Amy's blog posts

What you need to know about the Midnight Sun before your summer escape to Finland...

Have you ever wondered what summer in Finland is really like? Let me tell you –it's unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. This is your chance to be part of something truly extraordinary and witness a natural wonder you will never forget; the Midnight Sun.  

This summer, it’s just you, the locals, and the wild in open wilderness. You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto a hidden world that’s all yours to explore. No rush, no stress -just pure, unfiltered adventure.

What’s the science behind the Midnight Sun?

It’s one of those things that sounds too magical to be real, but it absolutely is. The sun doesn’t set, instead it hovers just slightly above the horizon, bathing everything in the most incredible warm light and keeping the wilderness alive. 

The endless daylight gives you endless amount of opportunity to explore anything, from midnight hikes, hours' worth of ‘golden hour’ and taking in the mesmerising scenery with the locals.  And it’s not just people who thrive under the Midnight Sun. The land itself comes alive. The forests get greener, the air feels fresher, and of course, the sun is always shining.

When Can You See It?

Here’s the best part: the Midnight Sun isn’t just a fleeting moment. In Finland, it’s in full swing from around mid-June to early July, and the further north you go, the longer it lasts. Imagine having all that extra time to explore and soak up the magic.

We know how to make every moment count, and we want you to experience this first hand. Whether it’s a peaceful evening paddle on a glowing lake or a guided hike through landscapes that look like they’ve been plucked from a postcard, we’ve got you covered. And while you’re at it, dive into the Sami culture. Their traditions, their stories—they’ll stay with you long after the trip is over. So out advice is,start your summer escape to Finland now!

Envision your summer experience in Finland...

Finland is home to some of the most untouched and undiscovered landscapes, due to its amount of Arctic wilderness and dramatic landscapes. During the winter months, Finland is the land of the Northern Lights, with frozen lakes, snow-covered forests and the white scenery that leaves you in a winter dream. But summer in Finland is also just as mesmerizing, and it not as commonly heard of as their winter, leaving it more undiscovered and perfect for travellers looking to escape the crowds and just be among the locals and their nature.

If you have ever dreamed of a place where the sun never sets, and nature glows in golden hues all day and night, then we are here to tell you that such a place exists, and it’s waiting for you in Finland this summer...

Picture yourself surrounded by breathtaking beauty, where endless daylight transforms the typical imagination of an Arctic landscape into something truly magical with 24/7 sun. Spend your summer in Finland hiking through sunlit forests, with the fresh scent of pine filling the air. Every step brings you closer to crystal-clear lakes that mirror the vibrant greens of the trees around them. 

Now, take a moment to breathe in - can you feel the crisp, clean air rejuvenating your spirit? Up in Northern Finland, Lake Inari is a secluded sanctuary of pristine wilderness, deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Sami culture and untouched by time. For the adventurers at heart, Finland’s dramatic mountains and landscapes are a dream come true.

Hike to your heart’s content, paddle across tranquil waters, or simply bask in the enchanting glow of the Midnight Sun. And when the day winds down (not that the sun does!), you’ll find warmth and comfort in Finland’s cosy wilderness retreats. Picture yourself unwinding with a smile, knowing you’ve just experienced something truly extraordinary.

This isn’t just a summer getaway; it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and with yourself. Every moment here feels like a gift - an unforgettable adventure waiting to be unwrapped.

The perfect holiday for food enthusiasts. Exploring Crete through a gastronomy lens was a unique way to experience a different side to this greek island

Escorted Gastronomy Tours

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, culture and cuisine in our brand-new escorted group tours. We’re passionate about offering our guests unique and expertly curated itineraries in beautiful destinations. Our escorted group tours offer a multitude of benefits that will enhance your overall travel experience. The knowledgeable local guides will lead the way and provide insider insights. All logistics, from transportation to accommodation and activities are taken care of, giving you peace of mind and the freedom to relax and enjoy your getaway. Traveling in a group with like-minded people fosters meaningful connections with fellow holidaymakers, creating shared memories that last a lifetime.

