How do you differ from other regions in Lapland?
Marit Hodanger: Authenticity and the combination of sea and snow are our strengths. On the snow side, we offer all the traditional activities, and on the sea side, giant crab fishing, the Coastal Express and its stopovers on land, the Lofoten Islands and the killer whale safari.
What areas of development are you looking at?
M. H.: We want to focus our efforts on the MICE sector, which we have neglected somewhat in recent years. We also want to focus on the values of ecotourism, which have long been a concern for us, but which are now coming to the fore. Of course, we're also looking to improve our offer... but with the right balance to avoid plunging into mass tourism. Short breaks are a trend that we need to capitalise on, as we have the advantage of being the closest to Paris.
What do the French appreciate about your region?
M. H. : They particularly like the northern areas of Finnmark, because they can be sure of not coming face to face with their neighbour! And it's an exotic experience that they enjoy in an unspoilt and perfectly accessible natural environment.
What about air links?
M. H. : Airlines such as SAS, Norwich Union and Air France, as well as many low-cost carriers such as Sterling Airways, operate direct flights between Paris and Oslo and Nice and Oslo, but not yet direct flights to Lapland.
