Most people picture Abisko in the deep of winter with snow underfoot, auroras overhead, guests bundled up with cameras in hand. But what you might not picture is the part that makes all of that possible: a year-round admin team working behind the scenes to ensure your trip runs seamlessly, no matter when you book.
We’re proud to be the only activity tour company in Abisko with a full admin team working year-round. That’s five people, including our founders, Chad and Linnea, who keep the lights on (pun fully intended) even when the midnight sun has replaced the Northern Lights.
While most tour companies slow to a stop in the off-season, we’re still here. We’re answering your questions in April, fine-tuning itineraries in August, and double-checking bookings on a Sunday morning in December. We’re working through public holidays and summer vacations so that when you step off the train or plane, every detail is already in place.
For us, it’s not just about running tours but rather about crafting an experience. That means months of preparation and coordination before you even arrive. By the time you’re watching the aurora swirl overhead, we’ve already spent hours, days, and weeks making sure nothing gets in the way of that moment.
So while our guides get the spotlight (and rightfully so), the admin team is always there in the wings; coffee in hand and spreadsheets at the ready, quietly working to make sure your trip is every bit as magical as you imagined.
Why This Matters
In a place as remote as Abisko, small details can make a big difference. Trains run on limited schedules, the weather changes faster than you can say “merino wool,” and winter daylight is precious. Having a full-time team in place year-round means we can anticipate challenges, adapt quickly, and give you the smoothest, most stress-free experience possible.
It also means you’re never waiting weeks for a reply or have to wonder if your booking vanished into the Arctic void. We’re here every day, ready to help. From the moment you start planning until long after you’ve returned home, there’s a dedicated team making sure your journey is seamless, safe, and unforgettable.
For us, “small but mighty” isn’t just a catchphrase. It’s how we’ve built a reputation for excellence that keeps guests coming back, season after season. This is especially outlined in our blog: Still Personal, Still Passionate: Even After 1,000+ Five-Star Reviews.
Meet the Year-Round Team –
Chad Blakley – Co-Founder, Hiring Manager & Big-Picture Visionary
An American whose life changed after seeing his first aurora in Abisko, Chad traded wedding photography for the wonder of the Arctic night sky. When he’s not photographing the aurora, he’s shaping the future of Lights Over Lapland, building partnerships, and dreaming up new adventures for our guests.
Linnea Blakley – Co-Founder, CEO & Operational Powerhouse
Linnea fell in love with Abisko’s wild beauty in 2008 and never looked back. With a background in media production, she keeps the business running like clockwork. Handling bookings, web design, and coordination all while still finding time to connect with guests from all over the globe.
Joel Svensson – General Manager & Logistics Wizard
From Sweden’s High Coast to the Arctic, Joel’s passion for nature and travel shines in everything he does. He helps guests plan their dream trip and loves sharing stories about seeing snow and auroras for the first time. As a dog sledding enthusiast (and proud Alaskan Husky owner), Joel’s goal is simple: to ensure every guest’s experience is exceptional from start to finish.
Rachel Davis – Bookings, Administration & Adventure Enthusiast
If you’ve emailed us, you’ve probably heard from Rachel. She has spent more winters in Abisko than she can count and prefers a snow-dusted forest to a tropical beach any day. Her expertise on the team is unmatched and she loves sharing her deep knowledge of the arctic, and everything that comes with it, with all our guests. When she’s not helping guests, she’s hiking, travelling, and taking every opportunity to be outdoors in nature.
Jeanette Earles – Bookings, Administration & Communications Guru
Born in northern Sweden but seasoned by years abroad, Jeanette brings a fresh appreciation for the auroras and the thrill of travel. She’s the friendly voice in your inbox, the creative mind behind our social media, and the one who makes sure you feel prepared and excited for your Abisko adventure.
At Lights Over Lapland, we’re more than just a tour company. We’re your planners, problem-solvers, and behind-the-scenes champions. We may be a small team, but together we make big things happen. And whether you’re here for the dog sledding, the hikes, or that first breathtaking glimpse of the Northern Lights, we’ll be working quietly in the background to make sure it’s nothing short of unforgettable.
