Relocation Guide (Spring 2012) by The Copenhagen Post

RELOCATION GUIDE

FOREIGN & PREGNANT IN DENMARK

HOW TO MEET THE DANES

NAVIGATING

DANISH AISLES

SPRING 2012

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

getting settled ...

POST BOX President and Publisher: Ejvind Sandal Chief executi ve: Jesper Nymark

packing up everything for a fresh start in a new country is a challenging prospect even for seasoned expats: but by preparing first, as well as seeking help from those experienced in the practice, the big move doesn’t have to be an ordeal By Jimmy Fyfe

editor-in-Chief: Kevin McGwin

insurance is financed by your taxes and designed to ensure that everyone has equal and free access to health services. It’s important to deal with this quickly, as some newcomers may have to wait up to six weeks before they become eligible for the insurance. Free schooling is available for every child from the age of seven in Denmark, and while all families with chil-

Layout: Lyndsay Jensen

dren aged six to 16 will automatically receive information on schools and education when they register with the National Register, Copenhagen Relocations recom-

Sales and Adverti sing: Jeanne Thames, Mark Millen, Lyndsay Jensen

mends making contact with the international schools and day-care institutions before the physical relocation itself, since many schools have waiting lists. The sooner

If you would like to contact us or leave a comment: info@cphpost.dk This supplement is published by The Copenhagen Post, please refer to our disclaimer on page 2 of the newspaper.

relocation guide

they are made aware of the arrival, the better. Copenhagen Relocations also advise signing your child

he key to a successful, stress-free relocation, according to Copenhagen Relocations, a company specialising in helping expats and corporate employees relocate to Denmark, is to start preparing early. The more you can get done before leaving home, the easier things will be when you actually arrive in your new country. An example of this is to file the necessary residency and work permits in advance, meaning that when you arrive you can hit the ground running – there’s so many better ways to spend the first few weeks following your arrival than waiting in line at the immigration office.

foreign & pregnant in denmark

how to meet the danes

navigating

danish aisles

spring 2012

Once you’ve obtained your residency or work permit, you can register with the National Register of Per-

up to more than one school to really ensure there’s sons, folkeregister in Danish. Everyone who intends on staying in Denmark for longer than three months (six months for those from other Nordic or EU countries) is required to register at the National Registration Office in the municipality (kommune) where they will be living. Registering will give you your vital CPR number, which is not only your key to becoming a legal member of society but is also necessary for such things as opening a bank account, receiving your salary, registering with a doctor and enrolling in school or day-care institutions. Once you have your CPR number you will also be covered by public health insurance. The key to this service is your little yellow card, one of the most important things you’ll receive in Denmark. The public health

a place waiting for them, and also to allow for more flexibility when looking for a house. The school year in Denmark starts as early as the beginning of August and ends in the middle of June, though students are generally admitted at the time they arrive in the municipality. One seemingly inconsequential, yet vital part of the relocation process is the ability to keep an open mind. Things in Denmark are different from where you come from and the more you compare things to home all the time the more you can miss out on what Denmark has to offer. Life in Denmark is unique in so many ways, and getting settled in quickly and maintaining a good attitude through the process can be the start of an enjoyable experience in the ‘happiest’ country on earth.

Østerbro

I N T E R N AT I O N A L S C H O O L

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

Two-wheeled traffic – without the trauma Welcome to the city where the majority of the population uses a two-wheeled vehicle for transportation By Kamilla Stoffregen 2. Signal Remember to indicate your intentions to turn or stop in the traffic. Others should be able to anticipate your movements from your indications. Turning is signalled by extending the arm horizontally in the direction you intend to turn. Raising the arm vertically signals you are about to stop. 3. Wait Don’t always maintain your right of way if the situation looks dangerous. As a cyclist, you are vulnerable and often the victim should an accident take place.

Enticing, but not for the fainthearted

4. Lorries Keep behind lorries and buses as a general rule. Most accidents happen at crossroads. Lorries making a right-turn are

iven the number of cycling paths crisscrossing the city, the general flatness of the landscape and the relatively mild climate, it’s no wonder cycling is the national means of transport.

known to be a hazard, especially to cyclists. If you are beside or

Joining fellow cyclists in the city bustle is absolutely recommended when relocating to Copenhagen. Idyllic as it may look, however, the country’s bicycle lanes are not for the fainthearted, and newcomers should get acquainted with the basic rules – written and unwritten – before venturing outside on two wheels. Here are a few tips:

in bad weather. Lights must be mounted to the bike and should

1. Helmet Even though use of helmets is optional, head injuries, which comprise half of the serious injuries that occur to cyclists, can be prevented by helmets. Helmets come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. To find a helmet approved by European standards, look for the label reading EN 1078.

behind a lorry and can’t see its mirrors, the driver can’t see you. 5. Lights Bicycle lights should be used from sunset to sunrise and be able to be seen clearly, from the sides as well, from a distance of 300 metres. Rear lights should be red and may blink, if the blinking speed is more than 120 blinks per minute. Headlights should be yellow or white, possibly with a bluish tint. Whereas white lights should blink at least 120 times per minute, yellow

Bike Archetypes It isn’t just the newcomers that irritate regular bike commuters, there are plenty of other commuter types that make cycling a pain in the saddle for the majority of riders. The unhinged parent The back wheel child-seat conspicuous in the absence of junior should send alarm bells ringing among the most confident of cyclists. These young parents are known for their lethal pedalling and God help anyone who gets in their way. The green jersey cyclist This cunning fox knows the location and timing of every red light in the city, so don’t be surprised when the middle-aged buffer who you passed three blocks earlier comes tearing past you at the speed of light to make it through a junction you gave up on ten seconds ago, often raising his hands in jubilation. The multi-tasker Chatting with friends, text messaging, reading the newspaper while driving no-handed, looking at members of the opposite sex, plotting future world domination. The deputy Self-appointed arbiters who are always there to tick you off should you dare to err from the unofficial rule book, which they frequently break themselves.

lights should not blink. 6. Alcohol If under the influence of alcohol, take a taxi or push your bike. Should you meet the police while drinking and biking,

The scooter polluter Sometimes traveling faster than the legal limit of 45km per hour, these noisy maniacs can be heard a long ways off. Pull to the right if you hear one coming, lest you become the subject of an angry honk.

you can be fined.

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

the little yellow cArd

navigating the rules, regulations and red tape in an unknown land can be a minefield. figuring out what documentation you require and in which order you need to get it in may send you rushing for the first flight home By Celia thaysen

The Danish authorities have recently improved the visibility and clarity of the procedures that need to be followed when moving here. To help you along, here is a guide to point you in the right direction. But as procedures vary depending on your situation, it’s always best to check with the relevant authorities.

so how does it work? step 1 – residence/work permits if you are an eu citizen If you plan to stay in Denmark more than three months, you must apply for a certificate of registration before those three months expire. Be prepared for it to take a couple of weeks. The application must be submitted in person to the Regional State Administration (RSA) where you live. Check with the Statsforvaltning which RSA you belong to and whether you need to make

an appointment first. The State Administration office for Copenhagen is located at: Borups Alle 177, 2400 Cph NV (7256 7000) EU residence opening hours: Mon-Wed, Fri 09:00-12:00; Thu 13:00 - 16:00. Remember to bring your passport and one passport photo. You will also need to bring documentation proving the reasons for your stay, e.g.: • Proof of employment: employment contract if you have one. Must be signed and max 1 month old or bring employer’s declaration (Appendix A of the application form) • Proof of sufficient means: documentation showing means of financing your stay, e.g. bank account statement in your own name and max 14 days old. • Students: documentation for (eligible) educational programme. For non-EU family members of EU citizens, check the requirements with the Statsforvaltning first. Once citizens of EU or EFTA countries are issued a residence permit, they do not need a separate work permit (arbejdestilladelse). if you are not an eu citizen If you aren’t an EU citizen, check with the Danish Immigration Service (www.nyidanmark.dk) regarding visa requirements, residence and work permit regulations, as these vary. Much will depend on your profession as to what type of residence permit (opholdsbevis) is issued. If you are being expatriated, your company or a relocation agency will offer the best advice. If you are in Denmark as a tourist and wish to apply for a residence permit, you need to go to: The Danish Immigration Service (Udlændingestyrelsen), Ryesgade 53, 2100 Cph Ø.

step 2 – your yellow cArd – cpr numBer This card is the Danish equivalent of a Social Security number or ID card and is the key to accessing almost everything in Denmark. First and foremost, it’s your personal health insurance card and entitles you to doctor’s visits and emergency treatment under the Danish state healthcare system. You will also need this number when you deal with public authorities, open a bank account, set up utilities, take a language course or enrol your child in school, for the tax office, often to get a job, and even to use the library. Once you have your residence permit, you need to visit the Citizen Service Centre (Borgerservicecenter) in your local authority (kommune) in person to register with them. Bring your residence permit, photo ID, and marriage or birth certificates for your children, if applicable. You also need a fixed home address (a hotel or business address won’t suffice). A proof of your address – i.e. rental lease, contract or letter from your landlord. At the same time as registering for your CPR number, you will also be asked to choose a GP (general practitioner or doctor). In Copenhagen you register at the Citizen Service Center, Nyropsgade 1, 1602 Cph V, open MonFri 09:00-17:00. You will get a CPR number right away, except in peak seasons Jan/Feb and September and your health insurance card will arrive within two weeks. Be aware that you have to put your last name on the mailbox or mention your landlord’s name in order to receive it. It is a personal letter and is only delivered to persons mentioned on the mail box. Otherwise it will be returned and destroyed without notice. It’s worth noting that state health insurance does not cover the cost of medicine, dental treatments and some special treatments such as physiotherapy.

step 3 – tAx

The third step, once you’ve received your CPR number, is to register with the tax office (SKAT) for your tax card (skattekort). This is vital if you are working. You will need to provide details of your annual income and an assessment of your tax liability. If your employer does not have your tax card, you will automatically be taxed in the region of 55-60 percent, which can be reclaimed but may leave you a little short of cash. Check www.skat.dk for more information. The central tax office in Copenhagen is at: Sluseholmen 8B, 2450 Cph S (7222 1818) opening hours: Mon 10:00-16:00, Tue-Fri 10:00-14:00.

new to denmark www.nyidanmark.dk Before you arrive, check the New to Denmark portal - the official Danish Immigration Service website for foreigners and immigration. The site is in Danish and English, has sections in other languages, and is especially useful for finding information on visa requirements, work permits and entry rules for students and au pairs. www.icitizen.dk Get help with the paperwork and get good advice on what it’s like to live and work in Denmark. All relevant authorities under one roof. A public service for foreign employees, job seekers and Danish companies. Nyropsgade 1, 1602 Cph V. Opening hours: Wed 13:00-17:00, Thu 11:00-15:00; (3366 6606). The service also has a walk-in centre in central Copenhagen, open Wed-Thurs only. www.statsforvaltning.dk Click on In ‘English’ and then in the left margin marked, ‘EU residence’. The Regional State Administration’s website has information on what to do, where to go and what you need to bring with you to apply for a Certificate of Registration or residence permit (registreringsbevis).

