While most travelers are planning their next beach trip, savvy Filipino travelers are locking in something colder and far more magical: a winter escape to Finland.
We’re talking about glass igloos, the Northern Lights, husky sledding, and the kind of quiet you didn’t know you needed. But here’s what many people don’t realize: if you wait until October to start planning your December or January trip, it’s already too late.
July is when the best Finland experiences open up—and when most of them quietly sell out.
Why July Is the Golden Month for Winter Travel Planning
Every July, Finland’s top resorts, local guides, and tour operators release their winter calendars. Those in the know start booking right away.
By mid-August, peak dates begin disappearing. By September, the best igloos, guides, and cultural experiences are reserved by travelers from Europe, the US, and Asia.
What sells out first:
- Glass igloos with prime views of the Aurora
- Northern Lights photography guides
- Reindeer farm visits and husky sledding tours
- Authentic Sami cultural experiences
- Small boutique lodges in Lapland
These aren’t just “nice to have” options. They’re the experiences that turn a winter holiday into a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The Mistake Most Filipino Travelers Make
Filipinos love Christmas, but we also tend to book holiday trips at the last minute. That works for nearby destinations. It doesn’t work for Finland.
Every year, by October, Access Travel receives last-minute messages from clients trying to book Finland for the holidays—only to find out that the glass igloos, Aurora tours, and family lodges they want are no longer available.
That’s because the global demand for Finland winter travel is high, but availability is extremely limited. Some of the best resorts only have 10–20 rooms total. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.
What Makes a Finland Winter Experience Worth It
You’ve likely seen the photos: a person standing under the green glow of the Northern Lights, bundled in thermal gear, sipping hot chocolate next to a frozen lake. It’s dreamy, but it’s also real.
And when you go to Finland, you realize it’s not just the scenery that’s special—it’s the experience itself.
What surprises Filipino travelers the most:
The silence
You walk outside your igloo at 2 AM and hear nothing but snow crunching beneath your boots. No cars. No city buzz. Just pure stillness.
The culture
Sami families don’t offer rehearsed tourist shows. They invite you into their homes. You listen to stories, try traditional food, and see how people live in one of the coldest parts of the world.
The transformation
Travelers often say Finland changed them. It’s not just the cold. It’s the shift. You slow down, breathe deeper, and see things more clearly.
How Travel Insiders Book Finland
At Access Travel, we help travelers book unforgettable Finland trips every year. But here’s something not every agent will say: if we were booking this trip for ourselves or for our families, we’d do it early—and we’d follow this exact strategy:
- Book accommodations first
This includes glass igloos, small Arctic lodges, and unique stays like snow hotels or saunas with a view. - Reserve key guides and cultural experts
Northern Lights photographers, local trackers, and Sami elders only take a handful of guests per season. - Add activities after
Once your base itinerary is secure, layer in snowmobiles, husky rides, skiing, or wellness experiences. - Confirm transport last
Flights and trains can be finalized once you know your dates. But don’t wait too long, especially for the Santa Express or sleeper trains to Rovaniemi.
Why Finland Is the Smart Choice for 2025
If you’re the kind of traveler who’s done Japan, Hong Kong, and even parts of Europe, Finland offers something different. It’s not crowded. It’s not chaotic. It’s calm, connected, and deeply personal.
Here’s why it’s trending in 2025:
- Consistent Northern Lights
Unlike other countries, Finland’s geography gives you more reliable chances to see the Aurora. - Safe, family-friendly fun
Kids can meet Santa, feed reindeer, and play in the snow while you enjoy wine by the fire. - Digital detox
Many Arctic lodges offer no WiFi on purpose. You’ll reconnect in the best way possible: with nature and with yourself. - Eco-conscious tourism
Finland’s travel industry is built around sustainability, from reindeer herding traditions to eco-built igloos.
What to Do Now
If you’re reading this in July or early August, you’re right on time. This is the ideal moment to:
- Talk to an Access Travel expert about your preferred travel dates
- Explore curated Finland packages
- Choose between Lapland, Helsinki, or a combo itinerary
- Begin prepping your visa, winter wardrobe, and camera gear
Remember, this kind of trip isn’t just another vacation. It’s a story you’ll tell forever.
Want to plan your dream winter escape to Finland?
Visit www.travelwithaccess.com or message us on Instagram at @accesstravelph.
Let’s make it happen.
