Last month, our advisor Kate experienced the best of both Finland and London to ring in the New Year with her family. Her journey inspired us to share this winter pairing that’s definitely worth adding to your bucket list. She started in Finland, diving into the magic of snowy landscapes, thrilling dog sled rides, and meeting a fifth-generation reindeer herder. From there, she headed to London, where cozy cafes, bustling markets, and a vibrant arts scene brought warmth to the chilly season.
Finland:
Kate’s adventure began in Ruka, Finland, where she stayed at the welcoming and authentic chalets. These chalets offer a truly Finnish experience, they even have up to four bedrooms perfect for mutiple families traveling together They are known for their cozy log-cabin style and private saunas set by the shores of a frozen lake. Their first evening was spent exploring Ruka Village and visiting Santa’s Cottage, a charming introduction to the wonders of Lapland.
Husky Safaris & Smoke Saunas
One of the most exciting parts of Kate’s trip was the husky safari, gliding through snowy trails behind a team of eager sled dogs. Dog sledding has been around for thousands of years. These amazing dogs can run for hours with endless enthusiasm. Afterward, Kate warmed up in a traditional smoke sauna, a Finnish ritual that’s all about relaxation and rejuvenation. She also took things a step further with an unforgettable experience: taking a cold plunge into a frozen lake. It was exhilarating and left her feeling recharged and deeply connected to the Arctic surroundings.
Reindeer & Snowshoe Adventures
Meeting reindeer up close was another highlight. In Finnish Lapland, reindeer outnumber people and play a huge role in Sami culture, where herding has been a way of life for centuries. Kate also went snowshoeing, wandering through peaceful forests with snow-dusted trees and frozen lakes all around—a truly magical way to connect with nature.
Snowmobiles & Santa Claus Village
Kate’s adventures didn’t stop there. She took a snowmobile tour, zipping across frozen landscapes under a pale winter sun. Her time in Finland wrapped up with a visit to Santa Claus Village, where she sent postcards from the official Santa Post Office and soaked in the festive atmosphere.
The local food was a highlight too. Kate loved the creamy artichoke soup, smoked salmon, reindeer stew and and Karelian pies topped with egg butter. And after long days in the cold, a cup of glögi (spiced mulled wine) was the perfect way to warm up.
London:
Kate landed in the vibrant streets of London. She stayed at two stunning hotels: The Beaumont Hotel and Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.
The Beaumont Hotel
Located in Mayfair, The Beaumont Hotel combined cozy comfort with Art Deco elegance. Mayfair is also the future home of the luxurious Auberge London – Cambridge House, opening late 2025, which adds another layer of excitement to this vibrant neighborhood.
The Beaumont is small, with just 50 rooms and 22 suites, which makes it feel incredibly personal and intimate. The location is ideal; Hyde Park is just a short walk away if you’re craving some fresh air, and some of London’s best shopping streets and restaurants are practically on the doorstep. It’s also super convenient for exploring landmarks like Buckingham Palace or Bond Street, which is perfect if you want to make the most of your time in the city. She loved winding down at Le Magritte Bar & Terrace after her busy days.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park has the best of both worlds: you’ve got Hyde Park’s green space on one side and the chic energy of Knightsbridge and Mayfair on the other. The hotel has 181 rooms and suites, many with views of Hyde Park, which is such a rare treat in London. What’s also exciting is that Mandarin Oriental just opened their new Mayfair property nearby. It’s sleek and modern, offering a completely different feel, but together, these two hotels really show off the best sides of London.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park has the best of both worlds: you’ve got Hyde Park’s green space on one side and the chic energy of Knightsbridge and Mayfair on the other. Mandarin Oriental is great for families traveling to London, with 181 rooms and suites, many with views of Hyde Park, which is such a rare treat in London. What’s also exciting is that Mandarin Oriental just opened their new Mayfair property nearby. It’s sleek and modern, offering a completely different feel, but together, these two hotels really show off the best sides of London.
Hyde Park Winter Festival & Theatre Nights
Kate dove into London’s festive spirit at the Hyde Park Winter Festival, where the holiday cheer was contagious. As one of the largest and most festive Christmas markets in the UK, it’s a must-visit destination for the holiday season. Dinner at Inamo Covent Garden with its interactive tables was a fun experience, followed by a night at the theatre watching Mamma Mia!, which had everyone singing along.
Harry Potter Studios
A visit to The Making of Harry Potter studios brought the magic of the Wizarding World to life. You’ll see real costumes, iconic props, and even ride a broomstick. The Hogwarts Express is a highlight, perfect for that classic photo op.
If you’re curious about how the movies were made, there are behind-the-scenes exhibits showing everything from animatronics to the creation of mythical creatures.
There are ticket options for everyone—self-guided tours, VIP experiences, and even an exclusive Afternoon Tea right in the studios. And if you’re visiting around the holidays, you might catch the sets decked out in festive décor, including a snowy Hogwarts!
East London’s Creative Side
Kate spent a day in East London, exploring Spitalfields and Shoreditch. This neighborhood is a mix of history and modern culture.
Her day started with a walking tour, where she learned the stories behind the art—this area was an early stomping ground for Banksy, and now it’s an outdoor gallery for artists from all over the world. They even got to try out graffiti during a workshop with a local artist (spoiler: it’s harder than it looks!). The day also featured some incredible eats, including Brick Lane bagels and Instagram-famous hot chocolate.
This mix of Finland’s snowy landscapes and London’s lively energy made for a unique and super fun winter getaway. Winter doesn’t have to mean staying cooped up inside. It can be about trying new things, embracing the season, and making incredible memories—just like Kate did. If this inspired you, reach out, and let's start planning your own winter escape!