Ali's blog posts

Joanna Robertson

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Here at Activities Abroad we know that think that witnessing the Northern Lights is a real bucket list item for many families, which is why quite a few of our snow holidays include opportunities to witness Mother Nature’s greatest light show!

However, seeing the elusive Aurora isn’t quite as straight forward as simply jumping on a plane to the Arctic and hoping for the best. As with any natural phenomenon there are a few things to bear in mind if you want to give you and your family the best chance of ticking the magical display off your bucket list. That is why we have put together our five top tips to help you have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights with your family this winter! Read on to find out more!

Amy Hope

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It is safe to say that here at Activities Abroad we get very excited about the onset of a new winter season. Not only do the winter months in the Arctic bring with them a host of exciting family activities such as dog sledding and reindeer sleigh rides, they also give our families one of the first opportunities to go in search of the Northern Lights!

The first Auroras of this season were sighted at Brändön Lodge in Swedish Lapland on the 13th August 2024! On the same night the Northern Lights were visible across the UK and at several of our Arctic destinations. We experienced a significant geomagnetic storm in May, followed by another one in mid-August, which is quite a brief interval within the aurora seasons and a clear indication that we are in a solar maximum. If there was ever a perfect time to book a trip to the Arctic to witness the aurora, it's now!

What is Solar Maximum? 

For the full scientific explanation please head on over to our sister company - The Aurora Zone which has lots of fascinating scientific articles explaining such as 'What is the Solar Maximum' 

In a short (ish!) summary: Since human's earliest fascination with space, and scientists began observing the Sun's activity, it becsme clear that the number of sunspots fluctuates over time. This pattern typically spans about 11 years, though it can extend up to 14 or 15 years, and is known as the Solar Cycle. Within each Solar Cycle, the number of sunspots increases to a peak, called the Solar Maximum, and then decreases to a low point, known as the Solar Minimum. 

We are right in the middle of the current solar cycle which in short not only means more frequent but also more spectacular Auroras! 

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Joanna Robertson

Top short breaks for families

Written by
Monday, 01 July 2019

Whether it’s sailing from island to island, setting foot in a winter wonderland or tackling ghyll scrambling together as a family, a short break doesn’t mean you have to be short on experiences.

Allan Cooper

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Though Father Christmas may call it home, when it comes to experiences in Lapland, the man in red has some fierce competition!

Joanna Robertson

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Having watched Dame Judi Dench embark on her wonderful adventure to Borneo, we’ve been having some serious wanderlust thoughts about travelling in her footsteps!

Andy Marshall

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Is the temptation of once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences, silky sands and glistening seas making you think about a long-haul holiday for your family? With so many fantastic places to explore, it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go. Take a look below to find out where is best for your family!

Joanna Robertson

Multi-generational travel

Written by
Thursday, 23 May 2019

These days, it can be difficult finding time for the whole family to get together, which is why we’ve always championed holidays as a brilliant opportunity for some precious family time. What can make this even more special, however, is a multi-generational trip where Mum, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa and the kids are all invited – you could even extend the invitation to Aunts, Uncles and cousins!

When you consider the bucket list moments, bonding opportunities and quality family time that travel can bring, a multi-generational holiday is something we think everyone should experience.

You could travel to Finnish Lapland where adventures include meeting Father Christmas by day and standing under the Northern Lights at night. If you prefer warmer destinations, you could explore the Atlantic islands of Madeira or São Miguel in the Azores, where you can go whale watching and snorkel alongside wild dolphins. No matter what your preference, we have the holiday that will suit the whole family. And remember, our Family Travel Experts are always on hand to help, simply call 01670 789 991 today to get started.

Ali Mclean

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We know what you are thinking! It’s not even summer, so why are we discussing the winter season? Well, we’re going to let you into a little secret - now is probably one of the best times of year to begin planning your festive family holiday before our handpicked hotels and flights are all snapped up!

Joanna Robertson

A family whale watching trip is one of those memories that lasts a lifetime. Nothing compares to hearing the excitement from your children as they see the spurt of water from a whales’ blowhole or a flick of the tail as these mighty animals dive down into the water. During a whale watching experience while on holiday in the Azores, you’ll explore the surrounding waters of the incredible volcanic archipelago and look out for the many different species found here.

As one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries, you’re in with a great chance of spotting whales during your holiday in the Azores. In fact, whales and dolphins are seen on 98% of the boat trips. What’s more, you’ll be following in expert footsteps as even the BBC and National Geographic have visited the Azores due to its whale watching potential!

View our holiday in the Azores complete with whale watching here.

Kirsty Wood

There are few better ways to create lasting family memories than by going whale watching during a holiday in Madeira. Having explored the impressive volcanic landscape, complete your visit by getting out onto the surrounding waters of the Atlantic Ocean and go on the lookout for the variety of marine animals found here.

With over 20 different species, you and your family will have a very good chance of seeing a wave from a tail, a splash from a blowhole or even a spectacular breaching display during your whale watching day out in Madeira.

What’s more, due to the depth of the water, you could see a whale as close as 5km away from the shore!

View our family holiday in Madeira with whale watching included here.

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