Ask A Local: Insider Tips & Hidden Gems For Lapland

2 December 2025

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At Sim Local, our team and our customers are spread out across the world, giving us a unique insider perspective in over an endless number of destinations. We created this 'Ask A Local' series to highlight the hotspots and hidden gems, with details only locals can provide. This week, we have a very special guest spotlight on Lapland. Yep - it's the CEO of Christmas - Santa Clause himself.

Ask a Local: Local Tips For Lapland from Santa Clause

Lapland. Known for its endless snowdrifts, dancing Northern Lights, and a certain magical gift giving resident who lives just off the radar. It is a winter wonderland that feels like a storybook come to life. Who better to guide you through the frozen north than its most famous resident? Here is an insider guide to making the most of your time in the Arctic Circle.

What do you love most about living in Lapland?

"The peace and quiet, ho-ho-honestly! There is nothing quite like the silence of the snowy forest when the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are putting on a show overhead. The air is crisp, the reindeer are friendly, and there is a magic in the air that you just can’t find anywhere else. Plus, the commute to work is just a short walk through the snow to the workshop."

What are some must-visit areas for someone visiting Lapland for the first time?

Most people land in Rovaniemi, and for good reason- it’s the "Official Hometown" of yours truly. It’s vibrant and has great amenities. But if you want the real experience, you need to venture further out.

Levi: If you enjoy skiing, this is the place. It has world-class slopes and a fantastic village vibe.
Saariselkä: For a more rugged, wilderness feel. This is where you go to really chase the Auroras.
Korvatunturi: Well, I can’t give you the exact coordinates for this one (elf trade secret), but let's just say the hiking in the Urho Kekkonen National Park nearby is spectacular.

Where would you take visitors for lunch, dinner, and hot chocolate in Lapland?

"For a warming lunch, you can’t beat a traditional kota (wooden teepee) restaurant. There is a lovely spot in Rovaniemi called Kotahovi where you can eat sautéed reindeer (don’t worry, not any of my team!) by an open fire.

For dinner, if you want something truly special, try the SnowRestaurant at the Arctic SnowHotel. Everything is made of ice, so dress warmly!

And for hot chocolate? The Café & Bar 21 in Rovaniemi does a salty caramel waffle and hot chocolate combo that even Mrs. Claus admits rivals her own recipe."

Why I Love Sim Local

"You might think that magic powers my communication, but when I’m on my annual round-the-world trip, I actually rely on Sim Local. As someone who visits every country in a single night, staying connected is non-negotiable."

Ask A Local: Insider Tips & Hidden Gems for Mexico City

At Sim Local, our team is spread out across the world, giving us a unique insider perspective in over a dozen cities. We created this series to highlight the hotspots and hidden gems. This week, the spotlight is on Mexico City. What’s your favourite memory of this city? I keep finding myself pulled back to this city — there’s just something about the culture that gets under your skin (in the best way). From the rhythm of mariachi to catchy pop tunes to the Dia de los Muertos celebrations, this city has my heart. So many good memories. Maybe that's why I call it my home away from home. And the food isn't bad either. If you had one day to show someone around, where would you take them? Mexico City is an expansive metropolis that requires plenty of time to fully explore, but there are a few experiences I wouldn’t miss.