This phenomenon occurs at a height of 100km and takes the form of a curtain fluttering in the wind, or points of light emitting from a single spot. A fascinating spectacle, caused by electrical impulses entering the atmosphere from the sun and being guided by magnetic fields. The Northern Lights appear all year round but can only be observed under a clear, dark night sky. In practice this means that they are most impressive in the autumn months, but they can also be seen in March and they ‘disappear’ in the light summer nights.

Above the Arctic Circle the sun never fully sets in summer. However, because of mountains etc the midnight sun cannot always be seen. Some example cities where the midnight sun may in clear weather be seen are:

Smoking is not permitted on motorcoaches, majority of bars and restaurants, indoors in public buildings and places open to the public, nor other places of work. Hotels, bars and restaurants may offer smoking rooms and areas for customers.

Travellers Cheques are usually accepted in Scandinavia.

Tipping is not as widespread in Scandinavia and Finalnd as in the rest of Europe. Service charge is automatically included in most hotel and restaurant bills. Taxi drivers are not tipped and porters and coatroom attendants often charge fixed fees. In Russia tipping has become more and more popular in restaurants. A suitable amount is 10-15% depending on the service received. In Estonia service charge is not normally included into prices and tipping according to the service received is recommended.

Travel light during the summer and bring good comfortable walking shoes for touring and sightseeing, especially for all those cobbled streets! We suggest layers of clothing rather than heavy coats since no-one can predict the weather. If visiting above the Arctic Circle bring that extra jumper, snow jacket and raincoat for warmth just in case.

Please note that public transport schedules will be disrupted and most shops, museums and services will not operate on Public and National Day Holidays.

Hotels can assist in arranging the service of a doctor or chemist. If you are currently on prescribed medication sufficient supplies should be carried to last the duration of your journey. It may not be possible to replace prescriptions written outside of Scandinavia.

Visa, American Express, Mastercard, Eurocard and Diners Club are generally accepted.

Each country has its own currency.

The monetary unit in Denmark, Sweden and Norway is
one krone = 100 øre.
In Finland one Euro dollar = 100 Euro cents.
In Russia one Ruble = 100 Kopecks.
In Estonia one Kroon = 100 Senti.
In Lithuania one Litas = 100 Centas.
In Latvia one Lat = 100 Santims.
In Unraine one Hryvnya = 100 Kopiyok.
In Poland one Zloty = 100 Groszy.

The electric current across Scandinavia is 220V AC. Roundended two-pronged continental points are used. Most hotelshave a limited supply of adaptors so we would recommend you take your own adaptor with you. The electricity current in Russia is the same as Scandinavia. The electricity sockets are mainly standard European-size for double round-pin plugs hence appliances from Australia and New Zealand will need adaptors. The wisest thing is to purchase the adaptor in one’s country as finding a suitable one from Russia might be difficult.

Shore excursions and sightseeing tours are available for additional cost, except where shown to be part of a ‘Tour Inclusion’.

We strongly recommend that at the time of booking you purchase a comprehensive insurance policy of your choice.

Each country has its own official language, however the great majority of people speak English.

International Driving Permits are required or recommended
for travellers who wish to drive in some countries. Failure to
be in possession of a valid permit together with a current
drivers’ licence may preclude the use of a motor vehicle,
jeopardise insurance claims, or cause a legally punishable
offence in some countries.

Bentours strongly suggest that travellers intending to drive
in foreign countries contact the automobile association
in the country where their licence was issued prior to
departure. International Driving Permits cannot be issued
outside the country where the original licence was
issued.