Copenhagen is for comfort seekers

You are in dire need of Copenhagen if you:

• ... need consolation and courage.

  The past and present of this magnificent city will offer you both, if you’re willing to listen.

• ... are dealing with uncertainty.

  Copenhagen is like a warm drink and a pair of fluffy slippers, regardless of the season.

• ... want to break free from the ordinary.

  The city of Copenhagen has the architecture, the landscapes and the overall ambiance that will feel nothing short of aristocratic.

Uncertainty has a creepy way of enveloping us, filling our hearts with fear, anxiety and doubt.

I rolled my small suitcase along the Zagreb airport, listening to one of those big jazz classics (Ella’s version), and humming the verse “I’ve mortgaged all my castles in the air”. I was on my way to Copenhagen with only one winter jacket and a small selection of clothes (I would later regret the decision not to bring more), but one thing I did have in abundance was fear. Things were uncertain across the board: the health of someone extremely close, my job, my location … everything.

However, it is during such moments of trepidation that exploring new horizons can become a transformative act. I had naively thought that in April, the winter would be all gone in Scandinavia, so I expected to be welcomed by a nice Copenhagen spring - just what I needed amid the chaos that was my life at the time. Instead, I was welcomed by 6 degrees Celsius and a very, very shy sun.  But as I stepped into my centrally located hotel, I read a writing on my room wall which gave me tremendous hope: “Wise travellers carry a small bag, a big heart and good sunglasses”. I was off to a good start, then.

Copenhagen, the captivating capital of Denmark, with its blend of rich history, modern design, and sustainable living, set the stage for a profound inner journey that happened over my week there. Sure, it is a pricier destination than many, but it doesn’t mean that there aren’t budget-friendly options to explore. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and enchanting attractions provided the perfect backdrop for conquering fear and stepping into the realm of the uncertain. Through encounters with iconic landmarks, cultural gems, the city's powerful creative energy, and with Mark Knopfler’s nostalgic music in my ears, I became hopeful. 

You may be interested in:

• Restaurants, bars, and coffee shops

• Hotels (luxury and budget options) 

• Where to read in Copenhagen

• What to do on a rainy day

• Where to listen to podcasts while enjoying a stroll

• Books and movies about Copenhagen

If you give it a chance, Copenhagen can help soothe your anxiety.

Start your quest in Strøget, the largest and most famous shopping street in Copenhagen - not just because of retail therapy options, which are plenty, but also because it is a nice walk to the harbor.

Nyhavn

You will eventually arrive to Nyhavn, famous for its colorful houses from the 17th century, full of bars and restaurants. The harbor, with its picturesque canals and vibrant buildings, beckons the travelers to immerse themselves in the heart of Copenhagen. As you stroll along the waterfront, admiring the charming atmosphere and lively ambiance, you can smell the magic, adventure and discovery. No wonder Hans Christian Andersen lived here, at number 67.

Further walk to the Little Mermaid, a statue named after the 1837 story of the same name by H.C. Andersen. Of course, the fairy tale lovers among us will know that the Little Mermaid is a symbol of courage in the face of uncertainty. As you stand before the sculpture, reflect on the mermaid's decision to leave the familiar waters behind.

Up where they walk, up where they run
Up where they stay all day in the sun
Wanderin' free, wish I could be
Part of that world

If your childhood too was made possible by Disney, you have now probably broken into song. Thank them for the musical interlude and, inspired by Little Mermaid’s determination, slowly come to the realization that all uncertainty can be a pathway to new experiences and personal growth.

The Little Mermaid statue

Continue on to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art gallery owned by Carl Jacobsen, the son of the owner of the famous Carlsberg brewery. The collection is huge, but you can focus on French impressionists and post-impressionists such as Jacques-Louis David, Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Degas, Cézanne, van Gogh and Toulouse-Lautrec.

Feeling regal? Or like me, want to trade your castles that are “mortgaged in the air” for some real ones? Visit the Copenhagen trio of palaces.

Amalienborg

Start with Christianborg Palace, one part of which is open to the public. Today, the palace hosts the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the office of the Danish Prime Minister. The queen also holds public banquets in this palace. Amidst the Palace’s grand halls and opulent surroundings, you will witness the resilience of Danish history in the face of uncertainty. This encounter will serve as a reminder that uncertainty is not to be feared but on the contrary, it should be embraced, as it often paves the way for unexpected opportunities and transformative change.

A visit to Rosenborg Castle takes you back in time to Denmark's royal heritage. Explore the exquisite rooms, royal collections, and lush gardens surrounding the castle. Once again the rich history serves as a reminder that uncertainty has been faced and overcome by generations before us.

Finally, for a 3/3, witness the grandeur of Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family and a complex of four identical rococo royal palaces where the royal family resides today.  Marvel at the changing of the guard ceremony and take a glimpse into the regal lifestyle. The palace's elegance and poise inspire a sense of composure in the face of uncertainty, reminding us that stability can be found amidst life's most unpredictable moments.

Because you’re in the neighborhood, you can also climb the Round Tower (Rundetaarn) for panoramic views of Copenhagen. As you ascend the spiral walkway, if you choose to see it that way, each step can symbolize the progress made in conquering your fears.

Christiania

Do not miss Freetown Christiania, a hippie commune that has been around since 1971. Despite only 850-1000 inhabitants, Christiania has its own laws, for example one that allows the sale of cannabis. The commune is completely normalized and legalized by Danish laws. Christiania is also home to the Church of Our Saviour, an Evangelical-Lutheran baroque church known for its spiral staircase and tower, which is said to offer the most beautiful views of Copenhagen. From the tower's observation deck, embrace the vastness of the cityscape, gaining a broader perspective on the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead.

Tivoli

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without going to Tivoli. It is an amusement park in central Copenhagen and the most visited amusement park in Scandinavia. Amidst the colorful lights and joyous laughter, you will realize that uncertainty can be a source of excitement and wonder. By embracing the unexpected twists and turns, just like me, you may stumble upon newfound resilience.

Can you recall traveling somewhere feeling anxious because of the overall uncertainty in your life?

If you visited Copenhagen, what did that visit help you with, emotionally and/or spiritually? Leave a comment below and remember: every day, breathe a lot of world in.