Travel news
Prices rises, inflation, spiralling fuel costs… The list of financial woes is endless. Given the current circumstances, it doesn’t look like Santa’s sack will be very full this year.
But don’t be despondent. The economy may look bleaker than a chilly mid-winter day, but that doesn’t mean Christmas is cancelled.
There are still plenty of ways to see the big man in red without having to spend a fortune, and even to make it as far as Lapland.
Stay for a day
One of the biggest expenses when travelling to Lapland is accommodation. But if the only aim of your trip is to see Santa, there’s not much point in hanging around.
Although it might sound extravagant (and a little bit exhausting), it is possible to get to the Arctic Circle and back within 24 hours.
Newmarket Holidays offer a One-day Santa Experience in Swedish Lapland, arriving in Pajala on a festive-themed charter. Change into thermal gear and take a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow, followed by husky dogsled and snowmobile rides.
There’s spare time to build snowmen and play on toboggans, before the grand finale is a trip to see Santa. Prices from £649 per adult and £599 per child, with flights departing from a variety of regional UK airports (newmarketholidays.co.uk; 0330 160 7700).
Alternatively, Transun offer a similar experience in Finland (the original home of Father Christmas), with limited dates still available in December from Bournemouth, Gatwick and Bristol. Prices from £579 for adults and £499 for children (transun.co.uk; 01865 265 200).
Book early for 2023
If you’ve missed out on a decent deal this year, get ahead for 2023. Several operators have launched holidays, enticing early birds with some great deals. Santa’s Lapland is offering a limited number of half-price child places for several holidays, and grandparents can earn £100 off adult prices if travelling with two children on the same booking (santaslapland. com; 01483 945 420).
Or go local
Grottos pop up in shopping centres, garden centres, entertainment and holiday parks across the UK.
We’re sure you’ll find something to suit, but spaces fill up fast so probably best get booked in asap.