It’s not common to have a business trip in winter, especially in February, so I didn’t want to miss this chance to see if I could check off two things from my travel bucket list. And I did!

• Snowfall
• Aurora Borealis

Abisko turned out to be the most affordable option I could find. Initially, I considered extending my trip to Narvik, Norway, to experience the Arctic Circle train. However, Abisko seemed like a better choice, allowing me to relax in one place—being lazy with my thoughts.

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Accommodation: STF Abisko Turiststation

I chose STF Abisko Turiststation because it’s conveniently located just 40 meters from the train station, and bus services also pick up and drop off directly at the hotel.

They collaborate with various tour operators, offering a wide range of activities and experiences. You can book through website in advance or book when you arrive.

The hotel also has:

• A restaurant, a bistro & a souvenir shop.
• Free Sauna services.
• Cozy corners perfect for reading.
• Lunch buffet for around 160 SEK per person.

The hotel is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes—every corner is stunning.

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My Itinerary

Since some activities are not available daily, I booked them in advance to mix and match my schedule properly.

Friday, February 14, 2025

• 17:09 – Depart from Älmhult

Saturday, February 15, 2025

• 16:49 – Arrive at Abisko Turiststation

Sunday, February 16, 2025

• 09:00 – 11:30 – Arctic Ice Fishing
• 17:30 – 01:00 – Aurora Sky Station Northern Lights Dinner

Monday, February 17, 2025

• 10:30 – 14:00: Hike in Abisko National Park
• 20:15 – 00:00 – Midnight Abisko Aurora Chase

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

• 09:00 – 16:00 – Visit the Sami & Reindeer in Jukkasjärvi
• 16:00 – 17:00 – Naturum Abisko (Only open Tue/Thu/Sat from 2 PM – 5 PM, not sure if I can make it)
• 19:00 – 23:00 – Northern Lights Hike (still considering)

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

• 11:00 – 12:45 – Bus transfer from Abisko to Kiruna

Thursday, February 20, 2025

• 10:30 – Flight departure from Kiruna

Friday, February 21, 2025

• 12:55 – Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

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Train Journey: Älmhult to Abisko Turiststation

• 17:09 – 20:36 – Älmhult → Stockholm Central (SJ, Train 544)
• 21:55 – 10:51 – Stockholm Central → Boden C (SJ, Train 92)
• 11:14 – 16:49 – Boden C → Abisko Turiststation (SJ, Train 96, and no WIFI on this train)

It was a very long train ride—even longer than my flight from Vietnam to Copenhagen :”>

Fortunately, I met kind people along the way. When I boarded my first train, the luggage area was full, but a man traveling with his family kindly rearranged the space so I could fit my suitcase. Throughout my journey, different people offered help at various stations.

My luggage was huge, packed with winter clothes, and I was nervous about getting on and off the train, especially after having a few accidents in the past—the worst being in Lisbon, Portugal. However, the trains on this trip stopped long enough, so I could take my time handling my luggage.

I even gave up my window seat for a family of three. Though I missed my favorite view, seeing kids’ reading, playing and families spending quality time together was heartwarming.

I also noticed a mom knitting on the train, which reminded me of a friend I met in Porto. I once told her I’d start knitting when I returned to Vietnam, but I never did. After this trip, I’ll finally start—but with crochet first since it’s easier! Haha.

***

Notes for Next Time

• Flying would be a better option for me (but train was a good experience), and I could land in Kiruna and take a bus or train from there.
• The bus schedule between Kiruna and the airport is fixed with limited options, so it’s best to check in advance. Otherwise, a taxi is needed, but it’s extremely expensive.
• I will stay in STF Abisko Turiststation again, and they have a kitchen so good to cook some meals.
• Complete some hiking routes in Abisko National Parks.

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Thank You for Reading!