Scan Magazine | Issue 35 | November 2011 by Scan Client Publishing

NOVEMBER 2011 ISSUE 35 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

JUSSI ADLER-OLSEN TAKES ON THE THRILLER DANISH EDUCATION: LEARNING FOR LIFE HELSINKI – WHERE EAST MEETS WEST NORTHERN NORWAY CREATES MEMORIES FOR LIFE

Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE 8

Jussi Adler-Olsen

SPECIAL THEME 18

After Marklund, Mankell, Larsson, Nesbø and The Killing comes Jussi Adler-Olsen. With the UK release of Mercy, his first novel in the Department Q series, Danish Adler-Olsen takes on the thriller genre, with a good dose of dark and bitter characters, a twisted crime case and a pinch of humour.

8 18

FEATURE 12

TRAVEL THEMES 37

Northern Norway Northern Norway is the perfect destination to experience the natural phenomenon that is the northern lights. More than a third of the country is above the Arctic Circle, and its latitude makes Norway one of the best spots in the world to witness the aurora borealis.

DESIGN FEATURE 16

Helsinki Throughout its over 460-year history, the maritime city of Helsinki has swung between the currents of eastern and western influences. The lifestyle in this northernmost of all the European Union capitals is full of contrasts and fascinating culture.

The Scandinavia Show 2011 The Scandinavia Show 2011 took place on the 89 October at Earl’s Court. After last year’s success, it was interesting to see what the turnout was going to be like, as this time around, we had both a bigger venue and more exhibitors showcasing their products; and, of course, an exciting entertainment programme to boot.

Education in Denmark & Sweden In this issue, Scan Magazine has taken a closer look at different types of schools in Denmark, including the characteristically Danish folk high school and efterskole. Also included: a short introduction to Swedish education.

London Fashion Week Held twice a year at Somerset House, this event brings the best of fashion to London. We took a close look at the Scandinavian designers and what to expect for Spring/Summer 2012.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 11 60 66

Scan Business 38 46

REGULARS & COLUMNS 69

BUSINESS FEATURE 71

City Moving & Storage Often listed among the most stress-inducing life events, moving house can be everything but enjoyable. Add to that the complications of relocating to a different country, and you can see how hair would shift to grey at the sheer sight of cardboard boxes. Thankfully, it does not have to be like that.

Out of love for design Key Note by Anna Yates, Director, Karlsson Scandinavian Design.

Swiss account holders – the UK tax net is closing in Tax column by Helena Whitmore

Conferences of the Month The best conference venues, events and congresses of the month.

Chamber News News from the Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and Danish Chambers of Commerce for the UK.

The Power of Practice! Column by Rasmus Ankersen

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 3

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, Even with 18 degrees outside at the moment of writing, I think it’s safe to say that winter is on its way; I’ve heard the first Christmas song of the season and bought a new jacket to prepare for my trip to Finland in January (hoping that it’s not going to be around -20 degrees again). But even as I complain about the cold months ahead of us, it’s still a cosy feeling to sit at home with thick woollen socks on and a mug of mulled wine in hand (or glögi, as we would say) or to daydream about the expected thick layers of snow back home in Scandinavia. If you are looking for that unique “winter wonderland” experience this year, then Northern Norway, home to the Sami peoples, is definitely among the best places to visit for something authentic and exciting. From northern lights to wildlife safaris, there are plenty of adventures to discover. With the recent inauguration of the Helsinki Music Centre (Musiikkitalo), we thought it was also appropriate to have a closer look at all the attractions that the Finnish capital has to offer, and not just in wintertime.

On top of our travel themes, we’ve also continued with our report on educational institutions in Scandinavia; this time, we’ve concentrated on schools in Denmark and education in Sweden. With Scandinavian education known worldwide for its high standards and innovative spirit, it’s definitely an aspect of which all Scandies can be proud. Featured on our cover this month is Danish author Jussi AdlerOlsen, who is following in the footsteps of Jo Nesbø and Stieg Larsson, by introducing his Department Q thriller series to UK readers for the very first time. I hope you enjoy our November issue, and remember to wrap up warm!

Nia Kajastie Editor

Scan Magazine

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Issue 35 | November 2011

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Emelie Krugly Hill

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Published 08.11.2011 ISSN 1757-9589

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4 | Issue 35 | November 2011

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Scan Magazine | Contributors

Regular Contributors Nia Kajastie (Editor) was born and raised in Helsinki, Finland, and moved to London in 2005 to study writing. With a BA in Journalism & Creative Writing, she now describes herself as a full-time writer and grammar stickler. Emelie Krugly Hill has worked on a number of Swedish newspapers. After travelling extensively, she has been based in London since 2006. Her particular interests are news and current affairs within Sweden and the export of Scandinavian culture to the UK. Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of “Have I Got News For You” and “Room 101”. Julie Guldbrandsen is Scan Magazine’s fashion and design expert; she has worked in the fashion industry for more than 10 years, and advised various Scandinavian design and fashion companies. Besides, Julie has a BA in business and philosophy and has lived in Copenhagen, Singapore and Beijing before settling down in London. Sven Riis Houston has lived in Edinburgh for six years, having graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a BA in Journalism in 2009. He currently works as a freelance writer and media researcher, and has an unhealthy interest in football. Charlotte Kany is back in Copenhagen, Denmark, after living in London for more than a year. She has an MA in Communication & Rhetoric from the University of Copenhagen. She has gained years of experience within the media industry working in PR & communication. She loves to travel all around the world plus keeping updated on all things cultural.

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Swedish Sara Schedin has lived in London for four years. She is currently studying Journalism in her third year at City University and is covering Scandinavian culture in the UK. Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. She writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK. Karl Batterbee is devoted to Scandinavian music and knows exactly what is coming up in the UK. Apart from writing a monthly music update for Scan Magazine Karl has also started the Scandipop Club Night and its corresponding website: www.scandipop.co.uk. Danish Yane Christensen has lived in London half her life. She's a designer, illustrator and mother of twin girls. She also has an on-line shop www.fleamarketfloozy.com and writes to exercise her brain. Norwegian Karin Modig has lived in London since 1998: she arrived with the intention of staying just four months. She currently works as a freelance journalist and PR consultant, and is a keen handball player. Linnea Dunne has been writing professionally for over 10 years. Having started out on a local paper in Sweden, she is passionate about Scandinavian music and culture, and currently works in London as a full-time writer and translator.

Inna Allen is a freelance writer, translator and photographer whose passions lie in all things art and design. She moved to the UK from her native Finland in 2001 and has since developed a chronic yearning for sauna. Having travelled much of the world, Signe Hansen, MA graduate in Journalism and previous editor at Scan Magazine, is now back freelancing in London, where she writes on everything Scandinavian and her main passions: culture, travel and health. Lykke Fabricius Port is a Danish journalist, who lost her heart to London while finishing her degree at City University. Now she is a proud Scandinavian expat working as a freelance journalist, when she’s not busy blogging, cooking or experimenting with her camera. Anna Lindgren is a freelance writer, actress and director with her roots firmly planted in Gotland, Sweden. Travel and new challenges are high on Anna’s list in life, and she writes about anything and everything from volunteering in Guatemala to taking part in Triathlons. Christina Cadogan is an Anglo-Swede based in London. A Cambridge art history graduate, she worked for several years in the auction business. She now works as an art consultant, runs cultural tours in Sweden and writes on art for Scan Magazine. Andrew Mellor writes about opera, classical music and Nordic culture and travel for a variety of magazines, newspapers and websites in the UK and Scandinavia. He is Reviews Editor at Gramophone magazine and a founder editor of Nordic review website Moose Report.

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8 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Jussi Adler-Olsen

A Danish take on the thriller After Marklund, Mankell, Larsson, Nesbø and The Killing comes Jussi Adler-Olsen. With the UK release of Mercy, his first novel in the Department Q series, Danish Adler-Olsen takes on the thriller genre, with a good dose of dark and bitter characters, a twisted crime case and a pinch of humour. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Phillip Drago Jørgensen

to the many sides of the human psyche from a very young age on, as he grew up on the grounds of different Danish mental institutions, where his father worked as a psychiatrist. He was in direct contact with some of the patients and witnessed both the good and evil in them, grasping that every human is capable of both.

With Scandinavian crime stories, both on paper and on the screen, still attracting the world’s attention, Jussi Adler-Olsen’s first novel published in English could not come at a more opportune time. However, it is not just sheer luck or a savvy publisher that has opened these doors for him, as his books have already been immense hits in Denmark and Germany. He also took home the Glass Key award in 2010 (among other accolades), which has previously been awarded to the aforementioned Jo Nesbø, Stieg Larsson and Henning Mankell.

Even as a young boy, Adler-Olsen showed an avid skill for storytelling. “As a boy scout, a friend and I once spent a week in a lookout tower, and to pass the time we would tell each other stories. While he told me stories by Edgar Allan Poe, I made up my own. I knew how to make him scared as well as feel empathy by telling stories that could happen in real life,” he says.

Adler-Olsen tells us how he did not intentionally seek out a popular genre or a way to gain fame, nor did he set out to write crime stories either. “When I started writing, I was more or less financially independent, so instead of writing for the money, I started writing for the reader.” Jussi Adler-Olsen has indeed already dabbled in many a career line, including as a comic book shop owner, magazine editor and publisher, so life experiences and funds are not necessarily in short supply. And his current occupation certainly suits his lifestyle: “What other job can you do in your pyjamas from your own home?” he laughs. “It’s a free form of living that suits

me. After working extremely hard in my job as a publisher, I’m happy to stay home and see my son grow up. My father told me that I have so many talents, and I should make use of them all on my own terms. He was so right.” Lessons in human nature Born in 1950, as the youngest of four children, Jussi Adler-Olsen was introduced

He went on to study medicine, sociology, politics and film. “While studying film at university, I learnt a lot about point of view, suspense and all the elements of an exciting story.” Even though Adler-Olsen did not return to the “storytelling” until later in his life, he was still conscious of the fact that he could write. At 30 yearsold, he spent some time in the Netherlands with his wife and wrote his first novel, which was, however, never published. But Adler-Olsen had found out

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 9

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Jussi Adler-Olsen

what he needed to: whenever he was ready, he would be able to settle down as a writer. Taking on the thriller Although now listed among famous Scandinavian crime writers, it was not Jussi Adler-Olsen’s intention to become one. “Thriller stories and movies interest me a lot, as well as classical stories like The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. I think the thriller has a lot in common with the classical, international, political, big and exciting stories. It doesn’t necessarily have to be crime,” he explains. His first novels were in fact more straightforward thrillers, whereas the Department Q series, which currently consists of four novels, has taken him more into the crime territory. In the first book in the series, Mercy, AdlerOlsen introduces us to his anti-hero Carl Mørck, a defeated, disillusioned and unstable homicide detective, who is struggling to cope with a shooting incident that left one of his colleagues dead and the other one paralysed. He is relegated to the basement to take care of Department Q, which is supposed to handle “cases of special focus”. Together with his enthusiastic assistant Assad, Mørck stumbles upon the case of missing politician Merete Lynggaard, which puts them on the track of a twisted criminal with a gruesome plan. Although the premise is dark with an air of despair, Adler-Olsen has still managed to infuse humour into his story, for example, through Mørck’s “sidekick” Assad. “Without humour, there is no story for me,” Adler-Olsen asserts. Assad also acts as a catalyst for Mørck’s character, who needs someone to keep him going, as he has almost given up on life. As the series continues, Mørck gains a second assistant in Rose, who will in turn help move along the relationship between Mørck and Assad. With four books already out, Adler-Olsen still has many a story to tell about Department Q. “I have to finish Carl, Assad and Rose’s stories, maybe in 9, 10 or 11 books. Perhaps 10.5,” he laughs. “But I could fill 20 books with all the cases I

10 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Jussi Adler-Olsen’s first novels were more straightforward thrillers, whereas the Department Q series has taken him into the crime territory. Photo: Claus Helveg

have for Department Q.” So it remains to see how many stories readers can actually still await. And for those interested in seeing Carl Mørck on the big or small screen, AdlerOlsen says there are three different treatments in talks: firstly, one movie for each book similar to the Swedish adaptations of Stieg Larsson’s novels; secondly, a local German version; and thirdly, an American TV series.

