- The Food. Delicious, fresh and diverse. Even though there are three Michelin star restaurants in the city, you can eat just about anywhere and find yumminess. Yeah!
2. The People. Friendly, diverse citizens, 95% speak English (among the several languages the average citizen speaks) and they are a very welcoming people. The Danish are proud of their country and it shows.
3. Clean. The city is clean and polite. The streets are well maintained and easy to get around.
4. Fashion. Industrial comfort is the key. Birkenstocks for all. The Danish need to be able to hop on a bike and show up for the office. It is an uncomplicated style. Crisp & hip.
5. Museums. There are a ton in the city, from design to art to even Barbie. The Danish have a rich history that is utterly accessible in the presentation. Almost all exhibits are presented in multi-languages for easy comprehension. The entrance fees are around 120 krona (less than $20 USA.)
6. No mosquitos. There are no screens on the windows as bugs are not a problem. The interior light is much more graceful due this fact. There are a few flies and gnats, but not a problem. Bees are around though. So if you have an allergy, bring an epipen with you.
7. No casual smiling or eye contact while walking about. I like this, nay, I LOVE this. It feels less intrusive and polite for me. My husband would like more casual smiles and hellos as he is typical friendly American. Like a golden retriever. I’m a house cat, I smile when I want…thus, I love it.
8. Transportation. Bikes are key here in Copenhagen. There are specific lanes for bikes and they have the ‘right of way’ often. Look out as they zoom by. Buses run on time and inexpensive. We used Viggo a lot. Viggo is the Uber of Denmark and all EV. The prices were reasonable and drivers excellent.
9. Parks. There are urban oases everywhere. From the Botanical Gardens in the city center to Assistens Cemetary/Park to the many public playgrounds, all are well-maintained and well used.
10. The Hygge Life. This is a core part of Danish culture and a recent phenomenon, dating to the late 20th century. By convention, the word hygge is thought to originate from a Danish word meaning “to give courage, comfort & joy.” Copenhagen displays this philosophy every day. The soft, twinkling light in restaurants and cafes. Comfortable, cushioned seating. Kindness to all. Family friendly. Warm tones.
Thank you Copenhagen, we will be back!
Project Empty Nest 