjavik ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

INCLUSIONS

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2 nights in comfortable 3.5 star hotel centrally in Reykjavik 4 nights in comfortable country hotel Daily breakfast, and half board (BD) when outside Reykjavik English speaking Icelandic guide Vehicle transportation in minibus

Reykjavik

Photo: Visit Iceland

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LAVA HOTSPRINGS & GLACIERS There are opportunities to grill your own sandwich on lava, enjoy a splendid unique hotel in Southern Iceland and delve into Rekjavik’s nightlife and design worlds.

Day 4: Tour the local area

Black beaches, rock formations and Northern Lights at

night. After breakfast, head off in your own car to explore

the area of Vik. Head down to the black beaches, have a look

at the amazing rock formation of Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara in

the distance. During nesting time, you might even see a puffin

or two.

Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik

Individual transfer from Keflavik Airport or Reykjavik domestic

airport by scheduled airport bus to your hotel in Reykjavik.

Reykjavik is an intimate city with a big personality and some

striking landmarks

Day 5: Highlands Adventure and Northern Lights

Iceland´s highlands are different, amazing, scary, beautiful

all at the same time. Today is a day to choose an optional

excursion depending on the weather. Ice hiking, Glacier

exploring or enjoying the open fire.

Day 2: Head off to Vik via geothermal spa, Laugarvatn Fontana

Grab your towel and enjoy a visit to a geothermal spa,

Laugarvatn Fontana with it’s hot spring bathing. Relax in

the hot tub, built at a slightly higher level than the other baths,

providing a panoramic view of the beautiful surroundings while

the healthy water nourishes both body and soul.

Day 6: Head back to Reykjavik

Today is a day of meandering back to Reykjavik, at your leisure.

Experience the hotsprings, glacier walking, volcano tour and Iceland’s black sand beaches, all while having the independence of a hire car, stop where you want, see what you want.

AURORA BOREALIS ADVENTURE IN GREENLAND A visit to Greenland is almost like travelling in time – you will find yourself surrounded by a landscape similar to the ice age where prehistoric Musk Oxen are seen in front of massive glaciers. Most of your time will be spent in and around the township of Ilulissat, where large icebergs will be floating by your hotel window.

INCLUSIONS

Day 3: Day tour of Volcanoes and Glaciers

After breakfast, set off for a day tour, combining super

trucks and hiking. Travel with a local guide who will show

you the amazing features of the region.

Arrival transfer with FlyBus (efficient airport bus) Car hire for 5 days 6 breakfasts & 4 dinners Accommodation at rural hotel and centrally located 3.5 star hotel in Reykjavik Super jeep day tour

Ilulissat Kangerlussuaq

QUICK FACTS ˚ 8 days/7 nights ˚ Easy adventure to remote West Greenland with optional dog sledding and other excursions ˚ Independent – departs any day January to April ˚ Start Copenhagen (CPH) ˚ End Copenhagen ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

Copenhagen

Photo: Greenland Tourism

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen

Today is your free day to explore Denmark’s picturesque capital.

We have included a 24 hour Copenhagen Card that gives you

free public transport and free access to major attractions.

A wander along Strøget to Nyhavn is a must.

Day 7: Return to Copenhagen

Transfer back to the airport for your flight to Copenhagen

where you arrive in the late evening.

Day 8: Tour ends

Your tour ends after breakfast.

Day 2: Into the Heart of Greenland

Start with a morning flight to Kangerlussuaq in Greenland,

and continue by flight north to Ilulissat. Transfer to your hotel.

In the afternoon join an historical city walk of Ilulissat.

QUICK FACTS ˚ 6 days/5 nights ˚ Easy self drive itinerary Reykjavik ˚ Independent – departs any Thorsmork day November to April ˚ Start Reykjavik (REK or KEF) ˚ End Reykjavik ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer toour website or enclosed price list Photo: Visit Iceland

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INCLUSIONS

Day 3 to 5: Experience Greenland

These three days are free in Ilulissat and can be filled with any

of the optional excursions on offer: sailing among the Icebergs,

dogsledding to a hunters settlement or a helicopter ride to the

Ilulissat glacier.

Day 6: Kangerlussuaq

Fly back to Kangerlussuaq. With a proportionally large number

of starry nights, Kangerlussuaq is one of the best destinations

in the world to experience the Northern Lights.

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2 nights comfortable and central hotel in Copenhagen 24 hours city pass for Copenhagen Flight Copenhagen to Ilulissat via Kangerlussuaq return including taxes Return airport transfers in Ilulissat 4 nights at a 3.5 star central hotel in Ilulissat Historical city walk of Ilulissat 1 night at basic lodge in Kangerlussuaq Daily breakfast

RUSSIAN WINTER EXPERIENCE Travelling to Russia in winter has unique advantages - there are no crowds in the museums, there are no queues in front of the palaces and it is easier to get tickets to famous ballet performances.

