Tricia Cantlon
There is so much beauty to discover on this beautiful floating rock we live on! I truly believe that travel, if done responsibly, teaches us meaningful life lessons about ourselves and the world around us that are incomparable to any other form of education.
I am originally from Detroit, MI but I moved to Norway five years ago; I was instantly drawn to the country's vast and unique beauty. In Norway, and worldwide, I have spent the majority of my adult life traveling through different scopes: including eco-hotels, hostels, backpacking, camping, road trips, and more. I use these experiences to create tailor-made trips so you can revel in the magic of Norway firsthand.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I crave activities that allow us all to thrive off of natural beauty and discover a deep connection with local culture! I specialize in fjord tours, arctic adventures, mountainous escapes, and coastal exploration on land and in sea throughout all of Norway. Sustainability, collective wellness and community inspire my activities to get acquainted with local cuisine, history and landscape. I can help you navigate a trip to explore beautiful Norwegian nature, quaint small towns, or urban areas including Oslo, Stavanger, Bergen and Tromsø."
How did you get involved in travel?
"Exploration was a deep desire of mine since I was young. I did the stereotypical 20-something backpacking trek through Europe, and quickly discovered that my connection to travel meant so much more when I could stay in one place, get to know people, and give back to the communities I visit. I slowed down my travels and started volunteering my way around the world - I worked in private homes and public organizations for varied causes like plastic cleanup, yoga teaching, sustainable farming, and animal rescue. From these ventures, I discovered how truly electric, enlightening, and earnest travel can be. This led me to develop meaningful travel knowledge to help create valuable memories for others."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"It's hard to choose just one! Every trip I've taken has been unique and beautiful in its own way. One of the most amazing experiences I had was visiting a permaculture farm and eco hotel in the middle of a Costa Rican jungle. It was a muddy two hour jungle walk just to get into the property; I saw snakes, poisonous frogs, butterflies as big as my hand, and fierce howling monkeys before I even got to the hotel. The trees were the brightest green and the water was the most electric blue. During my stay on the farm, I volunteered with locals and international travelers to utilize renewable resources, make meals from the farm we worked on, generate the land, and produce as little waste as possible with a humble lifestyle. Staying in the jungle was a slightly risky, tremendously beautiful and overall unforgettable experience."
Featured trips & expertise
Epic Norway Camping, Kayaking & Hiking Journey: Oslo to Bergen - 15 Days
From conquering bucket list peaks to paddling UNESCO-protected fjords, this active 15-day Norway itinerary gets you close to the country's spectacular natural beauty. Camp in a cozy transparent dome at the famous Trolltunga, hike along Queen Sonja's Panoramic Trail, and explore the cities of Oslo and Bergen as you dash across the country by train, boat, and shuttle bus. This itinerary is perfect for active hikers, adventure-seeking travelers, and those with a moderate fitness level.
Hike Norway's Hidden Fjords - 8 Days
Hike through some of Norway's most spectacular landscapes on this 8-day trekking adventure. Based in the northwestern regions of Romsdalen and Sunnmøre, you'll scale the famous Troll Wall, kayak across tranquil fjords, find hidden waterfalls at Geirangerfjord, and summit the triangular peak of Slogen. With nights spent in historic hotels, local inns, and remote mountain huts, you'll have plenty of time for rest and relaxation between each day's exhilarating excursions.
Top Experiences in the Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands is one of the most popular destinations in Norway. The moment you arrive, you'll understand why, as this stunning archipelago features jagged mountain peaks, colorful hamlets that cling to rocks, and a coastline dotted with islands. If you're looking for outdoor adventures, this is the place for you! Enjoy scenic drives, kayaking, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, sailing, and more.
Arctic Norway Summer Road Trip: Tromsø & Senja - 7 Days
Explore northern Norway at your own speed with this self-drive itinerary. Seven days allows you sufficient time to explore the city of Tromsø and its historic streets, hike around isolated islands like Senja and Sommarøy, and sea safari alongside the fjord wildlife on your journey.
Norway Epic Family Tour: Oslo, Fjords & Bergen - 7 Days
This week-long family-friendly itinerary combines popular summer destinations and activities for a true Norwegian adventure. Start off in Oslo, where you can experience the capital's cool culture before taking a train to the mountain village of Geilo. From here, hop on a scenic steam train to Aurland, where a speedboat whisks you towards Skjerdal for hiking, goats, and spectacular fjord views. Sail through the magnificent Sognefjord to finish the trip in the picturesque port of Bergen, where you can explore its UNESCO-listed waterfront and take day trips into the surrounding fjords.
