Growing up, Ian spent many of his summers holidaying around Europe and the USA, embedding his enthusiasm for travel from a young age. However, it was the years spent studying geography at university that surely ignited Ian's wanderlust. Since the conclusion of his studies, Ian has spent a year travelling throughout New Zealand, as well as living and working abroad in Europe, including in Kalmar, on the east coast of Sweden, and multiple ski seasons in the French Alps.

Particularly in more recent years, Ian has explored Scandinavia and the wider Nordic region extensively, both for work and leisure – and with this wealth of first-hand experience, he has developed a high level of expertise in what this remarkable part of the world has to offer. Personal highlights include trips to the Norwegian fjords, Dalarna in central Sweden, and a full circumnavigation of Iceland on an expedition cruise.

Indeed, Ian’s inclination to head north on his travels has seen him visit Finland in each of the last four winters. So, whether you’re seeking advice on the best places to see the Northern Lights or which activities and accommodation to include on a trip to Lapland, Ian is perfectly placed to provide specialist insights and recommendations. And, as an avid foodie with previous experience as a chef, wherever he travels, Ian always places the most unique food and wine experiences at the top of the agenda. 

Favourite country

Norway

Top recommendation

Don't be afraid to venture off the beaten track – some of my most memorable and rewarding Nordic travel experiences have come in lesser-known regions, such as Iceland's far north, Arctic Lakeland in Finland, and Dalarna in Sweden.

Unforgettable moment

RIB safari from Balestrand in the Norwegian fjords

Ask me about

• Hunting the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland
• Seeing puffins up close on the east coast of Iceland
• Experiencing a 15-course tasting menu in Copenhagen
• Snowmobiling over frozen lakes in Finnish Lapland
• Living and working in Kalmar on the east coast of Sweden