Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime.
As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next?
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The incredible phenomenon of the northern lights is something that needs to be seen to truly understand its beauty.
There a variety of places to choose from in order to be left dumbfounded by this staggering sight, so we’ve put together a collection of all the top spots across the auroral oval to maximise your chance of seeing it.
Whatever you’re looking to do alongside this once-in-a-lifetime trip is up to you and there’s everything from husky rides to IceHotels on offer.
Iceland
Iceland is one of the main destinations for viewing the northern lights. The beautiful volcanic island enthrals visitors, particularly during the winter months. You can incorporate other amazing experiences into this trip including seeing geysers, waterfalls, and bathing in the Blue Lagoon or indeed, your own hot tub.
Handy hint: Escape the bright lights of Reykjavik and go snowmobiling, head off in a superjeep or see if you can catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins off the coast.
Sweden
Sweden offers some of the best views of the northern lights from the famous Abisko Sky Station. This can be combined with a stay at an Icehotel and make sure to try out some ice-driving.
Handy hint: Take a trip with a team of huskies on an adventure through the wilderness – it will be an experience you will never forget.
Norway
The north of Norway is another ideal location to view the lights from. Take in the breath-taking scenery of Lofoten islands, head to the lively city of Tromso – the ‘Paris of the North’ – and explore the coastline of Finnmark.
Handy hint: Take a Hurtigruten coastal cruise and prepared to be stunned by the vastness of the North Cape.
Finland
Now you can see the lights and Santa too! Finland’s Lapland is not only famous for Santa Claus but you can also be cosy in a beautiful log cabin with a stunning backdrop of pine forests and snow. Head above the Arctic Circle to experience the wonder and beauty of this amazing location.
Handy hint: Stay in an Aurora hide, join a reindeer safari and chill out in a wilderness retreat.
Canada
Heading to the other side of the world, Canada is another good location to do some sky-watching. As it extends into the Arctic Circle, head to the town of Whitehorse and be sure to visit Fort McMurray’s night-sky viewing centre.
Handy hint: Explore the iconic Rockies and take a trip into the wilderness of Yukon.
Alaska
A little bit further out of reach – from Ireland at least – are the snow-covered plains of Alaska. Alaska is the perfect place to see the lights while enjoying an action-packed holiday. Check in to a resort, link up with some evening excursions or head to the famous Dalton Highway to a camp beneath the auroral oval. Stunning.
Handy hint: Enjoy the hot pools at Chena Hot Springs Resort, go snowshoeing, dog sledding and take a trip to the Alaska Railroad.
Greenland
The least accessible of all the locations during the winter, Greenland should still be an option for those of you hoping to explore. Combine the search for the aurora borealis with an adventure cruise.
Handy hint: If heading for Greenland, be sure to do extensive research beforehand particularly on the weather and climate at the time of your trip.
Insider’s tip: The solar maximum – a surge in solar activity – of late 2013 has, according to NASA findings, continued into 2015. During a ‘solar max’ activity is heightened and therefore there are more chances to see the northern lights.
So, what are you waiting for?
