This week I went back to work, so I’ve been slow to finish off the travel diaries from my recent trip! But better later than never, right?
Copenhagen
Be still my beating heart… As Denmark’s cool Capital city, Copenhagen is my idea of perfection; gorgeous and green, clean air, lovely old buildings, an effective transport system, funky eateries, not too overcrowded, friendly people…
No, seriously. All of the local people we met in Copenhagen were genuinely polite and welcoming. I wonder if Denmark’s egalitarian social policies and environmental focus have anything to do with it?!
Hygge (pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah) is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cosy, charming or special.
I read about Hygge prior to my trip and the sceptical part of me felt it was too good to be true. But after spending time on the streets of Copenhagen, you get a general sense that people are content with their surrounding environment. Not only did I see lots of people cycling and walking (yup, exercise is good for the mind and soul) but I saw lots of people socialising and having a laugh. The Dane’s place emphasis on nurturing human, social connections and I recall one lady who was so apologetic when she learnt I lost my umbrella!
There is so much to see and do in Copenhagen, in fact, it’s MADE for visiting. When we arrived, we purchased the amazing Copenhagen Card (around $120 NZD) which allows free entry into over 78 attractions and free transport. This included visiting the Nikolaj Contemporary Art Center (interactive exhibition set in an old church), Kronborg Castle (where Hamlet is set), M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark, the Royal Palaces (featuring amazing colourful murals), entrance into Tivoli Gardens (one of the oldest theme parks in the world) a city canal cruise, and my particular favourite, the Louisana Museum of Modern Art. This has to be the most beautiful art museum I’ve ever been to! So stylish, so Danish.
Yes, there are lots of hipsters and cool kids in Copenhagen. The Meatpacking District contains many funky bars, restaurants and cafes (kinda reminds me of Wynyard Quarter) and it seems like a trendy place to socialise. We had a gorgeous seafood dinner at the Kødbyens Fiskebar, finished with one of the yummiest desserts I’ve ever had.
The Dane’s have it so good, but I like to think they are grateful for their harmonious environment. Life is for living and Hygge is the ultimate expression of this.
I could keep going on about Copenhagen, but I’ll let the photos do the talking. I am definitely coming back to wonderful Copenhagen.
Copenhagen in 5 words…
Progressive, clean, efficient, funky, trendy.
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