Department Q series in English:

Mercy by Jussi Adler-Olsen 12 May 2011, Michael Joseph Disgrace by Jussi Adler-Olsen 21 June 2012, Michael Joseph

For more information, please visit: www.jussiadlerolsen.dk

Scan Magazine | Competition | 95% Danish

Competition: Win a Trash Me lamp from &Tradition! 95%Danish are presenting a supercool Trash Me lamp design by Victor Vetterlein for &Tradition as this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competition prize. Through globalisation and the constant expansion of opportunity via the Internet, people are on the move and their interest in all things is short-lived. The concept behind the Trash Me lamp design is transient. The lamp is made of paper pulp spread over a mould and left to dry, paper being in itself a transient material. It is only fitting that the name is Trash Me, meaning â&#x20AC;&#x153;please recycle me when no longer useful or desiredâ&#x20AC;?. The Trash Me lamp can be quickly disassembled and the parts reused or recycled back into the trash to be born again as something new. See the full range of &Tradition products on www.95percentdanish.com. Why not "like" us on Facebook to be kept up to date with all our other beautiful Danish products. www.facebook.com/95Danish

We must receive your answer by 1st December 2011.The winner will be contacted directly. * By entering this competition, all entrants consent to the use of their personal data a) for the purposes of the administration of this competition and b) for marketing purposes by 95%Ltd. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prior consent.

To win a supercool Trash Me lamp, please answer the following question: What is the Trash Me lamp mostly made of?

Please email alice@95percent.co.uk for full competition rules.

Please email your answer and contact details to: competition@95percentdanish.co.uk

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Scan Magazine | Feature | The Scandinavia Show 2011

The Scandinavia Show 2011 makes “a killing” The Scandinavia Show 2011 took place on the 8-9 October at Earl’s Court. After last year’s success, it was interesting to see what the turnout was going to be like, as this time around, we had both a bigger venue and more exhibitors showcasing their products; and, of course, an exciting entertainment programme to boot, which included a Q&A with the stars of Danish hit thriller The Killing.

Stepping into Brompton Hall on Saturday morning, with all the exhibitors busy putting the final touches to their stands, it was great to notice the difference from last year’s setup: so much more space available for visitors to roam around in, and, of course, a lot more stands to discover. The first ever Scandinavia Show was a great success, but we immediately knew that this year we had to step up a notch on all fronts, and it definitely paid off. This year, the show was able to offer a lot more shopping opportunities, great show offers as well as wonderful entertainment, ranging from lovable huskies (a huge hit

12 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Photo: Chryssa Panoussiadou

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Monica Takvam

with children and adults alike), courageous Vikings, cooking demonstrations and music performances, to the starstudded highlight: an informal and humorous question and answer session with Danish actors Sofie Gråbøl and Søren Malling hosted by BBC’s Lars Tharp. Long

before Gråbøl and Malling actually made it to the stage, the area was already packed with people eager to see them; and the excitement and laughter, once they finally made their appearance, filled the whole exhibition space. “How thrilling, as a self-confessed addict of the Danish thriller Forbrydelsen (aka The Killing) to share the stage with its stars, hotfoot from their winning of the International TV Dagger and Best Actress Dagger (2011 Crime Thriller Awards) earlier in the week. We had great questions from the floor, heaving with highly attentive fans,” says Tharp.

Scan Magazine | Feature | The Scandinavia Show 2011

He adds regarding the atmosphere of the whole show: “A Viking Feast - no pillaging, just gentle seduction, and packed with: blue-eyed huskies; food stalls selling salty liquorice, herring and akvavit; the towering rocks behind the Faroese tourist board; the ‘hygge’ of iconic Scandinavian furniture, silver and glassware. This is where Volvos collide with Bang & Olufsen; it could only happen at The Scandinavia Show.” Indeed the show was an eclectic mixture of Scandinavian brands, goods and performances, but in the end it worked, and

people were left wanting even more. The design & lifestyle, food and travel sections were all equally popular, and whether visitors were there to sample some Finlandia vodka and delicious food from Madsen and North Road, or to check out the design stands, they were still tempted to walk around the whole area, just in case they might have missed some of the exciting exhibitors. With expats mingling with the British, Irish, French, Spanish, Polish, South Africans... the list goes on, and a very high satisfaction rate according to the polls,

we could not have hoped for a better turnout. And just as important as the happiness of the visitors is, of course, the opinion of the exhibitors themselves. “We were delighted to exhibit at The Scandinavia Show 2011 and were thrilled by the eager and enthusiastic crowds of discerning shoppers. Highlight of the show (aside from the appearance of stars from The Killing) was the high level of organization involved, ensuring that our time and energy could be focused on the most important part of the show – the visitors,” explains Mel Stoddart, a sales manager for HAUS, representing SCANPAN. The consensus from visitors at the end of the weekend was: lovely exhibition, we will be back next year, and can we have more. Certainly they can – see you next year!

For more information, please visit: www.scandinaviashow.co.uk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this... This month we have stumbled upon and hopelessly fallen for a mixture of design treasures with a very familiar Scandinavian connection. Inspirational sources include Scandi sweater patterns, tiles and landscapes. By Julie Guldbrandsen. Email: julie@scanmagazine.co.uk

The loveliest handcrafted porcelain knobs by Anne Black. They will lighten up any cupboard. £8.75 per knob. www.95percentshop.co.uk

Pouffe from by nord Copenhagen with a gorgeous photo print reminiscent of an Icelandic lake. £395. www.nordicelements.com

Unique handmade jigsaw letters spell out your baby’s name in colourful, natural New Zealand pine. Available at Danish founded Poppypants. A special gift for all new arrivals. Appr. £4.50 per letter. www.poppypants.com

A chunky hand-knitted cushion in wool by Linum; it complements and adds warmth to the Scandi winter home. £53. www.scandiliving.com

Soft wool throw by Hay, inspired by the look of “Mariusgenser” – a sweater with a traditional Norwegian pattern. £229. www.scp.co.uk

Cork dinner mats by ferm LIVING. A practical yet stylish solution for the dinner table. £19 for a package of two. www.scandiliving.com

14 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Wallpaper by Nordic Style, inspired by the flower patterns on painted Swedish tiles. £48 per metre. www.nordicstyle.com

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary... Update your autumn wardrobe with a cool statement necklace, corduroy jeans, flashes of emerald green and burgundy, and a winter-white palette. Dare to work the snowy palette from head to toe – such a great, and very Scandi-chic, look this season. By Julie Guldbrandsen. Email: julie@scanmagazine.co.uk

Exude coolness in this luxe cardigan in merino wool and leather by Dagmar. £319. www.harrods.com A classic and super-chic wool coat in emerald green – one of this season’s favourite colours – by Designers Remix. £350. www.designersremix.com

Swap your denim for a pair of skinny corduroy trousers this season. This pair by Vero Moda comes in an on-trend burgundy colour. £40. www.asos.com

Channel the ladylike trend with a bit of edge in this cream-coloured silk shirt with stars by Baum und Pferdgarten. £159. www.wild-swans.com

These green fur-lined wedge boots by Ganni are super cute and a great height for days on the run. £180. www.wild-swans.com

A statement necklace like this one by Day Birger Et Mikkelsen will add great impact to an otherwise understated outfit. £79. www.my-wardrobe.com

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 15

Scan Magazine | Design | London Fashion Week

Scandinavian designer duo Aminaka Wilmont’s impressive collection “Changeling”.

Scandinavian design in the spotlight at London fashion week Focused on promoting UK’s fashion talent to the world, London fashion week presents a huge programme with an impressive array of exhibitions, catwalks and after parties. Held twice a year at Somerset House, the event brings the best of fashion to London. We took a close look at the Scandinavian designers and what to expect for Spring/Summer 2012. By Emelie Krugly Hill | Press Photos

It was time again to show off some edgy trends at British Fashion Council’s headquarters at Somerset House, situated right in the heart of London. London fashion week is the biggest fashion event in Britain, famous around the world, following on from New York fashion week and immediately prior to Milan. London designers are known for being more experimental and daring. For instance, their more varied palettes in particular reflect this. This season included a palette of pales in pink, lemon, mint and lilac, and a range of prints such as floral, digitals and African inspired. Scandinavian designer duo Aminaka Wilmont, a husband and wife team, have been designing together for five years now. Their spring/summer 2012 catwalk show caused a stir as always. Their collection named “Changeling” drew inspi-

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ration from the depiction of elves in Scandinavian folklore, which are swapped with human babies and left to grow up in a world in which they don’t belong. Elf-like models with long blonde hair wore digital prints and the softest of pastel palettes with sheer, sheath-like dresses, accompanied by soft-washed leather jackets in earthy tones with ribbon-like waist tie details. An impressive collection, Aminaka Wilmont describes her ‘girl’ as delicate and pretty, but with an edge. Danish menswear designer Astrid Andersen experienced fame overnight, and this year was showing off her second impressive collection, an amalgamation of street wear and delicate lace only she could get away with. Peter Jensen, known for always centring his collections on a famous female muse,

focused on the troubled jazz singer Nina Simone in this year’s collection, utilising safari animal printed suits and floral tulle dresses, rounded off with the cute ankle socks and bohemian turbans on the catwalk. Swedish fashion phenomenon Acne, founded in 1996, made an appearance, and this year was all about the over-sized and functional, a trademark of theirs; a label whose heart lies in the wearable and covetable, but is also feminine and decorative. Inspired absurdly by "God, spaghetti and delusions", Swedish designer Ann-Sofie Back presented her 'holy aesthetic' garments on the catwalk. A collection for the cool, sophisticated and discerning woman, giving us 12 sophisticated looks suitable for any woman’s wardrobe.

