Saturday was my first free day on the trip and it was a new experience to decide where and what my adventures on my bike would be. I started the day with some newfound friends at a thrift store down the street from the hostel. We decided to walk since many of us were sore and tired from our first day and a half on the bike. The difference was striking. The pedestrian infrastructure in Copenhagen is significantly less impressive than their bicycle infrastructure and more in line with what I would expect from most urban areas. It was longer, hotter, louder, and overall less enjoyable. I was already acclimated to the ease of biking, and the distance and speed we were able to go on the bikes. In Eugene, my main mode of transit is walking. I use my bike for commuting to and from work but other than that I walk if my destination takes me off of the 13th or Alder bike path. In Portland, I usually drive, and stress about parking, other drivers, and my strong dislike for car travel (I hate driving!). While the bicycle infrastructure in Eugene and Portland is significantly underdeveloped, my experiences in Copenhagen have opened my eyes to the potential of bicycle transit and its ease and convenience of it (and why I should get a back-wheel brake). But back to my free day and the various social activities and Danish culture I experienced on my bike!
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| Recycle shipping containers turned into homes |
As Bike Mike said, “Danes yearn for the sea!” so we decided to immerse ourselves in Danish culture and bike to La Banchina, a popular swimming spot, and restaurant. The bicycle parking was extensive and cluttered, but everyone seemed to be skilled at maneuvering their bikes out of the ever-growing pile. Here I discovered that the Atlantic Ocean is MUCH more enjoyable than swimming in the Pacific. After our refreshing sea adventure, we decided to explore another aspect of Denmark, Freetown Christiana. I hadn’t done any research about what Freetown Christiana was or is prior to visiting and the whole experience was very interesting. It was an interesting way to experience and whole other style of planning for a community with different needs and values.
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| Troll made out of recycled materials seen in Christiana |
Biking around on a free day gave me a chance to experience how Danes use bicycles as their main mode of transit, not just for commuting, but also to access recreational activities. This gave me a more well-rounded insight into the use of bicycles in Copenhagen.
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| Seagull with a large piece of bread |
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