Robyn has been a member of HomeExchange since 2006. She shares her experience of her trip to Copenhagen in 2016.
What attracted you to this exchange opportunity?
We are always open to any destination and Copenhagen seemed to offer what we enjoy most: the ability to cycle around the city to see the sights. In fact, although we were offered a car during the exchange, we didn't use it as Copenhagen is so well-planned that it was easy to get around. Once we figured out the cyclist traffic light patterns and etiquette on the bike paths, we started to really feel like we were locals!
Tell us about your arrival.
We met our hosts halfway into the visit (as they went to stay with family) and they were very helpful in introducing us to the neighbors who had us over for a mid-summer celebration called Sankthansaften (commemorating John the Baptist and the June Solstice) around a glowing bonfire. We experienced a fun, family-friendly summer's eve of Hygge (Danish comfort/well-being) with delicious food and drink and wonderful conversation. We also learned a traditional song 'Midsommervisen.'
What did you do during your exchange?
We cycled everywhere! To the Royal Palace and its beautiful gardens, to the colorful and bustling port of Nyhavn, to the modern, kitschy street food market at "Paper Island" on the east bank of the harbor, Tivoli Gardens (our daughter, 9 years old at the time, loved the amusement park rides), and Den Bla Planet Aquarium - among many more sights along the way.
We also took our bikes on the train to connect to a nice rambling ride out in the countryside. Denmark ticks all the boxes for those wanting a cycling adventure within a modern yet diverse city.
What is your favorite memory from the exchange?
A favorite memory our family all agrees on is setting out for the day with a very loose itinerary. As touring around by bicycle allowed us to venture down side streets and alleyways and explore the city with many stops along the way to check out a museum, a park or have a tasty treat at one of the many Danish bakeries or ice cream shops.
How would you describe HomeExchange to your family and friends?
HomeExchange is the best way to travel and live like a local. You have the comforts of home—a home base—that you can settle into as you explore your surroundings and learn about a new culture. We wouldn't travel any other way!
