Arrival in Lapland

Flew north of the arctic circle today to Ivalo, Finland to visit with the Samis. We were expecting weather to get colder, but in fact thanks to clear sky all day, temp was actually warmer than the south, somewhere in the 60's. Hoping for the same tomorrow when we visit Sami museum and homes of Samis. 

We walked this small town, which is the hub for this area with gas stations and grocery stores to supply the region. Next closest town of any size is 180 miles away. Told that the Samis get around the country side on Atv's and snowmobiles. The latter are used so much, that most have to be replaced every year. Many lakes and rivers in the area, so boating and camping. Ig here. While walked the town today, Sunday, saw many RV's driving thru town. 

At one time, area was also big in panning for gold as one of the pics below depicts. Sat on a pub's deck for awhile in sun drinking beer and chatting with some of our group. Have decided that since beer in Finland is cheaper than Norway, will pick up some for use while on ship. 

Learned today that there are no private schools. Children don't start until 7 years of age and aren't given grades until 6th grade. As long as grades are acceptable, education can continue through college. Having said that, vocational programs are almost 50% of classes offered. 

The other pic below depicts those who were involved in WWII. The building in the other pic is a sauna, which are everywhere here including in the hotel. The process is to sit in heat and then either jump in cold tub or river. They are known to even cut holes in ice to accommodate this.