It’s surprisingly easy. As they say, there’s no bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. We can help you on that front!

If you’re joining our Lapland/Finland Winter Escape in January 2027, we’ll provide you with a complete packing list. Below you’ll find details about the more important items you’ll need for the tour.

In general, you’ll need warm, moisture-wicking clothes that can be worn in layers.

UPPER BODY

Light Merino wool top – You’ll want to start with a thin, warm shirt as a base layer. A lightweight Merino wool shirt is ideal.

Heavy Merino wool top – On top of that, you’ll want to wear a warmer long-sleeve shirt. Again, Merino is best. It’s recommended that you bring at least two (one that’s 160 grams and the other a little heavier at 200 grams) so you’ll always have a dry one and you can choose the weight based on the outside temperature.

Fleece jacket – A mid- to heavy-weight fleece jacket can be worn over your base layer(s) while you’re outside and will help keep you warm in the cabin as well.

Windproof/waterproof shell jacket – This is something you’ll wear on active days, when we’re snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, for example. It will be worn over your base layer(s), and you’ll need it to be a little roomy so you can freely move your arms during activities.

Puffy coat – You’ll want to keep this with you in your backpack when we’re out and about during our activities. When we stop for a hot drink or bite to eat, you’ll want to put it on then.

LOWER BODY

Thermal tights – Just like your base layer on top, your long underwear should be Merino wool or similar to keep you warm. These should also be moisture-wicking.

Waterproof pants – A pair of waterproof pants is recommended during our activities. These will be worn over your thermal tights. These will keep you dry from the snow and protected from the wind.

Padded pants – Waterproof, padded pants are a heavier weight option to wear over your thermal tights. Many people find these preferable over the waterproof pants mentioned above. But for some, they might be too warm for active days.

EXTREMITIES

HANDS
Heavy mittens – You’ll want a pair of heavy, waterproof shell mittens. Note that you CAN wear fingered gloves, but your hands will stay much warmer in mittens where your fingers stay warm together.

Glove liners – Underneath your heavy gloves, a pair of Merino wool liner gloves is recommended. These will help keep your hands warm.

Warm socks – It’s advised to bring at least two pairs of thick, wool hiking socks to keep your feet warm. The second pair is a backup in case your first pair gets wet.

Liner socks – It’s best to bring two pairs of liner socks. You’ll only be wearing one at a time under your heavier socks, but the second pair is a backup if one pair gets wet.

Shoes/boots – We’ll provide you with a pair of warm outdoor boots (many people know these as “wellies”) for the week. These will be large, insulated boots that you’ll want to wear most every day you step out of the lodge.

The shoes/boots you’ll want to bring yourself are for Helsinki, your roundtrip flights from Helsinki to Kittilä, and the times you leave the lodge and don’t want to wear the clunkier wellies, like when we’re out to lunch, dinner or on our free day.

Your shoes/boots should be Gore-Tex and very warm. Consider something like the LOWA Evo Ice boots.

Chemical warmers – Chemical hand and toe warmers are a must for added warmth to your hands and toes.

HEAD

Buff – This is a cloth tube that is worn over your head and sits on your neck. While there are many ways to wear it (i.e., it could be pulled over your head for warmth), these are generally made of thin cloth and are best for providing some added protection around your neck.

Balaclava – This wool or neoprene headpiece is worn over your head and covers everything but your eyes. It’s a great all-in-one item that will protect your neck, face and head from the cold and wind.

Wool hat – A warm wool or fleece hat with a windproof underlayer (an added piece of cloth that will protect your head) is advised against the cold and wind.

Ski goggles – These are, simply put, fancy sunglasses. What makes them special is that they have side covers that provide added protection from the sun (which can be quite strong) and the reflective snow. NOTE that some people who wear corrective glasses find that their goggles fogged up on occasion. For this reason, consider contact lenses, if possible.

Sunglasses/glacier glasses – You might also consider bringing a pair of sunglasses or glacier glasses (which have protection on the sides) for further protection from the sun and the reflecting snow.