Embark on a culinary journey like no other with our gastronomy tours, meticulously designed to delight food enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike. Discover the vibrant flavours and rich traditions of each location as you partake in special cookery lessons led by expert chefs, unveiling the secrets of authentic regional cuisine. From mastering the art of crafting traditional dishes to discovering the finest local ingredients at bustling markets, every moment promises to tantalise your taste buds and ignite your passion for gastronomy. Indulge in exquisite dining experiences at handpicked restaurants renowned for their exceptional culinary offerings, where each dish tells a story. Whether savouring a farm-to-table feast in the countryside, sampling the local wines or dining in a renowned establishment, our gastronomy tours promise an unforgettable gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving more.

Traverse ancient cobblestone streets and marvel at iconic landmarks as you explore historic sites brimming with stories of bygone eras. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you'll unravel the fascinating narratives behind each monument, temple, and archaeological wonder, gaining profound insights into the intricate layers of the region's past. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to hidden gems off the beaten path, every stop on our cultural trips promise to unveil the essence of each destination, allowing you to forge a deeper connection with its people, customs, and timeless treasures. Prepare to be spellbound as you delve into centuries-old civilisations, vibrant cultural traditions, and architectural marvels that bear witness to the enduring legacy of civilisations past.

Abbey is originally from Durham but is now a student at Northumbria University in Newcastle, studying psychology and criminology, and has a passion for travel and exploring new cities alongside embracing different cultures.

Win a 3-night holiday to Norway

• Holiday Prize Provider/ Administrator: ARTISAN TRAVEL, TRADING AS, THE ARTISAN TRAVEL COMPANY LTD, Maling Exchange, Hoults Yard, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1AB. Registered no. 04482022, ABTA No. Y6261, ATOL No. 6865, AITO No. 5180.

The Competition

1. Enter this competition for the chance to win a holiday for 2 Adults to Bergen, in Norway. Prize includes: return flights from Newcastle (NCL) to Bergen (BGO) outbound Saturday and return Tuesday, airport transfers, three nights’ accommodation at Radisson Blu in Bergen, all meals & non-alcoholic drinks, activities: Fjord trip, Viking restaurant meal & sightseeing guided tour of Bergen (the “Prize”).
2. The competition opens on Friday 23^rd June closing date for all Entries is 23:59pm GMT on 15th July 2022.
3. Only those aged 18 and over and resident in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland are eligible to enter the draw. Participants will need to enter their full name, e-mail address and country of residence.
4. Only one entry per person. Any person found to be sending multiple entries will be disqualified. Artisan Travel does not accept responsibility for network, computer and hardware or software failures of any kind, which may restrict or delay the sending or receipt of your entry.
5. To enter, participants must submit their details on the competition landing page at co.uk/win-a-holiday-to-norway (“Entry”).
6. By submitting an Entry, you will be deemed to have accepted Artisan Travel’s terms and conditions, below.
7. One winner will be selected at random from all valid Entries. The winners will be notified via email by 4^th August 2022.
8. The Prize for this competition is provided by Artisan Travel, whose registered address is Maling Exchange, Hoults Yard, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1AB.
9. If you win the Prize, you agree to provide Artisan Travel with all information reasonably requested in order for Artisan Travel to substantiate your identity, age and place of residence.
10. Where you have opted in to receive marketing from Artisan Travel, personal information of entrants will always be used in accordance with Artisan Travel’s Privacy Policy, currently located at: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/privacy-policy
11. The Prize is valid for travel between 5^th August 2022 – 30^th September 2022, subject to availability. The prize must be booked before 1^st September 2022, after this, we reserve the right to cancel the prize offered.
12. The Prize is awarded conditionally upon acceptance. If a winner is unable to be contacted after a reasonable period or if any Prize is unclaimed or declined within a reasonable period, the Prize shall be deemed as unclaimed or unaccepted and a supplementary winner may be drawn at Artisan Travel’s discretion.
13. In the event of a dispute, Artisan Travel’s decision is final.
14. Artisan Travel reserves the right to provide substitute prize(s) of similar value should the specified Prize become unavailable for reasons beyond its control. No cash alternative will be offered. The Prize is not refundable or transferable.
15. Artisan Travel will not share the personal data you provide with any third parties except to the extent that you agree and in accordance with Artisan Travel’s privacy policy: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/privacy-policy
16. Employees of Artisan Travel and/or anyone professionally connected with the promotion and their immediate families are not eligible to win the prize.
17. In the event that the prize draw is rendered impossible due to any reason beyond the control of Artisan Travel, they shall not be liable and shall have absolute discretion to vary or amend the competition.
18. English law applies and the English courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any proceedings in connection with this competition.

