A skateboard is the best thing you can take with you on travel adventures

Trucks and Fins welcomes Bros Around The Globe who will share with us their inspiring travel adventures.

In their first blog you will get a comprehensive perspective on how traveling and skateboarding share the same ‘mantra’: freedom and connecting people. So simple. So pure. So healthy.

If you’ve stumped upon this, chances are you’re thinking about bringing your skateboard with you on your next trip. And if you haven’t thought about packing it, you should, because you’ll probably regret it if you don’t. As a skater, a skateboard is the best thing you can take with you on a travel adventure, besides well, your skate shoes, of course. Whether you’re heading out to the next town over or abroad to a new country when you take your board with you, the possibilities are endless, and Trucks and Fins can navigate the skate along the way or even help find a place to stay

Though it may feel awkward to carry and seem like extra weight at first, the benefits of bringing your skateboard will soon reveal themselves in more ways than one. Between waiting for buses, taxis, trains, and all the downtime that travel provides, your board is sure to keep you occupied when you're not seeking out new skate spots or exploring a new city on four wheels. With a board in tow, you have the ability to get from point A to point B, all while expressing the creative outlet we call skateboarding. As you hit the streets to take in the new sights, sounds, and smells, the pure joy from kicking, pushing, and rolling in a foreign place is a feeling second to none. 

“Skaters respect other skaters no matter where they may find themselves in the world and there’s a special connection in a shared passion and lifestyle”

Besides skating legendary spots, parks, and plazas, you’ll quickly learn your skate doubles as a universal language for making new friends. Not to mention it helps you navigate language barriers and tap into skating’s tight-knit subculture. Skaters respect other skaters no matter where they may find themselves in the world and there’s a special connection in a shared passion and lifestyle. Skating knows no boundaries, no borders, nor skin colour because every skater knows how much, blood, sweat, tears, and time goes into the learning process. When you meet other skaters, there’s an unspoken bond that brings high fives and high vibes in whatever corner of the globe you may find yourself in. 

Skating can be a tool to clear one’s mind, let off steam, challenge yourself, be present, and rediscover the learning process. Besides helping you get around, it’s a useful tool to have when traveling long-term and can be all the above and more. You may even inspire others to get on a board or help a groom cruise for the first time. Each skate mission will give you a glimpse into the local skate culture and diversity of skaters worldwide. You’ll meet new friends, skate legendary spots you can only dream of, and make memories to last you a lifetime. All made possible by a wooden toy and the desire to ride. 

“Becoming friends with locals is always a powerful travel experience, leaving you with the feeling that you were fully immersed and a part of the city”

When you arrive at a new destination, just show up at the local, and you’ll be in the neighbourhood crew before you know it. Young or old, beginner or professional, skateparks serve as places for people of different backgrounds to interact with each other. When you’re on the road, stopping by the skatepark or DIY spot is one of the best ways to take in the vibe of a unique place and meet new people. No matter where you are in the world, skaters are gonna skate. Becoming friends with locals is always a powerful travel experience, leaving you with the feeling that you were fully immersed and a part of the city, town, or village you were visiting.

On your journey, you can’t forget to make a stop to support the local skate shop. Around the world, skate shops serve as a catalyst for developing and sustaining the local skate community. It's a place to gather and chop it up to gain some insight into what you should really see and do in a new place. When traveling, the best advice is always from people who actually live there. A skate shop is the root of a city’s skate culture, and it brings people together. Skate shops are much more than a storefront, they support real people and put their money back into the local skate scene. Skate shops around the world always have a welcoming atmosphere that illustrates just how vibrant the skate community is.

“Travel and skating are all about freedom, creativity, and thinking outside the box. When you combine the two, you’ll experience the best of both worlds”

Traveling with a board taught me how skateboarding and traveling are similar in many ways. Through both, you must be present and only concentrate on the now. Skateboarding, like traveling, has always taught me about patience, persistence, never giving up, and mental toughness. Both prepare you to adjust when a mistake arises and to keep trying when something doesn't go your way. They teach you to adapt when things don't go correctly and push you out of your comfort zone to try new things. On the road or on your board, there’s a humbling feeling when you fail or fall down, leaving you to get back up and do it again through sheer determination. 

Freedom, creativity, and individuality are values of skateboard culture. There is no question that skaters are unrelentingly dedicated to the progress of the sport and welcome anyone who has the courage to get on board. The skate community is built on mutual respect. Instead of one-upping each other, skaters continually encourage each other and embrace their differences, something ever so prevalent when you travel the world with your board. Travel and skating are all about freedom, creativity, and thinking outside the box. When you combine the two, you’ll experience the best of both worlds. 

