1. Danes obsession with bicycles is well known but it was not until I saw the rush hour traffic in Copenhagen that I understood the relevance of it. The cycling lane was packed, much more than car lanes in certain place. The true reason for the adoption is that cycling lane is actually functional and thoughtfully designed to maximize safe usage. It also helps that Copenhagen is flat and compact. I really enjoyed biking across various neighborhoods, my favorite was biking from Nyhavn to Freetown Christinia. 

2. Smörrebröd is a Danish staple and it is versatile enough that it can eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We tried at the trendy Hallernes Smorrebrod. Although the portions look small, it was very filling and rich thanks to the generous use of butter and mayo. Danish Rye bread with Lurpak® butter can be a nutritious and tasty meal on its own. I also picked up some unconspicous ice cream from the super market and it turned out the creamiest ice cream ever. I didn’t dare to read the nutrition facts. 

3. Carlsberg beer was founded and is still headquartered in Copenhagen. The founder of Carlsberg, Jacobsen even set up a lab dedicated to science of brewing. In fact, this lab helped identified the year species that is used to make pale lager. A century and a half later, hobby brewers Bjergsø and Keller founded the Mikkeller brewing company to produce craft brews that are now sold across the globe. Mikkeler bars in Cophengen are super laid back and the beer is unique.

4. Denmark is usually rated as one of the happiest countries in the world. Like most western European countries, Denmark is welfare state, high taxes are put to good use in terms of universal free healthcare and education. The term Hygge is part of Danish culture, it refers to feelings of cosiness, comfort and contentment. It is also used as verb – hyggelig to describe things that create hygge. Candles, Fireplace, Blankets, Comfort food are on top of the list. I experienced my share of Hygge by cosying up in cafes to escape some unwelcome summer downpours.

5. Danish design aesthetic is well respected. I knew about Bang and Olufsen but it was interesting gazing at the boutique stores downtown specially the ones selling furniture. The designs felt timeless but hefty prices though.