TALLINN OLD TOWN

Tallinn Old Town in December: A Fairytale Wonderland in the Baltic Snow

Step through the only surviving 17th-century gate in the Baltic countries, and you’ll find yourself transported to another time. The grand Viru Gate, once part of Tallinn’s medieval defensive wall, stands proudly at the entrance to Estonia’s Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site that becomes nothing short of a historical wonderland in December.

As the snow gently dusts the red rooftops and cobbled lanes, Tallinn’s Old Town transforms into a scene straight from a storybook. Its winding streets, gothic spires, and pastel-coloured buildings come alive with festive charm during the most magical time of year.

At the heart of the enchantment is the famous Tallinn Christmas Market, held each year in the picturesque Town Hall Square. The undisputed star of the market is the magnificent central Christmas tree, steeped in history and tradition. First displayed in 1441, it holds the honour of being the very first public Christmas tree in all of Europe. Today, it continues to shine as Estonia’s most cherished holiday symbol, glowing with lights and memories of centuries past.

Surrounding the tree, wooden stalls brim with handcrafted gifts, glittering ornaments, and warming delights. Visitors can savour traditional Estonian Christmas cuisine—from spicy blood sausages and sauerkraut to gingerbread and warm honey cakes—paired with hot Christmas drinks like mulled wine and local berry punches. The scent of cinnamon and wood smoke fills the crisp air, as laughter mingles with the sound of carols.

For the youngest guests, the market is a snowy playground. Merry-go-rounds whirl with joy, and the nearby ice-skating rink offers the perfect chance to twirl under the stars. Adults can soak up Tallinn’s rich history on a walking tour through the medieval streets. With guides sharing stories of knights, merchants, and empires past, landmarks like the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the gothic St. Olaf’s Church become portals to another age. Don’t miss the hidden courtyards and tucked-away treasures that reward the curious explorer.

When the sun sets, Tallinn doesn’t go to sleep—it glows. The nightlife here is a mix of historic elegance and vibrant modern energy. Duck into a candlelit tavern housed in a centuries-old building, or discover a buzzing underground club tucked beneath the frosty cobbles. There’s a place for every partygoer, whether you're after craft cocktails, live music, or simply a cozy corner to sip something warm.

Visiting Tallinn’s Old Town in December is more than a holiday—it’s stepping into a fairytale. Beneath a blanket of snow, surrounded by centuries of stories and the warmth of holiday cheer, it’s a place where magic feels real.

Much love,

TJ Travels xoxo

DISCOVER THE CHARM OF ANNECY, FRANCE

The Perfect Hideaway in the Alps

Nestled in the heart of the French Rhône-Alps, Annecy is a dreamy town often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps." With its picture-perfect canals, snow-capped mountains, and a vibrant culture, it immediately steals your heart. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure enthusiast, Annecy has something magical for you.

Starting our winter tour in Annecy is the perfect place. Here is what you can expect, along with some insider tips to make the most of your stay in this hidden gem.

Arriving in Annecy: A Hidden Alpine Gem

First off, prepare to swoon. The moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Annecy, one of Europe's cleanest lakes, surrounded by the dramatic French Alps. Check in to one of Annecy's charming boutique hotels — some even come with romantic views of the lake.

Take your time to explore your surroundings. Annecy’s old town is straight out of a fairy tale, with cobbled streets, pastel-colored buildings, and stunning canals lined with cafés and local artisan shops. If you’re visiting in December, you're in for a treat as the town transforms into a magical wonderland with Christmas markets scattered across the streets. Sip on mulled wine, munch on roasted chestnuts, and bask in the holiday vibes that make Annecy one of the most enchanting towns in Europe.

Pro Tip

Wear comfortable walking shoes—the old town's cobblestone streets are gorgeous but can test your ankles if you're not prepared!

Explore Annecy with a Guided Walking Tour

One of the best ways to soak in the charm of this storybook town is through a guided walking tour. Tammie will unveil Annecy’s rich history, from the medieval Château d’Annecy (Annecy Castle) to the iconic Palais de l'Île, the postcard-perfect building that seems to float on the Thiou Canal.

For those seeking a little adventure, consider renting an e-bike to ride around Lake Annecy. The 42-kilometre cycling trail offers flat, scenic paths that circle the lake, passing through quaint villages and offering jaw-dropping mountain views. Alternatively, if the weather’s in your favour, hop on a boat tour! Glide across crystal-clear waters while sipping on a glass of French wine—does it get more French than this?

