In search of the Northern Lights

This has to be one of my top bucket list things to do - see the Northern Lights. And I'm guessing it is for a lot of people. But unfortunately there is no place you go can where you are guaranteed to see them, so I do get asked for advice on where is the best place to go and when.

Here are some of the top locations that people travel to in the hope of seeing the Northern Lights.

It will probably come as no surprise to learn that it is the Scandinavian countries which hold the top spot. Lapland in Finland has seen a huge growth in tourists hoping to catch the elusive phenomenon. It's not just the man in red who is the main attraction here! For example the 'Santa's Magic' tour company, who offer trips to Saariselkä, have the option of a resort hotel slightly higher up which gives you a better chance. Other popular spots include Rovaniemi and Inari.

Cruises to Norway are also popular ways to try and catch the Northern Lights. If you are planning on a cruise for this purpose then do be aware that a 7 night cruise from the UK will generally not take you far north enough to see them. You really need a 14 night cruise which will take up to Alta or Tromsø. Another popular spot in Norway is the city of Narvik.

Sweden also has some great viewing spots, with Abisko and Kiruna particularly popular places to travel to.

Also included in the Scandinavian spots is Iceland - in fact there are some lovely cruise itineraries which take in both Norway and Iceland - and the city of Kálfafell is very popular for Northern Light spotting.

Moving away from Scandinavia, Churchill, Banff, and Jasper, all in Canada, are popular destinations.

Finally, and closer to home, is the Isle of Skye in Scotland.

So when should you go? The peak period is late September to late March. Obviously your budget will largely determine when and where you go. It may be the sole purpose of your trip, or you may be wanting to explore the area in general. Perhaps you want to cruise to fjords in Norway, and the Northern Lights would be a bonus. Or perhaps you are tying it in with that trip to see Santa.

Whatever the purpose, and however you want to do it, I can help put that perfect itinerary together.