Denmark: Ramon Guarnero (The Five Senses in Copenhagen)

Program: Copenhagen Business School, Fall

Since arriving last month, I have seen plenty of beautiful and interesting parts of the city. Nyhavn is easily one of the most recognizable, and seeing it in person was almost surreal. The brightly colored buildings lining the canal, boats passing through the water, and crowds filling the area make it one of the most distinctive places in Copenhagen, as well as one of the most gorgeous. However, some of my favorite sights have been in Nørrebro, the neighborhood I am staying in. One thing I noticed almost immediately was the abundance of street art throughout the neighborhood. It appears everywhere and is most exciting when spotted in unexpected corners. The different murals and graffiti give Nørrebro a creative personality, and walking through new parts of the neighborhood means coming across new art.

Exploring Copenhagen, it’s hard not to notice the smell of fresh bread and pastries while walking around. One of my favorite things I have tried so far is a cardamom bun from JUNO the Bakery. Cardamom is very popular here in Copenhagen, with most bakeries offering the flavor. Even before stepping inside, the warm smell of coffee and freshly baked pastries hits you outside of every bakery and café. The pastry from JUNO  was soft, sweet, and full of spice. Trying different bakeries and cafés has become one of the ways I enjoy exploring the city.

The soundtrack to everyday life here also provides insight into daily life and Danish culture. Bicycle bells are probably the most recognizable. With so many people biking throughout Copenhagen, hearing a bell ring behind me has become a regular reminder of the heavy cycling culture here. It also serves as a reminder to stay clear of the bike lanes, which are not always obvious. Along with the bikes, I regularly hear buses and trains, conversations in Danish, and many other languages being spoken by people around the city. This is especially true in Nørrebro, where there is a large Arabic-speaking community. Together, these sounds reflect the active and international feel of the city.

Walking as much as I do has also made me pay more attention to how the city physically feels. The cooler air and wind are especially noticeable near the canals, but something I did not expect to feel so foreign was the ground itself. Many sidewalks are lined with stone, making the terrain harder and more uneven than what I am used to. After spending an entire day exploring on foot, I can definitely feel the difference. While the aesthetics are truly gorgeous and classically European, my feet pay the price.

All of these smaller details, all together, have shaped my experience of Copenhagen so far. Beyond the major landmarks and attractions, the everyday sights, smells, tastes, sounds, and sensations of Copenhagen are what I am beginning to associate with living here.