Visiting Senior Sojourner PLMcB, Sandusky OH: Our cruise ship sailed into Copenhagen harbor, and when we went ashore, the immediate impression was as if we were happily back in time 200 years.

Everywhere were classically beautiful gardens, soaring castles, busy canals, brightly-painted houses and smiling people on bikes. (www.visitcopenhagen.com)

The welcoming aura remained with us throughout the two days we spent there. Spring daytime temperatures are in the mid-60s, with nights in mid-50s. English is taught in Danish schools, so we had no language problems in shops, restaurants, parks and museums. Copenhagen Airport (CPH), just five miles from the city center, is one of the major hubs in Scandanavia. Schedules by most major airlines offer over 130 daily non-stop flights throughout the world. Shops and restaurants in the airport feature delightful Danish dishes and goods.

In the busy downtown railway station, more than 80,000 commuters and other travelers pass through daily. Efficient train service links Copenhagen to all major cities in continental Europe. There’s also ferry service to Norway, Sweden and other European coastal countries.

Just past the harbor entrance, we sighted the famed mermaid statue that has greeted visitors for more than a century. We also went into the city to the Stroget, the upscale shopping street. We also visited Rosenborg Castle, home of a long line of Danish kings.

Our most pleasant time was at Tivoli Gardens, the 190-year-old amusement park that inspired Walt Disney. We strolled through the tree and garden areas, stopped to watch a Punch and Judy show, listened to a brass band and enjoyed several rides. (www.tivoli.dk)

Hotel Kong Arthur, Norre Sogade 11, Copenhagen 1370, www.arthurhotels.dk. We chose this hotel for our one night in the city because it’s within strolling distance of shopping, parks, museums and other downtown sites.

The rooms were neat and staff cooperative. We had breakfast in the garden, surrounded by spring flowers. We paid about $160 for the room, plus $40 in taxes and other fees.

Amalie, 11 DK, 1256 Kobenhavn 33128810, www.restaurantamalie.dk. We decided to dine where local families gather for the typical smorgasbord (buffet) and smorgasbrod (sandwich) meals. Our hotel concierge recommended Amalie for lunch, and we weren’t disappointed. Lunch for two with beer was about $55.

Great choices of fresh seafood, crispy breads and leafy salads. While everyone in Copenhagen is friendly, Amalie was even more so for us. Another guest politely asked to sit with us. The young Danish woman explained that she wanted to practice her English. A recent medical school grad, she had just been appointed to the staff of a hospital in England.

We highly recommend senior travelers choose Copenhagen as a destination for spring or any other time of the year.