CLAIRE TAKING AN EARLY MORNING RIDE AROUND THE STUNNING LAKE ANNECY.

End your day with a special welcome dinner at a traditional French restaurant. Try the raclette or fondue (or both!), and don’t forget dessert—a decadent slice of tarte aux myrtilles (blueberry tart) is a must.

Fun Fact

Lake Annecy’s water is so clean it’s often called the "blue mirror." Swimming is possible year-round, but be warned—it’s not for the faint-hearted in winter!

A Day in the Snowy Paradise of La Clusaz

Feeling like a snowy adventure? Just under an hour away from Annecy by bus, La Clusaz is a charming Alpine ski town that caters to winter sports enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Spend the day skiing or tobogganing through pristine snow-covered slopes. Don’t have gear? No stress—everything from skis to snowboards can be hired once you arrive. If skiing isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there is plenty more to enjoy. You can eat your way through the Alpine restaurants while watching the snow fall. Indulge in hearty dishes like tartiflette, a cheesy, potato-filled slice of heaven, and pair it with a glass of local white wine or delicious hot chocolate for the children.

Not keen on leaving Annecy? No problem. Enjoy a laid-back day strolling through its museums, art galleries, and adorable boutique stores. And, of course, treat yourself to more French delights — crepes, macarons, and locally-made chocolates that will have you swearing off your "only one dessert" rule.

Insider Tip

For skiers, buying your bus pass and lift ticket together can save you both money and time. And don’t forget to pack extra layers —it gets very chilly up there!

Take a Hike Through Stunning Alpine Trails

Annecy isn't just about the town and its lake — the surrounding mountains are filled with hiking trails that offer views you will want to frame and hang on your wall. If you are up for a challenge, venture to Mont Veyrier or Mont Baron. The trek is steep, but the panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the Alps are absolutely worth every step.

For something less intense, take a local path leading to hidden spots like the Angon Waterfall or the viewpoints at Semnoz. These trails are perfect for reconnecting with nature and unwinding after indulging in Annecy's culinary wonders.

Pro Tip

Always check the weather before heading out, and pack some water and snacks. A baguette and cheese make for an excellent hiking picnic, of course!

Sunset Strolls and Evening Elegance

Nothing wraps up a day in Annecy better than a sunset stroll along the lake promenade. Watch as the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting beautifully on the water. If you’re up for a romantic evening, book a table at one of the lakeside restaurants. Pair your meal with a local savoyarde wine for the full experience.

For night owls, Annecy’s nightlife is low-key yet sophisticated. Enjoy artisanal cocktails at a local bar or sip on a warming Vin Chaud as you recount the day's adventures.

Day Trips to Nearby Wonders

If you have extra days to spare, consider a day trip to nearby attractions. Chamonix, home to Mont Blanc — the highest mountain in the Alps — is just a two-hour drive away. Alternatively, Geneva, with its cosmopolitan vibe and famed UN headquarters, is less than an hour’s drive from Annecy.

Each of these destinations brings its own vibe, but no matter where you go, the one constant will be the stunning Alpine scenery.

Your Alpine Escape Awaits

Annecy is the kind of destination that lingers in your heart. Its blend of history, nature, and mouthwatering cuisine makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience France beyond Paris and Provence. Whether you’re wandering through its cobbled streets, zipping around the lake on an e-bike, or just savoring a creamy fondue, there’s something incredibly special about this little Alpine town.

It’s not just a vacation. Annecy is an experience, a story you’ll be telling for years to come.

Pack your bags, warm up your taste buds, and get ready — Annecy (and raclette) is waiting.

Much love,

TJ Travels xoxo

SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE

A Magical Visit to Santa Claus Village: The Ultimate Arctic Adventure in Rovaniemi, Finland.

Imagine stepping into a winter wonderland, where you’re surrounded by snow, festive season cheer, reindeer and if you have been good you may just see the the magical jolly man himself, Santa Claus. Welcome to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland!

STEPPING INTO SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE FEELS LIKE WALKING STRAIGHT INTO A FAIRYTALE.

Located in the Lapland region of northern Finland, within the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is known as the official residence of Santa. In addition to SC Headquarters, Rovaniemi is a destination from where you can seek out the Northern Lights.

