Living in Denmark > Copenhagen >
Copenhagen, Denmark
An expat in Denmark talks about what it's like to move to Copenhagen. Meeting people and making friends isn't easy in Denmark, because Danish people are reserved and take time to get to know. He enjoys the fact that most Danish people are into fitness and healthy eating.
Copenhagen
Yes, received cross cultural training from my company after I moved to Denmark.
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They speak Danish officially, but nearly everyone (95+% of people I have met) speak English, to a high standard (nearly the same as a native English speaker). Have not had to learn the language and besides a few phrases, do not plan on doing so, as my employer does not require it nor do any of my daily interactions.
Yes, I heard the standard of living was lower than that back home in the States, and the cost of living in Denmark is much higher than most countries. Was also worried about how small the city was compared to other metropolitan areas I was used to.
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Very significant, Copenhagen definitely takes some time adjusting to. From an expat perspective, having a family definitely makes it easier, as some of my colleagues who came here solo have struggled to find people to talk to. Even with a family or an already existing network of friends, it is still quite difficult. There isn't a language barrier but culturally Danes are more reserved, they are quite nice and open once you become close with them but the process of becoming close with them is quite a tough one, so I've been told from many fellow expats.
The honeymoon phase lasted for a few months, having arrived in summer the weather was nice and there were many opportunities to go outside. The irritation phase started when seeing Copenhagen and taking it all in was over, and then I was done exploring the city but still did not adjust. At times I wished why I moved here (anger), and rejected the culture phase, but eventually settled in, although I most definitely recognize for me at least, this is nothing more than short-term.
Did have culture shock, but was not extremely sad or angry, more annoyed. Definitely homesickness though, but it gets better with time.
I appreciate for one the Danish fitness aspect, the culture here is very much that which encourages a healthy lifestyle, as many residents of the city walk and bike frequently, as well as engage in other forms of exercise. Diet and nutrition are also important and many focus on incorporating healthy food groups into the diet. Danish culture is also very straightforward, which is good and cuts to the point. And of course: language, for an English native/fluent speaker, this is a safe haven, as Denmark is very good for an English speaker as almost all of the population speaks grade A English.
Definitely the closed off vibes that I got in general from the culture, it will be hard especially if you are loud and outgoing. There is hardly variety here, the same trends and produce and people, little multiculturalism.
Denmark overall can be summarized as a place where the cost of living is high, less variety of everything, and a reserved culture; however the culture is very proficient in English, and the healthy lifestyle is fantastic, along with the beautiful landscapes and strong Danish sense of humor.
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Expect to live in an apartment and not a home unless you have a very large budget for housing expenses. CIS and Rygaards are the only international schools I would recommend in any way. When setting a budget, double or triple it. And, lastly, rent through a rent manager and NOT directly with a home owner.
An expat living in Copenhagen offers an incredible glimpse of what it's to live there. Although Denmark is very homogeneous, Danish people are open to other cultures. The high cost of living and tight job market can make staying in Copenhagen long-term difficult for many expats.
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Expect to live in an apartment and not a home unless you have a very large budget for housing expenses. CIS and Rygaards are the only international schools I would recommend in any way. When setting a budget, double or triple it. And, lastly, rent through a rent manager and NOT directly with a home owner.
An expat living in Copenhagen offers an incredible glimpse of what it's to live there. Although Denmark is very homogeneous, Danish people are open to other cultures. The high cost of living and tight job market can make staying in Copenhagen long-term difficult for many expats.
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