Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Tromsø with Olivia

Embracing Arctic Culture and Heights

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the rich cultural heritage of the Sami people with the stunning natural beauty that surrounds Tromsø. It's amazing how much you can pack into a single day here, and I'm excited to share all the details with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bread and wine Tromsø. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a traditional Norwegian meal set the perfect tone for the day ahead. Fuelling up with some delicious pastries and coffee, Olivia and I prepared ourselves for a day of exploration and cultural immersion. I always appreciate starting the day with a good meal; it sets the tone for everything that follows. It reminds me of the breakfasts my mother used to make back in Kimberley – simple, hearty, and full of love.

Our first stop was Tromsø Lapland. I had been looking forward to this experience since we planned the trip. As someone deeply interested in different cultures and traditions, I was eager to learn more about the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of this region. The drive to Tromsø Lapland was scenic, with snow-dusted landscapes stretching as far as the eye could see. It felt like entering another world, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.


Discover the breathtaking outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences at Tromsø Lapland in Norway's stunning Arctic landscape.

Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by our Sami hosts, who were dressed in traditional clothing. They shared stories about their history, their connection to the land, and their unique way of life. I was particularly fascinated by their reindeer herding practices, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. We had the opportunity to feed the reindeer, gentle creatures with soft fur and curious eyes. It was a humbling experience to connect with these animals and learn about their importance to the Sami culture. Olivia was absolutely smitten, she kept snapping pictures, completely captivated by their gentle nature. She even joked about wanting to bring one home, but I gently reminded her that our apartment in Kelowna might not be the best environment for a reindeer.

We gathered around a warm fire inside a *lavvu*, a traditional Sami tent. Our hosts shared *joiks*, traditional Sami songs, which were hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving. It felt like stepping back in time, connecting with a culture that has thrived in this harsh environment for centuries. They also served us *bithos*, a traditional Sami stew, which was hearty and delicious. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but reflect on the resilience and resourcefulness of the Sami people. Their ability to adapt and thrive in such a challenging environment is truly inspiring. It reminded me of the stories my grandfather used to tell about growing up in South Africa, facing hardships with strength and determination.

To truly understand a place, you must immerse yourself in its culture and connect with its people.

After our enriching experience at Tromsø Lapland, we drove to Tromsø Viewpoint. I had heard so much about the panoramic views from up there, and I was eager to see it for myself. The drive to the viewpoint was steep and winding, but the scenery along the way was breathtaking. Snow-covered trees lined the road, creating a winter wonderland that felt straight out of a fairy tale.


Experience stunning panoramic views of Tromsø and its breathtaking fjords at the Tromsø Viewpoint, a scenic gem in Norway's Arctic landscape.

We reached the base of Fjellheisen, the cable car that would take us to the top of Mount Storsteinen. As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular. Tromsø city spread out below us, a colorful tapestry of buildings nestled amidst snow-covered mountains and fjords. The Arctic Cathedral stood out, its unique architecture gleaming in the afternoon light.

At the summit, we stepped out onto the viewing platform and were immediately greeted by a gust of cold Arctic air. But the views were more than worth it. The city, the fjords, the mountains – it was all laid out before us in a breathtaking panorama. I felt a sense of awe and wonder, humbled by the sheer scale and beauty of nature. Olivia and I spent a long time simply taking in the views, snapping photos, and marveling at the landscape. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, but no photo could truly do justice to the experience. It was one of those moments that you simply have to witness in person to fully appreciate.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to head to Jekta Storsenter to do some shopping. I needed to pick up a power adapter, something I had forgotten to pack. Olivia, on the other hand, was on the hunt for some unique souvenirs to take back home. Jekta Storsenter is Northern Norway's largest shopping center, with over 130 stores, so we knew we would find what we were looking for. I managed to find a suitable adapter, and Olivia found a few handcrafted items that she loved. It was a pleasant way to spend the late afternoon, browsing through the shops and soaking in the local atmosphere.


Explore Jekta Storsenter, Tromsø's largest shopping mall, featuring diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment for the whole family.

For lunch, we had planned to try Restaurant Smak AS, known for its modern take on North Norwegian cuisine. Unfortunately, it was fully booked, a testament to its popularity. Instead, we opted for Restaurant Skirri, another highly-rated restaurant in Tromsø. Located by the harbor, Skirri offered stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains.


Discover exquisite Norwegian cuisine at Restaurant Skirri in Tromsø, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

The ambiance was cozy and inviting, and the menu featured a variety of fresh seafood dishes. I decided to try the catch of the day, which was halibut, while Olivia opted for the reindeer burger. Both dishes were expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. I especially enjoyed the halibut, which was cooked to perfection and served with a medley of fresh vegetables. Olivia raved about her reindeer burger, describing it as tender and flavorful. The service was attentive and friendly, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural immersion and scenic exploration. I made a mental note to try Restaurant Smak sometime during the rest of our trip.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Enter City Apartment Hotel, feeling tired but content. We had experienced so much in a single day, from the rich cultural heritage of the Sami people to the breathtaking natural beauty of Tromsø. It was a day that I would cherish for a long time.


Discover comfort and convenience at Enter City Apartment Hotel, your perfect base in Tromso for exploring stunning attractions and winter sports.

Tomorrow, we are scheduled to go on an Arctic Adventure Tour and a Northern Lights & Fjord tour. I am particularly excited about the prospect of seeing the Northern Lights, a phenomenon that I have been dreaming about witnessing for years. Fingers crossed that the weather will be in our favor and that we will be able to catch a glimpse of this magical display. Before that, we will have breakfast at Picasso restaurant, lunch at Huken Brygg and dinner at Restaurant Smak AS. And, to round off the day, we will visit Blårock Cafe.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this Arctic wonderland. Goodnight from Tromsø!