Hello – My Journey to Lapland

I’m Jannis, and my love for Lapland started long before I ever set foot here.

Back in 1976, I was just a child starting school. Before Christmas, our teacher told us about Santa Claus and how he brings gifts to good children. Excited, I rushed home and asked my mother what Santa would bring me that year. She looked at me lovingly and said, “This year, Santa is poor.”

I had been a good child, and I couldn’t understand why. That day, I made a promise to myself: One day, I will go to Santa and ask for my gift.​​

Years passed. Life happened. Many times, I tried to visit — sometimes for myself, sometimes to take my own child — but it was never possible. Until one day, at the age of 50, I finally made it here to live permanently.

 

 

When I first worked for Lapland Safaris in Rovaniemi, I had the incredible chance to be Santa’s helper on December 24th — the only day you can see Santa and Mrs. Claus together. I took a selfie with them (I don’t look my best, but it captures the moment!) and shared my childhood story. After a long day of the event, Santa gave me my gift, saying: “This is what life owed you.”

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That moment reminded me why I’m here today: to give children and families the chance to experience the same magic and joy I finally lived myself. Every trip we plan, every experience we create, is inspired by that dream.

Welcome to Rovaniemi Travel Services — let’s make your Arctic dreams come true!