Photo: Christopher Moore/catwalking.com

Scan Magazine | Design | London Fashion Week

Danish designer Astrid Andersen’s collection.

Swedish designer Ann-Sofie Back presented her 'holy aesthetic' garments on the catwalk.

At the exhibition, we also bumped into Danish womenswear designer Charlotte Sparre. During a 15-year career of design and production, Charlotte has developed a vast collection of scarves. These include cotton scarves, crochet shawls, suede shawls, woollen shawls and delicate evening shawls with subtle detailing.

tralia, Dubai, Canada and Hong Kong, to name a few. Among these is the Harrods department store and Fortnum & Mason. “Jewellery is more intimate and personal than trends that come and go. It should become a part of you. It is not just something you wear. It gives you a certain energy for the day,” says Götstav. Her inspi-

Charlotte Sparre’s scarf collection

Linnéa Götstav and her Renaissance Life

Swedish jewellery designer Linnéa Götstav, the brains behind the success story of Renaissance Life, was another Scandi we met in the exhibition hall. All of Linnéa’s luxurious and beautiful jewellery pieces have a special meaning and their own story. She set up the business in 2009 and has already established the brand in 100 selected concept and department stores in the UK, Sweden, France, Aus-

ration comes from magic, dreams, illusions and our endless potential. Icelandic women’s wear designer Ostwald Helgason, known for his modern shapes in texture and print, is another force to look out for. His inspiration for the spring/summer was, in his own words, “sixties Californian photography and mu-

sic, old work wear and Alexander Van Humboldt and his botanical specimens”. Finally and before leaving LFW this year, we discovered Danish footwear designer Camilla Skovgaard’s stand. This successful Dane has enchanted the UK and in particular London. Her shoes are gaining much recognition for their aesthetic fluid-edged style combined with highquality shoemaking. “An Intelligent fashionista, think Arne Jacobsen in couture,” said a journalist from The Times. Speaking of footwear, a definite trend that we noticed at this season’s fashion week was chunky, clunky stra i gh t- h ee led platform boots. In other words, it’s time to dust off the old shoe collection! www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

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: ME ARK E M H L T DEN A I IN EC SP TION A UC D E

Learning for life “Love is inexplicable!” So said the great Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. It is impossible, he believed, to convey through words what love actually is. For on reflection, there are really only two kinds of people: those who have experienced love and those who have not – or at least, not yet! And the first need no explanation, because they already know what it is, while the others will never understand the phenomenon of love, no matter how often you try to explain – so why waste time trying? Text and photo: The Association of Folk High Schools in Denmark

It is exactly the same with the Danish folk high school. Basically it is impossible to explain what a folk high school is. To understand the Danish folk high school properly, explanation is not enough – it is something that has to be experienced.

ing the same daily routines together for the duration of the course. Most schools run long courses of four to eight months during the winter, and shorter courses of one to two weeks during the summer.

There are about 70 folk high schools spread right across the country, most of them in rural areas or smaller towns. The most important thing about a folk high school, though, is not its appearance but the atmosphere. The task of the academies, as one teacher once said, is to create “a climate where culture is a reality”.

The varied ranges of subjects they cover are much the same as would be found anywhere else in the Danish educational system: literature, history, psychology, ecology, IT, communication, education, music, drama, sport, outdoor pursuits, dance, art appreciation, photography, pottery, dressmaking, drawing, development studies, international politics and so on.

All the folk high schools are residential. They become microcosmic societies, with students and staff living, eating, and shar-

The folk high school is an educational institution, a school, and this must influence the daily life. But the difference be-

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tween this type of school and schools within the school system is that the folk high school has the freedom to select its own subjects, methods of teaching and types of classes. Each school can do so according to its own philosophy and convictions. But the difference is, first and foremost, reflected in the variation in content. Ideally, existence itself – one’s life in connection with others – should be the core of all subjects.

For more information, please visit: www.hojskolerne.dk www.ffd.dk

Embrace growth and development The efterskole is a unique Danish residential school, where students from the age of 14 to 18 can choose to spend one, two or three years to finish their primary education. Presently some 28,500 students attend the approximately 260 schools throughout Denmark. Text: Efterskoleforeningen/www.efterskole.dk | Photos: Faaborg Egnens Efterskole

Each efterskole is a self-governing independent institution, and they all deal with both the educational and personal development of the students. They embrace a common educational focus on enlightenment for life, general education and democratic citizenship. The first efterskoler were founded about 150 years ago. The schools were closely related to the Danish folk high school and the educational ideas of N.F.S. Grundtvig (1789-1872), who wanted schools to provide enlightenment for life rather than formal vocational training. Compared to public schools the efterskole has substantial freedom in terms of, for example, choice of subjects, teaching methods and educational approach. These vary in accordance with the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

political, religious or pedagogical orientation. One of the things that is unique about the efterskole is the teacher-student relationship. The teacher is responsible for both teaching and supervision outside of school hours. This means that teachers and students are together all day from the time the students wake up until they go to bed. This often engenders a close, personal and non-formal relationship between students and teachers. Most efterskoler offer the same subjects and final examinations as the public schools, but many focus on special subjects like physical education, music or theatre, or offer various kinds of special education.

Today, the efterskole is one of the fastest growing educational enterprises in Denmark, filling the gap between primary and secondary educational institutions and more importantly - giving young people of 14-18 a chance to grow and develop in a residential school setting.

For more information, please visit: www.efterskole.dk

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Himmerlands Ungdomsskole: a fun place to learn By Yane Christensen | Photos: Himmerlands Ungdomsskole

where there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, the school has a strong focus on health, with plenty of physical activity and nutritious homecooked food. Students are invited to stay during weekends, when there is an array of activities available. Often a whole weekend will be dominated by a specific fun theme, such as karaoke or the outdoors. There are also plenty of activities on offer in the evenings, when the students are not allowed to leave the premises. Anyone considering applying for a place at Himmerlands Ungdomskole should check out the YouTube links on the school's website directing to videos of daily school life and special events. There you will see just how much fun awaits students at Himmerlands Ungdomskole!

Himmerlands Ungdomsskole is a Grundtvigian school with 120 students aged 15-17. It follows the curriculum for Danish school year 9-10, where English, Maths and Danish are obligatory subjects. In addition to these, the school offers a huge selection of extra-curricular subjects, such as music, theatre, cooking, design and sport (see website for more details). The school’s aim is to create a community with committed, caring members; a community, where freedom and responsibility go hand in hand, and where there is room for individuality. Students are encouraged to creatively develop their skills - both social and professional skills. They learn to take responsibility for their actions and to respect others and accept their differences. They should emerge from the school, not just wiser, but also more confident, open and accepting.

The school is situated in the north of Jutland, amidst stunning countryside,

For more information, please visit: www.himmerlands-ungdomsskole.dk

Learning through the principles of Howard Gardner By Signe Hansen | Photos: Hørby Ungdomsskole

That there is more than one kind of intelligence was established many years ago. Still, many schools teach all students the same way, but not Hørby Ungdomsskole in Frederikshavn, Denmark. The school, which focuses on drama, music and sport, follows the principles of Howard Gardner’s educational theory on multiple intelligences. Established in the early 1970s, the school has approximately 150 9th and 10th grade students. The fact that the students not only study but also live and spend much of their free time at the school creates a special environment ideal for the implementation of Gardner’s philosophy. “When you work with the concept of learning the way we do, school does not end when you leave the class room,” says school principal Mogens Vestergård. Gardner’s philosophy parts with the

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notion that intelligence can be measured solely through mathematical and linguistic tests and extends the term intelligence to include, for instance, musical intelligence, interpersonal intelligence and body kinaesthetic intelligence. “We all have different ways of learning, and the traditional method is actually only optimal for about one third of students; we aim to heighten the overall level of competence by allowing students to learn in a way that matches their educational needs and type of intelligences,” explains Vestergård. There are three main study programmes at Hørby Ungdomsskole, but students need not, as in many other places, fix themselves on one subject but can mix the creative subjects, music and drama, with sports. For more information, please visit: www.horbyungdomsskole.dk

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Sowing the seeds for a healthy life By Signe Hansen | Photos: Sansestormerne

At Sansestormerne, students from all over Denmark meet to learn about the world, design, nourishment and exercise. Though located just ten minutes from the centre of Aarhus, the school has green surroundings, and the sea is just around the corner. Sansestormerne has functioned as a boarding school for adult home economics students for more than 100 years. Seven years ago, it opened up to teenagers as well, and next year it is expanding with a new efterskole. “We see the expansion as a natural development, but one of the reasons we are transforming the schools is the possibility to create different course programmes,” says headmaster Inge-Dorte Wandall. The new efterskole will offer five programmes: food and gastronomy, basketball, design and stuff, sports and outdoor

activities, and the international programme. “We have always been very focused on the necessity for youngsters to use their bodies and senses, and we are very eager to start an international line as well,” explains Wandall. With the new expansion, Sansestormerne will house around 120 students. The students share rooms with private bathrooms two and two and are offered a wide range of activities in their spare time. But one hour is put aside for doing their homework every day. Wandall stresses: “We put a lot of focus on doing homework, because our students have to deliver on tests, and it is very important to us that they develop the tools they come with.”

For more information, please visit: www.sansestormerne.dk

Putting innovation and creativity on the agenda By Signe Hansen | Photos: Dronninglund Efterskole

When it comes to creativity and innovation, Dronninglund Efterskole is not afraid to get ahead of the crowd. A classroom furnished with bean bags, bar stools, hammocks and multimedia technology is part of the school’s highly popular new innovation course for tenth graders. “Our main goal is to make sure that our students have fun and learn at the same time. Tenth Innovation is an attempt to shake them out of their old habits and make use of the unexpected,” explains headmaster Asbjørn Ramlov. The innovation course integrates subjects like maths and English in group projects so that students are prepared for exams but at the same time feel that their work has a practical purpose.“The overall idea with 10th Innovation is that every project should make sense and benefit

someone concretely. That’s why a lot of the projects will be carried out in cooperation with companies, institutions or individuals outside the school,” explains Ramlov. “Most people agree that Denmark has to be innovative and creative to have a competitive edge in the future, and the schools need to pick up on that and get out of their set ways!” Dronninglund has 100 students following its art, adventure, music, fitness or sports programmes. The sports programme is mainly focused on ball games such as handball taught by professional handball player Jan Lennartson. Besides the 10th Innovation course, there is also a 10th International course

Students in 10th Innovation use their classroom’s beanbags for both work and relaxation.

focused on culture and languages, including Spanish, which is one of four subjects students can, thanks to a unique cooperation with Dronninglund Gymnasium, study at C level.

