It was no different in Copenhagen, Denmark, the first stop on our trip to Europe this year.
After two free guided walking tours, the first one lasting three hours, the second lasting an hour-and-a half, and after two boat tours, I can say that I did get to see much of Copenhagen. But not all, of course. This definitely means that we will have to come back, for the place is beautiful.
Since the weather was gloriously sunny, which apparently hardly ever happens, Mr. Pardon Me and I decided not to spend our limited time in the City indoors in museums. For that reason alone, we must plan another sojourn here.
During our stay, we were able to witness the preparations for Sankt Hans Aften, the shortest night of the year which corresponds to the birth day of Saint John the Bapist on June 24 and gives the celebration its name. On this night, Danes gather with family and friends to set ablaze bonfires and burn witch figures, who are thought to imbue the evening with evil spirits.
Unfortunately, by the time the fires were lit, torrential rains were falling on the City.
What struck me most about Copenhagen is the relationship of its citizens to the water surrounding it. Wherever one looked, people were kayaking and swimming in, as well as just enjoying being near the clean water of the harbor.
Made me think of our own New York Harbor and of our polluted Gowanus Canal back home in Brooklyn.
Next stop on this trip will be Montpellier, France. So stay tuned.
The sculpture of the polar bear is entitled "Unbearable" and is by sculptor Jens Galschiøt. It is a very sad reminder of the reality of global warming.
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6 comments:
Katia, the relationship of the citizens to the water is what struck me too!
A few days ago Lucy and I walked down to the Gowanus Canal's edge, and instead, our eyes/noses were stinging unbearably from something in the canal in two separate places. We had to get out of there quickly.
Happy Travels!
triada
Thank you, Triada. It was amazing to see a father allowing his child to trail her hand in the water and young people taking it for granted that they could jump into the water without ill effects.
My heart breaks for the people of Gowanus for having to close their nose just walking by our polluted canal. Isn't that so sad?
Greetings Katia,
The colors, the energy of the photos - I feel them! What a great day it must have been taking this all in! Sheer vibrancy!! After all that walking, perhaps Mr. Pardon Me can rub your feet??.👌
Poor Mr. Pardon me got a terrible cold in Denmark and gave it to me. So our sight seeing energy has been sapped.
Oy! Enough of the gowanus....drain it already!
It is just too clean, beautiful and idyllic for my liking ;). What an amazing city, and a wonderfully peaceful society. We can learn a lot from the Danes. Have a great trip!
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