Belgium brought us together.

Australia opened our eyes to different ways of living and accents. We made no plans.

Canada made us try a different way of living and accent and appreciate nature even more. We suddenly had a little plan.

New Zealand taught us to take a step back and plan seriously.

Norway taught us to be hopeful for the future.

Belgium is the start of a new plan.

Twotravelto

A Summary

In our late twenties, we got a taste of the Belgian, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, and Norwegian ways of living. Each country left its unique mark on us.

During our stay in Norway in May and June 2023, we unexpectedly found ourselves fully embracing the farming lifestyle.

Our days were filled with a diverse range of activities. Youlia and I welcomed the farming lifestyle as she was tending and millking cows, and I was driving an RV and working on fences.

We were given the chance to help out at a nearby cattle farm, getting better acquainted with the fantastic individuals who happen to be our neighbors.

Breathtaking Highlights

We also ventured into the great outdoors. We embarked on breathtaking hikes that showcased the picturesque landscapes of Norway. We hit the road and embarked on memorable road trips, exploring the hidden gems of the country. And let’s not forget about our thrilling adventures on cross-country skis, tackling the not-so-flat slopes with determination and maybe a few wipeouts. It was an action-packed period that allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the wonders of Norway’s countryside.

One of the breathtaking highlights was the Via Ferrata of Synshorn. You climb 400m with iron steps and wires on steep rocks to one of the tops of Norway. Losing your footing means you’re falling atleast 3-5 meters, colliding with the rugged cliffs before the rope comes into play. It is truly adventurious but doable. For seasoned climbers they offer alternative routes without iron steps. This is only for the daring. Our experience was unforgettable.

Our time in Norway seemed to fly by. It was a refreshing and down-to-earth existence that resonated deeply with us. We reveled in an active and outdoorsy routine, constantly surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Though it may sound overly poetic, those were truly remarkable, simple moments that we hold dear in our hearts.

“Take a punch card and set out on an adventure.”

This picture could have been taken anywhere in the Valdres region. You don’t neccesarily have to go the tourist hubs to see beauty. If you like quiet, you should lean towards the inland areas. If you don’t know where to start, go ask around for a punch card in Vang. You’ll be able to enjoy the scenery completely by yourselves on those hikes.

In 3 words

Here are some memorable things during our trips before tourist season (In summer it could get crowded in some of the hotspots).

Valdresflye: Langrenn in May

You’re on the North Pole. No, you’re skiing on a magnificent cross-country track in Jotunheimen in May. Cheaper. Now take a closer look at the picture. Norwegians will tell you the track is flat. We’re going to tell them Antwerp has a hilly landscape. Langrenn is worth trying for sure, if only to learn the meaning of Lang. Maybe physically prepare yourself a tiny bit.

Preikestolen: One final selfie?

There are not many official stories of people falling of this suspended rock 604m directly above fjord level. However, you can’t help but thinking about it when you see people sitting on the edge of the cliff, trying to capture the perfect selfie accentuating the full extent of the vertiginous drop.

Witnessing the enormous crevice one must traverse to reach the selfie spot not only gives you the chills, but makes you want to cross this off your bucket list for good. A must do. Once. The crack is apparantly being monitored by officials.

Do the Preikestolen before or after the 12 buses of tourists arrive. The view is jaw-dropping. While your up, we wouldn’t recommend sitting on the edge of the cliff, unless your goal is to make one final selfie.

Bergen: Beautiful, commercial + tunnels.

People that love driving in tunnels will be in heaven. From Bergen, you can have a taste of Norway in any direction. Having driven through tunnels ofcourse. On some routes there are more tunnels then Teslas. Crazy. Bryggen i Bergen was nice! Google the pictures.

Nærøyfjord: Norway in nutshell

If you had never seen the fjords from the water like us, it is worth going on this unique mini cruise.

Geirangerfjord: A stunning elevation

If you only have a couple of hours, and you want to see one of the most famous and majestic fjords in Norway. Teleport here. For more info on how to teleport: ask any tourist. Shops open mostly when cruiseships arrive and elevate prices. It is stunning to see. The Geirangerford ofcourse.

Trollstigen: Fast and furious

looks as epic in real life as on a postcard….. if it’s open. You do feel like you are in the Fast and furious franchise but the speed limit is 80km.

Bessegen: Must do hike

There is a saying amongst Norwegians to do this hike at least one time in their lifetime. This 6-8 hour hike is what you expect it to be. We’re trying not to overuse the word Epic. But that’s just what it is.

Sweden

Trees, lakes, mosquitos.

In Sweden, do prepare yourself mentally for the wild bears ! They’ll drive you crazy as you’ll spend your precious time looking at the sides of the road, but with no success of course. The people working for National Geographic must either be the most patient people on this planet, or they’re using some mysterious bait. No, you won’t spot any bears. Not in Lofsdalen and not even in Sonfjället National Park. We’d love you to prove us wrong though.

We’ll forever remember our flat tire in Sweden. At 1 am, the roadside assistant would have come over. But we preferred driving for an hour the next day in the middle of nowhere, straight to some dude’s garage who luckily helped us out. We have to say that Swedish people are amongst the friendliest. In contrary to the biting insects.

After the mosquitos kissed us goodbye, we headed back to a similar country, but without that many mosquitos and with beautiful mountains. Oh and deep Fjords. And more Tesla’s. To us, Norway has got it all (in summer).

So, we hiked and peddled away like never before. We even almost got in shape. Almost. We went from icy roads to dirt roads within 2 months in this country of stark contrasts.

And now a photodump of May versus June in places not far from each other.

MAY

June

It’s time to say goodbye to…

Vanlife.

For now, it seems that we are truly saying goodbye to vanlife. We feel it is the right time for us to enjoy a period of stability. Back to where it all started. Now where would that be?

Not here on this cozy beach, surrounded by beautiful mountains while sipping a tea in between sauna sessions, right before taking a refreshing dip.

So long!