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

choosing

wHeRe to LIVe copenhagen and its suburbs has a variety of neighbourhoods and outlying towns, each with their own distinctive characteristics. choosing which one is right

(leisure and fishing)

this upmarket neighbourhood is one of Copenhagen’s most desir-

distance from the City Centre: less than 30 minutes

able districts, connected to the centre by metro and known for its trendy cafes and upscale restaurants.

Similar areas nearby: Tårnby, Islands Brygge

FRedeRIkSBeRg Actually its own municipality although it seems more like a district of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg is a modern metropolis with numerous parks, leisure and cultural faciliti es, cafés and shopping areas connected to central Copenhagen by the metro

for you and your family depends on your own needs

Type: Middle-class metropolis

and wishes – as well as on how much you’re prepared

Ideally suited for: Everyone, in particular creative types,

to spend

students and families Postal districts: 1800-1998 (Frederiksberg C), 2000 (Frederiksberg) Housing: A full range of apartments, terraced houses, villa-apartments and detached houses Rent prices: 4,000-32,000kr Universiti es: Copenhagen Business School, University of Copenhagen Faculty of Life Sciences Internati onal Schools: No international schools, but Johannesskolen is one of the best private schools in Denmark

Type: Glamorous metropolis Ideally suited for: Young people without children Postal district: 1400-1441 København K Housing: Apartments Rent prices: 10,000-35,000kr Top cultural picks: Freetown of Christiania dining: Noma (top rated restaurant), Era Ora (gourmet Italian) Shopping: Amager Centre distance from the City Centre: 5-15 minutes Similar Areas nearby: Islands Brygge, Sundby

ØReSTAd Ørestad is Copenhagen’s newest neighbourhood, an exciti ng area on the island of Amager connected to the city centre by metro and close to both the airport and the Øresund Bridge. The university campus has brought young people to the area in droves, while exciti ng architectural projects oﬀ er att racti ve, aﬀ ordable housing to families.

Top cultural picks: Copenhagen Zoo, Forum (exhibition and concert centre) Shopping: Gammel Kongevej, Godthåbsvej, Falkoner Alle and Frederiksberg Centre Where to fi nd Internati onal Products: SuperBest distance from the City Centre: 10-15 minutes Similar Areas nearby: Valby

ØSTeRBRO One of the largest Copenhagen districts, residenti al Østerbro is

Type: Modern student campus Ideally suited for: Families with children, young couples, students Postal district: 2300 København S Housing: Apartments Rent prices: 7,000-15,000kr Top cultural picks: The Concert House (Koncerthuset) in DR-Byen Shopping: Field’s distance from the City Centre: 10-20 minutes Similar Areas nearby: Tårnby, Islands Brygge

ringed to the west by Sortedam Lake and has plenty of cafes, res-

HeLLeRUP

taurants, takeaways and shops. It oﬀ ers a variety of living opti ons,

Smart suburb Hellerup has a fl ourishing expat community, thanks to the many embassies and internati onal schools in the area. Other att racti ons include upscale shops, cafes and a nearby beach. Housing ranges from palati al early 20th century villas to new harbour-front apartment developments.

from city apartments in inner Østerbro to large houses in the embassy district. Type: Urban Ideally suited for: Couples and families Postal district: 2100 København Ø Housing: Apartments and houses of all sizes

dRAgØR dragør is a picturesque, quaint fi shing village on the island of Amager near the airport, and out of the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Type: Middle-class village Ideally suited for: Families with young children Postal district: 2791 Dragør Housing: Terraced houses and detached villas Rent prices: 7,000-16,000kr Top cultural pick: Dragør Harbour

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Rent prices: 7,000-45,000kr Top cultural picks: Parken stadium, the Lakes and Fælledparken Shopping: Østerbrogade, Øster Farimagsgade and Nordre Frihavnsgade distance from the City Centre: 5-15 minutes Similar Areas nearby: The Inner City, Hellerup, Nørrebro

CHRISTIAnSHAVn With its picturesque canals and prett y painted houses, Christi anshavn was created in the dutch style in the 1600s. These days,

Type: Wealthy suburbia Ideally suited for: Families with school-age children Postal district: 2900 Hellerup Housing: Everything from modern apartments and self-contained flats to palatial villas Rent prices: 8,000-65,000kr Internati onal Schools: Copenhagen International School, Bernadotteskolen, Rygaards International School Top cultural pick: The Experimentarium (science museum) Shopping: Strandvejen, Water Front Shopping Centre Where to fi nd Internati onal Products: SuperBest distance from the City Centre: 15-20 minutes Similar Areas nearby: Gentofte, Charlottenlund, Klampenborg

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Finding your way around complex renting rules can be an adventure

homework Before buying or renting a home, a quick study session may be in order By David Vranicar

ascha Eichendorff was an easy sell. He knew that the fourth-floor apartment in downtown Aarhus was the one he wanted as soon as he laid eyes on it. But before German-born Eichendorff, a student at Aarhus University, could move in, he was given a contract so intricate that even a PhD student in medical biochemistry like himself was confused. Everything about the apartment was spelled out in the agreement, right down to the aluminium tube connecting the sink to the dishwasher and the type of soap to use on the floors. “It was like a recipe,” Eichendorff says of the soap instructions. “It said I could use ammonia, but only up to a very specific percentage. It was bizarre.” Equally surprising to Eichendorff was how much he would have to pay: before moving in he had to hand over not only a deposit of three months’ rent but an additional three months’ prepaid rent as well as his first month’s rent. Strange as the contract seemed to Eichendorff, such details are commonplace in the Danish housing market. For while it is indeed possible for foreigners like Eichendorff to both buy and rent housing, there are a number of rules worth knowing first. According to Peter Høyer, the managing director of Scandia, a housing firm founded in Copenhagen in 1993, Eichendorff ’s hefty deposit is nothing unusual. In fact, there are Danish laws – found in the detailed (25,000 word) Rent Act (Lejeloven) in Danish – requiring tenants to pay at least three months’ rent up-front.

“i basically paid seven rents when i moved in,” he says. “that’s pretty intense.”

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“In the US and some places in the Far East and Middle East,” he says, “you can rent out apartments the same way you rent out a hotel room. That can be great for the tenant, but the person who owns the property is exposed. So the law protects owners in case the tenants don’t follow the rules.” Another distinguishing characteristic of the Danish housing market is the length of the lease. In the US, Høyer says, it is not unusual for a tenant to sign a one-year lease and then extend it indefinitely. But in Denmark, the duration of a lease is pre-determined and rigid – you can’t simply extend or terminate a lease at your convenience. “Here, that’s illegal,” he says. “You have a fixed time. So the idea that you make a year-by-year contract isn’t something that’s done in Denmark, and that may surprise some people.” Foreigners might also be surprised by the myriad taxes levied against buyers. Søren Jespersen, a broker for EDC, a national chain of estate agents, says the tax structure set up around buying a home or apartment can be dizzying. According to Jespersen, a buyer must pay the state 0.06 percent of the price of the house, in addition to a flat fee. And that’s just for the right to buy – it’s separate from the actual cost of a property. There are also taxes based on the value of the land (grundværdi) and the value of the building itself (ejendomsvurdering).

• Beautiful surroundings and close to nature.

“This can add up,” Jespersen says. “If you bought a flat for five million kroner, then you’re paying a lot of money just for the right to buy your flat, before you even get into the actual cost.” And should someone need a mortgage, Jespersen says they must pay the state 1.5 percent of the amount of the loan. “The state actually earns a lot of money when people buy and sell houses in Denmark,” Jespersen says. “A lot of Danes don’t even know that. And this can be a lot of money if you’re loaning four or five million kroner.” While taxes represent a big difference between renting and buying a house – according to Høyer, no taxes are levied against renters – buyers and renters alike might want to consider is getting outside help. Høyer says that renters should hire an agent to avoid confusion and surprises, and Jespersen’s advice goes a step further: get a lawyer. This assistance isn’t necessary for everyone. Eichendorff, for one, was able to wade through his housing agreement without any real problems. Still, he double-checks that soap recipe whenever he cleans his floors.

Skt. Josef’s Skole • Frederiksborgvej 10 • DK-4000, Roskilde Tel. + 45 4635 2526 • Website: www.sktjosef.dk 7

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

You’re a foreigner, you’re pregnant!

