ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION

IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR YOU?
At Hosted Holidays, we want every guest to have a safe, relaxed, and rewarding travel experience.   To help ensure this, we kindly ask that you confirm at the time of booking that you are physically fit and able to take part in activities in the itinerary.

FITNESS LEVEL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

A moderate level of fitness is required to fully enjoy this tour. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for short to moderate distances—typically between 2 to 4 kilometres—during guided city tours and excursions, sometimes on uneven or icy terrain. Many of the towns and attractions involve cobblestone streets, slopes, or stairs, and while plenty of rest stops are provided, a reasonable level of mobility and stamina will help you get the most from the journey.

You will also spend time outdoors in cold, sometimes snowy or windy conditions, particularly during activities such as husky sledding, reindeer rides, or Northern Lights viewing. Dressing appropriately and layering your clothing will make these experiences comfortable and enjoyable. During the coastal cruise, you may need to navigate the ship’s decks and stairs, which can move slightly with the sea.

If you have limited mobility, chronic health conditions that restrict stamina, or find walking on slippery or uneven surfaces challenging, this itinerary may not be suitable without additional assistance. Please discuss any specific mobility or health concerns with Hosted Holidays prior to booking so that suitable arrangements can be made where possible.

Our experienced tour leaders are trained to accommodate a range of abilities within the group. However, if they believe that a particular activity may present a safety risk to you or others—or may impact the overall enjoyment of the group—they are authorised, in line with our Booking Conditions, to advise you to skip that activity. These decisions are never made lightly, and your wellbeing is always our priority. Please note that if you are asked to sit out part of the tour, refunds are not provided, and any additional expenses incurred will be your responsibility.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all Hosted Holidays. It’s important that you protect yourself in case of natural disasters, lost or delayed baggage and unforeseen medical expenses. We strongly recommend that the policy covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation and loss of luggage and personal effects.  Make sure you keep any receipts for anything you may wish to claim for on your return – i.e. medical receipts etc. Please make sure you bring a copy of your policy with you on tour. We recommend that you take out travel insurance at the time of paying your deposit.

LOCAL CUSTOMS & ETIQUITTE

Show respect for nature and the environment — many of the places you visit are pristine wilderness, so follow “leave no trace” principles.

In Finland and Norway, punctuality is appreciated — try to be on time for group departures and excursions.

When meeting locals or guides, a firm handshake, eye contact and polite greeting (in English) is fine; in more remote areas minimal fuss is common.

Respect local customs regarding wildlife and cultural sites — for example, in Sami culture (in Finnish Lapland) and at historic sites in Norway.

PASSPORTS, VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Passports

All information provided is based on Australian Passport holders only – please advise your travel consultant as soon as possible if you are travelling on a different passport.

• Your passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of arrival in Europe. This is a strict requirement for entry.
• The new Electronic Travel Authorisation System (ETIAS) is required for Australian Passport holders to Schengen Area countries.

 FOOD & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

You will encounter a wide variety of Nordic cuisine: in Finland and Norway expect hearty dishes featuring fish (salmon, cod, arctic char), reindeer, game meats, root vegetables, strong cheeses, breads, and for the cruise and hotels, international-style buffets and local specialities.

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform your travel advisor well in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs throughout the trip.

MEDICAL & HEALTH INFORMATION

Travel in winter/Arctic or near-Arctic conditions means cold temperatures, possible snow/ice, and potential exposure to chill and wind. It is important to bring appropriate clothing and protect your extremities (hands, feet, head) against cold. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance covering winter-sport like activities (optional excursions like husky sled, snowmobile, ice fishing). While the countries have excellent medical facilities, remote locations may require time to reach hospitals.

Keep your regular medications in original packaging, bring extra if possible, and have a note from your doctor if necessary. Staying hydrated, dressed in layers, and not over-exerting yourself in the cold are useful precautions. Also check with your doctor about cold-weather risks (cardiac, respiratory, circulation issues) if you have underlying medical conditions.

 PACKING SUGGESTIONS

In early March through to late March, you’ll experience winter-to-early-spring conditions. In northern Finland and Arctic Norway regions expect well below freezing temperatures (e.g., –2 to –13 °C in Lapland) and snow cover.  In southern Norway and cities such as Oslo or Bergen temperatures will be milder but still cold (daytime averages around 2-4 °C in March) with possibility of rain or snow. Layers are essential: thermal base layer, insulating mid-layer, wind/water-proof outer layer, warm hat/hood, gloves, scarf, appropriate footwear.

To ensure a comfortable and respectful journey, here's what we recommend bringing:

• Thermal base layers (tops & bottoms)
• Warm mid-layer fleece / down jacket
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket & pants)
• Warm hat/beanie, scarf/buff, gloves (preferably insulated and waterproof)
• Sturdy insulated boots (good grip for snow/ice)
• Warm socks (several pairs)
• Casual clothes for city/hotel evenings (smart-casual)
• Sunglasses (snow glare)
• Daypack for excursions & Waterproof cover
• Camera + extra batteries (cold drains batteries faster)
• Travel adaptor (see connectivity section)
• Swimsuit (if spa/hotel has one)
• Reusable water bottle
• Prescription medications (enough for the entire trip + extra in case of delays)
• Copy of prescriptions (in case refills are needed) 
• Over-the-counter medications:
• Pain relievers (paracetamol/ibuprofen)
• Anti-nausea tablets (for ferry to Malta)
• Anti-diarrhoea tablets and rehydration salts
• Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)
• Motion sickness tablets (for ferry ride or coach travel)
• Small first-aid kit: Band-aids, blister pads, antiseptic wipes/cream
• Copies of passport, insurance & key documents

