See the Real Santa in Lapland, Finland

The northernmost part of Finland is called Lapland and is part of the Arctic Circle. As such, it is rich in the culture of Jul, or Christmas. Many of the towns in Lapland have December-centric themes for that very reason. Not only can you find plenty of reindeer in their natural habitat, you can wallow in wonderful Scandinavian foods and treats.

Located in the far north end of the country, you will need to bring plenty of warm winter clothing if you plan to visit Lapland. Snow will no doubt greet you the majority of the year. No worries though. If you get too cold and have seen all you wish to see here, you can simply jump on a train to the southern end of Finland and warm up in Helsinki.

Founded in 1229, Turku is the oldest city in Finland. Turku is also known as Christmas City. This is where the Scandinavian Santa resides when he is not off delivering the presents of the world on Christmas Eve. This is a city rife with history, culture, and lots of ooooh and ahhhh moments.

Beginning in the first week of December, Santa (Joulupukki ) comes down off his high hill of Korvatunturi and makes the rounds of the various villages to kick off the season with tales of festivals past and future. Children of Finland are given Advent Calendars, which contain various surprises hidden behind the doors of each day on the calendar. They are allowed to open them on their respective days and claim their treat.

One place you will want to see is Turku Castle, which dates from the 14^th Century and is a must see. It is very large, very impressive, and very romantic. This castle is host to a display of holiday place settings throughout the years since forks and napkins were introduced in the 16^th century.

Not into history? Visit Rovaniemi, the Capitol of Lapland, and the spot where rock group Lordi was given a plot of land andSampo Square was renamed the Lordi Square. In case you haven't kept up to date on the Scandinavian rock scene, Lordi were the winners of the 2006 EuroVision competition. They're the ones all dressed up like various monsters.

Right by Rovaneimi is Santa Clause Village... complete with airstrip, restaurants, Jolly Ol' St. Nick, gift shops, hotels, and much more. Oh yes. They have made it very easy for you here. The nice thing is that prices are not outrageously unaffordable for the traveling family on a budget.

In nearby Suomi, you can relive your childhood at Santa Park by visiting Santa's magical grotto. This is a recreation of Santa's 'actual' home in Korvatunturi. Lots of great souvenirs are available here, too, of course.

Riisipuuro (Rice Porridge)

1 quart water
1 1/2 c. rice (long-cooking, "pudding rice" if available)
3 c. milk
1/2 tsp salt

Place the rice in hot water, bring to boil and let simmer. Add milk and bring to boil, then let simmer till very soft and sticky, at least 40 minutes. Stir often to avoid scorching. Add salt. Serve either with luumukiisseli or sugar, cinnamon and milk.