Danish towns and cuisine: A week in the life of a “local”

At the end of my fifth week here, I am starting to feel more like a local resident. It is crazy to me that just as I am starting to love the little quirks of this city and really embrace Danish culture, I am starting to pack my things and prepare to leave for Rome. As tomorrow marks the start of my last week in Copenhagen, I have used this past week to do some local traveling and try some traditional cuisine.

First, the travel.

On Wednesday, we had a class excursion to a very famous neighborhood in Copenhagen. Called Christiania, this “freetown” was established in the 1970’s and acts within its own rules and laws. For example, in this commune of about a thousand residents, pot is legal to sell and use recreationally (even though it is illegal in the rest of Denmark)... and because of this, it has become one of the famous tourist attractions in Copenhagen.

We got to explore the town and talk with the town’s historian. We learned mostly about history of the this hippie town and its use of consensus democracy, as it related to our Free Speech in Denmark class.

On Saturday, we had a program excursion south of Copenhagen. First, we stopped in a small town called Køge, where the streets were filled with markets, quirky little clothing shops, and restaurants. We then traveled further south to Store Heddinge to see the Stevns Klint white cliffs. These cliffs date back 70 million years ago and the shore is filled with fossils. We spent the afternoon hiking around the beach, skipping rocks on the water, and enjoying the sun.

Second, the cuisine.

If you ever find yourself in Denmark, I suggest trying:

- Pølse (Danish sausage): There are hot dog carts everywhere around Copenhagen. This popular street food is a great way try the local food (and get to class on time)!

- Smørrebrød (traditional open faced sandwich): Usually served on rye bread, the smørrebrød has different types toppings. Some common toppings include: slices of boiled eggs, various meats, fish, and vegetables.

- Tebirkes (poppy seed pastry): This popular roll is a common pastry found in any grocery store. It is a quick and delicious treat if you are on the go.

- Sild (Herring): This very traditional fish dates back to Viking times. It can be served on bread, in a special dish, or just plain. Coming on this trip, I was determined to try all the traditional cuisines of each city I visit. So I of course had to try herring, and let me tell you - I did not like it. But don’t let me sway you...

To wrap up, I would like to leave you with a fun fact about me. This week, I learned from one of our local CIEE staff members that my last name has a special meaning. Doeden in Danish means “the death".

PSA: I plan to use this as my go-to fun fact when I introduce myself from now on.

Tale med dig igen i næste uge,

(Talk to you again next week),

Olivia

Pictures: my new love for Danish pølse, Christiania and a local harbor, a market in Køge, the white cliffs, and some selfies with the Baltic Sea.