Tommy is a 22-year-old student from London whose friend has invited him to the Northern Lights Route in Lapland. Follow Tommy's journey as he and the Lappish nature learn about each other.

Tommy: “I really needed a break from my busy everyday life. I’m glad that Aaro suggested the NLR. We've just begun our journey and he’s making a fire now – being from the area originally, he’s better at these things than I am. I look at the river flowing past and it seems like it's carrying my worries away with its stream. There's a gentle breeze on my face. I hope this will be a good journey."

Tornio River: “It’s Aaro! Haven’t seen him in a while. How exciting! But who’s that with him? Never seen that one before. He’s looking at me, I should do a little splash on the rocks to show him what I can do. Did you see that? I bet you did. You're smiling a bit now! It’s funny how times change but people's expressions - when I come to play with them - do not. Enjoy the journey!"

Tommy and Aaro have reached Pallas on their journey and decide to stay for the night.

Tommy: “We left our luggage at the Pallas hotel and had a wonderful Lappish meal right after. Aaro told me about the history of the place and it fascinates me how much the area has gone through yet how beautiful it is. We’re now out exploring Pallas, hiking to the peak of Taivaskero. Surrounded by the breathtaking views, I finally remember to breathe mindfully. The lovely scent of nature helps me relax."

Pallas Fell: “Ah, I notice that Aaro has brought a new friend with him today. You may think that I am part of your story, but you are actually part of mine. I have seen Pallas in ruins and in bloom. Both I and the people here are resilient enough to stand our ground through the wars and renovations. We have sisu, as the locals say. I wonder if you have some of it in you, too.”

Tommy and Aaro meet new friends and Tommy's feelings about the area become clearer.

Tommy:"We're having a coffee break with the Swedish and Norwegian travellers we met on our hike. I've quickly learned the importance of coffee here. And while I do miss the tea from back home, there’s something special about fresh campfire coffee. I feel recharged chatting with the others and listening to their stories. I think I’ve found a home away from home."

Lappish forest: “Following travellers has always a pleasant pastime for me. You believe you have changed but here you sit in my forest, performing the same rituals as the generations before you. I remember back in the day; Sámi used to measure distances in the number of coffee breaks they took during a journey. You’re all more similar than you think."