Summer in Lapland: A Family Adventure - 6 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What age range is this family adventure suitable for?

  This trip is suitable for travelers with a minimum age of 6 years, up to a maximum age of 100 years.

• What type of accommodation can we expect on this tour?

  You can expect to stay in small, family-run hotels or pensions for 4 nights, and there will be one overnight train journey. These accommodations are locally-run, may vary in standard, and some older properties might not have elevators. They are chosen for their character and central locations.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner are included in the tour price.

• What kind of activities are included in the tour?

  Included activities feature a CEO-led orientation walk in Helsinki, a visit to the Heureka Science Centre, an overnight train journey to the Arctic Circle, a visit to Santa Claus Village, a husky experience at a kennel, a Northern Reindeer experience, and a midnight sun walk with a picnic.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, optional activities in Ranua include a Guided Canoe Excursion (90EUR per person), a Guided Fat Bike Tour (98EUR per person), Row Boat Rental (10EUR per person), and a Reindeer Farm visit (45EUR per person). There is also a Guided Korouoma Nature Reserve Visit in Pernu (198EUR per person).

• Will there be a tour guide or leader accompanying the group?

  Yes, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany the group throughout the trip, and local guides will be used for specific activities.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• What is the local currency and should I bring cash or use cards?

  The local currency is the Euro. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's best to carry a combination of Euros and one or two cards (Visa is most widely accepted). Make sure you have your 4-digit PIN for ATMs. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is also recommended.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. At a minimum, coverage for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation, is required. We also recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects.

• Are there any health considerations or vaccinations needed for Finland?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit.

• Is tipping customary in Finland or on this tour?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €3-€5 per day is recommended. For your CEO, €6-€8 per person per day (or €30-€40 per person per week) is appreciated.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What are the safety and security recommendations for this trip?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for securing luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. During free time, use your own judgment for activities and stay in small groups or take taxis at night in cities.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and any exploitation in the sex trade is strictly against the travel philosophy. Your CEO has the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing paid sex worker services.

• What is Planeterra and how is it related to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any donations (like the 'Dollar-a-day' program) directly benefit Planeterra projects and the communities visited.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this family adventure?

  This tour is designed for participants aged 6 to 100 years.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the "Summer in Lapland: A Family Adventure" tour?

  Accommodation includes stays in hotels for 4 nights and an overnight train journey for 1 night.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

• What main activities are included in this family adventure?

  Included activities are a welcome meeting, a CEO-led orientation walk in Helsinki, a visit to the Heureka Finnish Science Centre, a visit to Santa Claus Village, a husky experience, a Northern Reindeer experience, and a midnight sun walk with a picnic.

• What optional activities are available during the trip?

  Optional activities include a Guided Canoe Excursion (90EUR), a Guided Fat Bike Tour (98EUR), Row Boat Rental (10EUR), a Reindeer Farm visit (45EUR), and a Guided Korouoma Nature Reserve Visit (198EUR). It is recommended to book popular optional activities in advance during high season.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  The tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides at various locations.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• What are the primary modes of transportation used during the tour?

  Transportation includes an overnight train, private transport, and walking.

• Is tipping customary in Finland for this tour?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for wait staff, €1-€2 for other service providers, €3-5 per day for local guides, and €6-8 per person per day for your CEO.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is recommended to consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers.

• What is the recommended currency, and how are credit cards handled?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards are useful (remember your PIN, many ATMs accept 4-digit PINs), but it's best not to rely solely on them. A combination of Euros and one or two cards is recommended. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is also advised.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in this trip. You will need to provide evidence of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• What kind of accommodation standards can I expect, and are there any specific notes about them?

  You can expect to stay in clean, safe, and simple family-run hotels or pensions in central locations. Some properties, especially those with only two stories, may not have elevators.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation, and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, and you can opt to donate $1/day to support their projects.