Explore Bergen & Tromsø - 6 Days
Take a whirlwind tour through Norway’s most enchanting destinations on this diverse 6-day itinerary. Start on the southwest coast, where you’ll settle into historic UNESCO-listed Bergen for three nights. Discover the charming port city's character-filled cobbled streets and lively atmosphere, then venture deep into the iconic scenery of the fjords, where you’ll travel by train and boat through some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. End your Norwegian adventure with a flight to the far north, where the Arctic city of Tromsø serves as your base to explore pristine wilderness by dogsled and go searching for the elusive northern lights.
Recent trip reviews for Tricia
We had a wonderful time cramming a lot of act...
Norway
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Dec 19 - Dec 30, 2022
We had a wonderful time cramming a lot of activities in multiple cities into a 12 day period. I am a stickler for excellent communication. Tricia lived up to my expectations. She consistently followed up and did a good job making adjustments to unexpected difficulties.
Thanks so much for the review and visit, Kevin! I'm so thankful your family had a memorable trip to Norway over the holidays.
I wasn't sure how trip would unfold as I have...
Norway
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Oct 1 - Oct 11, 2022
I wasn't sure how trip would unfold as I haven't used KimKim before however, all turned out aces! Tricia was extremely helpful in putting it all together. Norway is an extremely beautiful country (even in the rain!) and if you are an outdoor person you will appreciate the amazing countryside. Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger are great very manageable cities with a lot to see. All said, a wounderful experience.
After a long wait through covid restrictions, I'm delighted you got to finally experience the magic of Norway. Autumn is my favorite time of year and I'm grateful you were willing to visit in off-season (and brave Kjeragbolten!). So glad you took the chance on using Kimkim, Eric! It was a pleasure working with you and Jane.
Our trip was exactly what we wanted. Tricia w...
Norway
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Sep 29 - Oct 5, 2022
Our trip was exactly what we wanted. Tricia was very helpful in providing information and making adjustments where needed. She also went out of her way to keep in touch while we were on our trip to try to ensure we saw the northern lights (which we did!). The staff at Mefjord Brygge were helpful. Sebastian was knowledgeable and kind and made several suggestions regarding the best way to experience this beautiful country. We thoroughly enjoyed our time!
Thank you right back for your easygoing travel vibe and wonderful feedback, Richelle. I’m so happy you had a trip to remember and Aurora showed up for you! Maybe see you back here someday :)
I had a spectacular trip!
Norway
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Sep 2 - Sep 8, 2022
I had a spectacular trip through the country of Norway. Tusen Takk Tricia!!! You made my first international (solo) trip everything it could be and more! The route worked out perfectly and the activities were spot on for what I was looking to see and do. The trip plan went so well and removed much of the stress that may happen, for me at least, with planning everything myself. Tricia's knowledge of Norway and recommendations all came together to make for a smooth, easy to navigate... read more
So much fun to read through your reviews, Seth! Thanks so much!!
You were a joy to chat with throughout planning and during your stay. You handled your first international solo trip like a pro. I'm already looking forward to your next visit...and continuing to practice the Norwegian language with you :-D
Lykke til med fremtidige reiser!
Tusen hjertelig takk,
Tricia
Oslo to Bergen via the fjords
Norway
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Aug 24 - Aug 31, 2022
Really good suggestions and organisation. Picked venues I would never have chosen and activities that were all top rate. Would definitely recommend.
I appreciate this so very much, Sam! I enjoyed planning with you. Thanks for the visit :)
Tricia helped create a fantastic trip to Norway
Norway
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Aug 14 - Aug 20, 2022
Tricia helped create a trip in Norway focused on time in the fjords (including half a day of guide-led kayaking and another going out on a small boat to poke around a second fjord). Both experiences and the hotel we stayed at (the historic Kivknes, which may have one of the best fjord views possible) were amazing. The arrangements she made for train, ferries, hotels, experiences in Oslo, Flam, Balestrand, and the lovely Bergen all worked perfectly. She also, at my request, left us plenty of... read more
Margaret - thank you for all of these lovely details! It's so fun reading through your descriptions and hearing about the other parts of the trips we haven't yet had a chance to chat about. I am so vey grateful that the sun shined for you and your sons while you explored the fjords together.
