The Amazing Race, Copenhagen

It was a sunny and beautiful day, great for getting lost in Copenhagen! Immediately following the DIS opening presentation, we were broken up into groups of six to complete the DIS version of the Amazing Race. We had four destinations, two and a half hours until we had to be at class, and no clue where we were going. Although we weren't exactly sure where to go, there was bound to be at least one person in all of DIS that had some sense of direction, so we just followed other groups. At each stop we would meet up with a DIS representative and learn a little about the location. After a rocky start, we didn't take this whole adventure very seriously. Within two minutes we were completely lost, turned around at least four times, and had added another member to our group, but we sure were having fun chatting and getting to know each other.

Our first location was Amalienborg, the royal palace. The four buildings are identical and house the Danish royal family. Unlike the White House, there is very little security other than a armed guard outside each building. Members of the royal family are often seen out on the streets running, shopping, having dinner, and carrying out daily responsibilities. These country leaders aren't idolized like they are in the United States. When Danes see a member of the royal family on the street, they may wave or simply ignore them. By idolizing our Presidents in the United States, we are creating a natural divide between governing bodies and the people they serve. The layout and landscape of the royal palace provides for a welcoming, approachable feel compared to the White House which is set back from the road, fenced in, and highly guarded.

Our second stop was Nyhaven or New Harbor, a popular, picturesque canal. After walking way too long and getting way too lost, we decided to spend a little extra time in New Harbor to take some pictures and grab some lunch. I was able to try a real Danish hot dog, and although the ingredients sound the same as the US, they taste completely different. Even the ketchup in Denmark tastes different! 

Our third stop was Christiansborg Slotsplads/Christiansborg Castle Square, the Danish parliament. To get to this location we had to take a boat from Nyhaven, which is included as part of our public transportation pass. Train, bus, metro, and now boat?! Copenhagen, 1: United States, 0. Christiansborg is a central location for government buildings and has been renovated several times because of the uncanny frequency in which it has burned to the ground. Our final destination was Rosenborg Slot, the palace of King Christian IV, located in Kongens Have/Royal Garden; however, it was in the opposite direction of our classrooms, we were running out of time, and it was more important that we got back to class on time rather than finish the race. The Royal Gardens will be saved for another day because I hear they shouldn't be missed!