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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!

Southern Europe, Africa Penguin Trampoline - Eli & Jake Southern Europe, Africa Penguin Trampoline - Eli & Jake

Visit La Graciosa: The Hidden Jewel of Lanzarote (Canary Islands, Spain)

Ah, La Graciosa — Literally “The graceful”, or “The fun one”. Just saying the name brings back the memories of dusty trails, endless turquoise waters, and that peculiar scent of sea breeze mixed with volcanic earth.

It’s hard to believe this tiny island, often overshadowed by Lanzarote’s dramatic attractions, remains such a well-kept secret. It’s not even that remote! But maybe that’s its magic—hidden, untouched, and breathtakingly wild.

This was definitely the highlight of our trip to the Canary Islands, one of those places with an “end of the world” feeling that we love at Penguin Trampoline!

¿Nos acompañas?

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Sleeping Among Orangutans in Borneo: Tanjung Puting National Park

During a month, I’ve (Eli) explored different sides of Indonesia: Hindu temples and volcanos in Java, rice fields and buddhist temples in Bali, dreamy beaches in Gili islands and Lombok…

But, without a doubt, the most unique experience was sleeping on a fisherman boat in the deep jungle of Borneo.

Pack your curiosity (and maybe a lot of bug spray), because we’re about to dive into the lush, wild, and fascinating world of Borneo’s Tanjung Puting National Park — home to some of the last truly wild orangutans on Earth!

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5 Things to Do in La Garrotxa - The Unknown Catalonia (Spain)

If you’re looking for authentic Catalunya, just a few kilometers from the Costa Brava’s beautiful beaches, Garrotxa is the place to go!

This small but mighty region is packed with things that make you go “wow.” We’re talking volcanoes you can hike, villages where time has stopped, and super “grammable” views. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this hidden gem, with five epic adventures you absolutely can’t miss.

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Things to Do in Swedish Lapland: Why We Love Kiruna

Kiruna is one of our happy places.

Eli has been there no less than 6 times and counting, and it was the first Arctic destination she took Jake to when he moved to Europe.

Yet, Swedish Lapland is not the most visited. Finnish Lapland is more popular due to Rovaniemi’s Santa Village, and Norway’s Troms and Finnmark regions attract visitors from all over the world.

Find out why Kiruna is so special to us, and our best tips to explore this beautiful corner of the Arctic!

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How to Travel Cheaper: Travel for Less, Experience More

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

Ah, wise words. But they still won’t pay for your trips!

While we’re privileged enough to be able to travel and work from anywhere, we make choices. But we also know how to travel cheaper!

Not all penguins live on golden sea ice! This article aims to show that traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. So, follow our little penguin guide!

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Churchill, Manitoba Travel Guide: The Polar Bear Capital of the World

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!

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Things to Do in New Zealand: North Island Journal

Pack your bags, grab your camera, and buckle up for the kiwi adventure of a lifetime in our series: Things to do in New Zealand!

We start our adventures on the Northern Island. From the bustling streets of Auckland to the mystical glowworm caves of Waitomo, our road trip will take you through lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and dreamy beaches.

So, whether you're a seasoned traveler, a Lord of the Rings nerd or a New Zealand newbie, get ready for some serious wanderlust as we explore the North Island’s hidden gems.

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Things to Do in Luleå, Sweden - Winter Escape

Sweden is always a good idea, no matter where you go.

This time, to satiate our winterlust, we decided to head a little more South than usual and spend a week in Luleå.

The largest city in Swedish Lapland seemed to have it all, with a well-connected airport, snowy landscapes, cozy cafés and restaurants, and, of course, the frozen Bothnian archipelago. It’s a university town with very few tourists — exactly our kind of places!

Ready to travel to Luleå with us?

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5 Things to Do in Costa Rica - ¡Pura Vida!

Costa Rica — what a place. I (Eli) went in expecting beaches and jungle, but it turned out to be so much more.

From active volcanoes to stretches of coastline that felt like paradise, without forgetting the coolest animals ever, this country stole my heart in no time. And the Ticos? They’re definitely some of the friendliest, warmest people I’ve ever met. I could have stayed there forever, but here are five things I did that you definitely need to add to your list.

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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 !

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Things to Do in Nazaré, Portugal: Big Waves Capital of the World

It all started with a HBO documentary: 100 Foot Wave. We watched it during lockdown and promised ourselves that we would visit Nazaré as soon as travel resumes!

So, combining a visit to our friends in Ericeira, we headed to Portugal in October, hoping to catch the Big Waves.

We loved every single town and sight we visited in Portugal, but we particularly fell in love with low key Nazaré — apaixonámo-nos pela Nazaré! — this small, off the beaten path town that became famous with Garrett McNamara.

Explore the Big Waves Capital of the World with us and discover the best things to do in Nazaré, Portugal!

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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!

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Foodie Corner, Northern Europe, Arctic Travel Hub Penguin Trampoline - Eli & Jake Foodie Corner, Northern Europe, Arctic Travel Hub Penguin Trampoline - Eli & Jake

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!

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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)

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Polar Bears International Insights: Barbara Nielsen Interview

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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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