So when it comes to packing for that next trip, make sure you leave enough room to bring your board. Your skateboard will take you to places you could only dream of and give you memorable experiences that will stay with you long after your adventure is concluded. With 85 million skaters around the world, you’ll be sure to find your tribe when you travel, and all you’ll need is your board. 

Website Bros around the Globe Instagram Bros around the globe

By Nick DeRiso

Brandoa Skatepark: A Symbol of Progress

The Brandoa skatepark offers an array of fun lines and serves as a perpetual canvas for skaters to express their creativity The Brandoa skatepark, located within the Encosta do Sol parish in the municipality of Amadora, is more than just a concrete playground for skaters. It represents a promising sign of the changing times. After being overlooked for years, this plot of land on the outskirts of Lisbon embarked on a journey to combat prejudice while offering the local community a platform to showcase their diverse talents — be it in culture, society, or sports. Cultural diversity thrives here, with residents hailing from over 50 different nationalities. Within the confines of a skatepark, factors like colour, race, gender, or religion are empty words, fostering an inclusive environment. Brandoa, in addition to its cultural richness, boasts a landscape that is both geologically challenging and rewarding. Local enthusiasts fondly reminisce about the thrill of downhill sessions during the 80’s and 90’s when bearings were the buzzword, not only for skateboards but for rolling carts and various other moving objects. These were times of sheer exhilaration and wonder. It's against this backdrop that the local municipality decided to invest in a skatepark in a prime location, close to well-maintained urban landscapes, schools, a church, the local market, and padel courts. Designed and built by Wasteland Skateparks, the Brandoa skatepark offers an array of exciting lines and serves as a perpetual canvas for skaters to express their creativity. The seamless concrete surface is a major plus, and the obstacles have been meticulously crafted to deliver the perfect blend of speed and variety. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});   Accessible via numerous roads and public transportation options, Brandoa skatepark has also emerged as a result of community-driven efforts to engage with public authorities, consolidating local street riders into one central hub. The outcome is a vibrant and harmonious mix — of styles, of people, and of purpose. That said, the Brandoa skatepark symbolizes progress in its purest form. It stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and inclusivity, transcending societal boundaries while providing a dynamic platform for skaters to pursue their passions and dreams. As the wheels roll on at Brandoa skatepark, it carries forward the legacy of resilience, diversity, and endless possibilities. Just try it and be a part of this journey. Visit Brandoa skatepark Find out more about Wasteland skateparks

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Exploring Arruda dos Vinhos Skatepark: A Summer Skate Session in Portugal

Embarking on our mission to skate every skatepark in Portugal, we arrived at Arruda dos Vinhos, a small town nestled in the western region of the country. Despite the scorching 30-degree Celsius temperatures, we were determined to make the most of our skate session at the local skatepark. Although Arruda dos Vinhos Skatepark may not boast the most impressive features, its basic setup and scenic surroundings provided us with an enjoyable afternoon with our crew. Arruda dos Vinhos Arruda dos Vinhos, located approximately 30 kilometers north of Lisbon, is a charming municipality in the Lisbon District. With a population of around 14,000 residents, this town exudes a peaceful atmosphere and offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes, surrounded by rolling vineyards and lush greenery. Despite its relatively small size, Arruda dos Vinhos has a rich cultural heritage and traditional Portuguese charm. While the skatepark may not be the main draw, Arruda dos Vinhos offers a scenic backdrop that adds to the overall experience. The town's natural beauty and idyllic surroundings make it a pleasant place to spend time outdoors. After a session at the skatepark, take a stroll through the town's charming streets and relax at local cafes. Interested in the wine scene? Don't miss the opportunity to explore the vineyards and wineries in the area, where you can sample regional wines and learn about the winemaking process. Arruda dos Vinhos skatepark The Arruda dos Vinhos skatepark, while not the most "remarkable" in terms of design, still provides a space for skaters to have some fun. Built with basic metal elements, the skatepark follows a simple back-and-forth setup, featuring a quarter pipe, a bank, and a jumpbox.  In conclusion, Arruda dos Vinhos Skatepark may not be the most remarkable skatepark in Portugal, but it provided us with a decent skate session in a beautiful setting. The town's scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and welcoming atmosphere make it worth a visit for those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. While you're there, take the time to explore the local attractions, taste the delicious wines, and immerse yourself in the traditional Portuguese charm of Arruda dos Vinhos. Crew of the day: Rodrigo Simão, Margarida Cepeda, Purple  Visit Arruda dos Vinhos skatepark

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Bombarral Skatepark Tour: Transforming the Ordinary into something good

