By Ruth Oh

Today is my third day here on my Xref trip and first day of cycling the bike route 6, beginning in Odense and ending the day in Nyborg. The path took us through breathtaking plains, winding woods, and colorfully quaint provincial towns. While the summer months here are known to be very rainy, we have had cooperative 70 degree sunny weather so far. Some sunscreen and plenty of water were required for today’s ride.

As planned, we spent the morning hours biking and walking around Odense, known as the national cycling town and home of children’s fable writer, Hans Christian Andersen. Yes, I could see how this beautiful environment could inspire him to create many fairy tales.

Pedaling through town, one can experience a clear and proportionate division between pedestrian, cyclist, and motor ways. It definitely makes riding easy. The urban scale and amount of cyclists on the road helps to make the road safe as well. People of all ages are seen with their bikes, mostly in their daily attire (ladies in heels!) and a basket for carrying their goods and pets.

It’s been an eye opening and fun experience so far. After leaving Funen island by crossing the Great Belt, we will be in Zealand, continuing on to the city of Slagelse and Roskilde. As promised, I have a travel blog going to share with everyone cheering me on back at home. To follow my daily adventures in Denmark, check out my blog.