Wednesday, October 4, 2017

A Day in Copenhagen

Ever wonder how to see Copenhagen in 1 day… I figured out the answer!

     Work was sending me to Sweden for a week long Interior Design training. More on that next week… I flew into Copenhagen, Katsrup Airport a day early to make sure I made it there on time and also to visit another incredible city. 

     Once I arrived in Copenhagen I had to ditch my large suitcases if I was going to see the city in one day. The airport has luggage lockers for 24 hours, the cost is about 12 USD. After dropping off my luggage I headed to the metro ticket kiosks to get my ticket for Copenhagen central station. You can walk or take the metro. Taxi’s are not affordable and Uber doesn’t exist there. Plus the Metro stations run frequently and get you everywhere so they’re really the best option. I took the Metro north 2 stops and then walked for about 8 minutes to get to the infamous statue of the Little Mermaid, from the writings of Hans Christian Anderson. After a quick selfie photo op, ice cream and buying a souvenir statue. I realized after getting my bearings I would spend the majority of my time figuring out how to get from point A to point B all day. Time was of the essence. 
     
      When I saw the Hop on/ Hop off bus pull up, I remembered my Mom and Aunt Sheri had done this in downtown Chicago and loved the concept. I asked for a map of their stops and bought my ticket right on the spot for about 40 USD. Best Decision I made all day! I was able to see places in the city like the National Gallery of Denmark, Botanical Gardens, ‘Reflections’ Ice bar, City hall, Tivoli gardens, Christiansborg, Nyhavn, Amalienborg Gefion Fountain and the Marble church. I only got off the bus to take photos and explore at the National Gallery grounds, Botanical gardens, Gefion Fountain, City Hall, Christiansborg and the infamous Nyhavn, a row of colorful buildings along the riverfront. Buses come and go about every 20 minutes which is just enough time to walk around and take a few pictures then hop back on to the next stop. 

     I also bought a discounted boat tour ticket with my bus ticket. This was an incredible experience that I feel made my trip unforgettable. Floating down the river weaving through this historic city I couldn’t help but feel so lucky to be where I was. The architecture was so intricate and colorful. At this point I really wish I had the love of my life by my side to take in the sights with me. I took video footage on the bus to send him so it was more of a virtual date! When you have to be apart you find creative ways to connect! If I could spend another day I would go to the Amalienborg, the design history museum and the H.C. Andersen museum. There are also beaches, modern architecture tours, city zoo, and an aquarium. 

     Most of the people of Denmark speak English which is super helpful. They are incredibly helpful, friendly and warm. The food is also delicious, of course I had to have a Danish in Denmark. It seemed like a rite of passage! But more important to them is the hot dog. They have hot dogs in, what looks like, a mini French baguette. You can add whatever condiments you choose. It was delicious! They even have hot dog stands at the airport so the Danes can have this delicious food after being away from home. If you’re planning a day trip to Copenhagen, you really should spend a minimum of 2 days. That way you can see the entire city, take tours spend time visiting sights and museums. If you don’t have this city on your bucket list already…. You MUST add it, it’s a place you won’t ever forget!

Until next week…..
Erin