Denmark is the southernmost country of the Nordic countries. With a population of 6 million it is know as one of the happiest countries in the world. English is taught starting in primary school and the vast majority of people will converse with you in English. Copenhagen is the capital and largest city with 1.3 million people.
A walk through Old Copenhagen is a beautiful stroll past markets, cafes and historical buildings. Many people are headed towards Copenhagen’s two most popular tourist attractions - The Canal Boat Tours and Tivoli Gardens.
Canal Boat Tours
If you have ever been to Amsterdam and done the canal tours there, well this Copenhagen attraction is very much the same. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Copenhagen’s harbour and see many iconic buildings. The 90 minute excursion, well worth it.
Tivoli Gardens
opened on 15 August 1843 and is the third-oldest operating amusement park in the world. With over 5 million visitors annually, it is Denmarks most popular tourist attraction. It is located in the heart of the city right next to the train station. It has attractions/rides for all ages and a concert stage for Friday night concerts. Restaurants, cafes, beautiful gardens - this is a must visit when going to Copenhagen.
The park is best known for its wooden roller coaster, Rutschebanen, or as some people call it, Bjergbanen (The Mountain Coaster), built in 1914. It is one of the world's oldest wooden roller coasters that is still operating today - oldest in Europe and third oldest in the world. An onboard operator controls the ride by braking so that it does not gain too much speed during descent of the hills. A definite must for a ride, not the scariest ride but certainly one of the most historic.
Hygge
Why are the Danish people always in the top two of the most content/happy people in the world? This could come down to Hygge, the Danish concept that involves creating a warm and contented atmosphere, as well as being in the moment and enjoying the simple pleasures in life with loved ones. The good news is that, as with the best things in life, Hygge is free – except for a some pretty high taxes. These are some of the factors that create this sense of happiness.
The Danish Welfare system works with generous benefits for many aspects of their lives, Yes it requires an almost 45% taxation rate, but people accept this in return for all the social benefits.
Danes work less and spend more time with family (average work week 33 hours). They live simpler lives and don’t assume that society owes them a standard of living - they have already created one.
Danes trust each other. A recent survey reported that 79% of Danish society trusted most people. Pretty astonishing in today’s world.
Danes don’t boast or try to be pretentious. There's an unwritten law in Danish culture called Janteloven or "Jante's law," based on a popular satirical novel from the 1930s. The spirit of Janteloven is "don't act like you're better, smarter or richer than anyone else."
Danish Summer (Sommerhus) Houses
are not pretentious by any means. Very tiny by North American life style. They are quaint, quirky, cozy, simple and full of Danish Hygge (contented atmosphere). This is where urban families can relax with family and friends on weekends - to enjoy life.
Hygge Found
I went to see a Bruce Springsteen concert and found what makes the Danish people so happy - Hygge (contentedness). We met up with Danish friends we have know for over 45 years, Carsten and Mette, they are living this life with family and friends. Will I be able to take this Hygge philosophy back to my life in Canada, not so sure. At least I was able to be a part of it for a few days, thanks to them..
The Boss
Attending a Bruce Springsten concert in Copenhagen is what got this whole Nordic adventure going - so I’ll end this travel blog with him. He played with the E Street Band for almost 3 hours to a sold out audience of 50,000. Playing his new songs mixed in with his greatest hits, he kept the crowd totally engaged. It was a phenominal show and certainly a highlight of my trip. I’ll let the photos tell the story of his performance.