ACCESSORIES

Water bottle – Please bring a refillable water bottle with you. Bottled water won’t be provided as tap water will be perfectly suitable to bring with you during activities and while we’re at the lodge.

Thermos – You’ll want a small thermos with you during our activities for hot water, coffee, tea or soup. This bit of warmth will make all the difference on a cold day.

Backpack – You’ll need a 15 – 25L backpack for carrying items during our activities. The bag should be big enough to accommodate snacks, a water bottle, a thermos, camera/phone and outer layers (like your puffy coat) during activities.

Dry bag for backpack OR waterproof covering – It’s very important to keep the items in your backpack dry. You can do so by keeping the items in a dry bag that goes inside the backpack or you can use a waterproof covering on the outside. Both work well, but items will be more accessible if they are in the dry bag rather than underneath the covering.

Headlamp – Most of our activities take place during the day when the sun will be up over the horizon, but it will be dark much of our time in Lapland. You’ll therefore want to keep a headlamp in your pack at all times for added light.

HIGHLIGHTS of the Cuba Women-only Cultural Tour include:

* Visits with female artists, performers and entrepreneurs
* Experiencing the music, dance and culture of this vibrant country
* Meals at authentic restaurants and in the homes of locals
* A cooking class with a celebrity mother/daughter team
* Tours of this island-nation’s beautiful countryside
* A stop in the town of Cojimar, inspiration for Old Man and the Sea

Resources:
Cuba FAQs
Cuba Photo Gallery
Testimonials

There’s so much more to this Caribbean island than cigars, vintage cars and picturesque beaches. To truly understand the heart and soul of Cuba, try diving into some of these books and movies. You’ll be rewarded with insight into the country’s rich history, diverse traditions and the resilience of its people.

BOOKS

Cuba: An American History by Dr. Ada Ferrer

Winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize in History

“Full of…lively insights and lucid prose” (The Wall Street Journal) an epic, sweeping history of Cuba and its complex ties to the United States—from before the arrival of Columbus to the present day—written by one of the world’s leading historians of Cuba.

*****

Moon Handbook Cuba by Christopher Baker
This indispensable guidebook is one of the best guidebooks on Cuba. It leaves no stone unturned as it covers the history of Cuba and the natural, cultural and political life of the Cuban people.

*****

Cuba: What Everyone Needs to Know by Julia Sweig
Director for Latin American Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, Sweig traces the geography, history and identity of Cuba in this succinct history of the island nation and its role in world affairs.

*****

Cuba Revelations by Marc Frank
This is an insightful, in-depth look at contemporary Cuba, written by a reporter who has lived in Havana for many years.

*****

Havana by Alfredo Jose Estrada
One of the best books on the rich history of Havana. Estrada writes in a narrative historical form and can sometimes be too informational, but it is still a great read for anyone visiting this beautiful city.

*****

Dreaming in Cuban by Cristina Garcia
This is a short, poetic novel about three generations of Cuban women, their reaction to the revolution and the complex relationship between those who remained in Cuba and those who settled in the United States.

*****

Waiting for Snow in Havana by Carlos Eire
A lyrical memoir of a privileged, eccentric boyhood in 1950s Havana. Eire, a historian at Yale, fled with his brother to the United States in the wake of the revolution.

*****

The Old Man and The Sea by Ernest Hemingway
This classic book captures the poignant tale of an aging Cuban fisherman who is determined to prove his worth by engaging in an epic battle with a giant marlin in the deep waters of the Gulf Stream. It was written by Hemingway while he was living in Cuba.

*****

Our Man in Havana by Graham Greene
This is the story of a British vacuum cleaner salesman who accidentally gets drawn into cold war espionage with disastrous results.

*****

Cuba and Its Music, From the First Drums to the Mambo by Ned Sublette
A thorough and entertaining history of Cuba and its music by the popular radio producer, music historian and co-founder of Cuban record label QbaDisc.

*****

Bacardi and the Long Fight for Cuba By Tom Gjelten
Gjelten chronicles the rich intersection of power and politics and community and exile in contemporary Cuba through the saga of the Bacardis. This family was a fixture in making 1920s Havana a playground for the rich and famous during prohibition.

