Biking Tour of Copenhagen

One of our first activities around the city was taking a bike tour. A Danish individual known as Bike Mike led us along a winding tour through numerous neighborhoods, from the old city center to the harbor district, and even into the royal plaza, pointing out the four residences of the Danish Royal family. Pointing to the flag at the top of one building, we learned the princess was in residence at the time.

Residence of Mary, Crown Princess of Denmark

It was interesting to see the comfort and casualness with which our tour guide weaved through space, not often hand signaling but letting us know at the front, “we’re going left” or “we’ll head down that way”. If nothing else, it allowed me an opportunity to practice my own hand signaling while trying to keep up with our guide. On the first day I arrived, I biked around the city on my own and this tour presented a different experience of biking in a large group. I imagine we were a tad disruptive to the automotive drivers and other bicyclists as we caravanned through the city. The tour concluded with us dropped off at the entrance of the Christiania neighborhood, one of the more eclectic areas of Copenhagen; a region of autonomy and self-sufficient community that reminded me of a music festival environment back in the United States.

Taking to the comfort of biking in the physical space has been surprisingly quick for me. What I am finding challenging is knowing exactly what street I am on or where the correct turn is supposed to be. Several times on the first day I found myself turned around and unsure exactly in which direction I was biking. On this second day, I am beginning to use landmarks, buildings, and major intersections for wayfinding. I note there is some limited progress using this strategy; I am still finding myself turned around not sure if I am on the exact street I think I am on. Nevertheless, I am finding the hostel that is home base a little easier, so progress, nonetheless.