TUI has announced the cancellation of its initial trips to the newly introduced ‘alternative Lapland’ destination, Arctic Lakeland. The cancellations arise due to unseasonable weather, including a significant lack of snowfall. The two affected trips were scheduled for December 3 and December 7, 2025.
Details Surrounding the Cancellations
The Arctic Lakeland packages were designed as a unique Christmas experience. They included three- and four-night stays in Finland, with direct flights from Manchester Airport to Kajaani. The packages went on sale in March but are located approximately 350 kilometers south of Finnish Lapland, where weather conditions remain milder, often with temperatures around 1°C.
Customer Experience
- Passengers were notified about monitoring the weather in the days leading to their departure.
- Two days prior to the first scheduled departure, customers were informed that their trips had been canceled due to insufficient snow.
- Refund options included the ability to rebook for the winter or next season without added costs, switch to another TUI holiday, or opt for a full refund.
- As a goodwill measure, customers received a £100 voucher for future holidays.
One customer shared that they received multiple emails about the status of their trip. Initially, they were informed of possible weather issues, followed by the cancellation notice that allowed for alternative arrangements.
Community Concerns
The new Arctic Lakeland initiative raised concerns among travelers and locals alike. Some customers confused ‘Arctic Lakeland’ with traditional ‘Lapland’ due to its listing within TUI’s Lapland program. Travel agents expressed mixed feelings about the product, with some hesitant to sell due to the belief it didn’t provide the full Lapland experience.
Industry Insights
Ashleigh Elliott, a Lapland specialist, mentioned that she avoided booking customers in southern resorts before December 7 due to snow uncertainties. She successfully found alternatives for her clients affected by the cancellations. This situation emphasizes the need for travelers to be informed about the likelihood of snow, especially for winter trips.
TUI’s decision reflects their commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction and a quality experience, despite the challenges posed by the current weather conditions in Arctic Lakeland.