*****

The Sugar King of Havana: The Rise and Fall of Julio Lobo, Cuba’s Last Tycoon By John Paul Rathbone
Drawing on stories from the author’s own family history and other tales of the island’s lost haute bourgeoisie, this book is a rare portrait of Cuba’s glittering past and a hopeful window into its future.

*****

Havana Nocturne: How the Mob Owned Cuba and Then Lost it to the Revolution By T.J English
This is an interesting account of the mob’s role in Cuba in the 1950s and their subsequent descent and exit from the island after the revolution.

*****

MOVIES

Strawberry and Chocolate (Fresa y Chocolate)
This film was nominated for an Oscar and tells the story of two men in Cuba who fall in love with each other.

*****

Before Night Falls
This movie documents the life of Cuban poet and novelist, Reinaldo Arenas.

*****

Unfinished Spaces
This is a highly recommended documentary describing the architecture of the Institute of Superior Arts in Havana.

*****

The Man of Two Havanas
This documentary describes the life and happenings of Max Lesnik, a revolutionary who left Cuba and who created an uproar with his outspoken nature of the Revolution. An excellent documentary.

*****

Suite Habana
This documentary follows the lives of thirteen ordinary Cubans as they set out about their day. Interestingly enough, it has no dialogue.

*****

Seven Days in Havana
Directed by Benicio Del Toro, this film is set in Havana and plays out a week for various individuals in the capital city.

*****

Cuba and the Cameraman
This is a light documentary about a traveler and his twenty-year journey through Cuba.

*****

Four Seasons in Havana
This series about fictitious murder mysteries includes wonderful shots of Havana.

HIGHLIGHTS of the Lapland (Finland) Winter Escape include:

* Cross country skiing in pristine woodland snow
* Dog sledding with the opportunity to mush/drive your own sled
* Night sky viewing with the chance to see the northern lights
* Snowshoeing out the back door of an upscale lodge
* Fat tire biking in the snow!
* Relaxing in an outdoor sauna and an ice swim (brrr)

Picadillo
This is a hearty, sweet and savory dish made with ground beef and cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives and raisins. This flavorful blend is often served over rice and accompanied by fried plantains.

Ropa Vieja
This translates literally as “old clothes,” but tastes nothing of the sort. This savory stew, enjoyed throughout the Caribbean, features shredded beef simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers and aromatic spices. Its tender texture and rich taste make it a beloved comfort food.

Rabo Encendido
This oxtail stew is slow cooked to perfection with aromatic spices, herbs and vegetables. Its name means “tail on fire” and hints at its strong and bold Cuban flavors. You can enjoy it with creamy mashed potatoes or white rice.

Vaca Frita
Vaca frita literally means “fried cow,” and that’s just what this dish is–marinated beef that’s fried until crispy. The result is a caramelized exterior with tender meat inside. It’s commonly served with onions and lime for added zest.

Ajiaco Cubano
This hearty stew brims with various meats, root vegetables, corn and fragrant spices that all give it a rich and tasty flavor. The dish reflects the diverse culinary influences found in Cuba.

Arroz con Pollo
This is a classic one-pot dish made with chicken, rice and a mix of veggies that are cooked in a tasty broth seasoned with spices like saffron and cumin. It’s a favorite comfort food in Cuban households.

Tamales
Wrapped in a corn husk, these corn dough pockets are stuffed with savory fillings like pork, chicken or veggies and then steamed. Tamales hold a special spot in Cuban celebrations and family gatherings.

Cuban Sandwich
This famous pressed sandwich features layers of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard and sometimes salami, all served on Cuban bread. It’s toasted perfectly, giving it a crispy exterior and a deliciously melted interior.

Tostones
These crispy twice-fried slices, made from green plantains, are a staple side dish or snack. They’re typically served with mojo sauce (pronounced moho, not mojo–although it has a lot of it!), a tangy garlic-infused condiment.

Café con Leche or Cortadito
Café con leche or cortadito are popular coffee choices in Cuba. Café con leche is a mix of strong espresso and steamed milk, while cortadito is an espresso shot sweetened lightly with sugar. Cubans enjoy these with buttered toast or just on its own.