What do you do? In Denmark and holding a pregnancy test with two lines? Here’s what you can expect the next nine months to be like By Stephanie Brickman

ou can’t help but be wowed by it. Whether it’s longed for or a total shock, the moment a woman finds out she’s pregnant is not one she’ll forget in a hurry. However, feelings of wonder are often swiftly followed by a wave of anxiety about relationship, career and last but not least, the fact that this baby will have to come out. For a woman who finds herself pregnant far away from home, without the support of family and friends, these feelings of anxiety can become overwhelming. For Hanne Ebbesen, it was her own experiences of giving birth away from her native Denmark, in Scotland and Norway, that led her to start her company Copenhagen Maternity Care and now handles seven births a year as well as giving antenatal classes geared to expat couples. “I had my first kid in Scotland and I had this horrible need to have some company, anyone who would take my hand and say: ‘Pregnancy is normal’. I needed someone who would come with me to the hospital and to the doctor. As a pregnant expat with a husband working 12 hours a day you can get so lonely. This loneliness doesn’t

sit well with giving birth, you can’t relax, you don’t feel comfortable and you don’t feel ready to give birth. That’s why I became a doula.” ‘Doula’ is a Greek word meaning a woman who cares for other women. Nowadays it has come to refer to an experienced woman who helps a couple through the experience of pregnancy and birth. The pregnant foreigner’s journey begins with her doctor, however the bulk of the care is delivered by teams of community midwives, based in health centres rather than at the doctor’s surgery. You are allocated a midwifery team according to where you live and you may not always see the same midwife at each appointment. This is not dissimilar to many European countries but to our North American sisters it can come as a bit of a shock. For Ashley Denhup, who hails from Pennsylvania, her second birth at Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen six months ago was very different from her first in the US.

Hanne Ebbesen knows what it takes to make pregnant woman – and their newborns – feel at ease

“My first pregnancy was very straightforward and, being a healthy 27-year-old woman, my second pregnancy was really laid back. It was a bit of a shock that I was only seen by a doctor two or three times and it was a primary care doctor. In my first pregnancy I was seen every other week by an obstetrician. “With my first birth, in the US, they convinced me to have an epidural, so I never felt labour, I couldn’t even feel my legs. Here in Denmark by the time I got to asking for an epidural they told me I was past that stage. I ended up having my baby naturally which was the most empowering and awesome thing and it would never have happened in the States, I would have been given an epidural, I would never have pushed the baby out myself. That was one thing that was really great about being in Denmark.”

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AWC and Ladies International Group København both have bumps and babies groups that Byrge said were “much better than googling”, adding, “don’t worry that there are no doctors involved, it’s actually an advantage. Natural is the way to go and it’s best for mother and baby.”

Fact file | You’re pregnant. What next? • Contact your GP for confirmation of pregnancy and to be registered as pregnant. You will be given handheld notes, known as a ‘vandrejournal’. • Read up on what you can and can’t eat, drink and do. “What to expect when you’re

While Denhup faired well without an epidural, others might be less gung-ho at the prospect. Ebbesen is quick to point out that you don’t get, if you don’t ask.

expecting” by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon

“A woman must pronounce her needs,” she said. “It’s perfectly allowed in Denmark to say – I need more backup, you just have to make your voice heard. “

until around 13 weeks unless you experi

Irish nurse Maria Byrge, who has given birth twice at Hvidovre Hospital, also advises women to banish shyness and ask for what they need.

midwife appointment, scan and tests that

“In the hospital you need to be proactive and ask for help, whether it’s a cup of tea or painkillers or help with breast feeding, they don’t come in asking if you want anything every five minutes. You need to press that buzzer when you need something, but when you do they’re there.

identifies genetic abnormalities) is not

“The system here overall is very good. It’s very simple and basic but it really works. You don’t see the midwives very often but their knowledge and experience is superb and I also found them to be very caring. They all spoke great English as well.”

International design

ous with her advice and encouragement. Everything she told me helped me in labour.”

Mazel is widely accepted as an authoritative source of information. • Don’t expect to have any appointments ence bleeding, pain or other worrying symptoms. • At around 13 weeks you will have your first assess your baby’s risk of abnormalities. • Amniocentesis testing (an invasive test that given as standard in Denmark, it is discussed on a case by case basis. • Between 18 and 20 weeks you will have a foetal abnormality scan, an extremely thorough check of your baby’s development that can also reveal whether you’re carrying a boy or a girl, if you wish to know. • Rigshospitalet has an informative website and antenatal classes, both in English.

Although both Byrge’s pregnancies and births were uncomplicated, the pain of the first birth made her fearful in the lead up to the second.

• Elective caesarians are possible in the

“I was lucky to meet up with Hanne through the AWC (American Women’s Club) ‘Stork Club’ and she was a great help and inspiration with my second birth. My first birth was fine but more painful than I had imagined and with the second birth coming up I was frightened. She was very gener-

want one.

Danish system, but you may have to present a fairly forceful argument as to why you

Useful links www.copenhagenmaternitycare.dk www.rigshospitalet.dk/RHenglish/Menu

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

Learning Danish – it’s about more than just the language For language school CLAVIS, technology and customer service are part of a good (school) day’s work By Jessica O’Sullivan

hen integrating to a new country one of the most important, and tricky, things to master is language. Danish in particular has a scary reputation amongst foreigners for being a tongue twister of a language, yet, with the right teaching, the path to fluency doesn’t have to be so hard. For most foreigners, getting past the language barrier includes going to a language school. With over 25 years experience in teaching Danish as a second and foreign language, CLAVIS prides itself on going above and beyond language training, according to department head Jacob Madsen. “We don’t just specialise in language teaching but also intercultural matters.”

CLAVIS seeks to meet the needs of its growing clientele of foreign professionals and international students, by providing services such as spouse events, mentorships, flexible timetabling, online learning and worksite teaching. Worksite teaching and customized courses and materials are two of CLAVIS’s unique of-

ferings. “Our teachers go out to businesses and provide the courses on location in the student’s everyday setting – what better way for our teachers to actually know what students and their companies need.” “We put a lot of value in making our own course materials, both as hard copies and in a digital format and constantly aim to cater specifically to our students’ needs regarding relevance, accessibility and flexibility.” With conveniently placed locations already in Greve, Roskilde and Copenhagen, CLAVIS is set to open a brand new facility in Lyngby in June. The new Lyngby centre, like all of CLAVIS’s other centres, will be designed to provide students with a lively and interactive atmosphere.

Department head Madsen, offering companies and their employees what they need

Among the facilities which CLAVIS has worked into its teaching are digital language labs that enable students to work intensively with pronunciation and spoken language, smart boards in classrooms, and wireless networks in all common areas.

explains that as part of the new Lyngby setup they will also be running regular intercultural workshops, where students and Danes can meet to discuss topics, in Danish, such as adapting to a new workplace culture.

ativity 2020’ strategy and we believe we have

Apart from state-of-the-art facilities, CLAVIS also provides opportunities for students to network and socialise with Danes. Madsen

“There is going to be a real push towards creating an international atmosphere in Lyngby through its ‘City of Knowledge and Urban Cre-

needs of the individual, company or council,

a role to play there,” he said. CLAVIS offers a broad range of targeted Danish courses that can be organised according to the and CLAVIS counsellors are always available to answer any questions.

Roskilde University in Denmark A different experience

• 50% courses and 50% project work • Collaboration in groups • Unique learning style • Interdisciplinarity • Close to Copenhagen ruc.dk/international

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

TAILOR YOUR OWN DANISH COURSE

Three newcomers to Denmark offer three quite different approaches to the language By Dominique Barir Jensen

ne of the first things people notice when visiting Copenhagen is just how easy it is to get by without any Danish skills

whatsoever, especially if you are only planning on living here for a short period of time. What’s the point, then, in bothering to learn the language? Do you need to be able to communicate fluently, or is it simply a matter of understanding and ex-

pressing the basics? Three members of the expat community shared their views with The Copenhagen Post on the importance of and reasons for learning Danish. Although all three have taken it upon themselves to learn the language, each has their own intentions and strategies. Franklin, 23, a Portuguese artist and ballet dancer, was living in Denmark ‘on and off’ for three years before he decided to move here permanently and start learning the language. During his early stays, Franklin was able to pick up quite a bit of Danish by communicating with Danes on a daily basis, watching TV and using a dictionary.

However, he stresses that by far the most useful experience was to attend a Danish language school, where an interactive class and a teacher to guide him through the process offered far more than he could have achieved alone. Despite having managed fine with his English skills, for Franklin, speaking Danish is a way of communicating your respect towards the culture, as well as gaining respect from Danes who, “know that their language is not an easy one for a non-Dane to learn”.

was accepting life in Denmark. I didn’t want to be stuck here. And if I was going to move anyway, why bother learning how to speak a language that only five million people understand?” She didn’t move, however, and has no intention of ever leaving. Or as she explains: “I changed my mind, and decided to embrace the language.”

Sharon, 39 from Israel, has lived in Copenhagen as a stay-at-home mom with her Danish husband for nearly two decades without speaking Danish. Instead of trying to integrate into Danish society, Sharon has chosen to be a part of the international community, sending both of her children, now aged 14 and 18, to Copenhagen International School. She is perfectly capable of speaking Danish, but chooses not to.

a daily basis, watching TV

“When I first got to Denmark, I just couldn’t wait to get out of here,” she said. “Taking the step to learn Danish, for me, would have meant that I

Learn Danish! day and evening classes e-learning combined with classes focus on pronunciation

Ballerup Sprogcenter +45 4477 2626 www.ballerupsprogcenter.dk

Franklin was able to pick up quite a bit of Danish by communicating with Danes on and using a dictionary. She attended six hours of private lessons at Berlitz to acquire the basic skills required for communicating in Danish. However, whenever she tried to put her Danish to practice, most people simply responded in English. So she thought, ‘why bother?’ Sharon also points out that she feels like a different person when she speaks Danish. “I can’t be myself, because I am not comfortable... I don’t speak Danish because I don’t need to.” By contrast, Kirsten, 45, an American stay-athome mother with two teenage children, opted to send her children to a Danish school. Like Franklin, Kirsten felt learning Danish was a sign of respect for the Danish culture. Learning Danish, she said, allowed her to, “gain a good understanding of where I was”. She adds that she didn’t need to learn Danish, as Danes were always polite and spoke English to her. However, at some point, they would, “turn away and speak Danish” to a person next to her, making her feel socially handicapped, as she was no longer able to participate in the conversation. Not wanting to be a ‘social burden,’ as she put it, she started to see learning the language as the

only way for her to truly assimilate into Danish society. She began learning Danish through the course provider AOF, but although the classes provided a fun and free opportunity for her to meet ‘people of different ages and social groups with a common interest in learning Danish’, she felt that her progress was too slow, and that she needed to take part in smaller, more intensive classes tailored to her level of understanding. Kirsten switched to intensive classes at KISS four times a week; it took six months for Kirsten to become fluent in Danish. Nevertheless, Kirsten finds it, “difficult to explain thing’s from the heart” when speaking Danish, and is grateful that she can always switch into English to be understood when she really needs to.