For more information, please visit: www.dronninglundefterskole.dk

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Wide perspectives and close unity

outdoor life. With a scenic location overlooking the beautiful Mariager Fjord, the grassy areas play an important part of everyday life at the school. The closest large town is only three kilometres away, with all the amenities that most youngsters could wish for, such as a cinema, pizzerias and shops, among other things. Thorsgaard Efterskole is an inspirational school with a twist of perspective and emphasis on solidarity in a superb location.

Attending a year at Thorsgaard Efterskole ensures that, alongside great comradeship, pupils have the skills and selfassurance to commit to the following upper secondary education. The school offers a strong academic approach with a range of opportunities to gain new insight in a friendly atmosphere, where students as well as teachers take part as one big family. With approximately only 100 students each year, the emphasis is on contentment and unity for all. This school might be short in pupils compared with many other independent boarding schools, but it sure does not lack the ambition or possibilities to explore a world of new knowledge and establishing lifelong friendships. One of the main principles of this school is to encourage all to take part in the democratic process. “Our aim is to give our students a strong democratic sense and inspire them to take part in the surrounding world,” explains

By Charlotte Kany Photos: Thorsgaard Efterskole

principal Morten Budde. With its specific approach, the school is also well known for offering a wide catalogue of courses covering performance, arts and production as well as the thrill of

For more information, please visit: www.thorsgaardefterskole.dk

A global perspective from the top of Denmark Lynghøj Efterskole provides a complete and challenging international education for students aged between13 and 18, who wish to increase their language skills in both English and Danish, and to achieve intercultural understanding through global cooperation and trips abroad. If you have lived abroad for a number of years, are bilingual or just have a general curiosity for the world we are living in, and want to improve your linguistic skills, then Lynghøj Efterskole might be something for you. Situated near the town of Støvring, in the Jutland peninsula known as Himmerland, you will find a boarding school that emphasises the global challenges and possibilities of modern society, and offers an international class where the majority of subjects are taught in English. “A stay at Lynghøj Efterskole can be the perfect induction for further education

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in Denmark if you have lived abroad because of your parents’ job situation; currently, we have pupils from faraway countries like China and Namibia. We want to encourage young people’s international and intercultural understanding, and right now, we are preparing an upcoming collaboration with schools in Austria and

Sicily,” says the principal Jens Borup. Lynghøj Efterskole is a part of the EU’s Lifelong Learning Programme, Comenius, which aims to help young people and educational staff better understand the range of European cultures, languages and values. Furthermore, Lynghøj Efterskole offers the renowned Cambridge IGCSE courses, and if you want to develop a particular interest, the school has a large variety of minor subjects ranging from music to outdoor activities. One of the highlights of the year is the compulsory trip to either England or Scotland, where educational and cultural exchange goes hand in hand with sociable activities. By Lykke Fabricius Port | Photos: Lynghøj Efterskole

For more information, please visit: www.lynghoj-efterskole.dk

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Balle: a school that educates for life By Katrine Kirch Kirkegaard | Photos: Balle Efterskole

An efterskole is a unique Danish residential school, where the students live together at the school for a year or two at the end of their primary education. Today, Balle houses 160 students. “Only very few efterskoler have unisex houses for their students, but we introduced those years ago. It gives the students a better understanding and respect for each other, and in a way, they help raise each other,” says Fredsted. Respect is a key word for the school in general, he explains. All teachers and students at Balle also get to know each other for better or worse – and the students leave the school ready for a future of education and personal challenges.

At Balle Musik- & Idrætsefterskole in Denmark, teachers and students are as integrated as a family, and the students leave the place matured and educated. It requires both drive and commitment to be a part of “the Balle family”. Balle Musik- & Idrætsefterskole is a private school for students in the 9th and 10th grade, offering a choice between two profile subjects: music and sports. “We do not have a specific skills requirement, but you need to be enthusiastic about your profile subject of choice. In addition to these profile subjects, all the students must also attend classes in the usual academic subjects and make an effort all around,” says Jan Fredsted. Jan Fredsted is the present – and proud – school principal at Balle Musik- & Idrætsefterskole, which was originally founded in 1866 as a Danish friskole, an independent primary school. In 1962, the

efterskole part was born, and today, the two departments are combined at Balle.

For more information, please visit: www.balle-efterskole.dk

Ubby Efterskole is much more than just a school In Ubby on Sealand lies Ubby Fri- og Efterskole (UFE), which accommodates around 200 local pupils in the friskole (a private school) and 94 pupils living at the efterskole (a residential school) for one year. Even though the school was founded more than 130 years ago, based on the thoughts of Grundtvig and Kold, it keeps on evolving, and apart from the regular school subjects, UFE offers teaching in a lot of different sports activities. At the efterskole, the main focus is on sports and music. Here, the pupils get to choose two out of the five special interest subjects: rhythm gymnastics and dance, gymnastics, handball, football (boys) and music. In addition, the school offers subjects that relate to the special interest subjects. “Being a pupil at Ubby Efterskole is a way of living that goes beyond the classroom,” stresses the school principal Helle

Grevit. “Here, the pupils undertake personal as well as educational development. They live at the efterskole from mid-August to the end of June in their 9th or 10th school year, so the school becomes their home, where they will learn to understand the individual with respect for the interest of the whole.” To support the special unity between the pupils at UFE, the school has a wide range of activities besides normal schooling: a ski trip once a year and the very popular musical production, among others. Because, as Helle Grevit conludes: “A year at UFE offers you some of the biggest and most challenging experiences of your life.” By Kirstine Trauelsen Photos: Martin Holm Hørbye

For more information, please visit: www.ubby.dk

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Encouraging differences and unity Often referred to as Denmark’s most beautiful school, Næsgaard Efterskole on Falster attracts Danish youngsters from all parts of the world. But while diversity is greatly appreciated and encouraged by the school, all students do have two things in common: they like to move, and they are dedicated to one of the school’s four programme courses, namely sports, nature, art/design or music. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Næsgaard Efterskole

“All our students take part in a weekly run, and every year, more than half of our students participate in a half marathon. One of our slogans is: a year of running a school that never stands still,” says headmaster Anders Bøje Jørgensen. Royal connections Just two years ago, Næsgaard Efterskole changed its name from Ørslev Ungdomsskole and moved to its current location at the former Næsgaard Agricultural School. “Næsgaard Efterskole is only in its second year, but we bring 130 years of experience,” explains Jørgensen.

The old agricultural school functioned for more than 200 years and included Prince Joachim of Denmark among its students. When it closed, Jørgensen and his colleagues seized the opportunity to expand and bought the building from the Classenske Fideicommis fund, whose patron is the Danish Queen; today, the beautiful yellow buildings are home to around 135 teenagers. Næsgaard Vikings Surrounded by sea and forests, the school provides spectacular settings for nature activities, and housing, sports and arts facilities are also first class. “Our art students have their own atelier; the music

For more information, please visit: www.naesgaard.dk

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students have a new music building with their own audio studio; and sports and nature students have an impressive sports hall and new football field plus a beautiful forest house located just off the beach, which they can use as a base for outdoor activities like kayaking, adventure races and mountain biking,” says Jørgensen. Every year, a few students earn the title of Næsgaard Vikings; to do this they have to run to the beach every morning, plunge in, run back and be ready for breakfast at 7am. Only the students who complete the run all year round can call themselves Vikings and are rewarded with a set of Viking horns!

Contact details: Næsgaard Efterskole Bringserevej 2, 4850 Stubbekøbing Tlf.: 54868030 | kontor@naesgaard.dk

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A year of musical experiences

By Kirstine Trauelsen | Photos: Alberte Karlshøj Radoor

Den Rytmiske Efterskole i Baaring (DREiB) on Funen is all about living out a love for music and language. Every year, 130 pupils complete their 9th or 10th school year at the efterskole, which since 2009 has offered young people with a passion for music and language a year of extraordinary experiences and challenges, while living at the school. DREiB is open to everyone, and the philosophy is: music combined with language evolves, educates and motivates. Coming to DREiB, the pupils choose a main subject from one of the four main lines: rhythmical or classical music, singing or sound engineering. Each pupil has a solo instrument and a weekly hour of personal instrumental teaching, when they are given feedback from their teacher. For the pupils at DREiB every day means new challenges and experiences

combined with daily routines, like the common morning gathering and the meals that all teachers and pupils take together. In order to improve their language and social skills, the pupils at DREiB are given the chance to go on study trips abroad. Along with the yearly ski trip for the whole school, the celebration of the ending of the school year, a music festival, where all the school bands play for family and friends, is a popular event for the pupils.

“No matter what subjects the pupils choose at DREiB, they are guaranteed to be part of a challenging musical environment, where they can be sure to excel and develop both as musicians and as human beings,” says the principal at DREiB, Jens Horn.

For more information, please visit: www.rytmiskefterskole.dk

Spot the talent – sports and music go well together By Margrete Dybbroe | Photos: Idrætshøjskolen Aarhus

Idrætshøjskolen Aarhus (IHÅ) is mostly about sports and primarily known for its soccer, handball, sailing and outdoor activities; but music is highly prioritised too and an important part of the school’s profile. “Spot the talent,” they say, applying to both music and sports. Being a højskole, IHÅ is a non-formal residential school with no academic admission requirements. The best qualifications are physical energy and a passion for sports – and an age between 18 and 24. The typical IHÅ student is 20 to 21 years of age and ‘in between schools’, i.e. they have just left upper secondary school and have not yet started their further education. IHÅ has 100-130 students at a time; most of them are from Denmark, but about 25% come from other parts of the world. This term, the school’s international line has students from 19 different countries.