The Prize

A 3-night holiday to Norway for two people, including:

• Return flights from Newcastle (NCL) to Bergen (BGO) outbound Saturday and return Tuesday
• Return airport transfers
• Three nights’ accommodation at Radisson Blu in Bergen
• All meals and non-alcoholic drinks
• The following activities: Fjord trip, Viking restaurant meal & sightseeing guided tour of Bergen

1. Artisan Travel shall not be responsible for any loss or damage associated with entering into these terms and conditions, prize draw, or the provision or any aspect of the Prize or any act or omission of any other person or party, and all warranties, conditions and representations (of any kind) not expressly set out in these terms and conditions are hereby excluded (except in the case of fraud).

2. There will be one overall prize for one winner, plus one guest (1 adult (aged 18+ years). The prize consists of return flights from Newcastle (NCL) to Bergen (BGO) outbound Saturday & return Tuesday, return airport transfers, three nights’ accommodation at Radisson Blu in Bergen, all meals & non-alcoholic drinks and activities: Fjord trip, Viking restaurant meal & sightseeing guided tour of Bergen
3. Any alcoholic beverages or additional room charges are NOT included. A credit card will be required at check-in.
4. Any additional passengers, meals, activities, extra nights or arrangements are for a fee.
5. The prize does NOT include any insurance, travel to and from the UK departure airport, or any travel or other expenses during the trip. Any out of pocket expenses (such as phone, room service, drinks purchases, gifts and additional food) are not included in the prize.
6. Artisan Travel make no representation as to the safety, conditions or other issues that may exist at the destination.
7. Compliance with any health or other government requirements is the responsibility of the prize winner and companion.
8. The winner and their chosen companions must comply with all relevant customs, security and immigration requirements, including appropriate passport and visa requirements. Artisan Travel will not be responsible for any passenger’s failure to comply with these requirements.
9. The prize winner and the companions are responsible for holding a passport with at least six months’ validity and must organise relevant visas where required.
10. The winner is responsible for ensuring they are able to accept the prize as set out and in accordance with these terms and conditions. In the event that they are unable to do so then Artisan Travel reserves the right to redraw the prize.
11. There is no cash alternative and the prize is non-transferable.
12. The prize is subject to availability. In the event the specified trip is fully booked Artisan Travel will work to the best of their ability to offer a trip of equivalent value.
13. Artisan Travel shall not be responsible for any indirect, special or consequential damages or losses suffered by the entrant or a third party.
14. Winners will be notified by the prize provider by email within 7 days of the competition close date.
15. If the prize supplier cannot contact the winner within 7 days of the closing date, the promoter will offer the prize to a runner-up or re-offer the prize in another promotion.
16. The prize is subject to https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
17. Artisan Travel reserves the right to cancel this competition, or to change any condition of this competition, without notice.
18. The winner may be requested to take part in reasonable publicity as specified by the promoter.
19. Artisan Travel reserves the right to cancel or withdraw the prize if, in their opinion, it is subject to misuse of any description.
20. Artisan Travel decision is final and binding.
21. Artisan Travel has the right to amend these terms and conditions.
22. Artisan Travel cannot be held liable for IT system failures or delays or loss of entries.
23. By entering this competition, you have the opportunity to opt in to receive future communications from Artisan Travel and are agreeing to the terms of our privacy policy, (https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/privacy-policy) in accordance with GDPR regulations your personal information will never be passed on to third parties and you may unsubscribe at any time.
24. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.

Win a 3-night holiday for two people to Bergen

We've teamed up with Loganair to offer direct departures from Newcastle to Norway in a new regional airport partnership starting from June 2022. 