It was a treat to plan for you and your family. Hope you come back to Norway someday :)
Norway family adventure!
Norway
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Jul 29 - Aug 18, 2022
A huge shout out to Tricia Cantlon and her team for making my family’s three week trip to Norway an experience of a life time. My 11 year old son and I were travelling with my 90 year old mother on this family adventure. Putting an itinerary together that would work for all of us required something different and Tricia’s work on pace, variety and activity selection really worked. We appreciated the opportunity to experience the character of Oslo, Stavanger and Bergen but were REALLY blown... read more
I am so absolutely grateful I could help craft your trip to be an easygoing adventure. (And a shoutout to my coworker Tom for stepping in to answer questions when necessary!) It was so much fun to help you on this multi-generational vacation. You guys were such troopers in any weather and really got the full Norwegian experience on a long tour. I am so thankful that we connected and that the trip was what you were hoping for. Thank you for everything, Nancy!!
Loved our experience with KimKim and Tricia. ...
Norway
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Aug 10 - Aug 16, 2022
Loved our experience with KimKim and Tricia. She was so adaptive to our needs, and she went above and beyond to make sure everything was set up perfectly. Made for an actually enjoyable holiday, not stressing our about all the details! read more
Elizabeth, thank you again for everything! As a mom of a toddler you deserve all the breaks you can get! I'm so happy to plan the details so you can concentrate on enjoying these moments with your family (And big thank you to my coworker Tom who also stepped in to help while you were in-country). Glad you got to see some of the big sites. It was a pleasure getting to know you a bit and connect with a fellow expat. Take care and good luck on your future adventures!!
When I think of a tour, I think I’m paying so...
Norway
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Jul 19 - Jul 28, 2022
When I think of a tour, I think I’m paying someone to do for me what I don’t have to do myself. At each leg of this trip we were left wondering and scrambling, causing a lot of anxiety. For example, the itinerary would say the name of the hotel but not tell us how to get there or even if it was walking distance In one town we paid $50 just to taxi ( the only option) back and forth from the bus. Other towns told us to meet somewhere but didn’t indicate if it was an address or a place.... read more
Anne, I'm so very saddened and surprised to learn that you felt scrambled during the trip! I truly did my best to offer support as quickly as possible and answer your questions when we chatted regularly throughout your journey. The emergency phone is a great resource for these rough moments; we always have an on-call specialist for urgent or unexpected situations.
I take my work personally because I love sharing my home and creating memories for people from all over the world. I'm very... read more
Twice Postponed Norway Exploration Turns out Perfectly!
Norway
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May 30 - Jun 12, 2022
Tricia and the entire Kim Kim Team
Please accept our sincere appreciation for all the work you and the KimKim team put in to make our travels so enjoyable. We had a wonderful trip exploring Norway (and a wonderful three days in Stockholm!). All the logistics, the accommodations across Norway and tours were first rate. But most importantly, we appreciate the extra work that went into scheduling this entire trip at least twice and perhaps even three times. Everyone understands the... read more
Thank you again for your kind words and sharing this review, Daniel. You have such an eloquent way of describing my home that I appreciate so deeply. You both deserved a wonderful trip after such a long wait. Thanks for visiting, and giving me (and Hilde!) the pleasure to guide your experience.
What an amazing trip! Tricia’s itinerary was ...
Norway
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Jul 17 - Jul 26, 2022
What an amazing trip! Tricia’s itinerary was spot on and more importantly she was always there to help us along the way. When SAS cancelled our flight to Svolvaer, Tricia found a solution that kept us on schedule so we would not miss a single minute of this beautiful country, kudos to Tricia and the Kim Kim team!
Peter
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Peter! It was lovely to have you guys here, and I'm so thankful it all worked out with the flights. Dani's photos are marvelous. I love seeing a sneak peek into your adventures! Take care and good luck on future travels :)
Norwegian Bucket List Vacation! Tricia was absolutely incredible! From the be...
Norway
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Jul 17 - Jul 26, 2022
Tricia was absolutely incredible! From the beginning, Tricia listened to and checked off everything I asked for making my Norwegian bucket list adventure come true! She was amazing in helping us with flight changes due to SAS being on strike, was able to extend our car rental and get us last minute accommodations because of the strike. My dream vacation would not have happened if it weren't for her. Thank you for the most memorable, awesome, amazing, dream vacation of a lifetime!!!!