Want to try these yourselves? Contact us about our availability on our Cuba tours!

Fortunately, when joining our Antarctica tour, there’s no requirement for fancy attire during meals or lectures aboard the expedition ship; nevertheless, we do recommend that you equip yourself with appropriate clothing and gear if you choose to engage in the (optional) outdoor activities available.

Below are suggestions on how to pack for our trip to Antarctica. In general, consider bringing warm clothes that are moisture-wicking and wearing them in layers.

UPPER BODY

Light Merino wool top – You’ll want to start with a thin, warm shirt as an underlayer. A lightweight Merino wool shirt is ideal.

Heavy Merino wool top – On top of that, you’ll want to wear a warmer long-sleeve shirt. Again, Merino is best. It’s recommended that you bring at least two (one that’s 160 grams and the other a little heavier at 200 grams) so you’ll always have a dry one and you can choose the weight based on the outside temperature.

Fleece jacket – A mid- to heavy-weight jacket will keep you warm onshore as well as on the ship.

Windproof/waterproof shell jacket – This is a required piece of clothing for Zodiac rides, which means you must have this to partake in any on shore activities. One with a hood is advised but not required.

Puffy coat – Having a down (or synthetic) parka that comes past your waist will keep you very warm during the Zodiac trips to shore as well as onshore when you’re not as active. This will also come in handy when you’re outside on the ship’s deck, where you may find yourself often (for whale watching, penguin spotting and iceberg viewing).

LOWER BODY
Thermal tights – Just like your underlayers on top, your long underwear should be Merino wool or similar to keep you warm. These should also be moisture-wicking.
Pants – A pair of heavy-ish pants is advised and should be worn over your long underwear.
Shell pants – A pair of waterproof pants large enough to fit over your long underwear and your pants is a must as they will keep you dry from the snow and protected from the wind.

FEET
Warm socks – It’s advised to bring at least two pairs of thick, wool hiking socks to keep your feet warm.
Liner socks – It’s best to bring two pairs of liner socks. You’ll only be wearing one at a time under your heavier socks, but the second pair is a backup if one pair gets wet.
Shoes/boots – Waterproof (such as Gore-Tex) and warm shoes or winter boots are recommended. These should have non-slip soles and are to be worn on the ship. You’ll find yourself wanting to spend time outside on the deck for wildlife viewing and photographing the beautiful landscape. (Note that rubber boots (wellies), will be provided by the ship for the week. These are the only shoes you’ll be wearing on shore.)

HANDS
Heavy gloves – You’ll want a pair of heavy, waterproof shell gloves or mittens.
Glove liners – Underneath your heavy gloves, a pair of Merino wool liner gloves is recommended. These will help keep your hands warm.
Hand warmers – If your hands are prone to getting cold, consider bringing some hand warmers to place inside your gloves.

HEAD

Balaclava – This (often wool) headpiece is worn over your head and covers everything but your eyes. It’s a great all-in-one item that will protect your neck, face and head from the cold and wind.
Buff – This is a cloth tube that is worn over your head and sits on your neck. While there are many ways to wear it (i.e., it could be pulled over your head for warmth), these are generally made of thin cloth and are best for providing some added protection around your neck.
Hat – A warm wool or fleece hat with a windproof underlayer (an added piece of cloth that will protect your head) is advised against the cold and wind.
Glacier goggles – These are, simply put, fancy sunglasses. What makes them special is that they have side covers that provide added protection from the sun (which can be quite strong) and the reflective snow.

ACCESSORIES
Backpack – You’ll need a 15 – 25L backpack for carrying items to shore. You’ll need something that can accommodate a water bottle, camera/phone and outer layers should you take them off during activities.
Dry bag for backpack OR waterproof covering – It’s very important to keep the items in your backpack dry. You can do so by keeping the items in a dry bag that goes inside the backpack or you can use a waterproof covering on the outside. Both work well, but items will be more accessible if they are in the dry bag rather than underneath the covering.
Trekking poles – These are not required, but if you’d like to have something to keep you extra steady while walking through the snow on shore, consider bringing a collapsible pair of trekking poles.
Headlamp – While it will be light during most hours of the day/night, you will want a headlamp in the slight chance that we get caught on shore overnight. There may be an opportunity to camp overnight, in which case you might need this as well.
Water bottle – Please have a refillable water bottle with you for onshore excursions. This will also come in handy on the expedition ship.