Danish classes in the Copenhagen area AOF – www.aof.dk Ballerup Sprogcenter – www.ballerupsprogcenter.dk Berlitz – www.berlitz.dk Business Language Services (BLS) – www.bls.dk Clavis – www.clavis.org IA Sprog – www.iasprog.dk Københavns Intensive SprogSkole (KiSS) – www.kiss.dk Københavns Sprogcenter – kbh-sprogcenter.dk Sprogcenter Hellerup – www.sprogcenterhellerup.dk Studieskolen – www.studieskolen.dk Virksomhedsskolen – www.virksomhedsskolen.com/en VoksenUddannelsescenter Frederiksberg – www.vuf.nu

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

BAck to

school

danish education is amongst the best there is, but there are plenty of international choices, too By Catherine Gordon

or any family coming to Denmark, the education of their children is of paramount importance. Safe and welcoming Copenhagen is a great place to have a young family, with a child-friendly culture and some excellent schools.

Some expats decide to send their children to the local Danish school. Education is compulsory for all children in Denmark from the year they turn seven up until the age of 16, and the Danish system is considered one of the best in the world, with particular focus on social skills and confidence. Many families opt to place younger children into a Danish preschool institution before moving them to an international environment when they are of school age. Preschool options are divided into vuggestuer (up to age 3), børnehaver (3 to 6 years) and then the final børnehaveklasse, located in primary schools and catering for that final year before a child enters primary education. Roughly a third of preschool education is privately run, and there are various international choices in the Greater Copenhagen area. The term folkeskole covers the entire period of compulsory education, and is not divided into separate primary and secondary sections as most newcomers might expect. The vast majority of students attend the municipal folkeskole and there are some that have both Danish and international sections. At the discretion of the school principal, children who require it are offered training in Danish as a second language; those who have attended preschool in this country are unlikely to need it. Finally, there is what is known as ungdomsuddannelse, or youth education. This is not mandatory, and is normally attended by those between the ages of 15 and 20 for a period of two to four years. The most common route is through gymnasium in preparation for a programme of higher education, but many also choose a vocational school.

Graduating gymnasium students celebrate their moment in the sun Although the Danish system can be a good fit for many people, Copenhagen does have many international options. The Copenhagen International School in Hellerup offers the full International Baccalaureate programme, while Nørre Gymnasium and Herlufsholm (the country’s only boarding school) provide the Diploma programme. Other schools, such as Rygaards Skole and Bernadotteskolen, have both Danish and international sections up to the age of 16. Copenhagen even boasts a Lycée Francais in Frederiksberg as well as a German school. With such a range of choices, any expat parent can be sure that they will find an institution that will suit their child’s needs.

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

jobs for spouses Your partner was offered a position in Denmark – but you’ve yet to find one. Here are some expert tips for finding jobs for spouses By Jimmy Fyfe

or many expats relocating to Denmark, the move has been arranged by their company and a job is here waiting for them, ready to be stepped into immediately. Their spouses, however, may have to go that extra mile to find work.

Networking is key According to Anette Pilmark of Spousecare, a company specialising in helping the spouses of foreign workers living here develop their social network and find work, the most important thing when looking for work is being aware that most jobs out there aren’t advertised. Denmark is a country dependent on professional networking and who you know is just as important as what you know. Online networking can often be just as important, and social networking sites such as LinkedIn are also valuable tools to be utilised.

Make sure your CV is up to scratch While your CV might have looked impressive back home, it could still be rejected here if the qualifications and experience isn’t understood by Danes. Pilmark is quick to remind jobseekers to adjust their resumes to fit the Danish norm, and to be aware too that most job applications require a cover letter as well as the CV itself.

For non-native English speakers, it is important to document you have professional English skills, while those with a degree or qualification in a language not recognised in Denmark should look up the Danish Agency for International Education (en.iu.dk/recognition), which makes free assessments of different diplomas.

Play to your strengths and make the most of opportunities According to Mette Steffensen from Supporting People, an expat employee support and integration guidance company, the small size of Denmark combined with its high number of qualified workers means that all publicly advertised jobs receive a high volume of applicants. Because of this, Steffensen stresses that when you do get a chance you need to be prepared and make the most of the opportunity. As well as reiterating the need to apply in the way that Danish employers are accustomed to, Steffensen also stresses the importance of showing that you are willing and able to work in a different environment from one you’re used to and to target yourself specifically to the role you are after.

International Chrisitan Community

Why should ICC be your choice of church while in Copenhagen? • The church is interdenominational. • Represented by over 40 nationalities from all walks of life. • 10% of the congregation are ethnic Danes – perfect for integration. • A child friendly congregation. • Youth Group, Singles Group, Couples Group, Women’s Group and Men’s Groups catering to various spiritual needs. • Fantastic gospel choir and music group. • Over half the congregation involved in volunteer services both spiritual and practical. • And much, much more….

Use the tools on hand

ier than you might think – making starting your

You are not the first foreigner to search for a job in Denmark and you won’t be the last, and as such, there is plenty of support out there, both private and public. As well as the various private companies who work with spouses of foreign hired workers, there are also more general courses run by the municipality.

own business not only an attractive option, but

At Første Job i Danmark (First Job in Denmark – www.forstejob.dk) a six-week course (held in Danish) as well as an intensive two-day course in English offer a basic overview of how the jobhunting game works here and is designed to get independent foreigners living in Denmark into the labour market.

a viable one as well. All EU citizens are permitted to establish a self-owned business in Denmark and the municipal Copenhagen Business Centre (Københavns Erhvervscenter) offers all the practical advice you need, with free seminars and answers to questions that you might not even know to ask. With consultants from a variety of cultural and professional backgrounds, they can help formulate business plans and offer information on essentials like bookkeeping and budgeting. While job-hunting in Denmark can seem challenging, learning how the job hunting game works, thinking outside the box and focusing on your

Starting your own business

skills, strengths and unique talents opens up op-

Registering a company in Denmark is much eas-

tions available for those eager to find success.

Tips for finding work from those that have succeeded: Susan Avery: Give away some of your time for free. Often volunteering some of your time to begin with can get you a foot in the door and lead to paid work and a full time job in the end. John Francis: Get out and about in the community. To find a job here it’s all about networking, so you need to meet people to enlarge your social network. Things like joining sports clubs or meetup groups are a great way to start, and if you have a Danish partner, get to know their friends and colleagues. Peter Wills: When it comes to the Danish language, a little goes a long way. You don’t need to be fluent in the language, but just trying to speak a little shows that you are open-minded and eager to learn and that can make a lasting impression on would-be employers.

Visit www.getintouch.dk for more information Where: Ryesgade 68, 2100 Kbh Ø. When: Sundays from 10:30 to 12:30 Contact: info@getintouch.dk or Tel: +45 3672 6058 12

Caroline Cain, reflexologist: There’s no business if nobody knows you exist. Word of mouth is the most effective form of marketing, so get yourself out there and tell everybody what you do.

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

Say “Hej” to the Danish Language One local language school goes above and beyond to give you the tools you need to succeed By Tom Schad

a month later. They are then immersed in Dan-

To achieve this understanding, the school offers

ish from day one by Københavns Sprogcenter’s

both fulltime day courses and night classes that

renowned faculty, which includes more than 10

give students flexibility to work around their own

authors of Danish language textbooks. Teachers

schedules. Those who want an intensive learn-

understand exactly what their students are going

ing experience can find it here, but so can those

through and can help them navigate textbooks

with other jobs or schoolwork who can only fit

that, in many cases, they wrote themselves.

in a couple of nights a week. Traditional lectures

djusting to life in Copenhagen can be hard for many reasons, but learning Danish is at the top of the list. Native English speakers lament that nothing is spoken like it is read, random letters are sometimes left silent and pronouncing the vowels makes you sound like you’ve got a sore throat. Despite all that, it is a language that can be picked up quickly and painlessly; all it takes is the right environment, methods and staff to lead the way. Københavns Sprogcenter gives students these tools. Nestled in the old meatpacking district of Vesterbro, the school spans two large buildings and boasts a newly renovated computer lab, language lab, library and cafeteria. A surprise perhaps to those who imagine language schools consisting of nothing more than a few rundown classrooms, this language centre has taken extra steps to modernise its space and add a level of comfort to the often uncomfortable experience of learning a new language. Newcomers are interviewed by one of the school’s five counsellors and placed into courses less than

“They’re not only [good teachers], but they’re professionals in their field,” department manager Julie Henriques explains. “This also means that the teachers who haven’t written textbooks are working with the authors, so they understand and are constantly learning as well.” Københavns Sprogcenter aims to help newcomers pass the Danish language test required by immigration laws, but it also understands that there’s more to a language than that. “We look at it in a broader sense – what do you

and in-class activities are supplemented with practice in the language lab, where students can pronounce words into a microphone and receive individual critiques from staff. Priority is placed on active learning (speaking and writing) rather than passive learning (reading and listening). Above all else, Københavns Sprogcenter has created an environment where people from around the world can work to overcome a similar challenge. With 1,400 students currently enrolled from over 90 countries, the language centre provides expats with a group of people who can un-

Danish will always be a tough language to grasp,

derstand their situation.

but the resources at Københavns Sprogcenter can make this process both quicker and easier. With

need to do with the language? Why do you need to make it your own?” Henriques elaborates. “It’s

“It’s a whole new network,” Henriques says.

a comfortable environment and informed facul-

not just about passing the test; it’s about how to

“Really strong friendships are made in

ty, you can finally join the real Copenhagen and

live - how to buy a pack of cigarettes, how to ask

classes, crossing religious, political, social or

discover what’s so special about that so-called

someone out on a date - that’s not on the test.”

whatever borders they live with normally.”