I went through all of your photos, they are amazing! Thank you for sharing these memories and letting me be the one to organize your trip. You guys handled the crazy flight situations with such patience and optimism. I'm so glad it all worked out, and you came out of your bucket list trip a positive experience.
Take care - until we meet again :)
I absolutely loved it! We saw many wonderful ...
Norway
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Jul 12 - Jul 24, 2022
I absolutely loved it! We saw many wonderful places and the detailed planning especially regarding transportation was impressively done. Everyone I communicated with was very helpful esp Tricia and Hild earlier on as this has been a trip long in making.
Trolltunga and Lofoten were our favorites! read more
The pandemic really tested your patience on this trip - I'm so glad it was worth the wait in the end! Thanks for the visit and for your everlasting positive, laid-back attitude. It was wonderful to help you and your dad make this trip happen.
Great memories!
Norway
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Jun 24 - Jul 4, 2022
Tricia was very responsive and helpful before and during the trip. It was so nice to have someone “on the inside” help with planning and booking. We loved our trip and all went almost flawlessly. Very grateful! read more
Shireen, I had a great time arranging a trip for such an adventurous family. I love that you were up for everything: Boat safaris, train rides, zip lines, hikes and bike rides ( I'm really glad you particularly enjoyed the Rallarvegen bike ride down to Flåm - I wanted to add that in here since you mentioned you forgot to review it!). And you guys were true to the Norwegian spirit when a bit of rain didn't bother you along the way.
I am overjoyed that your family had a wonderful time in Norway. Thanks for absolutely everything!! Hope you come visit again one day.
Loved our 8-Day Norway Trip!
Norway
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Jun 18 - Jun 25, 2022
Tricia did a fantastic job setting up our 8-day journey in Norway! While we could have spent some more time in the cities, the fjord cruises, hotels, and Trolltunga hike were definitely the highlights. The Flam Railway was also an amazing surprise, as we didn't realize it was not a normal train transfer, and that valley was simply incredible. The Aurlandsfjord Hotel was also a terrific place to stay and gave us gorgeous views of that particular fjord. Trolltunga Active is a high... read more
Peter, thank you so much for taking time to leave a thoughtful review. I love to hear your appreciation for the unforgettable nature of the fjord region! It was such a treat to connect and see photos of your and your daughter throughout your journey. Thanks for your ongoing kindness as we worked together to create and follow through with your trip. Come back to Norway - and we will sort out some more time for city stays in the next plan :) Until then, take care!!
Tricia was attentive to our requests and need...
Norway
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May 13 - May 22, 2022
Tricia was attentive to our requests and needs. We had a lovely trip from
Bergen to Oslo. Particularly liked the uniqueness and locations of the places we stayed in. Tricia was also very responsive to any needs we had during my the trip and provided good suggestions or plans for every day in out tour. read more
I'm so very happy to hear you enjoyed yourselves! It was a treat to be there for your journey. You are such kind people and it was really fun that you were up to explore some of the more unique areas! Hope to see you back in Norway someday :)
We don’t think Tricia is familiar with the ar...
Norway
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May 11 - May 18, 2022
We don’t think Tricia is familiar with the area we traveled. She gave us insufficient, incomplete and some cases wrong information. We were fortunate enough to get help from our Norwegian friend who guided us throughout our tour. Without our friend’s help we would have been in a very difficult situation. The selection of hotels was very good except for Malangen Resort. The room offered a very good view but it was shabby and outdated. The floor was loose and, when you walk on it, it bounced.... read more
Akiko and Ben,
I am deeply sorry and very unpleasantly surprised to read your thoughts and feelings about my guidance and your trip to northern Norway. When I didn't hear from you, I wrongly assumed you were having a pleasant journey. It is such a terrible shame that these sour memories got in the way of your vacation. I have noted your feedback and will take it with me in future conversations with travellers.
I did speak to the hotel receptionist in Tromsø regarding parking on your arrival... read more
All of what we seen it was a trip of a life t...
Norway
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Apr 6 - Apr 19, 2022
All of what we seen it was a trip of a life time thank you read more
It was an honor to plan a Viking adventure for you. Thank you so much for visiting Norway!!