What’s your ultimate travel experience from Singapore? For some, it’s a spiritual retreat or a majestic mountain hike; for others, it’s over-the-top luxurious stays and glamping in the African safaris. But for many (dare we say most?), seeing the ethereal Northern Lights – also known as Aurora Borealis – is a bucket list topper. If you haven’t heard yet, the spectacular phenomena is set to appear less frequently over the next decade – so get booking your trip asap. Here’s a guide to the best places in the world to witness the celestial disco.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Leave the dazzling Reykjavík city lights behind and set sail on a hunt for the mystical Northern lights. On board a cruise to the North-Atlantic Ocean, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of dancing aurora lights to the gentle lull of the ocean’s waves. Alternatively, hop on the Amphibian Boat Tour to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (250km from Reykavik), where you’ll witness Mother Nature’s glorious light show amongst the massive icebergs (and maybe even chance upon a couple of friendly seals). The Aurora season usually takes place between the winter months of October to March.
Abisko, Sweden
Fancy witnessing the world’s most spectacular celestial wonder with a side of lobster (and wine)? Take a scenic twenty minute chairlift (while snuggled up in cosy blankets) up Mount Nuolja to the Aurora Sky Station, and soak in panoramic views of the starry skies and tranquil Abisko National Park. Tuck into a four-course Nordic dinner as you watch the beautiful lights, before going on a guided tour along the viewing platform. Be sure to make a table reservation beforehand as tickets sell out fast.
A slider with the ID of 568 doesn't exist.Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
Take your Northern Lights hunt up a few adventurous notches with a dog sled expedition in Kangerlussuaq. Experience the rugged landscape of Greenland’s arctic wilderness on a dog sled trip amongst the snow-capped mountains; days will be spent sightseeing, chopping ice and cooking while the nights will be spent in a warm cabin or tent just below the brilliant Northern Lights. In Greenland, the Aurora Borealis occurs all year round.
Tromsø, Norway
If bustling city vacays are more your thing, take a trip to Tromsø. Thanks to its location in the middle of the Northern Lights Oval, the lights are pretty visible from most places, including the city. Tromsø combines the best of two experiences for city dwellers; despite its locale in the heart of the Arctic wilderness (reindeer sledding and whale-watching are only short rides away), the city is teeming with cultural events, concerts and nightlife spots.
Kakslauttanen, Finnish Lapland
In Finnish Lapland, the Northern lights are visible for most of the year (roughly 200 nights) at various locations in the wilderness, including the tiny village of Kakslauttanen. But if waiting for the gorgeous light display in the cold sounds less than appealing to you, picture marvelling at the dreamy sight from the comforts of a warm, plush bed. At Finland’s Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, you can enjoy sensational views of the stunning light show from a cosy glass igloo (which also includes toilets and access to saunas and showers).
Yukon, Canada
Heads up, serial roadtrippers. With its many well-maintained highways, quaint stops and campgrounds, Yukon is a self-drive paradise. If you’ve got the chops (and know-how) to be an independent Northern Lights hunter, book a RV and kick off your Aurora-gazing trip at Whitehorse, Yukon’s capital. As the gateway to Canada’s Northern wilderness, Whitehorse is a great starting point to other stunning viewing spots, including the mountainous Kluane National Park and the sand dunes in Carcross Desert.
Alaska, United States
Two things are commonly experienced when chasing the Northern Lights: cold and fatigue. But at Chena Hot Springs Resort in Fairbanks, none of them are a concern. Sink into the soothing mineral waters of the natural hot springs as you take in the entrancing Aurora lights just above. Chena’s obscure location spells zero light pollution, resulting in awe-inducing, unfiltered views of the light displays. Tip: After spending the day exploring the resort’s majestic surroundings, take a quick nap before heading to the springs at 10pm.