Kolding: The Danish Gem of History and Nature

• HelloHej
  [hey]
• GoodbyeFarvel
  [far-vel]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNej
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [ver sa go]
• Thank youTak
  [tahk]
• Excuse me/SorryUndskyld
  [un-skyld]
• How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dan har du deh]
• Fine. And you?Fint. Og du?
  [fint. oh du]
• Do you speak English?Taler du engelsk?
  [tah-ler du engelsk]
• I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yay for-stor ee-keh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gerne se menuen, tak
  [yay vil geh-ren seh meh-noo-en, tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kød
  [yay spee-ser ee-keh kerth]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [skol]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gerne betale, tak
  [yay vil geh-ren beh-tah-le, tahk]

• Help!Hjælp!
  [yelp]
• Go away!Gå væk!
  [go vehk]
• Call the Police!Ring til politiet!
  [ring teel pol-ee-tee-et]
• Call a doctor!Ring efter en læge!
  [ring ef-ter en lay]
• I'm lostJeg er faret vild
  [yay er fah-ret veel]
• I'm illJeg er syg
  [yay er soog]

• I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gerne købe...
  [yay vil geh-ren ker-buh]
• I'm just lookingJeg kigger bare
  [yay kee-ger bah-reh]
• How much is it?Hvor meget koster det?
  [vor meh-et koh-stehr deh]
• That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh er for deer-t]
• Can you lower the price?Kan du sænke prisen?
  [kan du sahn-keh pree-sen]

• What time is it?Hvad er klokken?
  [vath er kloh-ken]
• It's one o'clockKlokken er et
  [kloh-ken er et]
• Half past (10)Halv ti
  [halv tee]
• MorningMorgen
  [moh-ren]
• AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mee-dah]
• EveningAften
  [af-ten]
• YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
• TodayI dag
  [ee day]
• TomorrowI morgen
  [ee moh-ren]
• 1En
  [en]
• 2To
  [toh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Fire
  [feer-eh]
• 5Fem
  [fem]
• 6Seks
  [seks]
• 7Syv
  [suv]
• 8Otte
  [oh-teh]
• 9Ni
  [nee]
• 10Ti
  [tee]

• Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vor er en/et]
• What's the address?Hvad er adressen?
  [vath er ad-res-en]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise mig (på kortet)?
  [kan du vee-se meh (poh kor-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hvornår er næste (bus)?
  [vor-nar er nes-te (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billet (til ....)
  [en bee-let (teel)]

Kolding's history dates back to the early medieval period, with the first known mention of the city appearing in the 1231 census under King Valdemar II. The name 'Kolding' is believed to have derived from the old Norse word 'kollr,' meaning 'rounded hill,' which is fitting given the city's varied terrain.

Koldinghus Castle, a prominent feature of the city, was originally constructed in 1268 by King Eric V as a defensive fortress. The castle has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries, transforming it from a medieval stronghold into a Renaissance palace. It played a significant role in the conflicts between Denmark and Sweden during the 17th century.

In 1849, Kolding was the site of a crucial battle during the First Schleswig War, where Danish forces clashed with Prussian and Schleswig-Holstein troops. The Battle of Kolding was a pivotal conflict that ultimately led to Denmark's temporary control over the region. The battle is commemorated in the city with various monuments and plaques.

The 19th century saw significant industrial growth in Kolding, particularly with the establishment of textile and machinery industries. The construction of the railway in 1866 further bolstered Kolding's economic development, turning it into an important industrial hub in Denmark.

During World War II, Kolding was occupied by German forces from 1940 to 1945. The city's strategic location made it an important logistical center for the German military. Despite the occupation, local resistance movements were active, and several clandestine operations were carried out to sabotage German activities.

In recent decades, Kolding has undergone a cultural renaissance, with significant investments in education and the arts. The establishment of the University of Southern Denmark's campus in Kolding has transformed the city into an academic and cultural center. Koldinghus Castle now serves as a museum and cultural venue, hosting exhibitions and events that attract visitors from around the world.

Kolding can be easily reached by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airport is Billund Airport, located around 45 kilometers from Kolding. From the airport, you can take a direct bus or taxi to Kolding, or rent a car. Alternatively, you can travel by train from major Danish cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, or Odense. The train station in Kolding is centrally located, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Kolding offers a range of transportation options for getting around the city. Public buses operated by Sydtrafik cover most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Kolding, with several rental shops available. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available and the city has ample parking spaces.

The official currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Kolding, including in shops, restaurants, and hotels. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards. ATMs are plentiful and can be found in various locations throughout the city.

Kolding is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping your belongings secure. There are no specific neighborhoods known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Kolding has a well-equipped hospital, Kolding Sygehus, for medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Don't wear overly casual or beachwear in city restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be punctual and courteous when using public transport. Don't talk loudly or play music. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be polite if you are invited to a Danish home. Don't leave food on your plate as it is considered wasteful.

To experience Kolding like a local, visit the weekly market at Akseltorv Square where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Take a stroll in the Geographical Garden for a peaceful retreat. Engage with locals in cafes and pubs; they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city. Don't miss visiting Koldinghus, the city's iconic castle, which offers a deep dive into Denmark's history.