LAPLAND

Lapland is a geographical region in the northern Europe that consists of the northernmost parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. Limited in the north by the Arctic Ocean, in the west by the Norwegian Sea and in the east by the Barents Sea, the region of Lapland is characterized by its Saami (or Sami) population, the indigenous minority in the region also called the Lapps. Today there are about 133,000 Samis in the world, and are said to be the oldest group of people in Northern Europe with evidence of their presence in the area dating from between 11,000 to 6000 years until today. Today the Saami people claim their right to the status of indigenous people of the north.

The language of the Lapps, Sami, is of Uralic origin and is divided into several dialects depending on the región. The biggest economical activities of the Sami people through their history have been fishing and hunting of wild reindeer. Today only 10% of the Sami are dedicated to reindeer husbandry, but this specialized industry of the north remains as a significant part of Lapland’s culture. The Lapps are also skilled manufacturers and nowadays many earn their living with tourism. The gorgeus landscapes of Lapland are probably at its best in winter, a perfect season for snow sports, although during the coldest winter months, temperatures can drop to -58 degrees Fahrenheit because of the extremely polar situation of the area; most of Lapland is located above the Arctic Circle.

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Lapland is one of the most exotic travel destinations worldwide, if only to visit it’s beautiful Nordic landscapes, see the midnight sun or the lights of the aurora borealis, go fly fishing in it’s famous and turbulent rivers, or to see their forest hills in winter. In addition, Lapland has much to offer also for those who are looking for Nordic folk customs and arts with the exciting Sami- singing called Yoik, the beautiful traditional costumes of the Lapps, or the magical popular rites of the Sami, without forgetting the delicious reindeer and salmon meals with the power to entice any traveler.

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