You can sign up for one or two terms: fall covers August to December, while spring covers January to June. Both terms include two sport-related trips, and the spring term ends with a four-week summer school of sailing, surfing, tennis, golf and beach volley. IHÅ makes good use of its location by the sea. Not everything is about sports, though. Music is important, too, and the music environment is thriving. The school teaches both guitar and choir, and quite a few talents have been spotted over the years – and quite a few bands formed. Sports and music make great com-

panions, and together they create an excellent basis for productive results and cross-cultural friendships. For more information, please visit: www.ihaarhus.dk

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

World Class: Embrace new perspectives and rediscover the joy of learning By Nia Kajastie | Photos: IPC

The International People’s College (IPC), Den Internationale Højskole in Danish, is located in Elsinore (the city made famous by Shakespeare’s Hamlet). It is a Danish folk high school that offers non-formal education on global issues, such as politics, culture, religion, economy and the environment. Young people from all corners of the world gather at the school to share knowledge and to learn new perspectives on life. Founded after the First World War, the school’s objective was to bring people of different cultures and nationalities together. “It was meant to be a place where previous enemies would come together and discover that peaceful coexistence is possible after all. They should learn how to see things from each other’s perspectives. And today, this is still pretty much our purpose”, says principal Søren Launbjerg. “We facilitate a cultural meeting between students who come here to learn more about the world and themselves. And this ambition goes perfectly with the

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non-formal concept of a folk high school.” Just like all folk high schools, IPC does not have any exams or give out grades; it is more about the joy of learning. Students learn skills for life and can clarify their plans for future careers, as the school provides a unique opportunity for personal development in a social and friendly atmosphere. IPC offers five different categories of classes: global perspectives, regional studies, personal and professional skills, music and creativity, and languages (English & Danish). You can freely pick and mix your classes from all five categories, and halfway through the term you can choose classes all over again. The autumn term lasts 18 weeks, while the spring term is 24 weeks long. “However, what you learn outside of the classes is of equal importance,” says Launbjerg. “Both staff and students live on campus, so there is buzzing social and cultural interaction around the clock; add

to this a great selection of cultural evenings, performance nights, concerts and different types of excursions, and you have the recipe for a stay that will change your life” During one term, there are normally 60-70 students as well as 20 people working at the school in different positions; and usually all continents are represented among the students, whose average age is around 23 years. There are no educational requirements to enlist at the school, but you have to speak a minimum of English, as it is the official language of communication at IPC. “Our wish is that people will engage with each other at the school, and then go out there and make a difference in the world,” concludes Launbjerg.

For more information, please visit: www.ipc.dk

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Motivating and fun, and curious since 1865 Be the change you want to see in the world, said Mahatma Gandhi. Be curious, creative and open, adds Vallekilde Højskole, an adult education institution with an urge to make students think about their place in society and explore new fields of interest. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Jonas Pryner (www.jonaspryner.com)

Take your average educational institution, remove the exams, remove the grades, and then add projects where teachers and students work together, a canteen serving up healthy food from its own garden and fruit orchard, and plenty of time for reflection. What you get is Vallekilde Højskole, a so-called folk high school where studying is a process as opposed to a means to an end.

“The lack of exams and tests makes for an extremely fun, creative and motivating environment, for students as well as teachers.”

“The lack of exams and tests makes for an extremely fun, creative and motivating environment, for students as well as teachers,” says headmaster Torben Smidt Hansen, who has spent years in various roles at the very top of the Danish Broadcasting Corporation.

As such, Vallekilde Højskole still very much lives and breathes the original vision of Ernst Trier, who founded the institution in 1865 to educate rural citizens. A heavy focus on communication enables the students to collaborate with and learn from each other, in order to be able to procure change in their own lives and the lives of others. With the forthcoming Danish EU chairmanship, this is an exciting time to be a student at Vallekilde Højskole. The historic buildings are filling up with modern equipment like touch screens and QR codes, and one group of students is busy planning a trip to Istanbul, where they will meet with like-minded students. But perhaps best of all: the freedom and space seems to pay off, as former folk high school students tend to do much better in their future studies. You could call it a win-win situation. For more information, please visit: vallekilde.dk

The school, which offers courses in journalism, literature and writing, game development, event design, music, and design and creative campaigning, sees itself as an integral part of society. “We are just starting up a project to implement pervasive gaming and game theory in public schools, and we work to motivate young mothers in the area and help them plan and complete an education,” Smidt Hansen explains.

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Photo: Das Büro

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Pause and reflect – and study for your own sake The past five years have seen a trend emerging in the educational landscape of Denmark. Every year, more and more people decide to take a course at a so-called folk high school, currently as many as eight per cent of the Danish youth population. Of the around 70 institutions, it is the old, classic colleges that are the most popular. Grundtvigs Højskole is one of them. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Henning Hjorth

“In today’s society, you’ll often find that you are pushed to go faster, further and quicker,” says Jakob Mejlhede Nielsen, headmaster at the school. “More and more, we need a break, an opportunity to do the things we might never do at any other time in our lives.” He is talking not only about creative hobbies like music and photography, but also about more philosophical subjects and pure life understanding. The folk high school tradition is distinctive in many ways, but perhaps mainly because of its lack of exams and marks. “No one ever became good at something they didn’t care about, but we want the students to learn for their own sake, and not because of the pressure of an exam,” says Mejlhede Nielsen. As the folk high school closest to Copenhagen, Grundtvigs Højskole gets a lot of

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“More and more, we need a break: an opportunity to do the things we might never do at any other time in our lives.” high-profile guest lecturers, as it is easily accessible to authors, politicians and other interesting professionals. This also means that it is the ideal place for students who want to prepare for studies in the capital, and this is one of the many reasons why students come here: to improve their portfolios or figure out what they want to study next. While the week-long summer courses in subjects like painting, politics and literature attract participants of 40 years and older, the longer term-time courses have

a majority of students between the ages of 18 and 23, and you have to be at least 17.5 to apply. These programmes make the perfect opportunity for young people who have grown up with Danish parents abroad to come and improve their Danish language skills while also specialising in a range of other subjects like journalism or songwriting. As the oldest still existing folk high school on Sealand, founded in 1856, Grundtvigs Højskole offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in Danish language, culture and current debates. And the time to pause for a while and reflect on life, of course.

For more information, please visit: grundtvigs.dk

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Nordfyns Folkehøjskole: Your future is in your hands By Lykke Fabricius Port | Photos: Nordfyns Folkehøjskole

Discover your personal potential and meet people from all over the world at the Danish folk high school Nordfyns Folkehøjskole, which focuses on intercultural understanding, self-development and has a modern take on the traditional Grundtvigian thought about enlightenment – all without the stressful presence of marks and exams. When new students enter through the doors of Nordfyns Folkehøjskole in the tiny but idyllic village of Harritslev, they are often at a crossroads in their life and a bit unsure about which direction they are going to take. They come from a large variety of backgrounds and often from different parts of the world, but all have a common desire to learn. “My main role is to help these people understand that they have a voice in this world that is worth listening to, and that they must learn to bear with the differ-

ences of others. Without being religious, it’s all a question about seeing yourself as a whole, where the personal, the spiritual, the global and the cultural all come together and create who you are as a hu-

man being,” says Mette Højland, who is the founder of Nordfyn Folkehøjskole’s international course Take the Future, which varies from 12-24 weeks. The focal point of the course is global citizenship, where short lectures are the stepping stones to creative group work, discussions and workshops on hot topics like global warming, sustainability or Millennium Development Goals. It is not unusual to find people from Uganda, Japan and Estonia in the same classroom, and they all share the same roof, the same meals and experience each other’s ups and downs. Nordfyns Folkehøjskole does not issue any academic degrees, but gives you the freedom to learn in your own way and thereby gain more commitment for your future. For more information, please visit: www.nfhs.dk/english

Creating global citizens of tomorrow By Nia Kajastie | Photo: Sønderborg International School

Sønderborg International School was established on 15 August 2011 in order to offer the area, located in the region of southern Denmark, a truly international education option and to help create global citizens of tomorrow. The Sønderborg area is known as a hub for the mechatronics industry, thus also boasting one of the largest concentrations of engineers outside of Copenhagen. With major local employer Danfoss, among other companies, bringing employees to Sønderborg from all over the world, and local parents eager to ensure high-quality schooling for their children, Sønderborg International School can finally offer international education to pupils between the ages of 5 and 16. With a kindergarten in the works as well, the community is clearly embracing its international status.

Sønderborg Kommune also launched the International Baccalaureate in 2011, emphasising its commitment to supporting international education. “We offer a broad, balanced and academically challenging curriculum, which is personalized as far as possible to meet the diverse range of aptitudes and abilities of our students. We are a Cambridge Certified Centre, offering International General Certificates of Education (IGCSE) in English language, English literature, mathematics, global perspectives, his-

tory, integrated science (combining chemistry, biology and physics), Spanish and German,” explains head teacher Helen Becker. With students from all over world, including Denmark, Holland, Scotland, England, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and so forth, and an equally diverse school staff to boot, Sønderborg International School aims to teach the children to become bilingual or multi-lingual global citizens, equipped with a great amount of selfworth, empathy and self-confidence. “It is our intention when students leave at the end of their school career they are equipped to enter a Danish gymnasium or to follow an international syllabus which is taught in English,” concludes Becker. For more information, please visit: www.sonderborginternationalschool.dk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 29

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Aalborg’s international students learn to value their multicultural heritages By Signe Hansen | Photos: The Skipper Clement International School At Skipper Clement International School in Aalborg, Denmark, students can choose to be taught in either Danish or English, depending on which of the school’s two departments they join. Other languages taught at the school include German, French, Spanish and Chinese. The school has 620 students and is a registered CIE centre offering exams in nine IGCSE subjects as well as Danish FSA and FS10 exams. Multiculturalism The International department has 130 students from all over the world. Many of their parents work at Aalborg University or Aalborg Hospital. “I find it immensely inspiring to walk into one of our classrooms and ask the children where they come from and which languages they speak. After a year with

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us, even the smallest of children can communicate in three or four languages, including English and Danish, in addition to their mother tongues,” says head of department Jenny Rohd-Thomsen. “In this kind of environment, it is essential to value internationalism and to teach children to respect and value not only others but also their own mixed cultural heritage. It reminds me of a quote from Salman Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children: ‘To understand just one life you have to swallow the world.’ Every child in an international school has his or her own unique blend of culture and experiences; this is where new ground is formed.” Hard work Since its foundation in 2001, the international department has grown to comprise eight classes, but unfortunately there is no room for further growth. While the school is working hard to find solutions to

over-crowding problems, it has found it difficult to move forward without sponsorship. “Unfortunately these are difficult times, and we haven’t found any company able to back us yet. Without this support, it is unlikely we can take on a new building, and without a new building, it will be impossible for the International department to grow to a full line of 11 single year group classes,” says school leader Per LyngbergAndersen. “It would be a shame to lose this development at this stage. There is no other international school in Northern Jutland, and international schools do not grow on trees. Getting this far has been ten years of hard work.” For more information, please visit: www.aais.dk www.skipper-clement-skolen.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Ikast-Brande forms a hub for forward-thinking international education The municipality of Ikast-Brande, located in mid-Jutland, is home to many large international companies, such as Siemens and Bestseller, and is now also one of the first areas, outside of Copenhagen, to provide education in English for students between the ages of 3 and 19. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: ISIB & Ikast-Brande Gymnasium

The municipality is capable of welcoming a foreign workforce and families into an internationally-minded community that offers the best jobs and high-quality education. ISIB The International School Ikast-Brande was established in August 2009 and has already managed to put its stamp on the area. “We started out with 12 pupils, and now we have 87, plus 16 in the Early Years Foundation Stage. We have grown massively since our launch,” says head teacher Helen Pearson, who believes that international education coupled with great work opportunities will put Ikast-Brande on the map. “We have children from all over the world: Mexico, India, Sudan and a lot of countries in Europe.” The school teaches children between the ages of 3 and 16 and utilises the renowned Cambridge International Curriculum. “We put an emphasis on individual teaching, taking into account the needs of every child. We try to cover all the learning styles, including visual, auditory and tactile, as people learn in different ways,” explains Pearson. “Our sponsors, who include local investors, enable us to have a great learning environment. We have interactive whiteboards in all classrooms, and we can teach in smaller groups.”