As they say, there is no such thing as bad weather, there’s just unsuitable clothing.

Come prepared with the suggestions above and you’re sure to have a much more enjoying trip to Antarctica!

Rooted in fresh, natural ingredients harvested directly from the waters, fields and forests, the food is a tapestry of flavors that reflect the country’s history, climate and local produce. Here are some traditional Finnish foods that have delighted taste buds for generations!

Karjalanpiirakka
Karjalanpiirakka or karelian pie, is a beloved Finnish pastry. This dish features a thin rye crust filled with a mixture of rice porridge or mashed potatoes. Often served with a dollop of butter, these pies are a staple in Finnish households and a symbol of comfort food.

Korvapuusti
Korvapuusti, similar to a cinnamon bun is a soft, buttery dough swirled with cinnamon and sugar. It’s a wonderful treat often eaten with a cup of coffee.

Ruisleipä
Ruisleipä, or rye bread, holds a special place on Finnish tables. Cherished for its dark and dense texture, along with its robust flavor, this bread is a dietary cornerstone, often served alongside various dishes or used as a base for open-faced sandwiches.

Mustikkapiirakka
Mustikkapiirakka, the Finnish blueberry pie, is not your usual dessert. It combines shortbread, blueberry tart and cheesecake flavors. With the sweet tang of wild blueberries, it presents a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make it a distinct treat.

Poronkäristys
Poronkäristys features thinly sliced reindeer meat stewed to tender perfection with onions and spices. This delicacy showcases the use of local ingredients in Finnish cuisine that is well-loved not only by Finns but also by other Northern communities.

Lohikeitto
Lohikeitto is a creamy soup made with salmon, potatoes, leeks and dill. It’s a comfort food loved all over Finland, particularly in coastal areas. Perfect for cold winter days, especially in Lapland, it provides warmth and nourishment in extreme cold.

Lihapiirakka
Lihapiirakka, a savory pastry filled with minced meat, onions and spices. It’s a popular on-the-go snack or part of a hearty meal in Finnish cuisine.

Leipäjuusto
Leipäjuusto (bread cheese) or Juustoleipä (cheese bread) also known as “squeaky cheese,” is a mild, fresh cheese typically served warm with cloudberry jam. Its unique texture and mild taste make it a distinctive Finnish delight.

Lihapullat Muusilla ja Puolukkahillolla
Lihapullat Muusilla ja Puolukkahillolla, Finnish meatballs served with creamy mashed potatoes and tart lingonberry jam, create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Mansikkakakku
Mansikkakakku, a strawberry meringue cake, combines airy meringue and fresh strawberries, creating a sweet, tart taste reflecting Finnish summers.

Lasimestarin Silli
Lasimestarin Silli, or marinated herring, is a traditional Finnish appetizer. The herring is pickled in a sweet and tangy marinade, often served with onions and a side of dark rye bread.

Lakkalikööri
Lakkalikööri, or Lakka is a liqueur made from cloudberries. It has a unique taste of the Nordic wilderness and its vibrant flavor profile encapsulates the essence of Finnish berries.

These traditional Finnish foods (and drink) are wonderful reflections of Finland’s culinary heritage that you’re sure to enjoy throughout your visit!

HIGHLIGHTS of the Scotland Women-only Tour include:

* Tour of Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Center–site of the 1745 Jacobite Rising
* Afternoon tea with some naughty sheep
* Visits to the Isles of Skye and Mull, two gorgeous destinations on the country’s west coast
* Chocolate and Scotch tastings
* A cooking class featuring traditional Scottish foods
* Throughout the tour, there is an emphasis on supporting women-owned businesses

Resources:
Scotland FAQs
Scotland Photo Gallery
Testimonials