St. Petersburg, laid on more than 65 islands with more than 300 bridges, is full of the palaces of the Czars and the noble, making it a magical place to visit. Walk across the frozen Neva River from Hermitage to the St. Peter and Paul Fortress and enjoy a traditional horse sleigh ride in the snow covered Pavlovsk Park. In Moscow the ice-skaters are out and the city’s numerous parks are home to fledgling ice sculptors. The Red Square and the Kremlin towers look amazing against the white backdrop on a crisp winter’s day. And if you need to warm up, enjoy a hot drink or a shot of vodka in one of the many new trendy cafes.

50 Degrees North photography tours,

want to try one of the trendy cafes of the Manege shopping mall or GUM. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of the Red Square.

see more on www.fiftydegreesnorth.com

Day 6: Moscow

After breakfast, head off on a sightseeing tour of Moscow.

Free time for lunch and then in the afternoon visit the Tretyakov

Gallery, housing the largest collection of Russian national art

from icons to modern art.

Day 7: Departure

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, followed by a transfer to the

airport or station.

Day 1: Arrival

Upon arrival in St. Petersburg, transfer to your hotel.

INCLUSIONS

Day 2: City Sights with Hermitage Museum

Enjoy a panoramic city sightseeing tour, including visits to

Peter & Paul Fortress and St. Isaac’s Cathedral, followed by

lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy an in-depth tour of the Hermitage

Museum, featuring Old Masters, the Impressionists Exhibition

and the State Rooms of the Winter Palace.

6 nights in comfortable and central 3.5 to 4 star hotels Daily breakfast Private sightseeing as per description with English speaking guide Express train St Petersburg to Moscow Arrival and departure transfers between airport/train station & hotel

Day 3: Palaces & Parks

Today, go on a tour of Catherine’s Palace, the pearl of the

Russian Baroque architecture. Weather permitting; experience

a Troika (traditional horse sled) ride at the park followed by

traditional Russian lunch at Podvorye. In the afternoon tour of

the Yusupov Palace, site of the mysterious death of the

notorious Rasputin.

Day 4: Train to Moscow

Morning free. Early afternoon train to Moscow.

Transfer to your hotel.

Day 5: Kremlin & Red Square by Metro

Explore the famous Moscow metro on the way to Kremlin.

Included is a comprehensive tour of Kremlin including visit to the

Armory with its collection of Faberge Eggs. For lunch you may

QUICK FACTS

St Petersburg Moscow

˚ 7 days/6 nights ˚ Easy cultural tour ˚ Independent – departs any day all year ˚ Start St Petersburg (LED) ˚ End Moscow (SVO or DME) ˚ Minimum 2 people to run - single supplement available ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list

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Photo: Ewen Bell

SCANDINAVIAN Design Your Own Nordic Experience We have put together a selection of short stays in all the major cities in the Nordic region, taking a bit of inspiration from another classic Scandinavian invention, Lego, pick and choose your own city breaks, or choose from our range of suggested itineraries.

Use our bricks to create a winter get-away or add them to the itineraries featured in this brochure to extend your stay. Remember, if you cannot find what you need, we are just a phone call or email away!

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OSLO Suggested ‘short’ itineraries Oslo & Copenhagen

Oslo Short Break

Oslo in winter has traditionally been associated with ski jumping in Holmenkollen. But, Oslo is also a city where you can take the metro to the closest toboggan run just 30 minutes out of town and ice skate in the city centre. There are more than 50 museums worth visiting, including the world renowned Viking Ship Museum, and beautiful outdoor attractions such as the Akershus Fortress and the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

3 days/2 nights 24 hour City Card 3.5-4* or 5* option

Oslo Extended Break 4 days/3 nights 48 hour City Card 3.5-4* or 5* option

Stockholm, Luleå & Treehotel

6 days/5 nights 2 nights in Oslo, overnight ferry to Copenhagen, 2 nights in Copenhagen or v.v.

24 hour City Card Oslo & Copenhagen 3.5-4* or 5* option

7 days/ 6 nights 3 days , 2 nights in Stockholm, overnight train to Luleå, 1 night in Luleå, transfers to Tree hotel, 2 nights Tree hotel, including half day Moose safari.

Transfers to/from Treehotel 24 hour City Card Stockholm 3.5-4* or 5* Option

Oslo & Stockholm

5 days/4 nights 2 nights in Oslo, train to Stockholm, 2 nights in Stockholm or v.v 24 hour City Card Oslo & Stockholm 3.5-4* or 5* option

Luleå & Treehotel Short Break

5 days / 4 nights 2 days / 1 night Luleå, transfer to Treehotel 3 nights Tree hotel, including Moose Safari Transfer Treehotel to Luleå airport

Norway in a Nutshell

BERGEN

Bergen Short Break

Bergen is a world heritage city that is over 900 years old. The beautiful Bryggen (wharf) is one of the most familiar images in all of Norway. The city centre is situated among a group of mountains known collectively as the seven mountains (de syv fjell). A short ride on the Fløibanen Funicular will reward you with remarkable views over Bergen and its harbour, 320 metres above sea level.

