Denmark holds a little place in my heart (Shannon). Baaring/ Middelfart to be exact.
Nearly six years ago, I was an exchange student, immersed into the Danish culture and lifestyle for one magnificent year. With only a couple of days up our sleeves we kept it intimate and hung out with my four very cute brothers. It truly is the best time of year to visit, April, when the sun starts to appear after the long overcast winter, hope rekindles and flowers come out in force, the birds remember the tweet in their song.
Legoland, Oyster catching, yellow fields for miles, singing, exhibitions, Christianaia (the free land) and of course the famous Nyhaven.
I remember hating the food back in 2008, I absolutely detested the lunchtime meals, what Vegemite and Marmite is to New Zealanders. But when confronted with Rye bread (Rugbrød), Leverpostej (liver-patae), snaps (alcohol), scrimps, dried onions. Eeee It makes my stomach sing even now. Then there is Brunsviger (Brown sugar cake) LOVE!
Legoland! We thought about Aaron’s cousin Ollie here, he would have loved this place! Everything is made out of Lego! Crazy!
Oyster Catching. It’s not like they are going to run away or anything! But seriously, it is a Danish thing. Except my parents had never tried it! It was a Birthday party, so we took a little trip to the coast, near Germany and searched. We dug, found and tasted raw. Poul was the champion at opening them up. I was the champion at spitting them out. haha! Champagne, slimy little Oysters and a lot of fun. I love how the Danes are with friends and family, the whole day was so cozy. Sharing food, drink, singing and just being together.
Danish Press Photo Exhibition. This quiet place, I first visited many years ago, was where my passion came alive for photography. It was sensational going back and sharing it with Aaron.
It seems to be the way we exchange students have it, gaining another pair of parents and new siblings.
We travelled from Baaring to Copenhagen (2 hours on the train) Christianaia, was first on the list. Welcome to a free land.
Undoubtedly the most intriguing commune I have ever been to. A place labeled the autonomous neighbourhood, regulated by a special law. They do things different here, kids, teens and adults all share in providing for each other. Cannabis in all corners, sold on “pusher street” where dark hooded eyes sit behind kaki coloured netting, waiting for their next customers. Of course it is still illegal here, but authorities seem reluctant to forcibly stop the hash trade. I would love to photograph it more, but it is forbidden. This is the closest I got to it all.
“Pusher street”
My host family are the stunning looking ones in most of the photographs, they had to put up with me for some of that year and our return. I salute you! And returning to this special place will stay in my heart forever. Love you guys xx I can’t wait to come back & see everyone!