Ikast-Brande Gymnasium ISIB and Ikast-Brande Gymnasium are two separate educational institutions that work closely together, collaborating on as many levels as possible. The head teacher at the gymnasium also works as the inspector for ISIB, which helps keep the standard of education very high. The gymnasium began its IB programme this August, and it is off to a great start.

Above: The International School Ikast-Brande Below: Ikast-Brande Gymnasium

“Our Pre-IB Programme currently has 60 students while the IB Diploma Programme has 30 students, which are pretty good numbers for our first year,” says IB coordinator Gitte Pilley. “We’ve received a lot of backing from the parents, and the students are very eager to join in on extracurricular activities and to engage in the curriculum. The success of the IB programme is not least due to the programme’s high academic standards, which are also recognised by Danish universities as well as top international universities. Our IB students are very well prepared for success in the 21st century due to the knowledge, skills and attitudes fostered by the IB programme.”

For more information, please visit: www.isib.dk www.ikast-gym.dk

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

NGG: a fully international school in Denmark More than 20 different nationalities are mixed and integrated at the international department of NGG, Nordsjællands Grundskole og Gymnasium samt HF. And this year, they have adopted a brand new curriculum. By Katrine Kirch Kirkegaard | Photos: Nordsjællands Grundskole og Gymnasium samt HF

Nordsjællands Grundskole og Gymnasium samt HF and International Department (NGG) is not only a large school in terms of student numbers. In total, there are 1,400 students at NGG, which makes it the largest independent private school in Denmark, but it also includes several different types of schools. This means that you can attend the school from the age of 4 to the age of 17 – an unusual characteristic for the Danish school system. But one thing that really separates NGG from other Danish schools is its international department. 243 students from 21 countries attend this department, but their school life has changed a bit this year. “We wanted to get more flexibility than the old curriculum system could offer. So since August of this year, we have introduced two new curriculums, the IPC (International Primary Curriculum) for the

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youngest students and the CIE (Cambridge International Exams) for the oldest students,” says Jan Thrane, principal at NGG. He is confident that the new systems will be at least as successful as the old one. “So far everyone has welcomed the new systems, and the parents are pleased as well,” he adds.

The multicultural interaction also results in many social activities all year long. Almost every week, the students can meet each other at different social gatherings – from Halloween and Christmas to concerts and sports events.

Cultural understanding In addition to strong academic skills, the students at NGG are introduced to a world of different people from very different cultures. “All the students benefit from the cultural mix of the school. The Danish students learn from the international, and the international students learn from the Danish – they see how Denmark works as a society and culture,” says Jan Thrane.

For more information, please visit: www.ngg.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark

Chemistry class – almost all classes are taught in English

Young students at the International School of Aarhus enjoy an hour of storytelling

Learn, grow and feel at home at the International School of Aarhus By Signe Hansen | Photos: The International School of Aarhus

If you want your kids to learn and grow in an international environment with high academic standards, the International School of Aarhus is the ideal choice. The ISA is part of the Danish private school Interskolen, which has 460 students; 85 of them attend the school’s International Department where classes are taught primarily in English. The International Department has just been certified by Cambridge University and now offers the Cambridge Curriculum to all its students. All classes are taught by native English speakers, and students have the possibility to take IGCSE exams, which provide access to educational institutions all over the world. Creating a safe base The International Department offers tuition from reception class to year 9 and welcomes students from all over the world. School principal Thomas Kilsmark explains: “Typically our students’ parents

work for international companies and have been relocated to Denmark.” This means that many of the International Department’s students are only at the school for a limited period of time and it is therefore important to make them feel at home right away. “Our teachers have many lessons in the same class, and they are very focused on providing a safe, secure and challenging environment for our students. They know that many of our students are only here for a short while, so they make sure that they are integrated quickly into the class and build up a good social network,” says Kilsmark.

most Danish schools, but we know that this is something that parents from abroad appreciate.” Although international students are taught in separate classes from the school’s Danish students, they are given the opportunity to embrace the Danish language and Danish traditions through three weekly Danish language classes. Through scheduled common activities and theme weeks, the students also have the opportunity to collaborate and cooperate with their Danish counterparts.

Concentrating on learning One of ISA’s top priorities is to ensure high academic standards. “We strive to meet the needs of each student within a rich learning environment. We believe in a good classroom environment where learning can take place - the students are here to learn,” stresses Kilsmark. ”We might have a slightly different approach to this than

For more information, please visit: www.isaa.dk or www.interskolen.dk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 33

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Sweden

Swedish education promotes independent thinking and openness

By Nia Kajastie Photo: Lena Granefelt/ imagebank.sweden.se

Starting with preschool and continuing all the way to higher education, Swedish schools are known for encouraging independent thinking and an openness between students and teachers. Sweden, and Scandinavia as a whole, has a school system that promotes equal opportunities as well as emphasising a democratic way of thinking. According to law, all children should have access to education, regardless of gender, location or socioeconomic factors. Education in Sweden is compulsory for all children between the ages of seven and 16, after which they can continue onwards to upper secondary school and finally go on to higher education. All stages of schooling boast high standards of education, and this in turn can be witnessed in the general innovative spirit of the

Swedish populace. Sweden is well known around the world for its achievements in technological advancement as well as scientific research. With studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; academic and social development as well as their capacity for critical thinking at the very forefront of the Swedish educational system, it equips them with valuable tools for both their

further education and career. They can easily continue their education anywhere in the world, as they have been given the tools to adapt to new surroundings and situations. For more information, please visit: www.sweden.se www.studyinsweden.se

Grennaskolan -an international boarding school also offering summer courses in Swedish, English and Confirmation. m.grennaskolan.se Tel +46 (0)390 561 50 Âˇ www.grennaskolan.se

Photo: Malcolm Hanes

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Sweden

Where a rich heritage meets a bright future Mens sana in corpore sano – a sound mind in a sound body. With one foot in a rich, historical heritage and the other in a high-technological, innovative future, Lundsbergs Skola embodies that motto. “Our students should feel seen, develop and enjoy themselves in order to maximise their full potential,” says headmaster Staffan Hörnberg. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Brynje Lindström

When you think about how best to give your children the gift of a bright future, you might not think that the secret is in a good maths education. Staffan Hörnberg, who has worked with some of the most successful business men and academics in the world, begs to differ. “We’ve made maths what we call a key confidence subject. Once the students feel that they really understand maths, the rest follows naturally: their confidence grows and they perform better across the board.” Lundsbergs having one of the highest performing secondary school science programmes in the country, he seems to have a point. And students agree. Having come from other schools to this hub of hand-picked teachers, many students feel that they are truly acknowledged for the first time. “They come here and realise: ‘The teacher sees me! The teacher has time!’” says Hörnberg.

Founded in 1896, the renowned boarding school is steeped in a rich heritage. Royals and hugely successful Swedes have studied here, and this is something that has shaped the school. Students leave Lundsbergs with plenty of valuable contacts and social as well as academic confidence.

“We want the students to enjoy themselves – that’s how we can really develop their talents and maximise their individual potential.” At the same time, the institution is forward-thinking and prides itself on worldclass equipment and modern, comfortable student halls. Interactive smart boards mean that students can return to

lecture notes to review them after class, while a high-tech intranet system allows both students and their parents to keep an eye on their progress and any upcoming activities. “It’s a complete solution,” says Hörnberg, as he talks about the effort that is put into extra-curricular activities like sports and arts. “We want the students to enjoy themselves – that’s how we can really develop their talents and maximise their individual potential.” Daily, timetabled evening revision with teacher support, a strong rowing tradition, world-class music teachers and a wide range of grants available to students from all backgrounds – what more could you ask for?

For more information, please visit: www.lundsbergsskola.se

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 35

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SP EC I HE AL TH LS IN EME KI :

Island restaurants NJK and Klippan on an autumn day. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom

Helsinki – where East meets West Throughout its over 460-year history, the maritime city of Helsinki has swung between the currents of eastern and western influences. The lifestyle in this northernmost of all the European Union capitals is full of contrasts and fascinating culture. Influences from both the East and West are visible in the city’s architecture, culinary culture, events, traditions and many other elements that are unique to the way of life in Helsinki. Text and Photo: City of Helsinki Tourist & Convention Bureau

Helsinki’s hundreds of little islands make up a fascinating archipelago, and as the sea surrounds the city from the South, East and West, it connects Helsinki to many other cities along the coast of the Baltic Sea. One of the most popular sights in Finland is the Suomenlinna maritime fortress that is located off the coast of Helsinki. It is also a garrison town and a base for the archipelago navy. The construction of the fortress began in 1748. Today, Suomenlinna is included in UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites. Helsinki, the World Design Capital 2012, is the perfect city for both design shopping

and discovering Finland’s unique design culture. Minimalistic, functional and clean Finnish design has enjoyed an enviable international reputation for decades. Helsinki even has its very own Design District, an area that is home to a wide range of designer shops, interior decorating studios, clothing and jewellery boutiques, galleries, museums, restaurants and lots more.

The latest trend is for young chefs to start their own small and unique gourmet restaurants. The city also offers worldclass restaurants that have earned Michelin stars. Finnish home cooking traditions can be enjoyed in cosy local restaurants that have built their reputations on such dishes as fried herring and mashed potatoes.

Helsinki offers a wide-ranging variety of restaurants. The HelsinkiMenu restaurants introduce you to special, seasonal dishes at around 20 different restaurants throughout the city. The menu varies according to the restaurant. The recipes interpret Finnish food traditions and ingredients in new and exciting ways.

