Sonja Ikonen

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"As a sports and outdoor fan, my trips most often include either surfing, skiing, hiking in the mountains or practising yoga (and good FOOD!). My goal is to travel slow and sustainably allowing me to to get to know the local people and their lifestyle, as well as respecting the nature and local culture.

As an active traveller, I have done many independent trips, as well participated in many tours, retreats and courses around the world. I have also worked for several years in the travelling business, so planning perfect holidays for outdoor lovers is definitely my calling.

Places: Finland; Helsinki, Saimaa region, Lapland, northern Norway, northern Sweden, Portugal coastline

Activities: Active holidays; Nordic skiing, hiking, cycling, snowshoeing, northern lights, mindfulness and meditation, custom tours, tailored holidays
"

How did you get involved in travel?

"Ever since I remember I have loved playing in nature. I grew up in the Finnish lakeside region "Saimaa" where I was lucky to have hobbies as cross-country skiing, orienteering, and running ever since I was able to stand on my own feet (and skis). Our active family used to travel with a camper van around Nordic countries and remember always loving the feeling of spending time on the road and in new places.

Ever since I was able to travel by myself I have explored new locations as often as possible. These days I am living my dream life between Portugal and Finland, working remotely and being able to combine the best parts of both amazing outdoor countries."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Will never forget the Easter ski touring trip in Ylläs area 2014. Seven days of wandering around the beautiful fell, sleeping in wilderness huts and disconnecting from the outside world was really a once in a lifetime experience!"