What are people in Denmark like?

I wouldn't say we are shy or introverted, but the "not bothering strangers" is part of Danish politeness. If you go out for a drink or join a party, you shouldn't have any problems, though, especially if you are willing to take the first step and start talking to people.

But don't expect a Dane to walk up to you on the street for no reason and start small-talking, or sit next to you on a bus and start chatting. That rarely happens and it is considered slightly odd to do so. To strike up a conversation in situations like that, ask for directions or help to find something, or even just the time, or randomly comment on the weather - that way we won't think you are acting strangely, and you can start a conversation from there. Just ease into it and don't be too direct about it. A "phew, it's warm today" or "do you know if I am on the right bus to XX?" is a much better conversation starter in Denmark than a "Hi! How are you?" - the latter can be seen as intrusive and pushy, especially to someone not used to other cultures. :)

Once you have your foot in the door, you should find the Danes as easy to talk to as everyone else.

Remember not all Danes are comfortable speaking English, especially not the older generation where many cannot speak English, so if you meet someone who tries not to talk to you, then that's usually the reason why, and not because they are being unfriendly or rude.

I will be going to Denmark in April 2015. Should I get a book on how to speak Danish

Yup! I'm american and my fiance lives in Denmark and his whole household speaks english except for his father (who's sixty four and wasn't taught english in tuition). Luckily so much men and women if they are age 50 or much less can talk english. My fiance can talk english bigger than a few americans I realize and it is his 4th language.

They like sandwiches and mermaids.

Ask Debbie