Helsinki is well known for the quality and variety of its cultural life and events. Welcome to discover the city’s fascinating offerings! For more information, please visit: www.visithelsinki.fi

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 37

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Helsinki

Helsinki gets its Music Centre Modest Finland, with its population of five million, is a big hitter in the classical music world. It has been for decades, ever since Finnish conductors started their quiet revolution, taking over orchestras in Europe and America, reinforcing the brilliance of the music created in their country and making its arts education the envy of the world. By Andrew Mellor | Photos: Helsinki Music Centre / Arno de la Chapelle

But there has been a problem. Back in Helsinki, you couldn’t hear a good orchestra play. It wasn’t the fault of the orchestras themselves; the Helsinki Philharmonic and Finnish Radio Symphony have long been among the best. The trouble was, you literally couldn’t hear them: the acoustics at the Finlandia concert hall were so bad. It took a typical dose of Finnish pragmatism to call time on Finlandia Hall – from a musical point of view – nearly two decades ago. Alvar Aalto’s building remains intensely beautiful; its radiant white marble still says as much about the noble, egalitarian aspirations of Finland as Sibelius’s music does. That made the

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commissioning of a replacement venue even more difficult. Pressure abounded, and the first thing the design-conscious “helsinkiläiset” (Helsinkians) did was lambaste the chosen plan as “too conservative”.

What most of those critics didn’t consider was the nature of the troublesome, maligned plot of land sandwiched between

the imposing Eduskuntatalo (Finland’s Parliament House) and the playful Kiasma (its museum of modern art). As much as the acoustic and functional briefs, Helsinki’s new Musiikkitalo (Helsinki Music Centre) had to somehow reconcile these two strange neighbours, to create harmony between them. In that sense, the new building is a resounding success. Architect Marko Kivistö, working with his team from LaihoPulkkinen-Raunio, has spawned a structure that opts not to compete with the external beauty of the Finandia Hall but instead settles down in a mezzo voce, a “quiet voice”, encouraging a dialogue between its neighbours.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Helsinki

Inside, though, it is rather louder. The foyers are bold and striking and have an intense, sleek luxury that links bars, cafes, performance and exhibition spaces, the box office, cloakroom and a CD shop. The tall main auditorium extends the “vineyard-gone-crazy” designs already unveiled in Copenhagen and Hamburg; here rows of seats are pitched at slight, subtle angles inspired by logging formations in Finnish rivers. Daylight invades the blackened birch of the auditorium through huge mid-height windows.

heard, in fact, a little too much: musicians turning pages, keys tapping on woodwind instruments. That will fade as musicians get used to playing here, and the acoustic, too, will blossom and flower as the orchestras get to know how to use it. But they are already impressive. “It’s like suddenly having clean air to breathe,” said Sakari Oramo, chief conductor of the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, the following day. “There is an aura to the sound, which not all modern halls achieve.”

That daylight can be controlled, as I discovered at the Musiikkitalo’s opening concert on the last day of August. Seconds before a joint orchestra formed from members of the Helsinki Philharmonic and Finnish Radio Symphony began to play, electronic blinds covered the windows in a graceful, slow tempo. It added to the atmosphere of what was an extraordinary event, as 1,703 people sat in the main auditorium waiting to hear music – waiting to discover, in fact, if they could hear it at all.

So Helsinki at last has an acoustic worthy of its two fine symphony orchestras. The Sibelius Academy – Finland’s “university of music” – has moved in, too; an injection of youth which is sure to up the tempo of the mezzo voce to something of a buzz. The management are determined to create an open building where people can come all day to eat, drink, socialise and think as well as hear performances. But they will come to see the structure, too. As Helsinki prepares for its year as World Design Capital in 2012, the Musiikkitalo is beautiful, unique and bold enough to attract legions of design tourists.

The good news is that we could hear everything – clearly and brightly. We

But performances are what this building is all about – however tempting the other facilities. There are six auditoria in all (including a lecture theatre), spaces for performance of all kinds. The two orchestras at the opening concerts sounded electrifying. Already the Finnish media are calling for the utmost openness and versatility for the building and for ticket prices to be kept low; more lessons for the rest of Europe to take from this distinctly Nordic attitude to the performing arts. Perhaps the start of the Helsinki Philharmonic’s season says most about that. The orchestra begins not with a “standard” performance of Brahms or Mahler, but with a family concert for parents and children. And that is precisely why Finland is likely to remain at the top of the classical music heap: there is every chance a child in that audience will go on to conduct the Boston Symphony Orchestra or the Berlin Philharmonic.

For more information, please visit: www.musiikkitalo.fi

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 39

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Helsinki

A tasty haven in the heart of Helsinki

By Aija Salovaara Photos: Restaurant Vltava

Just next to Helsinki’s central railway station, there is a historical art deco building that used to serve as a delivery warehouse for the Finnish State Railways and later as Finnair's city terminal. Today this charming building is home to the biggest Czech restaurant in the country. “Finns like to drink beer; we are one of the top beer consumers in the world,” says Juha Hauta, manager of Vltava. “The Czechs have 500 years of experience in beer brewing, and that is why you can taste a strong feeling in Czech lagers.” Hence also the decision to open a Czechstyle restaurant in the capital of Finland; Vltava serves 14 different types of Czech lager on tap. The house brand lager, brewed in the Czech Republic especially for Vltava restaurant, varies according to the season: dark in winter time, wheat lager in summer. A living room for locals and a popular

after work get-together venue, Vltava is a great place to meet people. Whether you choose to have a chat over a pint of lager, to listen to some live music or to have a full course dinner, Vltava has it all. The building is divided into different areas, each of them with its own character. On the top floor, there is a private lounge for company meetings or private parties; the third floor has a bistro with an à la carte menu and a homely living room with comfortable sofas. The street level contains two bars dedicated to joyful meetings,

An urban infusion

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For more information, please visit: www.vltava.fi

By Inna Allen | Photos: Ezra Gould at Cocoa Helsinki

twist,” says restaurant owner and manager Iman Gharagozlu. Mixing Scandinavian produce with spicy Southern influences, the restaurant serves dishes such as reindeer carpaccio with peppers and cinnamon, and marinated salmon with tequila and jalapeno mayonnaise. Along with fresh and tasty food, Shanghai Cowboy specializes in tempting cocktails and good music. Visiting DJs play anything from pop and house to electro and Latin tunes. And with darker winter times ahead, the place promises to hold themed disco nights and even bingo evenings for added entertainment.

An atmospheric new addition to Helsinki’s culinary scene, restaurant Shanghai Cowboy opened its doors this summer and has quickly established itself as the place to eat, drink and be seen. As its name implies, Shanghai Cowboy mixes South American and Asian cuisines together and adds a hint of Scandinavia to the blend. The restaurant is located in the beautiful Kaartinkaupunki neighbourhood, in the southern part of Helsinki. A short walk from the harbour and the market square, its location is centralized yet quiet. With 32 seats, the restaurant is small and cosy. Its interior is clad in wood and sheet-metal, creating an industrial yet warm atmosphere. You can almost forget you are in Finland, as the energetic hustle and bustle brings to mind the cool hangout eateries of London and New York. Lunch contains a combination of dif-

music and lager with warm Czech-style snacks like Vltava’s own sausages. On the ground floor, there is also an outdoor terrace, open all year round. Scan magazine recommends: Marlenka, Czech honey and caramel cake with vanilla ice cream, and Glywein (to be enjoyed in winter time, outside on the heated terrace, surrounded by snow banks).

For more information, please visit: www.shanghaicowboy.fi

ferent salads and soup or stew. Flavours and ingredients are changed on a daily basis to provide variety for both regulars and newcomers. “The evening menu is Mexican-inspired, but with a modern

Address: Shanghai Cowboy, Unioninkatu 18, Helsinki, Finland

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Helsinki

A voyage into ethnic cultures Founded in 1931 by the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission, Kumbukumbu is an ethnographic museum that exhibits cultural and religious traditions of different cultures. The museum’s collections have been purchased by Finnish missionaries mainly from Africa and Asia. They illustrate the encounter between Finnish Christians and natives of other cultures. By Inna Allen | Photos: Kumbukumbu Museum

Located within 10 minutes' walk from the South Harbour of Helsinki, the museum is easily accessible and open from Tuesday to Sunday. Kumbukumbu’s collections contain over 7,000 ethnographic artefacts from more than 20 countries – anything from photographs and works of art to scientific specimens and manuscripts in the local languages.

jewellery and musical instruments, as well as articles associated with agriculture, hunting and fishing.” In addition to Namibia and Angola, the museum houses ethnographic material from Botswana, Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Senegal.

Kumbukumbu also holds an extensive collection of historical photographs from these regions. A large part of the originals is deposited in the photo archives of the National Board of Antiquities. Along with the main exhibition, the museum also presents temporary themed exhibitions throughout the year.

Treasures from Africa and imperial China Kumbukumbu’s main exhibition presents the traditions of the Ovambo peoples of south-western Africa in Namibia and Angola, and the imperial Chinese culture during the last years of the Qing dynasty in the early 20th century. These were the first destinations of the Finnish missionaries, and some items date back to as early as 1870. “The Ovambo collections present the life and culture of Namibian and southern Angolan people,” says museum director Raili Huopainen. “They contain cult artefacts, healers' instruments, traditional weapons,

of Hunan. Some precious items were presented as gifts. The collections include articles such as dresses and ornaments, bronzes from different periods, silk embroidery and painting scrolls, jade artefacts, and writing and painting equipment. The museum’s porcelain collection includes treasures from the Ming period.

For more information, please visit: www.mission.fi/kumbukumbu

Most of the Chinese exhibits were collected by Finnish missionaries in the years between 1902 and 1950 from the province

Address: Kumbukumbu, Tähtitorninkatu 18, 00141 Helsinki, Finland

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 41

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Helsinki, celebrates 20 years of great service and standout Scandinavian design

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Radisson Blu Royal Hotel

A landmark of modern Finnish architecture, the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel building is today still as striking and sleek as back in 1991, when its construction was concluded. The first hotel in Finland to be part of an international brand and chain, it continues to stand for first-class customer service, stylish and comfortable rooms, as well as some of the best conference facilities in Helsinki. Located right in the city centre, the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel is convenient for both leisure and business travellers. It is situated directly opposite of bus and metro stations, as well as close to a tram line and the Kamppi shopping and entertainment centre. With 262 rooms, including 40 business class rooms and 9 suites, the hotel offers a great selection of different types of accommodation. The luxurious suites come in four different sizes, ranging from 40 to 130 square metres. Naturally all rooms are tastefully decorated in a Scandinavian minimalistic style, including rocking chairs by famous Finnish designer Yrjö Kukkapuro, and all come with free wireless Internet. Radisson Blu Royal Hotel can truly say that it is one of the best conference hotels in Helsinki, as it was chosen as the Best Meeting Experience at the Best of Helsinki Awards 2010. Offering 13 conference rooms, the hotel can easily set up a meet-

42 | Issue 35 | November 2011

ing for 6 participants or a conference for 300 people. With state-of-the-art technical equipment and an exceedingly flexible approach to arranging events, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel is a great choice for a conference or any other special occasion.

