Look, I’m no Gothenburg, Sweden tour guide, but if you have a layover and time to kill between trains, head on over to the Lilla Bommen marina in Gothenburg harbor. It’s full of energy as people either board yachts to experience the waterway or hang out in the square for some great people-watching. Right next door is the Opera House.
It’s truly fascinating how two hours can go by in the snap of a finger when I’m photographing beautiful landscapes. I suppose that’s when you know you’re really enjoying yourself and your surroundings. My time had come and gone in Sweden, and it was much too short. Stockholm, I’m coming for you next! It may be awhile, but we’ll meet soon. My small taste of sweet Sweden had turned into a full on craving.
The train ride from Sweden to Denmark was productive. I was really learning to love my new “moving office” full of Wi-Fi, power outlets, space and best of all: a damn good view. To top it off, a man came through the cars with a coffee cart and free refills! Needless to say, I was wired once we made it to Denmark. Rail Europe does it right.
Copenhagen was everything I dreamed it would be: worldly, edgy, stylish with a sense of adventure. Oh, and very livable. I could move there tomorrow as seen in my re-told accounts with Visit Denmark’s tourism board.
See: The sherbet-hued townhouses in Nyhavn (17th century waterfront district) had me daydreaming of renting an apartment and settling down with the Danish. Can you feel the love through the screen?! How can anyone not be overcome with happiness when looking at this photo?
Do: My favorite way to discover Copenhagen was via bike, but not just any old ordinary bike. This was a Go Bike with a navigation system and electric motor for assistance…basically a smart bike. The Danish people have an undying love for these things! I applaud this for many reasons, but mostly because it combines my love for exercise and being environmentally friendly. Could this be the world’s best bike-share? I do believe so.
Relax: The King’s Garden made me want to have on a ball gown and heels, not black jeans and flannel, I’ll tell you that much! Manicured and vibrant, the garden was the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. I was so exhausted from walking around the city all day, and I stumbled upon this green space. After a short break, I ended up spending entirely too much time photographing here. Not the relaxation I was looking for, but my camera and I just couldn’t help it.
Eat: When I go back for a visit, I’ll probably head straight for Torvehallerne Market where there’s the best hot dog I’ve ever eaten! More deliciousness includes cheeses, juices, smoothies, salads, meats…the gastronomy only continues.
Drink: Truth be told, I’m caffeine dependent and generally an all-around happy person, so I’d say coffee and happiness have a positive correlation. I can definitely relate to the cheery local caffeine addicts of Copenhagen. I saw the world map used as their wallpaper and knew I had to get a few of my favorite things in the same picture – world travel and coffee!
Play: I read about Tivoli’s history before arriving to Copenhagen, and as a 10-year-old at heart, I knew I had to make a visit. For me, I’m a lover of sweets, fun and photography, and I knew the attraction would be a haven for all three. It holds so much history as well. It’s one of the world’s oldest amusement parks and inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland! Count me in. Tivoli should be preserved forever, and it should also be noted: it’s everything that Six Flags isn’t – exotic and charming!
Copenhagen captivates locals and tourists of all ages. The young and the restless, the bold and the beautiful, the old and the wise – you name it. The same goes with the city’s architecture. Older buildings stand beside new modern masterpieces, but each one carries its own weight either in colorful charm or design. What took me by surprise about Copenhagen was that I left thinking I could live there. I don’t think that about just any city. It takes a lot for this to happen – friendly locals, delicious food, laid-back vibes, active/social scenes, a plethora of things to do, preferably on the water… the list goes on! Matches made in heaven don’t come around too often, but I think Copenhagen and I have something going on…
Copenhagen, you really are the coolest kid on the Nordic block. Next up: Switzerland in all its glory.
See more scenes from Copenhagen in the images below…
Agnes says
I enjoyed reading this post and can’t wait to explore Denmark next month.