Last winter visitors to the Northern Lights were treated to spectacular Aurora displays and similar levels are predicted this coming winter.

To prepare travellers for the heightened demand predicted, tour operator Magnetic North offers the following top ten tips to best experience the world’s greatest light show this autumn and winter..!

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1. Book early

Magnetic North is already busy taking bookings for winter 2012/13 and 2013/14 – the earliest ever. To avoid disappointment, start thinking about your trip now and you’ll have access to the best range of accommodation, flight and activity options.

2. Be flexible with your travel dates

Quite often during the so-called ’shoulder seasons’, (September to November and March through April) you’ll have fantastic displays of the Northern Lights, and few people around. So if you’re looking for a quiet experience, particularly in Northern Scandinavia, we recommend travelling in these months. Some clients have even made the most of cheaper airfares and made two short trips at the beginning and end of the season.

3. Choose your guides carefully

As the demand to search for the Northern Lights has increased, so have the number of guides operating in the region. When you take a trip to search for the Aurora, be careful who you choose. Trust the experts – Magnetic North offers personalised advice and knows all the guides worth working with throughout Scandinavia.

4. Fly direct

New charter flights to the Lofoten Islands in Northern Norway mean that the Northern Lights are just a short journey from London Gatwick. More dates have been added this season. Magnetic North can provide all the information you need.

5. Take the train

The journey is as important as the destination. Why not book a tailored package with train travel right up past the Arctic Circle? Whether it’s Sweden, Norway or Finland, Magnetic North can create an epic journey for you passing the most spectacular wintry scenes.

6. Set sail with the Arctic Spa Boat

Board the Spa Boat at Tromsø Harbour for an evening of pampering and sky gazing. Sit back in the sauna or sink into the hot tub on deck where you’ll have a privileged position to view the Aurora. Or if the Aurora won’t come to you, hoist the anchor and set sail into the fjords while enjoying a gourmet meal prepared by your onboard chef.

7. Go horseback riding into the wilderness

Gallop through the Arctic wilderness on horseback searching for the Northern Lights. Starting at one of North Norway’s organic farms, the Icelandic horses are the perfect means for Aurora chasing at night.

8. Choose family run accommodation

Particularly in Northern Finland, our guests have raved about their holidays at family run hotels as opposed to large themed resorts. They’ve enjoyed the small group experience, welcoming hosts and delicious local food.

9. Don’t get cold

Many travellers forget vital layers of clothing when venturing out in the Arctic. Pack your woollen socks and don’t get caught out. Magnetic North provides guidance for its clients to help them arrive prepared.

10. Meet the locals

A holiday to the North isn’t complete without getting to know the local people. It really makes a trip worthwhile and helps to support local economies.

A huge range of Northern Lights experiences can be booked through Magnetic North Travel as part of a tailor made programme. Visit Magnetic North Travel online at www.magneticnorthtravel.com