Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Tromsø with Olivia

A Fond Farewell to Tromsø

As our Arctic adventure in Tromsø draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was all about soaking in the last moments of this magical place, from chasing the elusive Northern Lights one last time to enjoying the local culinary scene. It's amazing how a place can capture your heart in just nine days, and Tromsø has certainly done that for Olivia and me.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Burgr, a local burger joint known for its unpretentious and delicious burgers. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our last day of exploration. The quirky decor, complete with Mario memorabilia and Beatles posters, added a fun touch to our morning. Apparently, the building has a rich history, once serving as the city's first bistro when Tromsø had a population of only 80 people. Imagine fishermen trading fish for wine in that very spot! After breakfast, we decided to take a leisurely stroll to Telegrafbukta, a beautiful bay at the southern tip of Tromsø Island.


Experience gourmet hamburgers at Burgr in Tromsø - where every bite is a celebration of flavor and quality.

The walk to Telegrafbukta was refreshing. Even in late November, the coastal path offered stunning views of the mainland and the mountains of Malangen and Balsfjord. Telegrafbukta itself is a popular spot year-round, and I can see why. Though it's not exactly beach weather, the area is perfect for a relaxing walk, and I could imagine it bustling with activity in the summer. I learned that Telegrafbukta is also known as a great place to watch the Northern Lights, offering darker skies compared to the city center. There's even a bathing club, Ishud, that takes regular Friday dips in the water all year round – a testament to the hardy spirit of the locals!


Discover the enchanting beauty of Telegrafbukta in Tromsø, where nature and tranquility unite for an unforgettable experience in Norway's Arctic paradise.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

For lunch, we ventured to Tang's Restaurant AS, a Chinese restaurant that has been a Tromsø staple since 1988. The warm and cozy atmosphere was immediately inviting. We ordered a variety of dishes, each generously portioned and bursting with flavor. It was the perfect meal to share, and the quick service ensured that everything arrived piping hot. It was interesting to learn that Tang's offers both Szhezuan and Guangdong style dishes, representing different regions of China. The staff was incredibly friendly, with the owner's daughter taking the time to chat with us and recommend popular dishes. It's these personal touches that make a dining experience truly memorable.


Discover the vibrant flavors of China at Tang's Restaurant in Tromsø - where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality.

The highlight of our day, and perhaps our entire trip, was our Spiritinthesky.Northern Lights & Fjord tours. I had booked this tour hoping for one last chance to witness the Aurora Borealis, and it did not disappoint. The tour started with a comfortable minibus ride, and our guide, Nick, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the Northern Lights. He shared fascinating insights about the aurora and the Arctic environment as we drove to our viewing location. Spirit in the Sky is known for its small group sizes, which made the experience feel personal and intimate. We were provided with thermal suits to keep warm, and the hot chocolate and snacks around the campfire added a delightful touch.


Discover the breathtaking Northern Lights and majestic fjords with Spirit in the Sky, your gateway to Tromsø's natural wonders.

After driving for a couple of hours, we finally found a spot with clear skies. And then, it happened – the Northern Lights began to dance across the sky. The vibrant greens and purples were breathtaking, swirling and shifting in a mesmerizing display. It was even more spectacular than the first time we saw them. Nick helped us capture some incredible photos, which he shared with us free of charge. Seeing the Aurora again felt like a perfect culmination of our trip, a final gift from the Arctic. I learned that Spiritinthesky often takes guests across the border to Finland to maximize their chances of seeing the lights, which shows their dedication to providing an unforgettable experience.

To celebrate our last night, we decided to have dinner at Raketten Bar & Pølse, a unique hotdog stand shaped like a rocket. It's a Tromsø landmark, and I had been curious to try it since we arrived. Grabbing a quick and tasty bite there felt like a quintessential Tromsø experience. Finally, we ended our night at Aunegården Nordic Spirit Bar, a cozy bar known for its Nordic spirits. The atmosphere was charming, with faux furs and pillows adorning the seats. We sampled a few local spirits and enjoyed the cozy ambiance before heading back to our apartment to pack.


Discover Raketten Bar & Pølse: Tromsø's top spot for gourmet sausages and local brews in a vibrant atmosphere.


Experience the vibrant ambiance of Aunegården Nordic Spirit Bar in Tromsø, where local brews and Nordic spirits come together in a cozy setting.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Tromsø. From the stunning landscapes to the vibrant culture and the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, this trip has been nothing short of magical. I'm so glad I got to share it all with Olivia. Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Kelowna, filled with memories that will last a lifetime. While this chapter of our adventure is closing, I'm already excited about planning our next journey. Until then, takk for alt, Tromsø!

I'll especially cherish the moments we spent together marveling at the Northern Lights. It reminded me of a quote I once heard: The best view comes after the hardest climb. And indeed, the effort to chase those lights was more than worth the reward.

Reflecting on our time here, I realize that Tromsø is more than just a destination; it's an experience that touches your soul. The warmth of the locals, the beauty of the Arctic landscape, and the magic of the Northern Lights have left an indelible mark on my heart. I encourage anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure to add Tromsø to their list. You won't be disappointed. As we prepare to leave, I'm already dreaming of our return. Perhaps we'll come back in the summer to experience the midnight sun and explore the fjords in all their glory. Until then, Tromsø, farewell, and thank you for the memories.

And as a final thought, I’m incredibly grateful that Olivia and I were able to share this experience. It's strengthened our bond and created memories we'll cherish forever. Whether it was braving the cold together, marveling at the Northern Lights, or simply enjoying a quiet meal, every moment felt special because we were together. I believe that traveling with your loved ones is one of the best ways to create lasting memories and deepen your connection. And Tromsø, with its unique blend of adventure and romance, provided the perfect backdrop for such an experience. I can't wait to see where our next adventure takes us, but Tromsø will always hold a special place in our hearts.