Instead of having a 21st birthday party we have offered our son a trip of his choice with the rest of the family: me, my husband, our other son, aged 22, and our 15-year-old daughter. Our son has asked to visit the Icehotel in Sweden and watch the northern lights.

Please can you advise on the best time of year to witness the lights, bearing in mind that we will have to travel during school holidays. We plan to be away for a week but anticipate staying in the Icehotel for only one night — I believe it is quite expensive and obviously very cold.

My son, a snowboarder, other son and husband (skiers) would like to participate in some adventure sports while my daughter and I would prefer less active amusements. Gwen Roberts, via e-mail

Times Travel Doctor responds: One of the best times to see the northern lights is the period surrounding a new Moon, and two dates that may coincide with your daughter’s school holidays are December 16 and February 14.

Specialised Tours (01342 712785, www.specialisedtours.com ) has a six-day tour that starts in Tromsø, the Norwegian gateway to the Arctic, and includes a night in the Icehotel in Sweden as well as a journey by bus and train across the Arctic wilderness. There are lots of optional activities including husky safaris, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

There is also a good chance of seeing the northern lights (this can never be guaranteed). The basic tour price starts at £1,145pp, including flights, thermal clothing and boots for use at the Icehotel.

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