We're delighted to have Loganair on board, as we have primarily offered holidays from London Airports, making our holidays much more accessible for our guests in the Northeast. With direct flights to Bergen taking just over an hour and 15 minutes, Norway’s gastronomic capital is now even more accessible.

To celebrate this exciting partnership, we’re hosting a competition to WIN a 3-night break departing from Newcastle to Bergen. With a fjord trip, Viking restaurant meal and sightseeing guided tour around Bergen included, as well as flights courtesy of Loganair, meals and non-alcoholic drinks and airport transfers, there’s never been a better time to venture across to Norway!

THE PRIZE:

• Return flights from Newcastle (NCL) to Bergen (BGO) outbound Saturday & return Tuesday
• Return airport transfers 
• Three nights’ accommodation at Radisson Blu in Bergen
• All meals & non-alcoholic drinks
• The following activities: Fjord trip, Viking restaurant meal & sightseeing guided tour of Bergen

Simply enter your details below to enter our prize draw to WIN a holiday to Norway. Good Luck!

The closing date for the competition is 15th July 2022.

Please note that T&Cs apply.                                                                                                                             

Norway is a first-class year-round destination, but have you ever considered travelling there in the summer? We’ve selected our top three breaks to Norway to enjoy in summer 2022.

With its world-famous fjords, plus home to the Midnight Sun over the summer, there are plenty of experiences that can be checked off your bucket-list.

At Artisan Travel, we love working with Travel Partners from all over the world. If you would like to apply to work with us, then please click here to answer some simple questions and one of our team will be in touch very soon.

We are also members of AITO and ABTA and adhere to their code of conduct and guidelines.  Finally, we are also fully ATOL protected.

If you already work with us, then please click here to access our resource library. We have some stock images to use (please take note of any image credits), some videos and also some PDF pages for our most popular holidays.  If there is anything else you think would be useful to assist in your sales, please do not hesitate to get in touch by our designated priority agent email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or give us a call on +44 (0) 1670 330 733. We highly value our travel partners and always prioritise these emails and calls.

If you would like any specialised training, then we would be happy to provide this either via video link or we can arrange a visit to your offices.  We would also be thrilled to host any joint events for prospective clients, again either in person at your offices or online. Please just get in touch and we will discuss the options in more detail.

Artisan Travel is all about dream fulfilment and ticking off those must-do bucket list experiences and must-see destinations. Since we originally started operating the Artisan Travel Company in 2002, we know our clients pretty well and have a very good idea of what it is that they want from a holiday. Also since this time, we have developed an enviable network of local suppliers and tourism experts who know their own countries far, far better than we ever could. Essentially, we have taken what we know about our clients' holiday wishes and, in close consultation with our local partners, we have handcrafted itineraries that we believe illustrate the very best of any particular destination.

We also have a great section on our website about preparing for your holiday which will hold some useful information for clients and also our frequently asked questions which cover everything from how fit you need to be to do an activity through to what kind of plug adaptor you need to take with you. 

Norway and the Northern Lights webinar registration

Date: September 10th, 2020 at 7:30 pm (GMT)

With the world of travel slowly becoming more accessible, Norway is preparing to welcome back keen travellers when the timing is right. To understand how Norway will be adapting to the new approaches to travel, we are hosting a live webinar with expert insights on Norway’s cultural capital, Tromsø.

Featuring our dedicated team of experts and highly knowledgeable guest speakers who will share their insights on Norway, this webinar is ideal for discovering all the information you’ll need to book your next trip with confidence. Whether you’re hoping to visit this winter, or already planning a holiday for 2021, the insights on offer will help you to book with the added assurance of the best possible experience.

We have teamed up with a panel of experts from across the travel and tourism industry within Tromsø to present everything you need to know. From what to expect upon arrival, to how Norway is putting measures in place for Covid-19 to keep tourists safe as well as a live Q&A session with our speakers; you’ll be able to plan your trip with greater peace of mind.

