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Penguin Trampoline: The blog
With Penguin Trampoline, adventures soar to new heights!
Are you ready to bounce into a world of awe-inspiring destinations, where the thrill of exploration meets the grace of a penguin's waddle?
From the icy wonderlands of polar regions to the sun-kissed Mediterranean beaches, our travel blog is your ultimate ticket to discovering hidden gems, unlocking travel tips, and embracing the sheer joy of discovering new horizons.
We're not just about sightseeing; we're about experiencing the heartbeat, culture and gastronomy of each destination, bouncing into moments that leave an indelible mark on our souls.
Join our community of dreamers and explorers as we leap from continent to continent, propelled by curiosity and an insatiable wa/onderlust.
So, buckle up, grab your passport, and prepare to spring into the exhilarating world of Penguin Trampoline!
Things to do in Ålesund & around
Nestled between fjords and mountains, Ålesund is a perfect Norwegian postcard.
While we usually prefer Arctic destinations, we’ve decided to go a bit more “south” this time.
The fjord regions of Norway are very popular in summer, with dozens of cruise ships visiting every day. Since we prefer to selfishly keep Norway beauty to ourselves, we’ve decided to visit in winter.
Keep reading to explore Âlesund & Sunnmøre region with us!
Hiking in the Lofoten Islands: An Arctic paradise
The Lofoten Islands are a stunning playground for hikers. So picture-perfect, in fact, that the first time you’ll go there, you’ll have a hard time believing it’s a real place — and not something out of Arendelle!
If you’re physically able to hike, that’s how you’ll breathe and feel the Lofoten Islands. And forever fall in love.
While increasingly popular, these gems are still not crowded with tourists. But hurry, it won’t last long.
So, put on your hiking shoes and follow us on our favorite trails!
Arctic Foods: The best of nature
Nordic gastronomy is still under the radar. However, after dozens of trips to Fenoscandia, we can ensure you that we tried some of the best food we ever had up North.
And there’s a good reason for this: while most of the Western world is “suffering” from processed food and a disconnection from nature, Nordic cuisine is still heavily based on natural resources and deeply rooted in tradition.
So, follow us on a delicious culinary journey through Arctic Europe!
LGBTQ+ Sitges: Celebrate Pride in a postcard town!
Imagine a place where rainbow flags dance in the Mediterranean breeze, where cobblestone streets lead to hidden calas and iconic beaches, and where the spirit of love and acceptance is palpable in the warm welcome of the locals.
Benvinguts a Sitges, the ultimate destination for LGBTQ+ pride celebrations and a magical place we’re blessed to call home!
Nestled on the stunning Garraf coast, near Barcelona, this postcard-perfect town offers so much more than sol y playa; it’s a vibrant haven of inclusivity and joy. ¿Nos acompañas?
Best time to visit Iceland and top things to do
Spoiler alert: Anytime is a good time to visit Iceland!
And it’s because Iceland isn’t just another travel destination; it’s like visiting an entirely different world — or even planet. I (Eli) had always dreamed of venturing through its surreal landscapes, and after experiencing it twice, I’m convinced Iceland is a place everyone should see at least once.
From surreal black-sand beaches to incredibly blue glaciers, every turn will leave you in awe. Keep reading to know more!
Adventure in Morocco: Marrakesh and the Sahara
Landing in Morocco, you're hit with a swirl of spices, desert warmth, and the energy of a place that’s as vibrant as it is rooted in history.
I (Eli) went from Marrakesh to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, driving through the Atlas Mountains, secret gorges, oasis and cinematic towns like Ouarzazate.
Buckle up, little penguins; here’s what a true Moroccan adventure looks like. يله! (Yallah=Let’s go)
Interview with Barbara Nielsen, Polar Bears International
If you enjoyed our article on Churchill, the town of polar bears, and want to learn more about polar bears, this article is for you!
We had the honor to interview Barbara Nielsen, Senior Director of Communications at Polar Bears International.
Keep reading to find out more about their mission, their work, and polar bears!
Into the Wild: 10 things to do in Alaska
Alaska is more accessible than it seems.
If, as a child, you dreamed of National Geographic documentaries on bears, salmon and gold diggers, we invite you to discover this wild land on a trip to Alaska that will awaken all your senses...
Eat Cajun food in Louisiana
Cajun food is easily one of our favorite cuisines — and if you’re a foodie, don’t miss our foodie corner!
Surprisingly enough, it’s a well-kept secret which is relatively unheard of beyond American borders.
Obviously, a trip to Louisiana wouldn’t be complete without tasting the best of Cajun gastronomy. Between peaceful bayous and bustling cities, the Pelican State is renowned for its unique cuisine.
So join us on the most delicious adventure, exploring the incomparable tastes of Louisiana!
This article is part of our series: 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track.