“throat disease.”

” We create a breeding ground for your employees” We help companies welcome their foreign employees in a way that make them want to stay. Relocation with Care: Support that reaches beyond finding a home. Integration with Sense: Welcome procedures and in-house networking initiative. Relocation Scandinavia provides a retention strategy that pays off and we look forward to sharing our expertise with you.

relocation scandinavia Contact us for a free consultation: +45 60 71 04 54 or read more on www.relocationscandinavia.com 13

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

A supermarket to suit every taste! Baffled by Bilka? Confused by Kvickly? Here’s how to find your way around the narrow aisles of the various Danish supermarket chains By Jane Graham

on Saturday and only open on Sundays on the first and last Sundays of the month. Most branches of Fakta are open from 8am until 9pm seven days a week, while some branches of Netto now open from 8am until 8pm and until 6pm on Saturdays.

The main supermarkets Netto: Denmark’s best-loved discount supermarket, known for its cheap and cheerful bright yellow branding and Scottie dog logo, has come a long way since it first opened in 1981. With no frills service and a hunt finding what you’re looking for on the often cluttered shelves, Netto is the best place to pick up a bargain. In Copenhagen, the smaller branches of 7-Eleven-like døgnNetto offer ready meals and stay open until 10pm seven days a week.

Fakta: Coop’s competitor to Netto, Fakta

I wonder where they hide the Marmite

ou could be forgiven for assuming that supermarkets had become fairly generic the world over.

best three-for-two deals on juice cartons, with changing weekly offers on everything from frozen chickens to nappies.

Despite globalisation however, Denmark still has its little quirks when it comes to making the weekly shopping trip. Here’s our practical guide to navigating the different supermarkets, making sure you come home with exactly what you wrote on your list.

Discount chains like Netto and Fakta make shopping even more interesting by offering spot items available only while stocks last – meaning you can throw in some Brio toys or replica Royal Copenhagen porcelain into the trolley alongside your tins of tomatoes or dishwasher tablets.

The service in Danish supermarkets may come as a shock to people from other countries, especially the US, where additional services like bag packing come as standard. Not only will you be packing up your own groceries here in Denmark, you’ll be bringing your own bag as well – or paying for one; here, the environment is considered to be worth a little customer inconvenience. More perplexing can be the checkout queues. Even larger supermarkets generally limit open check-outs to two or three at a time. The longstanding policy of asking for another checkout to be opened when more than five people are queuing has long been a topic for the nation’s comedians and social commentators. The real fun of shopping in a Danish supermarket though surely starts with your weekly bargains. Unless you have ordered a ‘no advertising’ sticker for your post box, you’ll soon be seeing a pile of catalogues and adverts from local supermarkets appearing in there every weekend. Trawling through these tilbudsaviser is part of every thrifty housewife’s weekly routine – we kid you not! Great savings can be made by knowing which shop has 10 kroner off Ariel detergent this week, or who has the

Budget or fancy? Supermarkets here can roughly be split into two groups, the budget supermarket chains (Netto, Fakta, Rema 1000, Bilka, etc) and the more upmarket ones (Irma, Brugsen, Føtex). Virtually all the supermarkets in Denmark are owned by two larger concerns: Dansk Supermarked, a concern within the AP Moller group (Føtex, Netto, Bilka) and Coop Danmark (Dagli’/Super Brugsen, Fakta, Irma and Kvickly). The exceptions are Spar/SuperBest, which operate on a franchise basis, German firm Aldi, Austrian Lidl and Norwegian Rema 1000.

Finding what you need While all supermarkets place products in wildly different places around the shop, you can expect to find most things you need (as well as some things you don’t). Those looking for non-Danish food items (anything from Mexican tortillas to eastern European ajvar) will find them generally all clumped together in one category, while certain foods, like the notoriously ‘banned’ Marmite, Birds Eye custard powder and ready made vegetarian meals, are absent entirely from the supermarket shelves. Remember to shop early on Saturday; most supermarkets are open from 9am to 7pm/8pm Monday to Friday, from 8am until 4pm/6pm

upped the competition recently to offer a cheap range of organic products as well as extended opening times. One quirk of Fakta shopping is throwing your money down a chute as you would on a bus, having the change spat back out at you from the same machine – an initiative intended to spot would-be robbers.

Brugsen/Kvickly: Denmark’s own Coop chain is the country’s oldest convenience store, tracing its origins right back to 1866. Dagli’ Brugsen is your typical village store while the larger Super Brugsen shops offer a greater range and service. The associated Kvickly chain offers a greater range of clothing, hardware, toys and non-food items. All these stores provide a joint Coop membership: accumulate redeemable points by scanning your membership card at checkout.

Irma: Also part of the Coop, Irma is Denmark’s most upscale supermarket chain, on a par with Waitrose in the UK. A little pricier than other supermarkets, a trip to Irma offers free-range meat cuts and a good range of health foods and frozen vegetarian products. In Copenhagen, smaller IrmaCity stores provide ready meals until 9pm. Føtex: Started in the 1960s as a pioneering store offering groceries and clothing under one roof (the name is a contraction of Fødevarer and Tekstiler) after an inspirational trip to the US by its founder, Herman Salling. Føtex provides everything from clothing and footwear, fruit, vegetables and fresh meat to electrical items.

Bilka: The IKEA of supermarkets, you can find pretty much anything while trawling through the vast showrooms of a Bilka store. There are less than 20 Bilka stores in the entire country – nearest to Copenhagen are the branches in the Field’s shopping centre and Hundige south of Copenhagen – but if you couldn’t care less about salubrious surroundings you could easily come home with a three piece suite along with your grocery shopping.

SuperBest: This once-humble chain of independent grocers bought out upscale rival ISO in 2007 and, like Irma, prides itself on offering fresh products of high quality, with inhouse delis and meat counters. Some stores, like the one in Hellerup, offer a good range of imported English and American products.

Direct to your door –

but only if you can navigate in Danish Newcomers accustomed to online grocery shopping will need to give themselves a crash course in grocery Danish if they don’t want to find themselves standing in real world queues again

espite the speed with which Denmark as a nation caught on to the internet, buying your groceries online remains less widespread here than in many other countries. And of the firms that do provide such a service – many of the supermarkets offering a physical as well as virtual shopping experience – only a handful have chosen to provide English versions of their websites. We can only hope that online grocers like nemlig.com, retnemt.dk, Sartorvet and the organic Økovejen wake up to the potential of translating their service into English in the near future; in the meantime, here’s the lowdown on those online grocers that do have English pages. Irmatorvet While not the only super market to offer online shopping (SuperBest and Coop also provide an online service) the virtual branch of upscale Irma, Irmatorvet is the only one currently translating its service into English (although currently only the sales conditions and order instructions are available in English). With a special focus on fair trade and organic products, Irma’s range includes free-range meat, organic milk and cheese and fresh vegetables, all available with the click of a mouse. www.irmatorvet.dk Aarstiderne Organic fruit and vegetable crates delivered directly to your door since 1999. The company also offers fish and meat crates and recently expanded its line to include “meal crates”, containing all the ingredients for at least two or three meals. Aarstiderne is Danish for ‘the seasons’ and the variety of fruit and veg contained in the box changes according to season. Check out the firm’s inspiring English blog, www.soiltostove.com, or head directly to the main site. www.aarstiderne.com Abigails British/American food shop Abigails in central Copenhagen also now has a small, but select online shop. Those craving a Rolo bar or a steak and kidney pie need hunt no further: peculiarly English products like Oxo Cubes, custard cream biscuits, Atora suet and Weetabix are all available without the excessive postal charges inflicted when you order from overseas. www.nks.dk

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

How to meet the

Danes

By Peter Stanners

in a country like Denmark, where the prohibitively high cost of running a car offers a financial imperative for trading the motor for a cosy ride on the bus. For those who genuinely want to return from their posting having made some Danish friends, how do you go about it? First things first, you need to learn the language. A word of warning, though: this is not as easy as it might seem. While on paper it’s a simple language with basic grammar and a relatively small vocabulary, speaking it is an entirely different jar of pickled herring, and mastering the deep monotone and throaty rasp requires years of practice.