I can highly recommend the three elves restaurant or the buffet (if you love a good buffet), a pizza from Santa’s pizza & burger place or a mulled wine near Mrs Claus village. There is night ice skating with a vodka bar to also warm you up and yes they have reindeer on the menu for those brave enough to try it. I’ll be honest it’s not for me - I fell too much in love with Dasher and Vixen on my sleigh ride I just couldn’t do it. My husband did try it though and said it was gamey - if that is your thing. They also eat bear up here too!! I stuck with the pizza.

Rovaniemi has its own airport with direct flights from a number of major European cities. Santa Claus Village is about 3kms from the airport and you can easily take a bus to the Village without any fuss. Likewise, there are buses that run back and forth from Rovaniemi’s city centre to Santa Claus Village. If you are coming from Helsinki in the south, you can take the overnight Santa Claus Express train to Rovaniemi from Finland’s capital or the day train if you want to see the Finnish countryside on the way. This is fantastic but time consuming.

THIS IS VIXEN 💖

The Village is like a real-life winter wonderland, complete with reindeer, huskies, and, of course, the jolly old man himself. Speaking of Santa, you can meet him at the Santa Claus Office in the Village. Not only can you meet him during the winter months, but you can meet him everyday of the year. Who would have thought! You can have a chat with Santa and find out if you’re on his naughty or nice list. Take photos with Santa Claus in his house with the whole family. You can also book in a personalised visit from Santa to your cottage, which is an amazing surprise for the kids. In addition and not to be outdone, Santa’s better half has her own separate setup nearby - Mrs. Santa Claus Christmas Cottage. 

From the indoors to the outdoors, you can take a reindeer sleigh ride or a husky sled ride from the Village and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding snow covered countryside.

If you prefer not to make the reindeer or the huskies do the work, then turn your attention to a snowmobile tour through the snowy forests or try your hand at snowshoeing.

If you’re looking to experience Christmas or the winter holidays in the most magical way possible, then visiting the Santa Claus Village is possibly the best way to do it. Whether you are up for activities or you just want to enjoy the beauty of the arctic wilderness, then Santa Claus Village has something to offer for everyone.

Much love,

TJ Travels xoxo

CHASING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

A Journey from Rovaniemi to the Arctic Circle.

Picture yourself bundled up in cosy thermals, standing under a sky that’s swirling with green, yellow, purple, and pink hues — it is as if the heavens are performing just for you. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a bucket-list experience for many, and there’s no better backdrop for this magical phenomenon than the Arctic Circle. If you're seeking adventure, Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is the perfect starting point for your aurora chase.

IT’S HARD TO PUT INTO WORDS HOW YOU FEEL WHEN YOU SEE THE SKIES OPEN UP!

This guide will take you through what to expect, where to go, and how to turn your trip into an unforgettable experience that’s pure Arctic magic. Our Lapland tour includes a visit to this glorious place.

Why Rovaniemi is the Perfect Starting Point

The gateway to the Arctic Circle:

Rovaniemi is known as the "official" hometown of Santa Claus, but it's also your ideal launch pad into the snowy wilderness of Lapland. Situated right on the Arctic Circle, this charming Finnish city combines urban comfort with easy access to untouched landscapes.

Getting there is a breeze:

Whether by direct flight, train, or bus, Rovaniemi isn’t as remote as it sounds. Budget airlines and efficient rail services make it accessible to adventure seekers from all over.

What to Know About the Northern Lights

Before you get too excited and expect a dazzling light show straight away, here is a quick refresher on what the Aurora Borealis is all about.

The science-y bit (simplified):

The Northern Lights happen when charged solar particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic fields. Basically, the sun is throwing a party, and the Arctic sky is the epic dance floor.

When to see them:

The best months for aurora sightings are from September to March, with the most active hours typically between 9 PM and 2 AM. Despite that though, it is a weather event and all our recent photos we captured in February were only at 5pm in the evening. Exceptionally early and we were not ready (make sure everything is charged and ready to go)! There is a convenient app that you can purchase for a small fee for 3 days and it sets off the alarm when there is live solar activity where your phone is located. I had this app on and we were mid-jacuzzi thinking we had hours to wait when all of it sudden it appeared and the alarms started going off around us.

Conditions matter:

Dark skies, low light pollution, and clear weather are key. Sadly, clouds and city lights are not your aurora-hunting friends — but don’t worry, we have got tips for escaping them below!