3 days/2 nights 24 hour City Card 3-3.5* or 4.5* option

Bergen Extended Break 4 days/3 nights 48 hour City Card 3-3.5* or 4.5* option

Helsinki & Rovaniemi

2 days/1 night (Flåm or Voss) Routing options - Bergen to Bergen, Bergen to Oslo or Oslo to Bergen 3.5-4* or 4.5-5* option

7 days/6 nights 2 nights in Helsinki, return overnight train HelsinkiRovaniemi-Helsinki, 2 nights in Rovaniemi 24 hour City Card in Helsinki, Santa Claus Safari in Rovaniemi

Norway in a Nutshell, Extended 5 days/4 nights Oslo 2 nights, Norway in a Nutshell & Bergen 2 nights 24 hour City Card Oslo & Bergen Routing options - Bergen to Bergen, Bergen to Oslo or Oslo to Bergen 3.5-4* or 4.5-5* option

Helsinki & Tallinn

4 days/3 nights 2 nights in Helsinki, return ferry to Tallinn, 1 night in Tallinn 24 hour City Card Helsinki & Tallinn

Helsinki & St. Petersburg

Oslo, Tromsø & Longyearbyen

TROMSØ

Tromsø Short Break

Located 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is home to the world’s northern-most university, brewery, botanical garden and cathedral.

This is one of the best places on earth to observe the Northern Lights with a season that lasts from October to March. Here in Norway’s north, enjoy some of the best and freshest ingredients in the world delivered right to your dinner table.

3 days/2 nights 2 hour city walk with a private guide 3-3.5* or 4* option

Tromsø Extended Break

6 days/5 nights 2 nights in Helsinki, train to St. Petersburg, 2 nights in St. Petersburg 24 hour City Card in Helsinki, Sightseeing in St. Petersburg

6 days/5 nights 2 nights Oslo, flight Oslo – Longyearbyen return incl taxes & stopover in Tromsø, 2 nights Tromsø, 1 night Longyearbyen 24 hour City Card Oslo

St. Petersburg & Moscow

Stockholm & Copenhagen

7days/6 nights 3 nights in St. Petersburg, train to Moscow 3 nights in Moscow Sightseeing in St Petersburg & Moscow

5 days/4 nights 2 nights in Stockholm, train to Copenhagen, 2 nights in Copenhagen or v.v 24 hour City Card Stockholm & Copenhagen 3.5-4* or 5* Option

Stockholm & Helsinki

6 days/5 nights 2 nights in Stockholm, overnight ferry to Helsinki, 2 nights in Helsinki or v.v 24 hour City Card Stockholm & Helsinki 3.5-4* or 5* Option

✶ Would you like a quote?

Email us now

4 days/3 nights 2 hour city walk with a private guide 3-3.5* or 4* option

REYKJAVIK

Reykjavik Short Break

Reykjavik is an intriguing city and has lots to offer in winter. From geothermal pools to design shops, from cosy restaurants and cafes to art galleries, glaciers and concerts.

3 days/2 nights 24 hour City Card 3.5* or 4.5* Option

In December, shop for unique gifts at the Christmas Market in the city centre or visit the charming Christmas Village in Hafnarfjordur. Visit the Christmas Cat (one of many Icelandic Christmas creatures) at the local Zoo, ice-skate around a decorated Christmas tree or be dazzled by the Spectacular New Year’s Eve firework display.

Reykjavik Extended Break

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4 days/3 nights 3 nights in Reykjavik, 24 hour City Card, 1 night Blue Lagoon, Int’l airport transfers to/from Blue Lagoon, Blue Lagoon entrance fee 3.5* or 4.5* Option

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STOCKHOLM

Stockholm, one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, is built on 14 islands and you are never far from the water. It is a city with a spectacular combination of medieval buildings and modern architecture. Stroll down the cobblestone streets of the Old Town (Gamla Stan), have a coffee and a warm cinnamon bun in one of the numerous cafes, drop in to some of the design shops, visit the unique Wasa museum, or go on a cruise around the archipelago.

LULEÅ

Situated in Swedish Lapland, where the cold mountain water of the Lule River meets the saltwater of the sea, there is a perfect place to experience the magnificence of nature and Sami culture. Bars, theatres and a teeming nightlife make Luleå a perfect base for adventures in the far north of Sweden.

Stockholm Short Break 3 days/2 nights 24 hour City Card 3.5-4* or 5* option

Stockholm Extended Break 4 days/3 nights 48 hour City Card 3.5-4* or 5* option

Luleå Short Break 2 days / 1 night Luleå 3.5-4* or 5* option

HELSINKI

Helsinki Short Break

The lifestyle in the second-most northern capital city in the world is full of contrasts. Influences from both the East and West are visible in the city’s architecture, culinary culture, events and traditions. In Helsinki the beauty of the surrounding nature blends seamlessly together with hightech achievements, while old traditions mix with the latest contemporary trends. Go ice-skating, design shopping or visit the UNESCO heritage listed Suomenlinna, one of the world’s largest historical maritime fortresses.

