A Life Shaped by the Nordics

Some people have a single moment that changes everything. For me, Elaine Peik, it wasn’t just one - it was a series of moments, experiences, and opportunities that kept pulling me toward the Nordics. Looking back, I realize the North wasn’t just a destination I visited, it was always part of me.

And now, I’ve made it my mission to help others experience the magic of the Nordics in a way that’s authentic, personal, and entirely their own.

Early Roots: The Nordics Were Always in My Life

One of my earliest memories is riding on the back of my dads bike to an annual Swedish Midsummer festival in South Minneapolis. Later, I’d go with both my parents, soaking in the music, food, and traditions that felt as natural to me as any American holiday.

My connection to the Nordics wasn’t just something I learned about, it came to me. My Swedish and Norwegian relatives would visit, staying with us when I was little, filling our home with stories, laughter, and a sense of belonging to something bigger.

Then, at a summer festival at Orchestra Hall, I saw a Swedish folk dance group for the first time. I didn’t just want to watch, I wanted to be part of it. That moment led me to join Vasa Junior Folk Dancers, spending Saturdays practicing, performing at the Festival of Nations, and diving into mini Swedish lessons after dance. Without realizing it, I was building a foundation for a lifetime of Nordic connection. And that Swedish festival I was attending with my parents, I was now a direct part of that preforming with the dance group.

From Tradition to Travel: Experiencing the Nordics Firsthand

It was one thing to feel my heritage in Minnesota, it was another to experience it in the Nordic countries themselves.

My first trip to Sweden and Norway was at the age of 13, with my parents and grandmother. We traveled around for five weeks. We visited family members. Some who had visited us in Minnesota, but many whose names I had only heard in stories, strengthening my connection to my roots. But one of the most unforgettable moments happened in Denmark.

Through a Swedish woman my parents knew, we were introduced to a Danish man living in Copenhagen, who had been part of the Danish Resistance during World War II. He helped us place articles in local Danish newspapers, hoping to track down our family. And it worked.

When we arrived in Kolding, Denmark, we met relatives we never knew existed. What made it even more surreal? They had the same family photos that we did. images passed down through generations, across borders, unknowingly connecting us until that moment. Standing in that room, realizing we were part of the same story despite never having met before, was a moment of belonging I will never forget.

This is my why.

Committing to the Nordic Path

Back home, I knew I couldn’t let go of what I had experienced. So, I dove in deeper.

I attended the Swedish Concordia Language Village, Sjölunden, for five years, followed by the decision of doing three years of intensive Credit Camp to earn high school credit in Swedish. Then, after graduation, I took off to Sweden on my own, visiting friends and family, before returning with my cousin a year later to see even more of my Nordic roots.

At Gustavus Adolphus College, a Swedish-founded school, I continued studying Swedish while embracing every opportunity to stay connected to my heritage. I even ran to be the ambassador of the local Swedish Community in the Twin Cities, and won!

And then, as if the Nordics weren’t already intertwined in every part of my life, an unexpected connection changed my career.

Turning Passion into a Career

A friend of mine worked at one of the most respected Scandinavian travel companies in the U.S. She thought I’d be a perfect fit for their team. She was right.

What started as a travel designer role became a 17-year journey, where I eventually led the Scandinavia department as Director. I traveled extensively, deepening my knowledge of the region, forging relationships with local partners, and curating trips that went far beyond cookie-cutter tourism.

When I left to start a new Nordic Travel Company with colleagues, I thought I’d found my path for good. We had a solid 4 years, but then, COVID changed everything. Like so many businesses, we couldn’t survive. But the truth was, I wasn’t ready to walk away from what I loved most which is helping people experience the Nordics in ways that felt personal, seamless, and unforgettable.

So, I kept going.

To my excitement in late 2021, I discovered a great Norwegian Travel company who was looking to expand to the North American market. After accepting their offer to join the team, I began my journey as the North American Business Development and General Manager roles. I expanded my knowledge, refined my expertise, and worked at the highest level of Nordic travel planning. But something in me knew there was still more I wanted to do.

Which brings me here.

The Nordic Travel Collective: Why I Do This

The Nordics aren’t just a place I know they’re a place I’ve lived, breathed, and experienced in ways most people haven’t. From dancing at heritage festivals as a child to leading the industry in designing Nordic travel experiences, I’ve spent my life connecting people to this extraordinary part of the world.

But here’s the thing: no two people experience the Nordics the same way.

Some want to explore their ancestry, walking the same streets their great-grandparents did. Others want to chase the Northern Lights, hike dramatic fjords, or experience the magic of midsummer on a remote island. Some want a mix of adventure and culture, while others seek out luxury and exclusivity.

I created The Nordic Travel Collective to help people do exactly that - experience the Nordics, their way.

I believe in personalized travel that fits you and your budget, your timeline, your travel style. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all travel. I work with insider knowledge, local connections, and years of expertise to craft journeys that let travelers see the Nordics authentically.

Because I know what it’s like to feel connected to these places in a way that’s deeper than a guidebook. And I want to help others feel that too.

This is my why.

What’s Next?

This blog is where I’ll be sharing my insider knowledge, my favorite hidden gems, practical travel tips, and stories from the North that will inspire you to plan your own journey.

If you’ve ever felt drawn to the Nordics maybe through family history, a dream trip, or just the idea of wide-open landscapes and a culture deeply connected to nature I’d love to help you experience it in the most unforgettable way possible.

So tell me what’s your dream Nordic destination/trip/experience?

- Elaine Peik
(Owner & Founder of Nordic Travel Collective)