Lapland help!

[Sarahr22]

Hello,

I am trying to book a trip for Lapland. 2 options
(1) Thomson/ TUI - 3 nights to either Levi or Yllas

(2) Santas Lapland - 2 nights to Saariselka (either Hotel Tunturi or Riekonlinna)

TUI is MUCH cheaper so question is it worth the extra (about another £800) to go with Santas Lapland (for less nights!) or will the TUI trip be just as good? We wanted something as magical as possible. Not sure about the hotels either in Saariselka as reviews look not great but they are the only options available.

Any recommendations appreciated!

Call both operators and ask what is included in terms of excursions - are they long rides or just 5 minute tasters (then them hoping you'll book the longer husky/reindeer/snowmobile rides which are expensive).
Ask them how childrdren meet Santa - do they go to the log cabin in the woods (like Santa's secret hideaway) and get some private time, or just meet Santa at the worskshop/gala dinner along with other guests.
Other operators to Lapland are Activites Abroad, Inghams, Magic of Lapland, Dream of Lapland, Transun, Canterbury Travel.
Hope this helps

we went with Thomson to Yllas. Paid extra for a couple of trips. was magical and we loved it.

We went on a ski holiday to Ruka (you don't have to ski there's lots to do) and booked our own trips with the local tourist board. Was really cheap and Santa was AMAZING. We tobogganed in his garden, made ginger biscuits and sweet buns with mother Xmas, sang with santa, wrote cards and were there for most of the day. Fab!

salsamummy - how did you meet Santa on your trip? Was it a search for Santa or did he just appear at a dinner. I cant get much sense from Thomsons/ TUI!

many thanks