3 days/2 nights 24 hour City Card 3.5-4* & 5* options

Helsinki Extended Break

4 days/3 nights 48 hour City Card 3.5-4* & 5* options

ST.PETERSBURG

St.Petersburg Short Break

To visit St. Petersburg in winter is fascinating. Snow covers the parks and squares, the Neva river and the canals are usually frozen. The city, built on more than 65 islands with more than 300 bridges, is full of palaces of the Czars and the noble, making it a magical place to visit. In winter you will have all the advantages of traveling off-season, there are no crowds in the museums, there are no queues in front of the palaces and it is easier than ever to get tickets to famous ballet performances.

3 days/2 nights Private sightseeing 3.5-4* & 5* options

St.Petersburg Extended Break 4 days/3 nights Private sightseeing 3.5-4* & 5* options

COPENHAGEN

There are many fantastic things to do in Copenhagen during winter. You can go ice-skating, see the wonderful museums and enjoy a dinner at a cosy restaurant. It is not hard to find a great restaurant in Copenhagen as the 2012 Michelin Guide has awarded Copenhagen’s restaurants a total of 14 stars!

Copenhagen Short Break

The Tivoli Christmas market in Copenhagen is a must during the winter season. The atmosphere is much like that of a small carnival, filled with the pungent smells of ginger cookies and ‘glögg’, Christmas carols and Danish arts & crafts.

Copenhagen Extended Break

3 days/2 nights 78 hour City Card 3.5-4* or 5* option

4 days/3 nights 48 hour City Card 3.5-4* or 5* option

MOSCOW

Moscow Short Break

Russia’s capital city is a must visit. Moscow is experiencing very exciting changes, gone are the days of strict censorship. Winter turns this metropolis of 10 million people into a much ‘softer’ and inviting city. The snow covered churches and palaces gleam in the sunshine, ice-skaters are out and city’s numerous parks are home for fledgling ice sculptors.

3 days/2 nights Private sightseeing 3.5-4* & 5* options

Moscow Extended Break 4 days/3 nights Private sightseeing 3.5-4* & 5* options

Copenhagen & Dragsholm Castle

5 days/4 nights 2 nights Copenhagen, 3-day car hire, 2 nights Dragsholm Castle with half board 24 hour City Card 4.5-5* option

TALLIN

Winter is when you’ll find Tallinn at its most enchanting. A fresh coat of snow covers the gabled rooftops of the medieval Old Town and outdoor candles fill its cobblestone lanes with a flickering glow. Enjoy a variety of cultural events not to mention great shopping in boutiques & handicraft shops.

Tallin Short Break 3 days/2 nights 3.5-4* & 5* options

Tallin Extended Break 4 days/3 nights 3.5-4* & 5* options

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POLAR CIRCLE

QUICK FACTS ˚ 12 days/11 nights Ushuaia ˚ Easy voyage with optional physical activities South Shetland Islands ˚ Start and finish in Ushuaia (USH) ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list Antarctic Peninsula

– ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

channel to Petermann Island and most likely sail to within the Antarctic cirle. Depending on the weather, you will visit the Ukrainian Antarctic station for an insight in to life in close quarters 12 months a year. You can expect at least two landings each day, not to mention 3 delicious meals every day, and snacks/ coffee available free in the bar. A pair of binoculars is a must bring and the captain is always up for a chat if you are spotting wildlife from the bridge.

Day 10-11: Sail back through Drake’s Passage

During your return, you will enjoy more interesting presentations

by the crew on-board and this is also a chance to swap photos/

addresses with your fellow passengers. If you had kayakers,

divers or passengers that camped a night on your trip (perhaps

you were one of those!), they will usually share some of their

sights and experiences with everyone.

IF YOU HAVE AN IPAD, experience the sights and sounds of Antarctica in our interactive, free iBook.

Click here for a direct link

Day 12: Disembark Ushuaia

Say goodbye to your newfound friends and finish back in Ushuaia.

Photo: Esbjörn Torstensson

Day 1: Depart Ushuaia

Upon arrival at Ushuaia airport catch a 10-minute taxi to the

port and go for a wander in the ‘city at the end of the earth’

before departing late afternoon

Antarctica is a continent of superlatives. It is the world’s highest continent; it is the coldest, windiest and driest place on Earth.

During the summer months of November to March, it is also one of the most awe-inspiring destinations in the world, where it’s jawdropping scenery is only matched by the unique wildlife encounters.

True once in a lifetime experiences. There is not a single moment wasted on our trips, our ships average about 100-110 passengers, which guarantees quick and efficient landings and allows you an opportunity to get to know all passengers on your trip.

Day 2 & 3: Sailing the Drake’s Passage

During the two day Drake’s passage crossing, spot lots of

birds unique to the area, including Albatrosses, and listen

to the various presentations by the crew which will further

enhance your knowledge of what you’re about to see.

