Our friend Mrs Fink has this knack of spotting fantastic obscure destinations on the Internet and sends us links of exotic places to drool over. Some time ago it was a link to outdoor glass igloos sat in a field of snow and ice surrounded by a forest that looked like it had fallen straight out of a Christmas card scene. Well, that got us pondering….to go visit the northern lights would be a once in a lifetime trip. Then she spotted the Abisko Sky Station where you go up an open chair lift in -30 degree temperatures and sleep at the top of a mountain in a wooden lodge with no electricity or running water and a sleeping bag, just for a clear view of the northern lights. We have been hooked on the idea for a while, but it’s time to make it happen.

One slight challenge though- these two options are in different countries, Sweden for the Sky station and Finland for the glass igloos. And how do you choose between them??

The other challenge is of course that I HATE THE COLD! Thermals def required.

So, we are flipping coins on both options. Option 1 is Sweden, stay at the Sky Station one night and then 2 or three nights at the largest Ice Hotel, one night in an ice room at -5 all night with lots of excursions such as dog sledging, reindeer sleigh rides, cross country skiing( or falling if you are me!) and snowmobiles! Option 2 is Finland for a night in a glass igloo, then 2 or three nights in warm lodges with plenty of the same trips. Decisions decisions.

The picture is from last years Ice Hotel Ice bar where everything including the glasses you drink from is made of ice.

Menu items in both locations apparently include reindeer steaks, hare and other local delicacies. Snow angels are a must, but preferably apparently naked after a hot hot sauna.

I’m in planning geek mode already. This will be organised for Mr Foggs birthday in Jan.

I think we will put house buying stuff on hold. Holidays is the way to go…

And to get in practice for cold weather…..we are planning a week in Ireland later this year. I’m sure The Folks will be delighted to entertain Mr Fogg and I for a week!! Better start the wine stock now.

[Posted from Mrs Foggs super cool iphone]