Denmark
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Denmark?
We asked people in Denmark if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Denmark. It is considered rude to be late for appointments, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to be aware of personal space and not to stand too close to someone when speaking. It is also important to be aware of the Danish concept of 'Janteloven', which is a set of unwritten rules that promote humility and discourage individualism. It is also important to be aware of the Danish concept of 'Hygge', which is a feeling of comfort and contentment. Finally, it is important to be aware of the Danish language and to try to use it when possible," remarked another expat who made the move to Denmark.
"Yes. I kept telling my mother-in-law for probably 4 years that I was going to the "støvsuger" (vacuum cleaner) to watch television instead of "stuen" (living room)! Of course they knew what I meant (they don't speak English) but were too polite to ever correct me!!!," explained one expat living in Aarhus, Denmark.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Denmark?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Denmark?
- Will I be able to find a job in Denmark?
- What is life like in Denmark?
- What do expats in Denmark appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Denmark?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Denmark accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Denmark like?
- What are healthcare services like in Denmark?
- What are medical services in Denmark like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Denmark?
- What are emergency services like in Denmark?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Denmark?
- How are local medical facilities in Denmark?
- As a foreigner living in Denmark, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Denmark?
If you live in Denmark, newcomers to Denmark would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
