Over spring break, I traveled to the beautiful country of Denmark. While I have traveled to other countries, none of them have been as different as Denmark. Here are a list of things that I noticed were different in the United States.
1. Everything is so much more expensive.
I've already talked about this a little in a previous article I have written, but when I say this place is expensive, I mean it. A bottle of water in America is around $1.50 to $2.00. I bought a bottle of water in Denmark and it was upwards to $5.00. If you are planning a trip to Denmark, make sure to budget accordingly. Make sure you figure out what you want to spend your money on. I suggest getting an Airbnb and grocery shopping for breakfasts, lunches, or dinners. Eating in restaurants will add up really quickly. Try putting that money towards museums and other entertainment.
Oh, also, public transportation is amazing, but also very, very expensive. Try to use the train as little as possible. Maybe rent a car or a bike, if you're just planning on staying in Copenhagen. But, if you are traveling around the country, consider a bus. Gas prices are, you guessed it, way more expensive in Denmark. Do your research about the cheapest ways to get around, depending on the cities or towns you'd like to visit.
2. The people are friendly, but not in the way you're used to.
Danish people get a horrible reputation. If you have read anything about the Danes, you've probably read they are rude and unfriendly. That is the furthest from the truth. The Danes are so willing to help and will never give you the cold shoulder. However, do not expect the overly friendly type of people you'd find in America. They are willing to give you directions and help you out if you're confused, but you must approach them first. They do not talk to strangers first but will have no problem answering a question. Just don't small talk or ask them anything too personal. They like their privacy. Also, most of the Danes speak excellent English, so there is no trouble there.
3. The food is... interesting.
I didn't hate the food. I actually liked the food a lot more than the food in Ireland, but it is not Italian cuisine. A lot of fish, egg, and mayo. Oh, and hotdogs. Don't be afraid to try it. Trust me, it is not as bad as it looks. I had a burger with what is called "red salad," which is just basically cranberries. Yes, you heard right. A burger with cranberries. Also, there was no beef on this burger. It was a type of slimy pork. It wasn't the best thing I have ever had, but it was an experience nevertheless. If you ever visit, you have to try the open faced sandwiches! The Danes swear by them.
4. Teenagers are allowed to drink and they are allowed to drink on the streets.
The drinking age in Denmark is 15. Which means you'll get to see teenagers running around with beer cans just on the street. Denmark doesn't have a law against drinking in public, so it is completely legal and normal. Don't get too freaked out. I was in Aalborg and saw a group of people playing a drinking game right in a public park. You don't have to join the trend, but just try to act as normal as possible around it. The Danes think it's rude if you stare or are too judgmental.
5. Bikes are everywhere.
In any of the major cities: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, etc, you will see more bikes than cars. So much so, there is a specific bike lane for bikers. It is the size of a road. Biking is the cheapest and fastest way to get around in Denmark. Plus, everyone really does care about the environment. Bikes has just become the most used form of transportation. When in Copenhagen, rent a bike. It is the best way to see the city. Remember to look for bikes too! They go faster than the cars and will not be happy about you walking in the bike lane. It is not a sidewalk.
6. Denmark is so safe.
I'm not saying America isn't safe, but what I am saying, is people in Denmark leave their babies outside in a stroller while they are in a restaurant and this is normal. Their baby. Outside. And they aren't worried about someone kidnapping them. That is how safe this place is. Story time: I lost my wallet while I was in Aarhus. I got a call from Kent State the next day saying someone had found it and wanted to return in. A Dane literally contacted Kent State after seeing my flashcard wanting to return my wallet, which had cash and my credit cards in it. When I got it back, everything was still inside. Including old receipts. When I say this place is safe, I mean it's safe.
Denmark is such a beautiful country and if you ever have the chance, visit. It's worth the many pennies.