But before you set out to make some Danish friends, it’s worth taking some time to consider how to approach and understand them. Far too many a foreigner has encountered the Dane on their home turf and come away feeling hurt and dejected. At first glance, the Danes are a removed and arrogant bunch. Queuing is not always strictly adhered to, small talk on public transport is frowned upon and the teenager at the till is not necessarily going to suggest you have a nice day. And that’s just the way it is. So resist the urge to be offended, Danes just see the world differently. In public, they

Looking to break down that barrier? A little Danish goes a long way

ot everyone enjoys living in the expatriate bubble when abroad. While many revel in the camaraderie of the diplomatic dinner circuit where the high turnover of consular staff ensures plenty of fresh faces, sipping G&Ts in hotel lounges surrounded by the same people you thought you’d left behind when you

accepted a posting overseas is not everyone’s cup of tea. And while those stationed in Mogadishu or Baghdad can be forgiven for hiding in barricaded compounds away for security reasons, those on European postings have no excuses for avoiding mingling with the natives – especially

Thankfully, you don’t actually need to speak it (although a little goes a long way). Most Danes speak English and once you begin to understand Danish, it’s easy to interject into conversations in English. While some find it difficult to handle a conversation spoken simultaneously in two languages, I’ve found the majority of Danes cope well with the arrangement. Should you be questioned on your unwillingness to speak Danish, simply answer that if they understand English well, and you understand Danish well but have trouble speaking it, then it’s in the best interest of good conversation that you adopt this arrangement.

meet next. What you need is an ‘in’; someone to invite you into the bowels of their society.

are frank and no-nonsense and expect each other to be brimming with selfesteem: being determined or arrogant in Copenhagen is seen as an attractive quality, not a self-obsessed one. The essential premise is, if you don’t believe in yourself, who will? So now that you can navigate in public without getting the hump because the bus driver didn’t smile at you, how do you go about making some friends? Networking comes more naturally to some than to others, but don’t spoil it at the start by being choosy – accept invitations to anything and everything, because you don’t know who you’ll

This is important because in Danish society bonding is conducted behind closed doors with their nearest and dearest. From the Christian Confirmation of their 13-year-olds and truckride graduation celebrations to their many Christmas and Easter dinners, they jump on any opportunity to celebrate and fly their flag. But while they embrace community and celebration as a means to reinforce social bonds, intimacy is key and invitations to outsiders are hard-won. It’s worth the effort: volunteer and introduce yourself, find out where the parties are held and start showing up. After a while, you’ll start getting invited along to other events. And from then, it just snowballs – who knows, you may end up an honorary Dane. No culture is perfect, and not everyone will find the Danish culture as embracing as I have. I find the Danes fiercely loyal and incredibly generous. I don’t need the superficial kindness of strangers, just good friends who will invite me along to great parties. Perhaps I just got lucky. But you’ll never know if you don’t try.

Do you speak Danish? Regardless of your educational background and native language, VUF oﬀers intensive Danish courses for well educated foreigners. Sign up now! Contact our counsellors by phone 3815 8521 or read more about Danish for Foreigners at www.vuf.nu

VoksenUddannelsescenter Frederiksberg Falstersvej 3-5 • 2000 Frederiksberg • Phone 3815 8500 • www.vuf.nu 15

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

østerBro school spring cleAns its curriculum Østerbro Internati onal School to introduce IB programme next semester By Elise Beacom

eparations are underway for Østerbro International School to bring in the International Baccalaureate curriculum after the summer holidays. In addition to being named a successful candidate for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) last month, the school has also applied to introduce the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the near future. Principal Nedzat Asanovski said a significant number of the school’s 200 students went to IB schools in the past and are used to the challenging work load. Two hands up if you like Østerbro!

She says the IB encourages students to become

The school has recently hired an experienced IB MYP coordinator to run training workshops and

Østerbro International School hopes to receive

THE COPEN

well-balanced, internationally-minded citizens.

full IB MYP accreditation by 2013.

i i

Mini show of the Copenhagen police with their K9s and motorbikes The Copenhagen libraries waffle wagon Pony rides and other animals courtesy of Børnenes Dyremark Face painting, crafts & balloon artists Live sports activities by DGI Raffle for Danish Red Cross

(Items to be raffled two vouchers for a two-night stay with breakfast & vouchers for a four-person dinner including drinks at Midtown Grill, courtesy of the Marriott Hotel Copenhagen)

i i

14:00 - 17:00 Valbyparken Hammelstrupvej 41 • 2450 København SV

Denmark’s only English-language newspaper

FAIR 2012

THE COPEN

SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012

S N’ ’

GEN P OST

International and Danish professionals and their families

• MEET OTHER FAMILIES • • MEET CLUBS TO JOIN FOR YOUR CHILDREN• • COME AND ENJOY •

i i

Join us on the path to success

JOIN US AT THE CHILDREN’S FAIR!

GEN P OST

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FAIR 2012

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Grade 8 students Emma Jarlbæk and Casper Madsen both formerly attended IB schools abroad and are eager to resume the MYP programme – geared towards students aged between 11 and 16 – next semester.

help the teachers adapt to the new syllabus.

versities around the world,” Jarlbæk said. She found the IB programme more demanding and felt it gave students the capacity to develop themselves, while Madsen said the curriculum helped students become more critical and reflective.

E CHILDREN TH

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

plAces to worship While danes are not a visibly religious nati on, the state church is an integral part of nati onal society. The evangelical Lutheran Church or ‘Folkekirken’ is the offi cial religion of denmark, receiving tax subsidies from every taxpayer (should you wish to opt out of this, you will need to speak to the tax offi ce); and while most danes are not regular churchgoers, most sti ll see themselves as Christi ans and observe traditi ons like Christenings and Confi rmati ons.

eligious tolerance is a part of the national constitution and

sakramentskirken

other religions are embraced in this country. Those looking

Nørrebrogade 27, 2200 Kbh N; Mass in English Wednesday 17:00, Sunday 18:00; Tel 3313 3762; www.sakramentskirken.dk Copenhagen’s Catholic church is located in the centre of Nørrebro, not far from Dronning Louises Bro Bridge. The church holds mass two times a week in English, as well as a regular service in French (Sundays at 11:15) and in Danish. The church is the centre of Copenhagen’s vibrant Catholic community, and regular events include weekly yoga classes in English.

to make connections within their own religious communi-

ty should check out the list below: in Copenhagen alone, a broad range of denominations and ecumenical organisations hold Sunday worship in English, the Jewish Shabbat on Saturday, Friday prayers for Muslims and temple services for Buddhists and Hindus.

st Albans Anglican church Churchillparken 11, 1263 Cph K; Services: Sun, Wed 10:30; Vestry Tel: 3311 8518; www.st-albans.dk

Vor frue kirke

St Albans is the only Anglican church in Denmark and offers services

Præstøvej 29, 4700 Næstved; Services Sunday 10:00; Tel 5572 0985; www.vorfrueskole.dk In addition to its regular Sunday prayer, the Catholic church in Næstved south of Copenhagen holds a mass every third Sunday followed by a Polish mass at 11:30.

in the Anglican/Episcopalian tradition. During the week, the church holds Holy Communion on Wednesday mornings as well as various lectures on faith and theology. The 1885, grey stone church is spectacularly non-Danish in style and shape. Often referred to simply as, “the English church,” the congregation is actually made up of more than 20 nationalities. A part of the Church of England´s Diocese in Europe under bishop Reverend Dr Geoffrey Rowell, St Albans is a member of the worldwide Anglican Communion.

copenhagen christian centre Københavns KulturCentre, Drejervej 11-21, 2400 Cph NV; Sunday service 13:30, last Sunday of the month at 10:30; Tel: 3531 0010; www.copenhagenchristiancenter.dk Although this Christian organisation doesn’t meet in a church, the range of nationalities and enthusiasm of its members more than make up for the lack of a traditional bell tower. As well as multinational services, the group hosts weekly prayer meetings, bible discussion groups and children’s activities. The centre’s extensive

international church of copenhagen Services held at St Andreas Church, Gothersgade 148, 1123 Cph K; Sunday Worship 11:30; Parsonage: ICC Church House; Gjørlingsvej 10, 2900 Hellerup; Tel: 3962 4785; www.internationalchurch.dk The International Church of Copenhagen is an ecumenical ministry open to various Christian faiths, holding services following the traditions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America while working together with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark. During the week, the Church’s prayer and bible study meetings are held in the suburb of Hellerup at the organisation’s Church House, which also functions as their parsonage for the pastor and his family. On Sundays, a Bible study session begins at 10:15 at St Andreas Church, with the worship service following at 11:30. A nursery is available for children during the service.

website offers detailed information about all of the events and services as well as video and audio recordings of past sermons and

copenhagen community church

contemporary Christian music. On the last Sunday of the month,

Nørre Farimagsgade 45, 1364 Cph K; Sunday service 11:00; Tel: 5155 5376; www.ccchurch.dk The Copenhagen Community Church is a multi-faith organisation

the centre hosts an extended service with their Spanish, Filipino, Danish and English congregation, starting at 10:30.

meeting in the centre of town for a service followed by presentations from church leaders and readings from church members, in an informal atmosphere popular with students and tourists. The church describes itself as a local ecumenical fellowship with a friendly style of prayer open to contributions from the congregation. The church is a member of New Frontiers, an international group of around 700 churches with a modern approach to faith.

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

living church Femagervej 39, 2650 Hvidovre; Sunday service 12:00; Tel: 3296 4193; www.levendekirke.dk/en The Church of the Living God follows the style of worship popular at the beginning of Christianity and the time of the Apostles. The Living Church aims to continue the work of the Apostle Paul, with enthusiastic all-night prayer meetings and a variety of charitable ventures to raise money for children in Calcutta as well as the homeless in Denmark. On Sundays, prayer meetings begin at 11:45 - everyone is welcome to attend either in silent or audible prayer – while the worship service begins at 12:00 and is a lively affair, with contemporary gospel songs and plenty of clapping and dancing.

copenhagen synagogue Krystalgade 12, 1172 Cph K; Shabbat, Saturday 09:00; Tel: 3312 8868; www.mosaiske.dk/english Copenhagen’s oldest synagogue and headquarters of the Jewish Community in Denmark was built in 1833 in a classical style with motifs inspired by Ancient Egyptian art. Currently the building is undergoing a major renovation and is only open for services on Saturday mornings from around 09:00 to 12:00. Both Jews and Gentiles are welcome to visit the building, but need to have photo identification and cannot bring large bags due to security concerns.

shir hatzafon Dag Hammarskjölds Allé 30, 2100 Cph Ø (services only);Shabbat, Saturday 10:00; Tel: 2370 9757; www.shirhatzafon.dk The Progressive Jewish community in Denmark, Shir Hatzafon holds regular Shabbat services every Saturday in rented meeting rooms not far from Østerport Station. The group also holds weekly study groups and celebrates the holidays with traditional foods and prayers. Led by guest rabbis, Shabbat is followed by Kiddush and a pot-luck lunch where guests are asked to bring a dish.

the islamic society in copenhagen (islamiske trossamfund i danmark) www.wakf.com Although the first purpose-built mosque, the ‘Grand Mosque of Copenhagen’, has been approved by city planners to be built in Amager, until it is completed most muslims in Copenhagen continue to worship at a number of culture centres and meeting rooms around the city. Those who can read Arabic or Danish can find more information about places of worship at the society’s website.

nusrat djahan moské Eriksminde Allé 2, 2650 Hvidovre, Friday prayer 13:30; Tel: 3675 7869; alislamdk.org (danish website) Northern Europe’s first mosque was designed by the Muslim engineer John Zachariassen, completed in 1967 and named after the wife of the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement active in Denmark since 1956. Its copper dome has five pillars, and was initially covered with blue mosaic tiles. Friday prayers take place each week at 13:30, but anyone may visit the mosque by appointment.