Best Places to See the Northern Lights Near Rovaniemi

There’s no shortage of spectacular spots to catch the Northern Lights around Rovaniemi. Here are some local favourites for aurora-spotting adventures.

1. Arctic Circle – Santa Claus Village:

Yes, it’s touristy, but hear us out. Santa’s famous village offers vast open skies and a festive atmosphere, making it a fun place to keep an eye peeled for the magic above.

2. Ounasvaara Hill:

A quick trip from Rovaniemi, this hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests and skies. Bonus points if you ski or snowshoe your way up — extra adventure unlocked!

3. Kemi & Beyond:

Feel like venturing further? The coastal town of Kemi is known for its pristine views of the aurora. Or head to Pyhätunturi for a quieter, more intimate connection with the Northern Lights. There is also an Arctic bus up to Levi which is around a 3 hour drive North, a very interesting journey too. It is possible to do a day trip there and get back late or add on a night in Levi.

4. Join our Guided Tour:

Prefer to leave the logistics to the pros? That is where I come in. Guided tours often take you to remote snowy expanses far away from light pollution. Many even include hot drinks (yes, please!) and stories about the aurora.

Traveling to the Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots

The secret to a memorable Northern Lights adventure? How you get there. Here are your options for chasing the aurora.

1. By car:

Fancy some freedom? Rent a car and hit the icy roads to explore Lapland’s most scenic spots. Snowy landscapes and the thrill of adventure make for one heck of a road trip.

2. Snowmobiles or husky sleds:

Turn the chase into an Arctic-themed adventure! A snowmobile safari gets your heart racing, while a husky sled ride adds a playful touch to your aurora hunt.

3. Guided tour:

If the idea of navigating snowy wilderness solo sounds tricky (or terrifying!), opt for a guided tour. Experienced guides take you to the best spots while sharing aurora legends and local tips.

4. Public transport:

Traveling on a budget? The local bus system connects Rovaniemi to nearby towns where the aurora views are just as breathtaking. Affordable and stress-free!

What to Pack for Your Northern Lights Adventure

Heading out in Arctic conditions is not your average trip, so preparation is key.

• Warm clothing: Layers are your best friend! Pack thermals, insulated jackets, snow boots, gloves, and a cosy beanie.

• Camera gear: Bring a camera with manual settings (like a DSLR) and a sturdy tripod — those swirling lights are worth capturing. If you are using your phone or ipad a tripod is still a really good idea to have.

• Essentials: A flashlight, phone power bank, and a thermos of hot chocolate can make all the difference on a long, chilly night.

Tips for Maximizing Your Northern Lights Experience

• Be patient: The aurora doesn’t run on a schedule. Some nights, you might have to wait (or try again). It also shows up better when you look at it through your phone or camera lens (who would have thought)!

• Check forecasts: Websites and apps like Aurora Forecast or My Aurora Forecast can help you plan your timing.

• Escape the city lights: Drive to quieter, darker spots where the aurora can shine its brightest.

Other Arctic Activities to Pair with Your Trip

Already prepping for your aurora adventure? Round out your experience with these quintessential Arctic activities.

• Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Cruise through snow-covered forests while soft bells jingle — it’s like stepping into a Christmas card.

• Husky Safaris: For adrenaline junkies, nothing beats the rush of sledding through vast Arctic landscapes, led by an enthusiastic team of huskies.

• Snowshoeing or Ice Fishing: Looking for tranquillity? These slower-paced activities are perfect for soaking in Lapland’s serene beauty.

REINDEER SLEIGH RIDES

Where to Stay for the Best Experience

The right accommodation can make all the difference. Sleep where the aurora may visit!

• Glass igloos: Imagine watching the lights dance, all from the warmth of your glass-roofed igloo. It is really like a dream.

• Lapland cabins: Prefer a rustic feel? Stay in a traditional wooden cabin, complete with a roaring fireplace.

• Hotels in Rovaniemi: Want the convenience of the city while staying aurora-adjacent? Rovaniemi has a variety of hotels to strike the perfect balance for your budget.

Your Arctic Adventure Awaits

The Northern Lights are more than a natural phenomenon — they are pure magic. From the warm camaraderie of a guided tour to the thrill of spotting the aurora yourself, chasing this wonder from Rovaniemi offers an experience that will stay with you forever.

Don't wait — start planning your once-in-a-lifetime Arctic adventure today. Gather your winter gear, book your trip, and get ready to watch the sky come alive.

Much love,

TJ Travels xoxo