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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!
Greenland by Ferry: Slow Travel from Ilulissat to Nuuk
here’s something quietly radical about sailing down the coast of Greenland. In a world obsessed with faster, flashier, and flatter, boarding the Sarfaq Ittuk ferry from Ilulissat to Nuuk felt like a deliberate act of slowing down. Like trading in your high-speed train for a wandering polar bear. Or, say, skipping the flight in favor of a three-day odyssey past glaciers, fishing villages, and the kind of endless horizon that recalibrates your sense of scale.
We hate cruises. This has nothing to do with one. Welcome aboard!
Why You Should Visit Ilulissat, Greenland: The Iceberg Capital of the World
Icebergs that groan and crack like thunder. Midnight suns that never set. Sled dogs howling across the frozen fjord. Welcome to Ilulissat: Greenland’s jaw-dropping, iceberg-studded west coast town where nature doesn’t just whisper—it roars.
Nuuk might be Greenland’s capital. But Ilulissat? Ilulissat is the showstopper. The drama queen. The main event. It’s the number 1 tourist destination in Greenland, and there’s a good reason for that.
At a young age, I (Eli) saw a documentary about Disko Bay and always remembered. So, seeing these icy giants 3 decades later was a dream come true. And there’s no word to describe a feeling like that, but we will try our best.
Why You Should Visit Nuuk: Greenland’s Tiny Capital with Big Energy
So why Nuuk, Greenland? Because it’s not trying to impress you. Nuuk doesn’t show off. It just is. It’s a capital without the stress, and without the tourist groups of Ilulissat. A city that feels like a village — if that village had sushi, mummies, arctic fjords, and some of the most grounded, generous people you’ll ever meet.
We had seen Nuuk in Conan O’Brien Must Go, we knew about the new airport, and we landed here with a few vague expectations about “Arctic vibes.” What we got was something else entirely: a crash course in Greenlandic calm, a boatload of icebergs, and an accidental royal sighting (more on that later). And honestly, we were very surprised on many levels.
Nuuk is not just a place. It’s a reset button. And we can’t shut up about it.
Our Greenland Travel Guide: How to Explore the World’s Last Real Wilderness
Greenland was a childhood dream for us, and the only Arctic destination we hadn’t explored (with the exception of Siberia, but not happening right now). So, when we heard about Nuuk’s new international airport and direct flights from the US, we HAD to go before everyone else does.
We just came back from Nuuk and Ilulissat — with a ferry ride in between — and we’re still thawing out emotionally. If you’re even slightly tempted to go, this is your sign. Here’s everything that might be useful if Greenland is on your bucket list (don’t worry, we’ll leave a few surprises). Adventure ahead!
The Ultimate Arctic Travel Guide: How to Explore, Survive, and Avoid Becoming a Polar Bear’s Lunch
If you’ve been reading us for a while, you know we’re in love with Arctic regions. And a lot of people turn to us for advice, and even want us to go with them on an Arctic trip!.
We’ve been there. We’ve hiked across frozen tundras, stood under the shimmering Northern Lights in absolute silence, and yes, once questioned our life choices while knee-deep in snow, miles from civilization.
The Arctic isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling, a test of resilience, and a reward for those who seek the extraordinary. So, this guide is for you, adventurous penguins, and all of our friends and relatives who keep asking us stuff (we love you)!
The Northernmost Everythings: Bars, Churches, Malls and Saunas at the Edge of the World
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from our Arctic adventures, it’s that human stubbornness knows no latitude. Where most creatures call it quits, slap on some fur, and hibernate, humans build bars, churches, and—of course — saunas. Because what’s a little darkness, ice, and bone-snapping wind when there’s beer to drink, sins to confess, and steam to sweat out?
We’ve been there, frozen that — from sipping local brews in Svalbard to sweating it out in a sauna shaped like a golden egg in Sweden. So here’s our firsthand guide to the northernmost everythings—places so absurdly remote that you’ll question why (and how) they even exist.
Thanksgiving Abroad: Bringing North American Flavor to Our Celebration in Spain
Thanksgiving is a cherished day of tradition, gratitude, and favorite recipes.
For Eli and me (Jake), celebrating in Spain means getting creative to bring this American holiday to life, sharing North American flavors, and introducing our friends to its unique spirit.
Join the festivities and discover our best recipes and tips!
Northern Lights for Dummies: Your ultimate guide to see them
The northern lights seem to be everywhere on social media. A couple of decades ago, this breathtaking natural phenomenon was only accessible to just a few lucky people. Now, it’s easier than ever to try and see them.
But between the best locations, when to go, the weather forecast, and the more scientific details such as the Kp-index (Kp-what?), it's not always easy to know where to start.
So if the northern lights have been on your bucket list for a while, keep reading for a few northern lights tips!
Churchill, Manitoba: The town of polar bears
Welcome to Churchill, Manitoba, where the frosty wilderness meets the adorable, yet very respected locals—and by locals, we mean the polar bears!
Seeing polar bears in the wild… I (Eli) had this lifelong dream. So, when I finally gathered enough savings, and taking advantage of a trip to Canada, I booked a tour from Winnipeg to Churchill.
So grab your warmest jacket, pack your sense of adventure, and follow me into the Hudson Bay wilderness, where the polar bears rule and humans are just “guests”.
Feat. an interview with Polar Bears International!
5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track
Welcome to the hidden gems of Louisiana! While the vibrant nightlife and rich history of New Orleans often steal the spotlight, there's a whole world of adventure waiting beyond the well-trodden paths.
Louisiana is a unique state in many aspects, and its peculiar culture — eccentric in a good way — won’t leave you indifferent.
So, if you're ready to uncover the lesser-known wonders of the Pelican State, follow us! From secluded bayous to quaint small towns bursting with charm, Louisiana has something unique for every curious penguin.
Here are 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track. Laissez les bons temps rouler !
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.
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.
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.
Places that make you feel like you're on a different planet
Are you looking for a complete change of scenery for your next trip? Sometimes, there is no need to travel to the other side of the world (or to space!) for an “out of this world” feeling.
So, check out these 6 places which will make you feel like you’re on a different planet.
5 of the best hiking spots in the world
For nature lovers, hiking is often the nicest and most eco-friendly way to discover a country.
From day hikes to more challenging treks, there are suitable options for everyone.
We’ve picked 5 destinations which we consider ideal for hikers of all ages and levels, but there are many others to discover!