Buddhistisk centre københavn Svanemøllevej 56; 2100 Cph Ø; Tel: 3929 2711; www.buddha-kbh.dk The centre follows the Diamond Way of Tibetan Buddhism (Karma Kagyu) and offers classes on meditation, guidance and religion: events held in English are marked on the organisation’s calendar. The centre was founded in Copenhagen in 1972 by a Danish couple who had received their instruction in Tibet and then returned to Denmark.

lieu Quan temple Langagervej 54, 2500 Valby; Meetings Saturday 12:00; Tel: 4352 0812

This temple is a centre of worship and celebration for Buddhists following Vietnamese religious traditions. Saturdays services generally attract between 30 and 100 people. In addition to a kitchen, several classrooms and a meditation hall, there is room in the temple for overnight guests such as ordained monks. The Vietnamese Buddhist Association also sponsors language classes in the temple for children and adults.

iskcon - international society for krishna consciousness Hare Krishna Temple, Skjulhøj Allé 44, 2720 Vanløse; Services Sunday 15:00; Tel: 4828 6446; www.harekrishna.dk The Hare Krishna school and headquarters of ISKCON in Denmark are located in Vanløse. Each Sunday, the group’s temple holds a vegetarian feast from 15:00-18:00, while there is a daily programme of classes, lectures and prayers (early mornings and evenings).

International Citizen Service Get help with the paperwork and get good advice on what it’s like to live and work in Denmark. All relevant authorities under one roof. A public service for foreign employees, students, job seekers and Danish companies Office hours Wed. 1 pm - 5 pm Thurs. 11 am - 3 pm

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Copenhagen Nyropsgade 1 DK-1602 Cph. V east@icitizen.dk Phone: +45 33 66 66 06 19

Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

feAsting with the Vikings culinary specialities make diving into danish cuisine worthwhile By Lea Sibbel

“After every bite of smørrebrød you have to drink a shot of Aquavit. This is how we create a reason to toast each other all the time,” laughs Trina Hahnemann about some of her fellow countrymen’s customs. The Copenhagen-based chef runs a catering service that can list members of parliament among its customers. Of course, the eating habits of the Danes are not limited to openfaced sandwiches. After a petite afternoon snack with a sicklysweet Danish pastry wienerbrød, the descendents of the Vikings fire up their stoves to whip up a hearty meal – preferably including potatoes, possibly the most important ingredient in Danish cuisine. Served with fried plaice and parsley sauce, the earthy vegetable scrubs up well. Another classic of Danish cooking is biksemad, or ‘chunks of food’, a sort of Danish equivalent of bubble-and-squeak. “Biksemad is actually a leftover-dish,” says Noer. “Whatever is kept from the Sunday roast is minced, fried with onions and then eaten with fried potatoes, beetroot and eggs on a slice of rye bread.” Around Christmas time, or even two months earlier, Danes really start to blossom; especially in the kitchen, with hygge meals of comfort food cooked to boost the anticipation for the Christmas feast itself.

mid-rAnge

In contrast to numerous other countries, Demark is not divided by culinary boundaries.

Cap Horn Nyhavn 21, Cph K; kitchen open daily 10:00-23:00; 3312 8504; starters from 99kr, mains from 159kr, desserts from 69kr; www.caphorn.dk Charming Cap Horn’s simple menu boasts a fine selection of organic, homemade Danish fare, with a touch of seasonal influence, as well as a great location on Nyhavn itself.

“Differences in eating habits can be found more between generations than between regions,” says Hahnemann. Or, between other Scandinavian countries: “Denmark is more modern than Sweden or Norway, especially in the rural areas,” she states.

where to eAt

Bio mio Halmtorvet 19, Cph V; Mon-Thu 12:00-23:00; Fri 12:00-24:00; Sat 11:00-24:00; Sun 11:00-23.00; kitchen open 12:00-22:00; 3331 2000; dishes from 65kr-185kr; www.biomio.dk Located in an old warehouse in Copenhagen’s upcoming meatpacking district, eco-restaurant Bio Mio serves healthy food on long tables. Stylish without being pretentious and loud enough to make a racket without anyone raising an eyebrow.

While much of the attention in recent years has been cast on the restaurants making up Copenhagen’s constellation of Michelin stars, the city is also home to scores of places to eat that suit all budgets and occasions. Although it’s hard to narrow down the broad selection of restaurants to just a few favourites, we’ve selected six places we find ourselves recommending to friends and family, or where we ourselves head when we’re looking for a special night out or a quick bite to eat.

cheAp magasasa Istedgade 4, Cph V; open Mon-Sun 11:00-23:00; 3323 8088, www.magasasa.dk; main courses 65-200kr, Tsingtao beer 28kr This cheap, authentic Chinese restaurant, a stone’s throw from the Central Station may not be fancy to look at, but it is extremely popular with Copenhagen’s Chinese community, many of whom dine here almost once a week.

expensiVe Reinwald’s Farvergade 15, Cph K; open Mon-Sat 14:00-24:00 (kitchen closes at 22:00); 3391 8280; www.reinwalds.dk; three-course menu 350kr, mains 195-275kr Serving lunch and dinner, a director’s-script length of choices confronts you at Reinwald’s, with a who’s who of classic French and French-inspired Danish dishes as well as a monthly set menu that would make any chef proud.

kates Joint Blågårdsgade 12, Cph N; Mon-Wed 17:30-22:00; Thu-Sun 11:00-15:30; 3537 4496 The place for a bohemian as well as cheap night out, Kate’s world food menu lists the culinary highlights of a round-the-world trip. Big portions and plenty of veggie options.

Restaurant kiin kiin Guldbergsgade 21, Cph N; open Mon-Sat 17:30-24:00 (last table reservation 21:00); 3535 7555; four-course set menu 450kr, seven-courses 775kr; www.kiin.dk There are only two Thai restaurants in the whole world that have

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Danes abolished, saving some 525,000 mobile and of students. Moreover, stuwith business laptops (VK) govern- the number vious Venstre-Konservative no longer pay administrative phones 3,000 kroner per year. major points: dents will JENNIFER BULEY Master’s students look forment. Here are a few of the Not everyone, however, can the state’s fees, and prospective course tuitions Families: VK limited and junk (bør- will have prerequisite 17.5 billion ward to a cash infusion. Smokers SRSF’s first budget will spend monthly child support handouts fam- paid. The government will also fund higher on their per food lovers will be taxed abolish necheck) to 35,000 kroner corporations kroner on infrastructure and state-supported internship abolished, 1,500 more vices, while international ily. That limit has now been previous taxes and restrictions higher tax bills. SRSF plans families will get positions. creation: will also see and meaning that many closing a number of Infrastructure and job by cake your revenue HAVE raise to government YOU e inTh AN ts. will be wisdom larger child benefi Some 17.5 billion kroner going back nearly 20 years eat it too? Conventional fertility treatments and infrastructure tax loopholes corporations budg- will also pay for vested over two years in that allowed international says no, but with their first as a new rail line between power, voluntary sterilisations. to escape paying corporate Folkeparti projects, such et plan since the shift of a project to in Denmark Welfare: VK and Dansk Copenhagen and Ringsted, rne-Radikaletaxes (see more on page 15). specialised welfare prothe new Socialdemokrate in the Holbæk motorway, erosion coalition (DF) introduced All told, the spending increases cash benefits widen the Socialistisk Folkeparti (SRSF) grammes that reduced the efforts along Jutland’s west as big as the minister Those programmes protection renovations to public hous- new budget are not appear to be giving it a shot. the new for new immigrants. coast, and economy and interior, Margrethe Many of the elements of eliminated and going Helle Thorning- of the to be re- have now been would like. She noted that state ing. Prime minister ‘kickstart’ Vestager (R), budget – which is expected all residents in need of the deficit for 2012, Schmidt has said that these ursday – will forward Th on under-reported welfare VK entirety same its the jobs in new leased will receive more. But projects will create 20,000 a time when support making it imprudent to spend increase state spending at The Danish ConstrucEU’s finanincreased. But benefits. Denmark will still meet the and research: from 2012-2013.predicts 10,000. the budget deficit has education despite Higher come from recial responsibility benchmarks, one billion tion Association where the money would The unpopular ‘mulUniversities will get an extra added. Tax break:meeting costs as- a personal be the larger deficit, she years to cover mained a mystery. Organise tax’ introduced by VK will items kroner over two timedia increase a class. A number of the new budget a predicted and in on sit in by the pre- sociated with full-time MBA at CBS reinstate spending cuts made The one-year general managementp, and real-world experience. focuses on leadership, entrepreneurshi can giveprogram MBA diverse and hear how thelly Organise a personal meeting internationa

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And when the Danish love for their patented sandwich meets their equally enthusiastic drinking behaviour, smørrebrød-parties occur.

been awarded a Michelin star. One of them is in London; the other one is Kiin Kiin, which you will find in the heart of Nørrebro. An exquisite place where every little detail has been well-considered, reservation essential.

HAIFA

Noer, who now lives in Bremen, Germany, learned to cook in a traditional restaurant a few steps from Copenhagen’s historic Nyhavn.

