Traveling Danishly 🇩🇰

When your Danish friend invites you to her country, you go!

Our first trip to Europe was incredible. Thanks to our host and friend, Lise Lotte.

We stepped into a fairytale straight from the Middle Ages on the island of Funen, the third largest island of Denmark. Fun fact, there are over 1,400 islands and only 443 have names.

Evidence of an ancient timeline is everywhere. Medieval cobblestones cover the streets and thatched roofs top many homes and structures. Churches and castles date back to the Middle Ages – as we stood at these iconic sites it was humbling.

We learned quickly the Danish people respect their history, ancestors, and culture.

Danish culture is fascinating. The Year of Living Danishly, by Helen Russell is a great read and resource about life in Denmark. Written by an English outsider living on the Danish inside, the book delves into culture, lifestyle, rules, healthcare and taxes. Recommend by our host, this book made me laugh, cry, gasp, and care about Denmark. 🇩🇰

Rules

In Denmark, there are many rules. Maybe that is the key to making them one of the happiest countries in the world. Everyone follows the rules – they drive the speed limit, pedestrians use street crossings, and blowing the car horn is illegal.

Travel

Most Danes drive electric cars so no loud exhausts. The other thing you don’t hear is the beep of a key fob. They like their peace and quiet here.

Bicycles are a main mode of transportation in Denmark. Interestingly, 44% Of Danish households don’t have a car but 9 out of 10 Danes have a bicycle. There are dedicated lanes for bikers just about everywhere. The cargo bike, invented in Copenhagen is impressive. It’s an oversized tricycle with a wooden box in the front. Families can transport kids, groceries and other items easily.

Food

Food is incredibly fresh. The ingredients are simple. No unnecessary additives or preservatives.

One of our favorites is a Smørrebrød, an open face sandwich on rye bread (Danish recipe from 1703) topped with protein, veggies, cheese and a soft boiled egg. Yes, the soft boiled egg is a Danish staple on just about everything.

Bread and pastry are intricate to the food culture. The pastries are so beautiful (how beautiful are they?) they are so beautiful they enchant the taste buds without ever trying a bite. It is truly edible art. We ate a lot of art.

And then there’s the licorice, the candy of Denmark. It comes in just about any combination of flavors you can think of. Gourmet licorice is a thing. Licorice flavors highlight holiday libations, cookies, cakes, soup, etc.

Viking Culture

We were privileged to a private lesson on Nordic history from a true Viking, our friend Fredrik who now reenacts Viking battles in city of Aarhus. His demonstration included swords, shields, and chainmail armor. Yes, Eric and I both geared up for a lesson in battle, Viking style. We learned to decipher Runes and how ancient cultures navigated the landscape. This experience captured the true essence of Denmark.

Mocca

We had the privilege to share our accommodations with a sweet pup. Mocca, an English Cocker Spaniel, took us for walks daily around her neighborhood. While used to Danish commands , she adjusted nicely to our novice Danish language skills, with an American twist.