Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Tromsø with Olivia

A Day of Arctic Dreams

Today was everything I imagined when planning this trip to Tromsø. It was a day filled with exhilarating adventure, heartwarming moments, and the kind of natural beauty that leaves you speechless. From the rush of dog sledding through the Arctic wilderness to the serene hunt for the elusive Northern Lights, it was a day I'll treasure forever.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Famiglia, a charming Italian restaurant right in the heart of Tromsø. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the adventures ahead. Olivia and I shared a delicious plate of pasta, reminiscing about our time in Kimberley and how different this landscape is from the dusty diamond mines of my childhood. It's funny how life takes you to the most unexpected places. After breakfast, we bundled up in our warmest gear and headed to the Tromsø Wilderness Center - Dog sledding for our dog sledding adventure.


Experience the thrill of dog sledding at Tromso Wilderness Center, where adventure meets stunning Arctic landscapes in Kvaløya, Norway.
The moment we arrived, we were greeted by the enthusiastic barks and howls of the huskies, each one eager to hit the trail. The energy was infectious! I felt like a kid again, filled with excitement and anticipation. We were given a quick but thorough lesson on how to handle the sleds, and then we were off. Olivia and I took turns mushing, the crisp Arctic air stinging our faces as we sped through the snow-covered landscape. The dogs were incredible, powerful and full of energy, their paws padding rhythmically against the snow. It was an experience that truly connected us with nature, a feeling of freedom and exhilaration I won't soon forget.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After the exhilarating dog sledding experience, we enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at Lotus Mat og vinhus. This Chinese restaurant offered stunning views of the harbor. We savored the delicious Chicken Gong Bao and dim sum, while enjoying the cozy ambiance and friendly service. The flavors were a delightful contrast to the Norwegian cuisine we'd been enjoying, a little taste of home away from home. I made a mental note to try their sushi next time, especially after hearing how accommodating they are with customizing orders.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured back out into the Arctic landscape in search of the Northern Lights. We drove to a dark spot for Aurora recommended by our guide, far away from the city lights, where the sky was clear and vast.


Experience the magical Northern Lights in Tromsø, Norway, a breathtaking dark spot perfect for unforgettable aurora viewing.
As darkness fell, we waited patiently, wrapped in blankets and sipping hot chocolate. The anticipation was palpable.

And then, it happened. A faint green glow appeared on the horizon, slowly dancing and swirling across the sky. It was the Aurora Borealis, in all its ethereal glory. I was completely mesmerized, as if the sky was putting on a private performance just for us. Olivia and I stood there, hand in hand, in awe of the sheer beauty and magic of nature. It was a moment that transcended words, a memory etched forever in our hearts.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a fine dining experience at Biffhuset Skarven. This restaurant, located right on the harbor, is known for its adventurous dishes and cozy atmosphere. I opted for the grilled sirloin of reindeer, while Olivia chose the clipfish of pollock. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, showcasing the unique flavors of the Arctic. The attentive service and the restaurant's warm ambiance made it a perfect end to a perfect day.

To cap off the evening, we headed to Rorbua Pub, a cozy and rustic spot known for its traditional Norwegian beer and live music.


Experience the warmth of Norwegian hospitality at Rorbua Pub, Tromsø's charming gastropub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
We enjoyed a couple of pints of Mack beer, soaking in the lively atmosphere and chatting with some locals. The pub's interior, reminiscent of a fisherman's cottage, added to its charm and authenticity. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the incredible day we had experienced.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the Arctic wonders of Tromsø with Olivia. It's a trip that has challenged us, inspired us, and brought us closer together. And as we prepare for our final day tomorrow, I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us long after we've left this magical place.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Spiritinthesky Northern Lights & Fjord tours and Telegrafbukta. I'm particularly excited about the Northern Lights tour, hoping for one last glimpse of the Aurora before we head back to Kelowna. We'll also grab breakfast at Burgr, lunch at Tang's restaurant AS, and dinner at Raketten Bar & Pølse, making sure to savor every last moment of our culinary journey through Tromsø.

Before drifting off to sleep, I can't help but think about the Arctic Pride festival that takes place annually in Tromsø. It's a celebration of diversity and inclusivity, something that resonates deeply with my own values and experiences growing up in South Africa. I'm glad to see that Tromsø embraces and celebrates its LGBTQ+ community, creating a welcoming and accepting environment for all.

Until tomorrow, good night from Tromsø!