Continuing our mission to skate every skatepark in Portugal, our next stop brought us to Bombarral, a small town situated in the Lisbon District. Our attention turned to Bombarral Skatepark, which, to be frank, falls short of being one of the best skateparks in the region. However, with the determination to make the most of our visit, we gathered a special crew consisting of Tiago Miguel, Rodrigo Russo, and Rodrigo Simão. Despite the park's shortcomings and in need of repair, our goal was to infuse it with our vibe and style, striving to make something seemingly lackluster appear extraordinary. Bombarral Bombarral, with its close-knit community and modest population, offers a unique glimpse into the authentic Portuguese lifestyle. Nestled within the picturesque Lisbon District, the town boasts a tranquil atmosphere and a blend of historical and contemporary elements. While Bombarral may not be known for its skateboarding scene or extraordinary landmarks, its simplicity and unassuming charm provided a refreshing change of pace. We approached Bombarral Skatepark with the mindset of elevating it beyond its limitations and showcasing the transformative power of skateboarding. Bombarral Skatepark Bombarral Skatepark, while certainly in need of repair and lacking in standout features, became our canvas for creativity. Instead of bemoaning its condition, we took the opportunity to reimagine the space. We did our best to make even the simplest elements look remarkable. This skate session served as a testament to the power of a passionate crew, showcasing that with the right mindset and determination, any skatepark can become a platform for self-expression and inspiration.   While Bombarral Skatepark may not have left a lasting impression as one of Portugal's top skateparks, the experience in Bombarral itself was a reminder of the beauty in finding joy in unexpected places. Our visit to Bombarral Skatepark became a reminder that sometimes it's not about the quality of the park, but rather the spirit and enthusiasm we bring to it. Every skatepark holds the potential for transformation and self-expression, regardless of its initial condition. In conclusion, Bombarral Skatepark in the heart of Bombarral may not have ranked among the best skateparks, but it provided a unique opportunity for us to showcase the transformative power of skateboarding. Bombarral, with its humble charm and simplicity, served as a reminder that skateboarding is about more than just the location—it's about the passion, creativity, and camaraderie that can turn any skatepark into a canvas for self-expression and fun. Crew: Tiago Miguel, Rodrigo Russo, Rodrigo Simão, and Haroun Cherif Visit Bombarral skatepark on our marp

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Peniche Skatepark Tour: Surfing Paradise with Room for Improvement

Continuing our ambitious mission to skate and film every skatepark in Portugal, we arrived at Peniche, a renowned surfer's paradise located in the western coastal region of the country. Our next stop was Peniche Skatepark, unfortunately known as one of the worst skateparks in Portugal. Despite its lackluster reputation, we were joined by a dedicated crew consisting of Tiago Miguel, Buga, Margarida Cepeda, and Rodrigo Simão behind the camera. While the skatepark may not be worth visiting, Peniche's vibrant surf culture and picturesque setting compensate for its underwhelming skatepark. Peniche skatepark Peniche Skatepark, unfortunately, falls short of expectations when it comes to skateboarding facilities. Considered one of the worst skateparks in Portugal, its limitations and lack of quality hinder the potential for a remarkable skate session. However, our crew embraced the challenge, using their skills and creativity to make the most of the limited features. Tiago Miguel, Buga, and Margarida Cepeda pushed their limits, finding lines and tricks within the constraints of the skatepark, while Rodrigo Simão captured the action behind the camera. While the skatepark may not be noteworthy, the dedication and passion of our crew shone through, making the best of an underwhelming situation.   Peniche Peniche, with its population of approximately 26,429 residents, holds a special place in the hearts of surfers worldwide. Situated on a peninsula, Peniche is blessed with stunning beaches and world-class waves that attract surf enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The town exudes a laid-back, coastal vibe and offers a vibrant surf culture that permeates its streets and waters. Beyond the skatepark, Peniche provides an array of experiences for those seeking sun, sand, and unforgettable surf sessions. Beyond the skatepark, Peniche offers a treasure trove of experiences. The town's historic center showcases its rich maritime heritage and offers charming streets to wander, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Peniche's location on the coast provides an opportunity for breathtaking coastal walks, invigorating swims, or simply basking in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Surfers will find themselves in paradise, with numerous surf breaks catering to different skill levels. Peniche's vibrant surf culture, coupled with its natural beauty, makes it a destination worth exploring, even if the skatepark doesn't live up to expectations. In conclusion, while Peniche Skatepark may not be a standout destination for skateboarders, Peniche itself compensates with its vibrant surf culture, breathtaking beaches, and picturesque coastal setting. Surfers flock to Peniche for its world-class waves, and although the skatepark falls short, our crew made the best of the situation, showcasing their dedication and creativity. From the town's historic center to the exhilarating surf breaks, Peniche offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors seeking a coastal adventure in Portugal. Crew: Tiago Miguel, Buga, Margarida Cepeda and Rodrigo Simão Visit Peniche skatepark

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