At the Arctic Circle….

The town of Rovaniemi lies in the heart of Lapland, north of the Arctic Circle and attracts thousands of visitors each year from across the world. The best part of Rovaniemi, apart from meeting the big man itself, is undoubtedly the reindeer. Though a slow rides, yet a lot of fun; sample this hold on to a rope and let the reindeer pull you on skis, it is fun to drive through pristine snow covered trees. Ice fishing is a sport Finns loves doing. The lakes provide one with a fair chance of a good catch. It’s amazing to see people in their artic clothing, staring into a little hole in the water and that seems like an ice-fishing competition. Arktikum museum is worth seeing, not only for its architecture but also for its collections. Most of the museum is buried in the Ounasjoki riverbank. 8 Km north of Rovaniemi is Korvatunturi, where Santa Claus officially lives, year round, at his Artic Circle headquarters. It sure is a white fantasy land, constructed partially of snow buildings. Its great fun to drop off letters for your near and dear kids at the Santa Claus post office where the merry Elves are busy but ever ready to help you out. A must try specialty here is the reindeer meat. You may have it stewed, broiled or sauteed in butter, splashed with lingonberry sauce. The Finns raise a toast for the national drink of Karhu (fisherman’s candy) and Koskenkorva (vodka). The duty free shopping at the Helsinki airport is beyond compare. One may buy a variety of souvenirs ranging from reindeer meat, reindeer horn handicraft, clothes, accessories, Koskenkorva to the famed ‘Fazer’ breads and chocolates. A must buy is the ‘Kuksa’, a traditional cup made out of wood by hollowing it out.