My Solo Adventure in Tromsø: An Explorer's Tips to the Arctic Circle

Some people say you need a lot of luck to see the Northern Lights. I think I got a little lucky even before I landed. From the plane window on my way to Tromsø, a green light danced across the sky. It was like the Arctic was welcoming me with a special show. And that was just the beginning of a trip filled with unexpected moments, where I found my fuel and my flex in the stunning, frozen landscape.

Northern light from the plane

A Magical Chase, A Cozy Campfire

My main goal was simple: to see the Northern Lights. I joined a local tour and our tour guide shared a tip, to find the northern light, you must find the stars first! We drove into the wilderness, and when we found the right spot, we made a warm campfire with soup, hot chocolate, marshmallows, and sausages. With the fire and the clear sky, I was so lucky to see the Northern Lights dancing above. It was a beautiful moment.

Fuel & Flex: The Realities of Arctic Adventures

Tromsø was not just about the lights. It was a place for real adventures, and a reminder that you have to be flexible. I was so excited for dog sledding, but because it was so early in November, there was no snow! So, I rode a trolley with wheels pulled by the huskies. They were so adorable and full of energy, and even though it wasn't what I expected, it was still so much fun.

For me, the "flex" also meant choosing my own path. Instead of taking the cable car up the mountain, I decided to hike up by my foot. The air was so cold that at the beginning, it was hard to breathe, but after a short time, I felt much better. It was an amazing feeling to reach the top on my own.

When it came to fuel, I didn't find the cost was a big challenge, just a little bit more expensive than London. I had a lot of hot salmon, which was delicious and perfect for the cold weather. One of the highlight of Tromso was experiencing Sami culture in Norway and tasting the traditional reindeer soup while learning about their history. That soup was so warm and comforting. I also tried a reindeer hot dog, and honestly, it tasted like a normal hot dog! But the fried onions and sauce were so good.

Reindeer hot dog

One small challenge was the slippery ice on the sidewalks in the city center. Even though the temperature was warmer than I expected, the floor was so slippery with ice that you had to be careful where you walked!

My Tromsø Takeaway

My trip to Tromsø was a mix of incredible, once-in-a-lifetime moments and small, real-life challenges. It taught me that travel isn't just about the big things you see, like the Northern Lights. It’s also about the little things—the taste of warm soup on a cold night, the resilience of hiking in the cold, and the fun of riding a trolley instead of a sled. It proved that you can find your fuel and flex in any situation, even in the freezing cold.

✨What's a trip you've had that was full of unexpected moments? Share your story in the comments!