Reasons I "Elsker" Denmark (#1-7)

Over the past 2.5 weeks, I have begun to make a list of the things that I love about Denmark. I have complied 18 very specific things so far, but I have made a rule for myself: I will only include it in a "Reasons I <3 DK" post IF I have a picture to go with it. This means that I need to get creative and it will slow down the rate at which I post things (so they don't all come at once). This evening I will start with reasons 1-7.


Reason #1. Downtown Copenhagen (København)! The buildings are colorful and there is a blend of modern and historical architecture (this will be revisited later). It is a city made for pedestrians (of course including bikers). There are plenty of open plazas for meeting up with friends, a million cafes and bakeries, shops and businesses, and tons of bike racks.

Reason #2. The colors (farverne): the colors of the buildings in the city, the colors of the sunsets, the colors of the rooftops and the harbor. Things are bright enough to add a little cheer on a cold and otherwise grey day. 

Reason #3. Waterfronts (søer og havne). The reflection of the buildings on the ponds, lakes, harbors, etc are truly breathtaking (there are about 10 photos I wanted to use here). 

Reason #4. Bakeries (bageriers) and pastries (wienerbrød). Every street has at least 2 bakeries with treats that call to you from the window as you helplessly walk by. I limit myself to a MAX of one per day (except on weekends when my host family brings home loads of treats). Even when I don't taste them, looking in the windows fun too (though obviously not as tasty). 

 Reason #5. Family (familie) The closeness of family in Denmark is different from what I was used to in the States. Danes take advantage of the fact that they live in close proximity, and are very, very close with their extended families. Huge family gatherings with aunts, uncles, and cousins are a monthly affair (if not more frequently). Grandparents are often seen even more frequently. In fact, the relationship between parents and children (specifically aging parents and their adult children) is much to be admired.

Reason #6. Kid's winter attire (this was what actually gave me the idea to start making a list). Every child (until ~5 years old) wears a full snowsuit during the winter months (even when it isn't snowing). I am absolutely obsessed. I think these outfits are adorable and functional, and I am not alone. Some adult Danes even walk around sporting onesies! I've been trying to sneak a photo since I arrived, but always felt like a creep. Yesterday this adorable little girl was putting on a show in CPH (note: the helmet-hat is also a key part of the outfit)! 

Reason #7: Sunsets (solnedgang). I can watch a beautiful sunset in the city center, on the train ride, while walking the dogs, and most certainly while sitting near one of the many waterfronts. The colors are always spectacular no matter where you are. 

I guess that's a good start! I actually have another 5 that I could do this evening, but I will save them for a later date. My complete list is much longer, but I still need to take photos for the rest of them. And of course I will be adding more and more things as the semester continues!