Day 4-9: Explore the High Antarctic

You are in safe hands here with a crew that will do their very

best to ensure you will get the best experience, everything from

places you visit to the organisation on-board is perfect.

Deception Island, Cuverville Island and Neko Harbour are

amongst the places you will visit, close encounters with Gentoo,

Adelie and Chinstrap penguins, Weddell & Antarctic Fur Seals

awaits. During the latter half of summer, you are very likely

to come across humpback & right whales and if you’re lucky,

fin whales. You will also sail through the spectacular Lemair

INCLUSIONS

Optional Extras (prebookings essential)

Camping one night

Kayaking

Diving (drysuit)

If you have limited time, the Antarctic Peninsula trip is perfect for you, a 12-day trip with 6 full days cruising the peninsula and South Shetland Islands.

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All meals, coffee & tea on your ship All excursions on the zodiacs Lectures and presentations by the specialist crew

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Since you are considering heading all the way down to Antarctica, why not try something different? This trip is a fantastic combination of wildlife and zodiac landings, combined with activities such as kayaking, camping, photo workshops by Leica and hiking, all included. A very popular option is diving which is not included, but very reasonably priced. If you have questions about what’s required to dive, and the cost, contact us any time.

access to the decks of the boat (depending on weather) and this is also a good opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. There are lots of opportunities to spot birds such as Albatrosses, and listen to the presentations by the crew on topics ranging from wildlife to the geology of Antarctica.

Day 4-5: Antarctic Sound to Basecamp on North side of James Ross Island

We will sail into the Weddell Sea through the ice-clogged

Antarctic Sound. Huge tabular icebergs will announce our arrival

to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. We plan to visit

Devil Island and Vega Island with a large colony of Adelie

Penguins and a magnificent view for those hikers who can make

it to the top of the hill. Melting ice sometimes provides

spectacular waterfall from the cliffs close to point ‘Well-Met’.

The protected waters around Herbert Sound at the North side

of James Ross Island will become our “Basecamp” for all

activities. This place is hardly visited by other ships and offers

us a great opportunity to scout this region first time on foot,

per zodiac and during kayak trips.

This trip will take down to the Weddell Sea and the protected waters of Herbert Sound and the North Side of James Ross island will be your activity base camp. You will also sail to the west coast of the peninsula to picturesque Neko Harbor and Paradise Bay. Day 1: Depart Ushuaia

Upon arrival at Ushuaia airport catch a 10-minute taxi to the

port and go for a wander in the southern most city in the world

before departing late afternoon.

Day 2 & 3: Sailing the Drake’s Passage

During the two-day Drake’s passage crossing, you have full

Day 9-11: Melchior Island & Drake Passage

We commence our return journey to Ushuaia via the Melchior

Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have

again a chance of seeing many seabirds. During your return

journey, there will be many interesting presentations by the crew

so even if you didn’t partake in some of the activities available;

you can still share some of the experiences of your fellow

travellers.

Day 6: Paulet Island & Antarctic Peninsula

Weather and conditions permitting we will land on this remote

island to see the remains of the Nordenskjöld expedition and

thousands of Adelie penguins. We might also have time to visit

Brown Bluff in order to make a continental landing at the

Northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Day 7: Roe Island

We will sail along the Wright Ice Piedmont at the Antarctic

continent, named after the brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright

who made the first flight with a plane in 1903. Exploration of Roe

Island, an island lying in the entrance of the Curtiss Bay just

about 2 miles west of Graham Land (Antarctic continent)

Day 12: Disembark Ushuaia

We arrive in the morning and disembark in Ushuaia, a final

goodbye (or perhaps au revoir) to your new friends.

Day 8: Neko Harbour and Paradise Bay

We hope to sail to Neko Harbor and Paradise Bay to reach

the southernmost area of our voyage, where we have again the

opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a

magnificent landscape of huge glaciers. In this area we

have good chances to see Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

Conditions permitting we will look for a place to erect our tents

for a camp night ashore.

INCLUSIONS

All meals, coffee & tea on your ship

Lectures and presentations by the specialist crew

Activities: Kayaking, Camping, Photo workshops by Leica Hiking Optional extras:

Diving (drysuit)

ANTARCTIC BASECAMP QUICK FACTS ˚ 12 days/11 nights Ushuaia ˚ Easy journey with some adventurous activities ˚ Start and finish in Ushuaia (USH) ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list Antarctic Peninsula

Photo: Esbjörn Torstensson

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FALKLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA Why go to South Georgia and the Falklands in addition to the Antarctic Peninsula? Well, you will either visit now or have to save up for a second Antarctica trip - this area of the world does that to you. Both the Falklands and South Georgia have their own unique wildlife that exists only here, not to mention fascinating scenery.

So, if you have the time, why not make your journey to this part of the world as extensive as possible?

