With the free public bikes as rare as hens teeth, it was necessary to get up early, as only the early bird gets to catch the worm. Copenhagen, like Melbourne, has a public bike scheme, however unlike Melbourne, there is a strong bike culture and supporting infrastructure, thus, demand is much stronger than supply. It is possible that the Melbourne bike scheme could be successful, however some lessons could be learned from Copenhagen.
We arose fairly early, and set forth on a mission of finding two public bikes that are in suitable working order. Amazingly, at our first bike stop, we found two bikes, however it was not as good as it seemed, only one was actually working. We scounted around (me walking and Cin gently riding) for another half hour, to finally be rewarded 6 bike stations later with one more bike. I approached cautiously, not more than 40% confident it would be in good working order, however it was, and we were set for covering Copenhagen.
Our first few blocks we became accustomed to bike riding Copenhagen style..... the dedicated lanes, the hand signals, and the public hire bikes (which weren't quite BMC material). The first few tourist attractions we viewed were the Rosenborg Castle (located in beautiful King''s Gardens) and the Marble Church. The Marble church was nice, however I am very nearly churched out. It was another high domed creation, and had a lovely Organ and other decorative designs inside.
The major attraction of Copenhagen is the Little Mermaid. The Little Mermaid is actually quite a small statue, that sits on a rock in the main harbour area. In case you don't know- Hans Christian Andersen wrote a story of a Little Mermaid, who saved a prince from drowning then fell in love with him. The statue is now world famous. Cinthia posed together with the little mermaid, once other annoying tourists had taken their happy snaps.
Cinthia desperately wanted to visit the palace area, and witness the 'changing of the guards' ceremony. The palace actually has 4 palaces, but does not house Princess Mary. The palaces are not as regal as Buckingham Palace, and are not set behind 'don't mess with me' Iron fencing either. This allows the tourists to see the guards up much closer. On the stroke of 12, marching they came, in similar hats to the English guards, however a blue uniform compared to the English guards red uniform. The guards were not as precise in their movements as the English guards, and certainly not as high leg stepping as the Russian guards at the Kremlin. The funniest aspect of the guard change in Copenhagen was the continual shuffles that they did to line up properly. It was part of the ceremony, however there were more side strep shuffles than in Robert Harvey's football career.
Post leaving the palace we stumbled across Nyhavn. Nyhavn is a harbour situate inside a scenic street. Lunch in this street was Cinhia's highlight, and she again ensured she had camera control, as didn't trust my photo taking in the scenic surrounds. Just like the palace and flowers, I wouldn't take the right photos. Nyhavn was lined either side by colourful and decorative housing, and the harbour was full of boats. Some were tourist boats, some old sailing boats, and some more modern yachts. The street did not allow cars, and was full of alfreco dining restaurants. We decided we must have lunch and soak up the scene, whilst listening to various music bands serenading the diners.
The lunch location was certainly pleasant, however my highlight of the day was visiting 'Christiania'. I didn't know this commune hippy precinct existed in Copenhagen, however it was an unusual experience walking through. No bikes, no running, and definitely no photography allowed. Throughout the precinct (perhaps the size of 10 city blocks) the waft of marijuana and other drugs was rampant, and numerous stalls were set up selling stuff to get you high. The main outdoor bar, Nemoland, was a particularly chilled out area. I'm not sure the extent of decriminilisation of drugs in Denmark (I know it is a fairly liberal country) or whether police just turn a blind eye to the selling, buying and drug taking that goes on here. Like a hippy festival, everyone is relaxed, happy, as long as the groundrules are followed. Other things are sold here, some humourous Tshifts, necklaces and jewelry, and of course, plenty of Bob Marley paraphernalia.
After a long and arduous day, Cinthia's pedalstroke power was beginning to wane, and therefore, it was time for the bike return, at a designated 'bike station' with specific bike locks. Thinking we were about to be reimbursed our 20 Kroners (about $4) each and effectively have won against the paid bike hirers, we were slightly disappointed to find our bike lock coin machines empty.... we had been 'robbed'. We were certain that it had happened at 'Christiania'... maybe a pair of pliers can level the coin out, not sure. Anyway, the bikes had served their purpose, and someone had fleeced us 40 Kroners.
The day definitely tired Cinthia out, as post hotel return and a shower, she began to feel aches and pains in numerous body parts, and as of now, sleeps soundly after a bike days ride. I'm expecting to hear a lot more about her 'aches and pains' later tonight, and tomorrow. Well done Cin.... tomorrow is a mountain stage.
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