CLIMATE & SEASONAL INFORMATION

• Rovaniemi / Finnish Lapland: average temperatures around –6 °C to –13 °C, snowy
• Northern Norway (e.g., around Kirkenes / Tromsø region): highs around –2 °C, lows around –6 °C
•  Southern Norway (Oslo, Bergen, Flåm): daytime means around 2–4 °C, with potential rain/snow

During March, Scandinavia experiences late winter to early spring conditions, with a mix of snow, ice, and occasional rain depending on the region. In northern areas such as Finnish Lapland and Arctic Norway, temperatures often range from –10 °C to –2 °C, and snowfall is common, creating ideal conditions for winter activities and Northern Lights viewing. Further south, in Bergen, Flåm, and Oslo, temperatures are milder—typically between 0 °C and 6 °C—but precipitation is frequent and can fall as either rain or wet snow. Travellers should expect a mix of crisp, clear days and overcast or snowy conditions, and pack accordingly for both cold and damp weather.

MONEY MATTERS

The currency in Finland, Estonia and Norway are Euros (€) in Finland and Estonia, and Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Norway. As an Australian traveller, you should consider exchanging some AUD in advance for small expenses, though local currency can be obtained locally. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels and many excursions.

ATMs & Credit Card
ATMs (cash machines) are plentiful in all major cities and town centres visited (Helsinki, Rovaniemi, Bergen, Oslo). In remote areas (e.g., some fjord villages or snow-hotel locations), availability may be more limited—so plan accordingly. Use your bank card but check for foreign transaction fees and notify your bank you’ll be travelling. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels, ships and major services; you may still wish to carry some local currency or a fee-free debit card for incidentals or small purchases in remote settings.

Spending Money During Your Trip:
Spending habits vary by traveller, but you should allow enough cash for souvenirs, drinks, snacks, optional excursions, laundry, or personal expenses during your free time. While some expenses can be paid by card, smaller purchases and tips are best handled in local currency.

Gratuities:
Gratuities for included activities and meals are already covered in your Hosted Holiday, however, tips for optional tours or personal services are at your discretion and always appreciated.

CONNECTIVITY & COMMUNICATION

Power Supply & Adaptors:
In Finland, Estonia and Norway power supply is 230 V, 50 Hz; plug type is the standard European two-round-pin plug (type C / type F). Bring a reliable universal adaptor that supports 230 V and EU plugs. Some hotels may offer USB-charging points; in remote accommodations (Aurora cabins, snow-hotel) bring a power bank as backup.

Mobile Phone Coverage:
In major cities (Helsinki, Tallinn, Bergen, Oslo) mobile phone and data coverage is excellent. On remote excursions (Lapland wilderness cabins, Arctic areas, at sea on the cruise) coverage may be limited or intermittent. Consider purchasing a European roaming plan or a local SIM card (if your phone is unlocked) or rely on hotel WiFi. The ship (MS Polarlys) will have onboard WiFi (often paid); be prepared for higher costs or lower speeds.

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE

Your Emirates Airlines economy ticket includes 23kg of checked baggage per passenger, plus one piece of cabin baggage up to 7kg.

SAFETY

Overall, the destinations are very safe with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. Typical safety advice: guard against pickpocketing (especially in city tourist areas), check dogsledding safety standards during activities, be cautious on icy surfaces (especially near snow/ice on decks or in wilderness). For Northern Lights-hunting or remote excursions, dress warmly, let guides lead you, and follow their safety instructions. In the Arctic region, weather can change rapidly: always heed local advice, avoid wandering off alone after dark in remote areas. Make sure your travel insurance covers winter/adventure activities.

We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, cash and other valuable items. Please leave other valuables, such as jewellery, at home. Most accommodations provide safety deposit boxes, an excellent way of storing your valuables. We also advise you to keep a photocopy of your passport, separate from your actual passport, when you travel.

A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

Your Host will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. You should use your own judgment when choosing activities or excursions, which do not form part of the trip you have booked with Hosted Holidays. We can offer assistance in choosing how to spend your free time, but neither Hosted Holidays, nor any of its representatives can provide any guarantee about the safety or suitability of any activities or excursions, nor about the operators who organise these.

As in all countries, taking photos of police stations, border crossings, immigration controls, army barracks, military personnel or checkpoints, airports or political demonstrations is never a good idea, often illegal, and very likely to land you in trouble with the authorities.

Swimming and other water-based activities are always undertaken at your own risk.

Please also note that your Host has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

FUN FACTS

• The months around the spring equinox (mid-March) are among the best times to see the Arctic night sky and the Aurora Borealis.
• The village of Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland calls itself the “official hometown of Santa Claus”.
• The legendary Flåm Railway is considered one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys.
• During the cruise between Kirkenes and Bergen you’ll pass the Arctic Circle, fjords, archipelagos and dramatic coastlines seldom seen by tourists.
• Staying in a “glass-roof” Aurora cabin means you could watch the night sky from your bed — an unforgettable experience.

  HELPFUL TRAVEL TIPS

• Book optional excursions early (husky safari, snowmobile, ice-fishing) as places in remote locations are limited.
• Layer your clothing and keep a set of dry spare clothes in your day-pack — wet or frozen gear can ruin an outing.
• Use local daylight hours to your advantage — in early March daylight is increasing, so plan early starts for photography or excursions.

OPTIONAL TOURS

To be advised.

Note: All information provided is intended as a general guide only and is correct at the time of preparation. Conditions, timings, prices, and inclusions may change without notice due to factors such as weather, operational requirements, or local regulations. Hosted Holidays makes every effort to ensure accuracy but accepts no responsibility for variations beyond our control. We recommend checking closer to departure for the most up-to-date details, and please be aware that all optional activities are subject to availability and minimum participant numbers.