Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Tromsø with Olivia

A Day of Arctic Exploration

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Tromsø, a city that hums with Arctic energy. From exploring its unique marine life to delving into the history of polar expeditions and enjoying the local cuisine, it was a day packed with unforgettable experiences. The kind of day that makes you feel truly connected to a place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mathallen Tromsø. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with some authentic Northern Norwegian fare. I opted for the *Sild fra Senja & Egg*, an egg salad with herring from Senja, which was a delightful explosion of flavors. Olivia chose the reindeer dish, which she said was fabulous and super soft. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I made sure to note the location as a spot to buy some local produce later in the trip.


Discover the finest Norwegian cuisine at Mathallen Tromsø, where local flavors meet culinary artistry in a vibrant setting.

With our bellies full, we set off to Polaria, a striking building that houses the world's northernmost aquarium. The architecture itself is quite captivating, resembling ice floes pushed up onto land. Inside, we were immediately drawn to the seals. Polaria houses harbor seals and bearded seals. We watched them frolic and play in their pool, their playful antics bringing smiles to our faces. It’s hard not to be captivated by these creatures, their intelligence and adaptability shining through. We also caught one of the training sessions, which was both entertaining and educational. The trainers clearly have a deep connection with the seals, and their passion for these animals was infectious.


Explore the Arctic marine life at Polaria Aquarium, Tromsø's unique destination for family-friendly education and entertainment.

The Arctic is a place that demands respect, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world.

After Polaria, we ventured to The Polar Museum, housed in a historic customs warehouse dating back to 1830. This museum tells the stories of Tromsø's rich polar history, from early trapping and hunting expeditions to the daring voyages of famous explorers like Nansen and Amundsen. As someone who grew up in South Africa, I've always been fascinated by stories of exploration and adventure, and the Polar Museum offered a captivating glimpse into the lives of those who braved the Arctic's harsh conditions.


Explore the rich history of Arctic exploration at The Polar Museum in Tromsø - a captivating destination for culture and history enthusiasts.

Olivia was particularly intrigued by the exhibits dedicated to women who contributed to polar science, often challenging societal norms of their time. It was a reminder that history is not just about grand expeditions, but also about the everyday lives and contributions of ordinary people. The museum also had artifacts from Willem Barentsz's expedition, which was searching for the Northeast Passage to the Orient. There was also a reconstructed trapper's cabin that showed how two men could survive an Arctic winter.

For lunch, we strolled over to Bardus Bistro, a charming restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Northern Norwegian cuisine. The bistro prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with book-lined walls and eclectic decor. I opted for the fish of the day, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Olivia chose the reindeer steak, which she described as melt-in-your-mouth delicious. We also couldn't resist trying the Arctic Seaweed cocktail, a unique concoction that was surprisingly refreshing.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Bardus Bistro in Tromsø - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to embrace the Arctic chill with a visit to the Magic Ice Bar Tromsø. This bar is constructed entirely of ice, from the walls and sculptures to the glasses themselves. We were given warm ponchos and gloves upon entry, which were definitely needed to brave the sub-zero temperatures. The ice sculptures were truly impressive, depicting scenes from Viking history and Arctic exploration. Sipping a welcome drink from an ice glass while surrounded by these frozen masterpieces was an experience unlike any other. It was a bit surreal, but also incredibly fun. It was fun to follow in the footsteps of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen and learn more about their Arctic expeditions.


Magic Ice Bar Tromsø: Experience a unique blend of art and nightlife in a stunning ice-crafted bar in the heart of Norway.

For our final meal of the day, we had dinner at Hildr Gastro Bar, a restaurant known for its innovative dishes and relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant is located in an old, renovated house full of character. The menu changes continually with the seasons. I started with the fresh cheese and carrots from Nordvoll. For the main course, I chose the reindeer, which was served with beets, berries, and barley. The dishes were not only delicious but also beautifully presented, showcasing the chef's creativity and passion for local ingredients. Olivia enjoyed the catch of the day. With its focus on local produce and hand-crafted cocktails, it was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.


Experience modern Norwegian cuisine at Hildr Gastro Bar in Tromsø – where local flavors meet contemporary dining.

As we walked back to our apartment, the city was quiet, the only sound the gentle lapping of the waves against the harbor. The air was crisp and cold, but our hearts were warm with the memories of the day. Tromsø had already cast its spell on us, and we were eager to see what tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, we plan to ascend the Fjellheisen cable car for panoramic views of the city and explore the iconic Arctic Cathedral. We're also planning to visit Ølhallen, a historic beer hall with a wide selection of local brews. It's another day filled with exciting possibilities, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

It’s nights like these, reflecting on the day’s adventures with Olivia by my side, that remind me how fortunate I am to experience these incredible places. As a software developer from Kelowna, trading lines of code for Arctic landscapes is a dream come true, and I’m savoring every moment of it. I'm also grateful to share this adventure with Olivia, my wife. This trip has already brought us closer together. It's so nice to get away from the distractions of daily life and just focus on each other.