But other holidays also bring delicacies to light. Great Prayer Day spoils the Danish palate with warm, cardamom-flavoured rolls called hveder. And around Midsummer, the new potato season begins. For dessert, the sweet tooth is treated to the tongue-twisting, rødgrød med ﬂøde, a red fruit jelly served with whipped cream and topped with fresh strawberries.

TEL AVIV

“you don’t just make the ‘smørrebrød’ yourself and take it to work with you,” she says. “some restaurants and bars have specialised in serving it spectacularly decorated.”

On Christmas Eve, the table top bends under the weight of pork, beef or duck roast, caramelised potatoes and red cabbage. “The month of December is all about eating,” Hahnemann says.

JERUSALEM

Smørrebrød is the biggest export hit in Danish cuisine. “Everything you can imagine can be put on smørrebrød: meats, fish, paste...” explains Charlotte Noer, a Danish cookbook author. “The most popular version is served with leverpostej, a rather roughly minced liver sausage pate.”

During the holiday season, the aromatic smell of glögg steams from the cooking pots – spicy wine with raisins and almond pieces pickled in rum. The drink is generally served with æbleskiver: “Directly translated that means apple slices,” Noer explains. “But this pastry neither includes apples nor does it come in the shape of slices, but in small balls.

Photo: Karsten Movang

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

A coffee a day helps the Danes

work, rest and play You don’t have to be in Denmark long to realise that without coffee the country would grind to a halt By Kamilla Stoffregen Having complimented the coffee, the young Italian cautiously asks whether she and her friends may listen to one of the records in Christian’s shop. Luckily their choice matches the coffee connoisseur’s taste in music, and soon the funky soundtrack from Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Death Proof’ fills the air. What does this episode about Italians in a vinyland-coffee shop, selecting music that matches the shop owner’s taste tell us about coffee culture in Copenhagen? When in Rome do as the Romans and do the same in Copenhagen!

aking coffee away from the Danes would be ripping the heart out of an age-old tradition that keeps Danish society going.

Going strong, too, is the quality of coffee and how it’s served in Copenhagen. “I’ll play it if I like it,” says Christian to the three young Italian ladies visiting his record and coffee shop one Thursday morning in April. The conversation begins with one of the ladies complimenting the coffee. For Christian, that’s more than a compliment, as Italians are among the few customers he serves with a slight shake of his otherwise steady hand.

Coffee came to Denmark in the 1660s, at a time when beer and wine were the prime beverages. Replacing the brew of the day, mjød (an alcoholic concoction of water, honey and yeast), with the black fluid was at first unheard of. The majority swore against touching the stuff, but then the advantages of coffee surfaced. For example men were happy that their women now returned home sober from their many social visits, contrary to previously. Coffee had taken hold. But it wasn’t until Brazil began producing coffee that prices began to fall and it became a casual drink. In Denmark this meant coffee at all times, good, bad and in the meantime. There was church coffee, before and

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after funerals; coffee was brewed to keep the midwife awake; people drank coffee at parties; and gradually every day was an occasion to drink coffee. Coffee became a safeguard against beer and wine: the indulgence that had broken many a home. During wartime and times of hardship, the import of coffee became restricted and products that compensated for coffee were consumed instead. They tasted awful, yet some actually claimed to enjoy these products over real coffee. Coffee was an inseparable part of the Danish home, come what may – and taste as it may. Coffee became connected with the workplace as well, and today there isn’t a workplace without a coffee maker. A coffee maker that is out of order spells trouble, because coffee at the office means more than the specific black liquid. It brings people together, while it’s brewed, when it’s fetched

and while it’s drunk, usually accompanied by a chat. Without coffee and the get-together culture that ensues, Danish society would be in trouble. That coffee has to taste, and match the taste of the coffee drinker – as opposed to war-time coffee or modern-day office coffee – shows the blossoming in recent decades of a Danish coffee culture which commands meticulously-produced coffee. One thing that hasn’t changed, though, is coffee’s evergreen quality of bringing people together. Make no mistake, Christian’s ‘I’ll play it if I like it’ attitude displays his conscious and selective decision, which he most certainly appreciates from his customers too. No wonder he aims to serve coffee as in Rome.

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Relocation Guide - Spring 2012

directory 2012 general information Denmark’s official information website www.denmark.dk Official Copenhagen Tourist site www.visitcopenhagen.com City of Copenhagen International Citizen Service www.icitizen.dk / www.kk.dk/english Weather www.dmi.dk Postal service www.postdanmark.dk

Travel Rejseplanen Journey planner available in English and German www.rejseplanen.dk Copenhagen Airport www.cph.dk

Taxi companies Dantaxi 7025 2525 – www.dantaxi.dk TaxiNord 4848 4848 – www.taxinord.dk Amager-Øbro Taxi 3251 5151 – www.amagerobrotaxi.dk Taxa 4x35 3535 3535 – www.taxa4x35.dk

Bike rental Baisikeli Bike Rental Turesensgade 10, Cph K/Ingerselvsgade 80, Cph V, www.cph-bike-rental.dk Cyklebørs Gothersgade 157, Cph K, www.cykelborsen.dk Østerport Cykler Oslo Plads 10, Cph Ø, www.rentabike.dk

Health 24-hour doctor Copenhagen area – 3569 3869 Emergency services 112 Non-emergency health services 1813 Poision control line 8212 1212

24-hour pharmacies (Døgnapoteker) Steno Apotek Vesterbrogade 6c, Cph V (3314 8266)

Hillerød Frederiksborg Apotek Slotsgade 26, 3400 Hillerød (4826 5600) Københavns Sønderbro Apotek Amagerbrogade 158, Cph S (3258 0140) Glostrup Apotek Hovedvejen 101, 2600 Glostrup (4396 0020) Lyngby Svane Apotek Lyngby Hovedgade 27, 2800 Lyngby (4587 0096)

Banks Danske Bank www.danskebank.dk Nordea www.nordea.dk Jyske Bank www.jyskebank.dk Arbejdernes Landsbank www.al-bank.dk

Shopping malls Field’s Amager – www.fields.dk Fisketorvet Dybbølsbro, Vesterbro – www.fisketorvet.dk Waterfront Shopping Hellerup – www.waterfront-shopping.dk Frederiksberg Centret Frederiksberg – www.frbc-shopping.dk Lyngby Storcenter Kongens Lyngby – www.lyngbystorcenter.dk Waves Greve – www.waves-shopping.dk

International schools Copenhagen International School (CIS) Hellerup – www.cis-edu.dk Rygaards School Hellerup – www.rygaards.com Østerbro International School Østerbro – www.oeis.dk Skt. Josef’s International School Roskilde – www.sktjosef.dk NGG International School Hørsholm – www.his.dk Bjørns International School Østerbro – www.b-i-s.dk Bernadotteskolen Hellerup – www.bernadotteskolen.dk Sankt Petri (German) Cph K – www.sanktpetriskole.dk Prins Henrik (French) Frederiksberg – www.prinshenriksskole.dk

Fitness centres Charlottehaven Health Club Cph Ø www.charlottehaven.com/en/healthclub Well-come Fitness Hellerup – www.well-come.dk DGI Byen Cph V – www.dgi-byen.com/fitness_center Fitness DK Over a dozen gyms in Greater Copenhagen – www.fitnessdk.dk

Houses of worship (See page 18 for expanded listings) International Christian Community (ICC) www.getintouch.dk St Alban’s Church (Anglican) Churchillparken 11, Cph K, www.st-albans.dk Sakramentskirken (Roman Catholic) Nørrebrogade 27, Cph N, www.sakramentskirken.dk Saint Andreas Church (Roman Catholic) Kollegievej 2, 2920 Charlottenlund, www.sa-st.dk Knud Lavard Church (Roman Catholic) Lyngbygårdsvej 1A, 2800 Kongens Lyngby (4587 5688), www.katolsk.dk French Reform Church Gothersgade 107, Cph K, www.egref.dk Alexander Nevsky Church (Russian Orthodox) Bredgade 53, Cph K (3313 6046) Synagogue in Copenhagen Krystalgade 12, Cph K (3929 9520) www.mosaiske.dk Gurdwara Siri Guru Singh Sabha sikh temple Kirkebjerg Alle, 2720 Vanløse, www.sikh.dk Hindu temple Iskcon Skjulhøj Alle, 2720 Vanløse (4828 6446) Islamic Cultural Centre Horsebakken 2, 2400 Cph NV (3880 0386)

International clubs Life in Denmark (online expatriate community) www.lifein.dk Expat in Denmark (national network for foreign professionals) www.expatindenmark.com American Women’s Club in Denmark www.awcdenmark.org Allcanuck (network for Canadians living in Denmark) www.allcanuck.dk

The International Women’s Club of Copenhagen www.iwcc.dk LINK (Ladies’ International Network København) www.linkdenmark.com NZVikings (New Zealand community in Scandinavia) www.nzvikings.dk The Southern Cross Club (Aussie/Kiwi social club) www.southerncrossclub.dk Indians in Denmark (IID) www.indiansindenmark.com Copenhagen Theatre Circle, CTC (English language amateur theatre group) www.ctcircle.dk

Sports clubs Copenhagen Exiles rugby union club www.exiles.dk Copenhagen Celtic Football Club www.copenhagenceltic.dk Denmark’s American Football Association www.daff.dk Copenhagen Golf Club www.kgkgolf.dk Copenhagen Netball Club www.netball.dk Copenhagen Hockey Club www.kh-hockey.dk

Pets City Dyreklinik Kronprinsessegade 76, Cph K www.citydyreklinik.dk Dyreklinikken Ryesgade 100, Cph Ø www.dyreklinikken-ryesgade.dk Asserholm English-speaking kennel in rural setting www.asserholm.dk Danish Kennel Club www.dansk-kennel-klub.dk Copenhagen cat sitters www.kattevenner.dk Regulations for travelling with pets www.uk.foedevarestyrelsen.dk

Pet supplies Maxi Zoo: www.maxizoo.dk ZooZity: www.zoozity.dk Oliver’s Petfood: www.olivers.dk

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