The first question most people ask is “Where’s that?” (Copenhagen, Denmark; Stockholm, Sweden – in Northern Europe) The second is usually “Why?” Quite frankly, I don’t know why, just that the timing and options came down to these two cities. For me, this trip was less about what to do/major tourist attractions and more about the lifestyle. Simply strolling the streets of Scandinavia and observing the architecture was interesting enough for me. I think just getting away from the city and relaxing in a different place makes for a good vacation.  While it is not on top of everyone’s bucket list, if you ever find yourself in Copenhagen, here is my quick take on the city.

Getting Around
Around town: Metro and bus for city centre, S-train for further out trips. A fairly small and walkable city.

See/Do

- Nyhavn: the picturesque ‘Venice’ area with colorful houses. The waffle place at the corner was pretty good
- Tarnet Tower (Free): good view of the city but a little obstructed by the fences
- Rosenborg Castle: a small castle with a serene, well-kept garden space, good for a relaxing morning. The castle requires admission fee, good for history fans interested in crown jewels, furniture etc. Originally the Monarch's summer house.

Others:
- Amalienborg Palace: didn't go in but it's in a big square with guards. Winter home of the Monarch.
- Tivoli Gardens: Disneyland meets Centre Island (Toronto) – a whimsical old-style amusement park with gardens; not much for me but a carefree walk
- Shopping at Stroget Street: the main shopping street, but didn't buy anything ($$)
- Superkillen Park (can skip): an urban space with three zones (red, black, green) that looked very vivid in photos but underwhelming in real life
- Harbour Bath: too cold to swim but a nice boardwalk area to relax
- Danish Architecture Centre: smaller than expected; visted the 'Let's Play' exhibition showcasing the healthy active lifestyle of the Danes. An interesting installment was the small trampolines across the street - really a funny & mood-boosting mini workout! The surrounding area is a nice walk with interesting low-rise condos, water, and Noma.

There isn’t really many must-see iconic landmarks. The city is very quiet and laid back. Just walk around and take it easy. The highlight for me was dining at Host.

Eat/Drink
Copenhagen is infamous for being the most expensive city in Europe. We fit in 2 mid-range food markets and 2 pricier fine dining, and the rest was spent on the budget-friendly options. Full food posts to follow!

- Host: fit for foodies, possibly the best unique gastronomic experience (325-425 kr/person)
- Kødbyens Fiskebar: fresh seafood prepared in new ways (~200-300kr/person)
- Torvehallerne Market: a clean, higher end food hall with open-faced sandwiches, salads (~100 kr/person)
- Paper Island Papirøen: Copenhagen street food market with multicultural options (~100 kr/person)
- Soft ice: the icecream here is different. Try it with churros or on a liege waffle.

Budget Tips
- 7-Eleven: cheap & quick lunch. 30kr/3 hot dog, 25kr/2 focaccia pizza, chicken skewers
- McDonalds for coffee: 10kr vs. 26kr at Espresso House
- Supermarkets

Stay
Airbnb was the perfect, affordable option. Our apartment was super clean and spacious for 4 people and very conveniently located near the metro. Cooked breakfast and two dinners to save money. (Starbucks Via packs, instant noodles, bread, eggs, ham, fruit!)

Fun Facts & Observations
- First impressions: quiet, open, spacious, clean
- First city I’ve been to where public restrooms are not segregated by gender ie. Individual stalls with communal sink area
- Hot dogs are different from North American version
- Automatic cash payment machines so the server does not need to touch/count the cash
- Birthplace of Lego

Weather: Late August was warm-chilly with light rain. Bring an umbrella, light jacket/thick sweater and scarf

Currency: Danish Krone (DKK, Kr)

Happy traveling!