Day 1: Depart Ushuaia

Upon arrival at Ushuaia airport catch a 10-minute taxi to the

port and go for a wander in town before departing late

afternoon, consider a day trip to the nearby glacier or hire

a car and go exploring yourself.

Day 2: Sail towards the Falkland Islands (Malvinas)

Plenty of opportunity to spot birds such as albatrosses and

shearwaters on the way, also time to get your ‘sea legs’ on.

Day 3: Explore the western archipelago

A hike along the shore of Carcass Island, will reward you with

your first views of Gentoo & Magellanic penguins.

Day 4: Stanley

Experience the unique Falkland culture, which has some South

American & Victorian characteristics. You will have time to

explore Stanley on your own.

Day 5 & 6: Sail towards South Georgia

On your way to South Georgia, you will enter Antarctic waters

and the temperature will drop by as much as 10 degrees.

Day 7-10: Exploring South Georgia

In the afternoon of day 7 we arrive at our first landing site in

South Georgia. We might visit the bay of Elsehul, with its very

active fur seal breeding beach, and then set course to Right

Whale Bay, Salisbury Plain, Godthul, St. Andrews Bay, Gold

Harbour, Cooper Bay and Drygalski Fjord to give you a good

opportunity to see a wide spectrum of landscapes and wildlife,

like the introduced Reindeer, Elephant seals, Fur seals, King

and Macaroni Penguins. At Fortuna Bay we might try to follow

in the footsteps of the great British Explorer Ernest Shackleton

and hike over to Stømness Bay. There and at Grytviken we’ll see

an abandoned whaling village, where King Penguins now walk in

the streets and seals have taken over the buildings.

Photo: Mike Murphy, Oceanwide Expeditions

Day 11-13: Sailing towards Antarctica, via South Orkney Islands

During you journey, there will be lots of interesting

presentations by the crew. We might encounter sea-ice and you

have more opportunities to spot the birds of the region. The

plan is to visit an Argentine base on the South Orkney Islands

where the friendly staff will show us around the facilities.

decide to extend our time in the Weddell Sea. At Deception Island is a sub-ducted crater; here you’ll find warm springs, go for a swim if you’re brave, and an abandoned whaling station. Go for a short trek up one of the hills for amazing views and look out for Antarctic Fur & Elephant Seals

Day 17-18: Antarctic Peninsula

Start your return journey to Ushuaia, there will be ample

time to swap photos with your fellow travellers and listen to

more interesting presentations by the crew.

Day 14-16: Antarctic Peninsula

Huge icebergs will announce our arrival to the eastern side of

the Antarctic Peninsula. We plan to visit Brown Bluff where we

may set foot on the Continent. In good sailing conditions we may

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Day 19: Disembark Ushuaia

Say goodbye to the crew and other travellers, why not stay

for a while and travel around Patagonia!

QUICK FACTS Falkland Islands ˚ 18 days/17 nights South Georgia ˚ Easy journey with optional physical activities Ushuaia ˚ Set departures, contact us for more details ˚ Start and finish in Ushuaia (USH) ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our Antarctic Peninsula website or enclosed price list

INCLUSIONS

All meals, coffee & tea on your ship All excursions on the zodiacs Lectures and presentations by the specialist crew

Optional Extras (included)

Snowshoeing

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ROSS SEA ANTARCTIC ODYSSEY Welcome aboard one of the most spectacular expeditions on our planet. A true discovery voyage, including the Ross Sea and the southern Antarctic Peninsula. Depart Invercargill in New Zealand and travel towards Ushuaia in South America (or vice versa ). You will get to experience landings by zodiacs and, if weather permits, helicopters. This is a true expedition and we operate this itinerary in the world’s most remote area, we are therefor ruled by the forces of nature. If all goes to plan, there will be five helicopter landings which will allow access to hard to reach landing sites.

Prepare for a once in an lifetime journey!

Day 1: Depart Ushuaia

Upon arrival at Ushuaia airport catch a 10 minute taxi to the

port for an afternoon departure.

Day 2 & 3: Crossing the Drake Passage to

Get to know your fellow passengers and enjoy briefings

by the crew.

Day 4: Arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula

Sail through spectacular Lemaire Channel towards Pleneau

and Petermann Islands where you will be able to view Gentoo

Penguins & Elephant Seals.

Day 5: Penola Strait & Fish Islands

Observe Adelie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags.

Day 8: Peter I Island

An uninhabited volcanic island, claimed by Norway. Elephant Seals

and colonies of Southern Fulmars have been observed here.

Days 9-14: Sailing through the Amundsen Sea

Sail through the outer fringes of the pack ice and depending

on weather, view glimpses of the Antarctic continent. You may

view Emperor penguins, Orcas and Minke Whales in this area.

If the sea ice allows, we will try to land on Shephard Island.

Day 27-28: At Sea

Sailing towards Macquarie Island which is a Tasmanian State

Reserve and a world heritage site.

