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Caption: R O V A N I E M I
Finish Lapland
Caption: Welcome to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Destroyed during WWII, this city welcomes thousands of visitors each year to explore this region and of course, to see Santa!
I spent 4 days on a solo travel trip here and despite the extremely cold temperatures, was warmly welcomed by the Finn's and would love to return here again!
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Caption: There are lots of excursions and activities to do in Lapland. From Reindeer rides and Ice fishing, to Aurora Borealis Hunting and Snowshoeing in the forest.
I was lucky to go Snowshoeing in the wonderful snow and enjoy my time cooking sausages and drinking hot berry juice amongst new friends. If the weather's too cloudy to see the Northern Lights, there are lots of alternative trips to do.
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Caption: The Finn's are real Forest people and recognise it's use as a place for rest, therapy and enjoying natures fruit.
Imagine all the berries and mushrooms you can pick here in the warmer weather. You're also able to camp anywhere! How amazing is that! No wonder they're a nation of happy people!
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Caption: As a fan of second hand stores, I was blown away by the stores in Rovaniemi. These aren't small stores, we're talking warehouse size filled with the most amazing items. From 1950s radios, old cameras, vinyl records, ski wear, paintings and more.
I even saw arcade machines and an ice cream maker. Worth bringing an empty suitcase and going for a shopping spree!
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Caption: There are lots of museums and galleries to check out. If you're stuck for things to do, then why not head into one of these.
I highly recommend Arktikum where you'll learn more about the way of life in Lapland, it's history and about it's people. There's also a cafe and a great shop. The building is a gorgeous glass one and of you're an architectural lover, something you will enjoy!
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Caption: There's lots of coffee shops, shopping centres and restaurants for everyone. Plenty of vegan food which I was pleasantly surprised about. Highly recommended the Mexican restaurant Yuca for tasty food whatever your preference!
Take a bus to the Arctic circle or spend a day shopping; it's all possible here.
As with most Scandi places, prices are quite high, however I managed to get flights for around £90 return and accommodation via Airbnb for around £250 for 4 nights -so you can come to Lapland on a budget. If you're looking to stay in a glass outdoor Igloo, prepare to spend nearly £1000.
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Caption: #stellerstories #stellertravel #stellerpassport #stellerid #stellerverse #europetravel #scandinavia #snowstories #finland #lapland #solotravelstories
