One thing that really stands out in Danish culture is their public transportation and biking system. Everything in the “main” part of the city is completely walkable, and my commute to school is around 25 minutes with a mix of walking, bussing or metro-ing. Sometimes, I will walk most of the way home if it’s a nicer day and there will be so many people strolling the city. There are many parks and fields for recreational activities, and warmer weather brings people outside! Copenhagen is also known for its biking culture, with strict rules and dedicated lanes, making it one of the most popular ways to get around. Traveling in and out of Denmark is fairly easy, and I have taken a few day trips to Sweden on a one-hour train ride. While Copenhagen can be a more expensive than other cities in Scandinavia and Europe, flights are often affordable and make exploring new places worth it! My recent two trips were to England and Lithuania.
Back in the city, Danish culture shines through its appreciation for the arts and everyday lifestyle. Live music, festivals, shows/concerts and museums/ exhibits are found all over the city, and I've enjoyed visiting a few to learn more about Danish history and culture. One concept I’ve come to love is hygge, which is all about creating a cozy and calming atmosphere. Almost every day after class, I head to a new or local cafe where the seating is typically lounging chairs or plush couches with house music playing. Time feels like it moves slower when the culture appreciates an intentional lifestyle.