Day 15: Approaching the Ross Ice Shelf

We approach the Ross Ice Shelf, a floating mass of land ice with

a front that is 30 Metres high. Our aim is to do a helicopter

landing here.

Day 29: Macquarie Island

The fauna is fantastic with colonies of King, Gentoo, Royal and

Southern Rockhopper penguins. The Australian Antarctic

Division has its permanent base here.

Day 16: Sail along the Ross Ice Shelf

Relax and enjoy the spectacular views.

Day 30-31: At Sea

Enjoy more interesting crew presentations and compare photos

with your fellow travellers.

Day 17-21: Explore the Ross Sea

Visit Ross Island with all the famous spots of the British

expeditions of last century, such as Cape Royds with the cabin

of Ernest Shackleton. We will attempt to visit (US) McMurdo

and (NZ) Scott base. We will attempt a helicopter trip over the

Dry Valleys, the nearest conditions to Mars on our planet.

Day 32: Arrive Invercargill, New Zealand

Disembark in the morning for your home, or onward journey.

Note; this voyage also operates in the reverse direction.

INCLUSIONS

Day 22-26: Exploring the Ross Sea

Sailing northward along the eastern west coast of the Ross

Sea, we pass by the Drygalski Ice Tongue and the Italian Station

in Terra Nova Bay and further cape Hallet. Cape Adare is the

Day 6 & 7: Bellingshausen Sea

We may start encountering our first pack-ice

place where people for the very first time wintered on the Antarctic Continent. The hut where the Norwegian Borchgrevink stayed in 1899, is surrounded by the largest colony of Adélie Penguins in the World. We also sail along the Balleny Islands, discovered in 1839 by the British captain John Balleny.

All meals, coffee & tea on your ship All excursions on the zodiacs & helicopters Lectures and presentations by the specialist crew

QUICK FACTS ˚ 32 days/31 nights ˚ Easy journey with optional physical activities ˚ Start Ushuaia (USH) and finish in Invercargill (IVC) or vice versa. ˚ Pricing and departures, refer to our website or enclosed price list Ushuaia

Invercargill

Ross Sea

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Antarctic Peninsula

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Photo: Delphine Aures, Oceanwide Expeditions

STAY WARM & COMFORTABLE IN THE ARCTIC Lyngen Lodge, North Norway

As the Nordic people know all too well, it is important to stay warm, cozy and comfortable when visiting the Arctic and coming to see the Northern Lights. This is why we have paid particular attention to choosing accommodation that will serve this purpose.

Cabins will have open fireplaces and often saunas or hot tubs. All accommodation is comfortably heated (except the ICEHOTEL), and warm doonas and/or blankets are provided. Below is a presentation of some of the accommodation you will enjoy during our trips.

Lyngen Lodge is a luxurious pine wood lodge hotel on the shoreline of the Lyngen Fjord, providing spectacular views over the dramatic Lyngen Alps and unique Norwegian fjord scenery. The experience of staying here combines high end living, fine dining and high emotion adventure into nature - all delivered from a friendly team committed to high service. Lyngen Lodge is suitable for both families, individuals and groups.

Svinøya Rorbuer, Lofoten Archipelago

The Rorbu cabins are idyllically located between the quayside buildings and fish racks, with the sea on one side, and the spectacular Lofoten mountains on the other.

Each cabin has one to three double bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen cum lounge, and a modern bathroom with shower and toilet. Considerable emphasis has been placed on maintaining the authenticity of all the Rorbu cabins.

Hotel Rival, Stockholm

Hotel Rival is a boutique hotel situated on Mariatorget in Stockholm. The hotel has been converted from the old Rival Cinema to a beautiful and stylish hotel with 99 rooms. Rival is wholly owned by ABBA’s own Benny Anderson. The idea behind the interior design has been to create a colorful and multi-facetted environment, stretching from the festive original interior of the cocktail bar to more contemporary design. You’ll love this hotel…

Log cabins in Kakslauttanen, Finnish Lapland

The log cabins at Kakslauttanen are first class, some of which are queen suites, one a honeymoon turf chamber and one traditional Lappish farmer log house. The cabins come in different sizes, accommodating from 2 up to 10 persons. Each cabin is equipped with a fireplace, shower/toilet, kitchenette, own sauna and are located sufficiently far apart so that each one has its own peaceful ‘snow garden’.

Hotel Glo, Helsinki

The unique and modern GLO Hotel Kluuvi is a real treat situated right in the centre of Helsinki. All the hotel rooms are spacious and all have modern high quality beds and textiles and flat TV screens. This is the perfect hotel for your Helsinki stay.

Volcano Hotel, Vik, South Iceland

ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland

Volcano Hotel is one of the smallest country hotels in Iceland, and is located in the southern most area of Iceland, in the beautiful surroundings of Mýrdalur valley.

The hotel lies between the amazing black beaches and the strikingly beautiful volcano glacier, Mýrdalsjökull. All the rooms have large quality beds and linen to make your stay comfortable. Most rooms have warm wooden floors, combined with natural stones from the black beaches in the area.

At ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi you can choose between several different types of accommodation. The ideal is to combine one cold night in ICEHOTEL with several warm nights in our hotel rooms or hotel chalets.

Inside ICEHOTEL, the temperature is never colder than -5 °C to -8 °C, regardless of how cold it may be outside. Dress in warm thermal underwear, put on a hat and slip into the cozy sleeping bag. You are awakened in the morning with a cup of hot lingonberry juice at your bedside.

GENERAL HOTEL STANDARD Other than the uniquely hand picked accommodation, the trips in this brochure stay in comfortable and often boutique 3.5 to 5 star hotels. Hotels are chosen for their central location and charm. You can rest assured that the hotels are the best ones in their category as we appreciate the importance of a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Note that double beds in Scandinavia can often be made up of linking two twin beds together. Upon request, all tours can be upgraded to 4.5 or 5 star standard where available.

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OUR SHIPS IN ANTARCTICA MV ORTELIUS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS The fastest and most affordable way to get from the airport to the city and your hotel is; either by express train (Oslo & Stockholm), taxi, or the local bus service. Private transfers are often expensive and take longer.

Approximate fares: Copenhagen Kastrup to city is best by taxi at AU$40. There are also regular bus services and a Metro.

The ice-strengthened vessel MV Ortelius is an excellent vessel for Polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica, providing us with possibilities to adventure in remote locations such as the Ross Sea and Franz Josef Land. MV Ortelius was built in Gdynia, Poland in 1989 and served as a special purpose vessel for the Russian Academy of Science.

Oslo Gardermoen to city is AU$30 one-way by express train. 20 mins.

By taxi it’s 40 mins. and AU$100.

Stockholm Arlanda to city is AU$40 one-way by express train. 20 mins. By taxi it’s 40 mins. and AU$85.

The vessel has the highest ice-class notation (UL1 equivalent to 1A) and is therefore very suitable to navigate in solid one-year sea ice and loose multi-year pack ice.

Helsinki Vantaa Airport to city is best by the Finnair bus, which is about AU$10. A taxi is approx. AU$60.

MV Ortelius is a great expedition vessel for 100 passengers with lots of open-deck spaces and a very large bridge which is accessible to the passengers. The vessel is manned by 34 highly experienced Russian nautical crew, 15 international catering staff, including stewardesses, 6 expedition staff (1 expedition leader and 5 guides/ lecturers) and 1 doctor.

Keflavik Airport (Reykjavik) to city is best by the FlyBus+ door-todoor service costing AU$25. A taxi is AU$80.

In Moscow & St Petersburg we recommend a private transfer, which is always included in our packages.

Please ask for a quote if you still prefer a private transfer.

MV PLANCIUS CITY CARDS - your sightseeing companion Close to everyone in Scandinavia speaks excellent English, and it is easy to get around, therefore, we recommend that a City Card or Pass is the best and most affordable way to experience these metropolitan cities. The cards are available in each of these capitals (except Russia) and offer free public transport within the city limits, free entry to most museums and attraction, discounted tours, and many other benefits. Cards cost approx. AU$60 per person per 24 hours.

MV Plancius was built in 1976 as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy. The ship sailed for the Dutch Navy until June 2004. MV Plancius is a Dutch flagged completely rebuilt and converted 114-passenger vessel.

We can also organise your private vehicle and guide if this is your preference.

Ship details

SECRETS OF THE CITY When booking with us, we will offer you expert advise and give you detailed notes on what to do and see in each of the Nordic capitals.

As we have lived in these cities ourselves this will span beyond the regular museums and attractions. You can rest assured that we will give you recommendations that will make your stay memorable, and not just taken out of a tourist brochure.

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- Comfortable and nicely decorated, but not luxurious.

It is made for explorers - Spacious yet small ship character, comfort & style with modern technology - Small ship operation: 114 passengers in 53 passenger cabins with private toilet and shower - 5 quadruple cabins, 10 twin with porthole cabins (ca. 15 m2), 26 twin with window cabins, 2 twin deluxe cabins and 10 twin superior cabins (ca. 21 m2) - All cabins offer lower berths (either two single beds or one queen-size bed), except for the 5 quadruple cabins (2 bunk beds,) - Restaurant/lecture room (deck 3) and a spacious observation lounge (with bar, deck 5) with large windows offering full panoramic views - Large open deck spaces (with full walk-around possibilities on deck 4) - Equipped with 10 Mark V zodiacs - 2 gangways on starboard side, that guarantees a swift zodiac operation

Not really a winter person?

Don’t worry, our summer catalogue is out soon.

Email us to receive a copy as soon as it’s released

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50 Degrees North Pty Ltd Suite 203, 7 Jeffcott Street West Melbourne, Victoria, 3003, Australia info@fiftydegreesnorth.com 1300 422 821 (local call Australia) +61 3 8682 8905 +61 3 8682 8904

www.fiftydegreesnorth.com

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