Reflect on a Louisiana plantation tour
As we entered Louisiana's plantation country, we felt like we were entering a living museum of history, where every tree, every building, whispered stories of times gone by.
But this journey wasn't just about sightseeing; it was about connecting with the past, confronting its complexities, and remembering some of the saddest chapters of American history.
Our visit to Oak Alley Plantation was both beautiful and painful, and we can only encourage every visitor to visit at least a Louisiana plantation on the Great River Road/Plantation Alley.
This article is part of our series: 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track.
Stay in the Louisiana bayou
If you're itching for a getaway that's anything but ordinary, stay with us in a fisherman's cabin nestled among the cypress trees, with alligators visiting in the twilight and the sounds of the bayou lulling you into a state of blissful relaxation.
Jump aboard a swamp tour led by the coolest guides this side of the Mississippi. Get ready to spot gators, spy on sunbathing turtles, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Bigfoot's Cajun cousin (just kidding... or not).
Welcome to the Louisiana bayou – where every day is a new chance for adventure and every night is a celebration of Southern hospitality.
This article is part of our series: 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track.
Sleep in a — haunted or not — mansion in Treme, New Orleans
While we sometimes indulge in a nice chain hotel and can’t deny their practicality, we always prefer accommodations that reflect the vibe of the destination, and are a bit off the beaten track — for example, we stayed at a fishermen cabin in the bayou!
And we found the perfect gem in the heart of Tremé.
Welcome to the Dragon Fly Guest House! Spoiler alert: If there are ghosts, they didn’t show up during our stay.
This article is part of our series: 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track.
5 destinations in Portugal off the beaten path
When we first started exploring Portugal highlights, we thought we knew what to expect: the picturesque tram of Lisbon, the amazing Sintra, the beaches of the Algarve, and, of course, a pasteis de nata or two.
But trust us — Portugal has so much more to offer when you veer away from the typical tourist hotspots. It’s these hidden gems, these tucked-away villages and wild stretches of coast, that really made us fall in love with this place.
If you want to discover Portugal like we did, here are 5 places in Portugal off the beaten path.
Spoiler alert: It’s impossible to eat just a pasteis de nata or two. There’s a reason why they sell them in tubes!
Follow the Boudin Trail - Louisiana Cajun Country
We both loooove Cajun boudin, so imagine our excitement when we found out about… drum rolls… the Boudin Trail!
In the heart and soul of Cajun Country, every bite tells a story steeped in tradition and flavor. From the lively streets of Lafayette to the quaint towns straight out of a book, you’d better prepare your taste buds!
Join us on an adventure through Louisiana’s Cajun Country: Acadiana. And don’t forget to “Laisser les bons temps rouler !”
This article is part of our series: 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track.
Around Ålesund: The Sunnmøre Alps & fjords
Ålesund is the perfect base to explore the surrounding fjords and mountains.
Møre og Romsdal region is home to dozens of beautiful fjords, which have contributed to Norway’s popularity for international travelers over the centuries.
Equipped with a rental car, our snow gear and great tips from Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre, we decided to venture into the magical realm of winter fjords. Wanna tag along?
Hiking around Ålesund
Set in a spectacular decor of fjords and mountains while being easily accessible, Ålesund is a perfect hiking base.
And Norway in general is a hiker paradise!
If you enjoyed our article on Things to see in Ålesund, keep reading for an active vacation!
Note: These hikes are doable in winter.
Things to do in New Zealand: South Island Journal
Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the kiwi adventure of a lifetime in our series: Things to do in New Zealand!
We continue our journey south, leaving behind the North Island’s volcanic landscapes and rolling into new adventures. After a stormy, magical ferry crossing, the Southern Alps provide a dramatic backdrop as we dock in Picton. The view? Absolutely unreal.
The Bubble Theory
In the most visited regions, mass tourism is sometimes perceived negatively by the local population. Locals often complain about tourists: "They wouldn’t do this at home"!
Without reaching the extreme case of party tourism in seaside resorts, most travelers notice an alteration of their behavior and perception. And for longer stays, they even come back transformed, different.
How can such a phenomenon be explained? Find out more about what I call the "bubble theory".
How to avoid — or reduce — jet lag
Your eyes open in an unfamiliar place... all of a sudden, you remember, you’re in New Zealand! But it's 4am, and you can't go back to sleep.
Sounds familiar? Since we know this too well, we have gathered some tips on how to avoid jet lag, or at least reduce it:
What to do before travelling? What to do on the plane? What to do during your trip? What to do when you come back?
5 destinations for nature addicts
Cities can be nice, but as far as we’re concerned, they do not trigger strong emotions like nature does.
Sure, some monuments are real masterpieces, but we don’t think there is anything more powerful and impressive than nature.
If your favorite artist is also Mother Nature, keep reading to discover 5 top destinations all nature addicts should have on their bucket list.