From Norway’s capital, Oslo, we ventured further north to the world’s northernmost city.
Our target: to see what is often considered one of the most elusive yet sought-after natural phenomena that only occurs in the Arctic Circle–the Aurora Borealis.
As the plane descended into Tromso, a blanket of snow-covered landscape welcomed us.
Stepping onto the frosty ground, the crisp Arctic air signaled the beginning of a winter adventure like no other. Tromso, a city draped in white, felt like a scene from a fairy tale.
All 7 of us were first-time visitors–Tromso virgins. As a tourist from the Philippines, we know we might experience a significant contrast in climate, culture, and natural surroundings.
Tromso is often referred to as the world’s “northernmost city” and “Arctic City” due to its geographical location within the Arctic Circle and its status as one of the northernmost urban centers in the world.
Coming from a tropical country, October can be a unique and exciting experience as it marks the beginning of the Arctic winter.
Luxury travel
The expenses associated with traveling to Tromso from the Philippines can vary based on several factors, including the time of year, travel preferences, and the duration of your stay.
While a visit to any of the Scandinavian countries must be on every traveling Pinoy’s bucket list, a trip to the region is considered luxury travel.
The cost of flights to Tromso will be a significant portion of expenses as there are no direct flights currently from the Philippines to the Scandinavian countries. Prices can also vary based on the airline, time of booking, and whether you choose economy or premium class.
Accommodation costs depend on the type of lodging you choose, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. But do note that the budget type in this city may be luxury level in others.
Dining costs can vary depending on where and what you choose to eat. Tromso has a range of restaurants with different price points. You may save money by occasionally opting for grocery store or market purchases for meals. But it is still expensive–a burger meal from a global fastfood chain costs around $13 or P720.
Participating in activities such as Northern Lights tours, fjord cruises, or dog sledding will also add to your expenses. Consider potential fees associated with currency exchange and international transactions. Using credit cards or withdrawing cash may incur additional charges.
The time of year you choose to visit Tromso will also impact your expenses. Winter months may have higher costs due to winter clothing and equipment rental for activities like dog sledding or skiing.
Modern and old
While the Aurora Borealis becomes visible only at night, it doesn’t mean you’ll just stay in your room during the daytime. Rich in history and culture, Tromso offers some of the region’s must-see destinations.
The Arctic Cathedral, with its distinctive triangular shape and striking glass mosaic, is a major landmark. Located on the mainland, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. The cathedral is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Polaria is an arctic-themed experience center and aquarium, showcasing the unique flora and fauna of the region. It features interactive exhibits, seal feedings, and an underwater panorama providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the Arctic environment.
Tromso’s main street is Storgata, which is the central thoroughfare running through the heart of the city. It stretches from the waterfront in the west to the Tromso Cathedral in the east.
Storgata is lined with shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can explore a range of shops offering everything from local crafts and souvenirs to fashion and design. The city’s vibrant and diverse atmosphere is reflected in the mix of modern structures and older, traditional buildings.
In the winter months, Storgata is sometimes referred to as “Aurora Borealis Alley” because it is a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather for Northern Lights sightings due to its relatively darker surroundings compared to other parts of the city.
Tromso also is the home of the world’s northernmost Catholic Cathedral. The cathedral is designed in a Gothic Revival architectural style, giving it a distinctive and historic appearance. The foundation stone was laid in 1861, and the cathedral was consecrated als in the same year. The interior of the cathedral is adorned with religious artworks, statues, and stained glass windows.
Then there is the Tromso Harbor. A vibrant and picturesque area located in the heart of the city, it is surrounded by the city’s main attractions, including the city center and various cultural and historical landmarks.
The harbor features piers and promenades where locals and visitors can take strolls, enjoy the maritime ambiance, and take in the views. The waterfront is a popular spot for both daytime and evening walks.
Tromso Harbor serves as a starting point for various boat tours and activities. These may include fjord cruises, whale-watching tours, and expeditions to witness the Northern Lights.
The harbor’s accessibility makes it a convenient departure point for Arctic adventures.
Reindeer hotdog
Given its proximity to the Norwegian Sea, seafood plays a significant role in local cuisine.
Fresh catches like cod, salmon, shrimp, king crab, and various types of fish are often featured in dishes.
Reindeer meat is a staple in the Arctic region, and Tromso is no exception. Reindeer meat is often served in various forms, including steaks, stews, and sausages.
Berries like lingonberries and cloudberries are common in the region. Local dairy products like brown cheese and various cheeses from nearby farms may be featured in meals or on cheese platters.
Norwegian bread, particularly dark and hearty varieties, is commonly served. Flatbreads like crispbread are also traditional accompaniments.
Some restaurants in Tromso may offer themed dishes or cocktails inspired by the Northern Lights, adding a touch of creativity and local flair to the dining experience.
For the budget-conscious, Tromso is home to the northernmost branches of Burger King and 7-11. Local supermarkets also offer food items at a much lower price.
Many restaurants in Tromso also focus on providing Arctic culinary experiences. These may include tasting menus featuring a variety of local ingredients and flavors.
Hunt for Aurora
Perhaps one, if not the only, reason for visiting Tromso is the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights. The city is one of the best places on Earth to witness this celestial display.
In recent decades, Tromso has seen a significant increase in tourism, driven in part by its reputation as a prime location for witnessing the Northern Lights.
There are various ways to experience the Northern Lights, ranging from guided tours to independent excursions. Visitors often embark on Northern Lights tours that take them to dark, secluded locations away from the city lights, maximizing the visibility of the auroras.
On our first night, our guide Eduardo Ygot, a Filipino, took us to Mount Storsteinen via the Fjellheisen cable car. At the top of Mount Storsteinen, approximately 420 meters above sea level, visitors are greeted with a breathtaking panorama of the city. The viewing platform offers unobstructed views of Tromso, the Arctic Cathedral, the neighboring islands, and, on clear nights, the Northern Lights during the winter months.
On our second, and last night, we opted to try out the Northern Lights dinner cruise.
Operated by Brim Explorer, the cruise provides an opportunity to witness the auroras while enjoying a meal on board. Ed tells us that cruises are often conducted in areas with minimal light pollution, increasing the chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
The anticipation of witnessing the Northern Lights in Tromso created for us a sense of excitement and wonder. However, the ethereal dance of the auroras remained elusive even after two consecutive nights of anticipation.
We were disappointed, definitely, as the expectation to witness the Northern Lights is a significant part of this journey.
But knowing that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon subject to various factors like solar activity, weather conditions, and light pollution, there’s a realization that nature follows its timeline.
Despite the disappointment, we realized that Tromso offers a myriad of other experiences.
The Arctic landscapes, the tranquil fjords, and the unique culture of the region become alternative sources of appreciation, helping to shift the focus from one particular expectation to the overall adventure.
As the trip passed without witnessing the Northern Lights, we began to accept that nature follows its rhythm, and the auroras are not guaranteed. In the end, the absence of the Northern Lights for two nights in Tromso becomes part of the overall adventure.
So, whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, Tromso offers a unique blend of experiences that can make it a memorable addition to your travel bucket list.
