If you’re hoping to head to Lapland this Christmas for an adventure in a magical winter wonderland, we’ve got some bad news. Travel company TUI have just cancelled a number of trips to the area in northern Finland at short notice. Why? Well, we hate to break it to you, but it’s because Lapland is missing one vital element right now: snow.
In early December, Lapland would typically have 20-30cm of snow on the ground, but, due to unseasonably warm and wet weather conditions, much of the region is entirely snow-free at the moment.
The trips, which were to the town of Kuusamo, have been pulled because of this lack of snow, according to reports, which makes it impossible to do many of the wintry activities planned, like husky-led sleigh rides, snowmobiling, sledging, skiing and other winter sports.
For visitors, Lapland at this time of year is synonymous with snowfall. Known as Santa Claus’s homeland, this place dishes up the stuff of festive fairy tales – think snow-dusted forests, cosy log cabins and more reindeer than people. ‘You can’t come to Lapland without playing in the snow. Start a friendly snowball fight, build a snowman, ride a sledge or learn how to drive a miniature skidoo,’ reads the TUI website.
As for why Lapland isn’t covered in the white stuff right now, it’s likely down to climate change. Finnish Lapland had its warmest summer on record this year and temperatures have continued to be milder than average into autumn and winter. And it’s not just the case in Scandinavia. Globally, 2024 is on track to be the warmest year ever on record and as a result, weather patterns are changing and becoming less predictable.
Travellers who have had their Lapland trips cancelled have been offered the option to change their travel dates, including to next winter, at no additional cost or to get a full refund.
Did you see that a direct sleeper train between Italy and Sicily is launching this Christmas?
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