Odense: The Heartbeat of Denmark's Fairy Tale Heritage

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

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gerne se menuen, tak
  [yeh vil gehr-neh seh meh-new-en, tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kød
  [yeh spee-ser ee-keh kuhd]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gerne betale, tak
  [yeh vil gehr-neh beh-tah-leh, tahk]

• Help!Hjælp!
  [hyelp]
• Go away!Gå væk!
  [goh vayk]
• Call the Police!Ring til politiet!
  [ring teel poh-lee-tee-et]
• Call a doctor!Ring til en læge!
  [ring teel en lay-eh]
• I'm lostJeg er faret vild
  [yeh air fah-ret veel]
• I'm illJeg er syg
  [yeh air soo]

• I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gerne købe...
  [yeh vil gehr-neh kuh-beh]
• I'm just lookingJeg kigger bare
  [yeh kee-ger bah-reh]
• How much is it?Hvor meget koster det?
  [vor meh-ehd koh-stehr deh]
• That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for deer-t]
• Can you lower the price?Kan du sænke prisen?
  [kahn doo sahn-keh pree-sen]

• What time is it?Hvad er klokken?
  [vahd air kloh-ken]
• It's one o'clockKlokken er et
  [kloh-ken air et]
• Half past (10)Halv ti
  [hahlv tee]
• MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mi-dag]
• EveningAften
  [af-ten]
• YesterdayI går
  [ee gohr]
• TodayI dag
  [ee dah]
• TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mohr-gen]
• 1Et
  [et]
• 2To
  [toh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Fire
  [fee-reh]
• 5Fem
  [fem]
• 6Seks
  [seks]
• 7Syv
  [soov]
• 8Otte
  [ot-teh]
• 9Ni
  [nee]
• 10Ti
  [tee]

• Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vor air en/et]
• What's the address?Hvad er adressen?
  [vahd air a-dres-en]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise mig (på kortet)?
  [kahn doo vee-seh meeh (poh kohr-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hvornår er den næste (bus)?
  [vor-nar air den neh-steh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billet (til ....)
  [en bee-let (teel)]

Odense, one of Denmark's oldest cities, traces its origins back to the Viking Age, around the 10th century. It was named after Odin, the Norse god of war, poetry, and wisdom. The city grew around the Odense River, and archaeological finds suggest it was a significant center for trade and craftsmanship during the Viking period.

In 1086, Odense became the site of a significant historical event: the martyrdom of King Canute IV, who was later canonized as Saint Canute. He was killed in Saint Alban's Church by rebellious peasants. His death led to the construction of Saint Canute's Cathedral, a major Gothic landmark that still stands today and houses his relics.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Odense thrived as a religious and commercial hub. The presence of several monastic orders, including the Benedictines and Franciscans, contributed to the city's development. The city's market square, now known as Flakhaven, became a bustling center of trade.

The Renaissance brought significant changes to Odense. The Reformation in the 16th century led to the dissolution of monasteries and the transfer of church properties to the crown. Despite these upheavals, the city continued to grow, with new buildings and institutions reflecting the changing times.

Odense is globally renowned as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, born in 1805. The famous fairy tale writer spent his childhood in the city, which has since embraced his legacy. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum and his childhood home are popular attractions, offering insights into his life and works.

The 19th century brought industrialization to Odense, transforming it into a modern city. The establishment of the Odense Canal in 1804 and the arrival of the railway in 1865 bolstered trade and industry. Manufacturing and shipbuilding flourished, contributing to the city's economic growth.

During World War II, Odense, like the rest of Denmark, was occupied by German forces. The occupation lasted from 1940 to 1945, and the city experienced hardships, including rationing and resistance activities. Post-war, Odense quickly recovered and continued its development.

In the post-war period, Odense underwent significant urban development. New residential areas, schools, and cultural institutions were established. The University of Southern Denmark, founded in 1966, has become a major educational and research center, contributing to the city's vibrant academic environment.

Today, Odense is the cultural heart of the island of Funen. It hosts numerous festivals, including the Odense International Film Festival and the Hans Christian Andersen Festival. The city's rich history is complemented by a dynamic arts scene, making it a lively and engaging destination for visitors.

Odense is located on the island of Funen (Fyn) in Denmark. The nearest international airport is Copenhagen Airport (CPH), approximately 170 kilometers away. From Copenhagen, you can take a direct train to Odense, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Billund Airport (BLL), which is about 100 kilometers from Odense. From Billund, you can either take a bus or rent a car for the journey to Odense.

Odense has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trains, and bicycles. The local bus service is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Odense is also known for its extensive network of bike lanes, making cycling a popular and convenient way to get around. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a car is another option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.

The official currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Odense, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payment methods are also commonly used. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and many places accept mobile payment services like MobilePay.

Odense is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The area around the train station can be a bit sketchy after dark, so exercise caution. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number will connect you to police, fire, and medical services. Odense University Hospital is the main medical facility in the city and provides comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual when dining out or attending events. Avoid overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs, although Denmark is generally secular. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't be loud on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'smørrebrød' and 'frikadeller'. Don't leave tips, as service charges are usually included.

To experience Odense like a local, rent a bike and explore the city's extensive cycle paths. Visit the local markets, such as the Odense Farmers' Market, to buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Spend time in the city's green spaces, like Munke Mose Park, where locals often gather for picnics and outdoor activities. Don't miss visiting the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to get a deeper sense of the city's cultural heritage.