While the webinar will focus on the winter trips to Tromsø offered through our sister company, The Aurora Zone, there will be an opportunity during the webinar to enquire about our summer Tromsø trips with Artisan Travel. Our trips allow you to experience the fascinating natural phenomena of the Midnight Sun, go glamping surrounded by the beauty of Norway’s remote wilderness and embrace the vibrant culture of the city.

Our speakers include Ali McLean, the owner and founder of The Artisan Travel Company, as well as a hotel manager based in the heart of Tromsø and two highly experienced local activity providers. Our own Northern Lights guide and photographer, will also share his expertise on hunting the Northern Lights and capturing them on camera, as well as the science behind how they are naturally formed.

All those signing up to the webinar can also receive 10% off their booking with The Aurora Zone, using the special code provided during the event.

The itinerary

19:30 - Start

19:30 - 19:35 - Introduction to The Artisan Travel Company: Ali McLean, Director and founder of The Artisan Travel Company

19:35 - 19:45 - Highlights of Tromsø: Mats Fredriksen, Lost in Norway

19:45 - 19:50 - Guest speaker: Ida Romsøe, Hotel Manager, The Clarion Hotel The Edge

19:50 - 19:55 - Guest speaker: Øystein Prytz, Head of Digital Marketing, Tromsø Villmarkssenter

19:55 - 20:00 - Guest speaker: Alice Heijbel, Key Account Manager, Pukka Travel

20:00 - 20:15 - An introduction to the Northern Lights: Matt Robinson, The Aurora Zone and Northern Lights guide and photographer

20:15 - 20:30 - Q&A session

20:30 - Finish

The team

Alistair McLean - Director and founder of The Artisan Travel Company

As part of The Artisan Travel Company, Ali created The Aurora Zone, the original and only dedicated Northern Lights tour operator. Ali is extremely proud of the tours we offer in Tromsø and delighted that our clients have witnessed the lights during their trips there with us.

Mats Fredriksen - CEO, Lost in Norway

Your host for the evening, Mats, is our local supplier in Norway. Having worked with Mats for many years, he is well-placed to talk about the region and the experiences we offer in Norway.

Matt Robinson – The Aurora Zone and Northern Lights guide, photographer and astronomer

Currently living in Senja, Norway, Matt has travelled extensively with The Artisan Travel Company and is always happy to share his knowledge and science behind the Northern Lights with our guests. Matt is also a keen astronomer and photographer and will share some of his fantastic images with us during the webinar.

Welcoming our guest speakers

Ida Romsøe - Hotel Manager, Clarion Hotel The Edge

Situated right in the centre of Tromsø, just by the water, from where you can enjoy great views of the city's stunning architecture, the Clarion Hotel The Edge was built with an environmental classification A and aspires to be as eco-friendly as possible. A passionate hotel manager, Ida is responsible for all hotel operations, leisure FIT and groups. She has worked in Nordic Choice Hotels since she was 16 years old and been at Clarion Hotel The Edge for almost 2 years. Ida will provide an insight into the measures the hotel is taking during Covid-19 and how they are making guests feel safe and comfortable.

Øystein Prytz - Head of Digital Marketing, Tromsø Villmarkssenter

Tromsø Villmarkssenter enjoys an idyllic wilderness location around 20km from the city centre on the island of Kvaløya. Established over 30 years ago they are one of the most experienced and passionate dog sledding companies we have the pleasure of working with. Originally set up by Tove Sørensen the day to day running of the centre has now passed to her son and his wonderful team. Given the wonderful location of the Villmarkssenter, it has an awesome record of Northern Lights viewing and we have had many happy clients enjoy displays here during their holidays. Over several years Øystein has worked in almost all parts of this family-run company and there is nothing he doesn’t know about their fantastic products and strong family heritage.

Alice Heijbel - Key Account Manager, Pukka Travel

Our guest speaker from Pukka Travel, Alice, will talk us through the many activity options available to our clients on the trips we offer, from a Polar Fjord cruise or Northern Lights sailing to hunting the Northern Lights by minibus.

The time

Thursday 10th September at 7:30 pm BST

This event will take place on Zoom and is free to access, CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR PLACE to receive the joining link details.