Copenhagen - Bustling Copenhagen is regarded by many Scandinavians as the gateway to continental Europe, the city's cool image has been enhanced with its own cocktail. The Danish capital was chosen in 2006 as the host for the Session and Congress of the International Olympic Committee October 1-9, beating Cairo in the final round of voting from an original nine cities.
The Olympic meeting is the latest big gathering in the city, with the UN Convention on Climate Change to follow in December.
Copenhagen is considered one of the finest places to live and convene, and Olympic officials will have plenty to see if they can spare a minute or two.
A first-time visit often includes a peek at the city's famed landmark, a small bronze statue of a mermaid perched on a rock in the harbour.
But during most of next year, The Little Mermaid, inspired by a fairy tale penned by author Hans Christian Andersen will be missing as she travels to Shanghai as part of the World Expo.
Monuments and palaces dotted around the city are tangible reminders of the roughly 1,000-year-old Danish monarchy. The crown jewels are on display at Rosenborg Castle.
The changing of the guard is a popular feature at Amalienborg Castle, Queen Margrethe's winter palace.
Another sight is the amusement park Tivoli which from mid-November has a Christmas market.
Newer harbour front landmarks include the Copenhagen Opera House and the Black Diamond, an extension of the Royal Library that also has a restaurant and cafe.
While Copenhagen since August boasts its own cocktail, the traditional beverage is beer. The art of beer-making can be studied at the Carlsberg Brewery.
Henrik Thierlien of the Visit Copenhagen promotion organization also suggests a visit to the trendy Vesterbro district, near the central railway station.
"It offers many exciting shops, cafes, galleries," he said of the former meat-packing district.
Just north of Vesterbro is Norrebro, another district that has undergone similar changes.
Sightseeing takes it toll. A traditional smorrebrod - or open sandwich - that can be topped with shrimp, pickled herring, egg or meat is a good standby.
A variant of the smorrebrod called the "smushi" is served at the Royal Cafe, which combines sushi and smorrebrod. A more traditional variant is served near parliament at Slotskaelderen hos Gitte Kik.
Copenhagen also prides itself with a dozen restaurant listings in the Michelin Guide.
More details on the internet: www.visitcopenhagen.com.