The Grill it! restaurant is another source of pride for the hotel, as the innovative cooking style has received a Michelin recommendation, and even the locals love it. The restaurant as well as the hotel’s bar and outdoor terrace are all great places to relax and take in the international atmosphere. For a midnight snack, you can take advantage of the 24/7 Coffee Bar. In the morning, you can find 150 different prod-

ucts, including organic food, at the hotel’s Super Breakfast buffet. And, of course, it would not be a Finnish hotel without a sauna, which is free of use for all hotel guests, but there is also a larger VIP sauna with a roof terrace, which can be booked for a fun sauna evening accompanied by amazing views of Helsinki. “On top of the ideal location, beautiful architecture and designs, great facilities and an international atmosphere, we also have a highly professional staff. It is something we constantly get positive feedback on. We always take customers’ individual needs into consideration, whether they are travelling for leisure or business,” explains Rooms Division Manager Jaana Matikainen. For more information, please visit: www.radissonblu.com/royalhotelhelsinki

From top left, clockwise: Hellsten Espoo, Hellsten Helsinki Parliament, Hellsten Helsinki Senate. Bottom picture: Hellsten Espoo lobby

For more room, freedom and comfort choose Hellsten Hotel Apartments Hellsten Hotel Apartments offer furnished apartments for short or long-term stays at three different central locations within the Helsinki metropolitan area. With more room, freedom and comfort available than in regular hotel accommodation, the apartments are a great choice for business travellers as well as holidaymakers looking for a vacation home with a difference. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Hellsten Hotel Apartments

Hellsten Hotel Apartments, owned by Sweden-based Hellsten Hotel Group, promote a unique concept that sits comfortably somewhere between corporate housing and traditional hotels. While Hellsten Hotel Apartments own three different units, it is still one of their distinguishing features to have the apartments under one roof in each specific location. “We’re as close to a hotel as possible, without actually being one,” explains country manager Patrik Etelävuori. “You are given more room and freedom than in hotels, which is ideal, for example, for business clients looking for long or shortterm accommodation, and who are tired of depending on hotel services. It is also an easy option for foreign clients coming from afar, who would find a standalone corporate apartment a bit too unfamiliar and secluded.” Hellsten Hotel Apartments’ three different units include Hellsten Helsinki Parliament, situated in Töölö in the city centre in

a quiet residential area; Hellsten Helsinki Senate, located in the exclusive Katajanokka neighbourhood with beautiful Jugendstil architecture; and Hellsten Espoo in Leppävaara, a suburb with excellent transport connections to Helsinki and the airport, boasting one of Finland’s biggest shopping centres, Sello. All three operate according to the same principles and include similar facilities, including well-equipped kitchenettes, bathrooms with showers, televisions and free Internet (either wireless or wired). However, the Espoo building was originally constructed to be used as an apartment hotel, while the Helsinki sites include buildings from the early 20th century. The average size of the apartments is around 30 square metres, ranging from studio to two-bedroom accommodation, depending on the location. Hellsten Helsinki Senate also offers 160-square-metre penthouse suite perfect for conferences and special events; all units also include saunas in some of their apartments.

In Hellsten Espoo, you can also enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in the restaurant on the hotel premises. For a short stay of one to four nights, the breakfast is included in the rate. The Hellsten Helsinki Parliament front desk serves customers on weekdays from 8am until 8pm (including guests from Hellsten Helsinki Senate), whereas the 24-hour reception in Espoo offers support for the rest of the time. “We’re always there to help,” adds Etelävuori.

For more information, please visit: www.hellstenhotels.fi Find them on facebook: www.facebook.com/hellstenhotelapart ments

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 43

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Helsinki

A journey through Finland’s military history The Military Museum, founded in 1929, is the central museum of the Finnish Defence Forces. The museum collects, preserves, researches and displays artefacts and other heritage related to the military history of Finland. The Military Museum holds exhibitions in two prominent locations in Helsinki: one in the Kruununhaka area, a short walk from the Market Square, and two on the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. As the national special museum of military history, exhibitions display actual wartime items and attract thousands of visitors every year. Containing over 200,000 artefacts, the collections of the Military Museum consist of colours, orders of merit, arms, uniforms, equipment and military art, with the main focus on the 20th century. “Current exhibition The Winter War depicts the war of 1939-40 against the Soviet Union through numerous military items, such

as uniforms, light weapons, photographs and maps,” says exhibition curator Lauri Haavisto. “The exhibition also displays the pre-war era and covers the entire war period up until the Moscow peace treaty.” In addition, the museum holds a photograph archive for exhibition, research and pub-

lishing purposes, and collects literature related to military history. The Manege and Submarine Vesikko exhibitions at Suomenlinna are only open during the summer months, but the Kruununhaka museum is open throughout the year from Tuesdays to Sundays. The museum will be undergoing a vast renovation in 2013 and promises to open even bigger and better exhibitions by 2015. By Inna Allen | Photos: The Military Museum

For more information, please visit: www.sotamuseo.fi

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Northern Norway – memories

for life

By Innovation Norway | Photos: Terje Rakke/Nordic Life

Northern Norway is the perfect destination to experience the natural phenomenon that is the northern lights. More than a third of the country is above the Arctic Circle, and its latitude makes Norway one of the best spots in the world to witness the aurora borealis – and it is just over three hours away from the UK. The closer you get to the North Pole, the bigger your chance of seeing the magnificent display in the sky. At the very top of Norway, you will find the county of Finnmark, steeped in tradition and home to the Sami, Norway’s indigenous people. If you are lucky, you will also see hundreds of reindeer roaming in the wild. With a host of places to visit, including Alta, Kirkenes and Karasjok, Finnmark has something to offer for everyone. As well as the northern lights, there are magical adventures, such as the romantic Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta and Kirkenes

Snowhotel, dog sledding in the Pasvik Valley and a visit to Europe’s most northerly point, the North Cape at 71° north, as well as the chance to hear the tales of Sami life around the crackling fire in their lavvu.

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta

Finnmark is on the same latitude as Siberia, Greenland and Alaska, but thanks to the Gulf Stream, the harbours along the coast do not freeze over, and the area enjoys relatively mild winters. You can therefore take part in a thrilling king crab safari in the middle of winter in places like Kirkenes, or go in search of the northern lights along the coast on Hurtigruten, the magnificent coastal voyage. Travel independently or let a trusted UK tour operator, such as Taber Holidays or Specialised Tours, create a memorable itinerary for you. A visit to Northern Norway will create memories for life and leave you spellbound. www.visitnorway.com

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 45

Photo: Beate Juliussen

A warm welcome at the very north of Europe Many places boast of top-of-the-range hospitality and friendly locals. Many again offer stunning scenery and nice hotels. Few destinations, however, manage to combine all of the above with endless fun activities and cultural heritage, and only one does so while being located as far north as you can possibly get on mainland Europe. Find out why Finnmark is everything but cold, and most definitely worth a visit. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Terje Rakke/Nordic Life

Situated in the northernmost part of Norway, Finnmark borders on Finland and Russia as well as the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. With 73,000 inhabitants across an area as big as Denmark, it is best described as a gigantic village – a village characterised by hospitality, openness and an admirable urge to keep the local culture going strong. “That’s why there are so many activities, to keep people sticking together,” says Katja Petersen who works with marketing for the region. “Tourism isn’t that widespread here, so you get a much more personal, warm service than in many other areas.” Contrary to popular belief, this is a multicultural area. The indigenous Sami people live side by side with Norwegians, Finnish immigrants who came during the 1800s, Swedes who venture across the border for the well-paid work, Russians, and

46 | Issue 35 | November 2011

many others. Alongside Norwegian and Sami, the ancient Finnish language Kven is an official language, and the result is a community of open-mindedness and tolerance.

Sami chants, all with the sound of a crackling fire in the background. “It means a lot to the people who come here that they are able to experience this closeness with the people,” says Petersen.

“Whether in search of the northern lights or the midnight sun, you can find it here.”

An integral part of the culture is its culinary heritage, and the idea that visitors get to taste the flavours of Finnmark is quite a literal one. “The food is something else,” Petersen enthuses. “You really get to taste Finnmark: salmon from the rivers, local reindeer, locally-sourced king crab and other delicacies.”

Spoil your senses While it is mainly the visual sense that is catered for by marketing materials for the region, with awe-inspiring images of fjords, the Finnmark plateau and the northern lights, it is perhaps the ears that will be spoilt the most. Visit one of the two Sami settlements, and you will be invited to take part in the culture and history by listening to stories and joiks, traditional

Exciting outdoor activities Famous above all for North Cape, Finnmark offers all the panoramic views and extreme landscapes one could hope for, and with that, of course, comes a wide range of exciting outdoor activities. Among the most popular is dog sledding. Driving your own team of dogs is both

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

Take it one step further and go reindeer sledding, or learn how to throw a lasso the Sami way. Venture across the plains with the snowmobile or snowshoes, and if you feel right at home, a night in the snow hotel in Kirkenes or the ice hotel in Alta might be just the thing for you. Finally, perfect your exploration of Norwegian Lapland with a trip to North Cape, and take in the breathtaking views from a cliff 307 metres above sea level, as far north as it is possible to get on mainland Europe, only just over 2,000 kilometres away from the north pole.

Photo: GOFOTO

surprisingly easy and open to visitors of all ages, and no better place to try it than in the area that is home to the world’s northernmost sledge dog race, Finnmarkslöpet. This annual event offers two races, 500 and 1,000 kilometres respectively, both through rugged landscapes and tough conditions.

Peaceful and challenging – with a magic touch

Photo: Katya Rykova

A trip to Finnmark can be relaxing and exciting, peaceful and challenging, all at once. You can get all the outdoor kicks you want, yet at the end of the day, there are plenty of comfortable, modern hotels for you to rest in. But what adds that little touch of magic is something that cannot be arranged, a phenomenon far from man-made: the light. Whether in search of the northern lights or the midnight sun, you can find it here. “No other place in the world offers a greater chance to experience the northern lights,” Petersen says proudly. “But you may have to set off on a safari to look for them. You might be lucky and find it right away, or it could take hours.” Where will you go: off to the shoreline or inland across the plains? Either way, you can be sure that the northern lights will not disappoint you. And, as we have already discovered, neither will the hospitality, the stories, the food or the nature. It is fair to say that Finnmark is everything but mediocre: an environment of beautiful crispness, but with a warm, welcoming heart.

For more information, please visit: www.regionarctica.com

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 47

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

Extravagant racing in exclusive surroundings is, along with kulturreisen.no, providing musical and other cultural experiences throughout the entire Finnmark county. Andersen tells of how they prepare to expand this offer in the coming years: “We plan to advertise extensive tours to Finnmark with the race being a red thread throughout the programme.” “The dog sled race, which in 2012 will be held for the 32nd time, is run by many volunteers, and competing in Finnmarksløpet the upcoming year are participants from all over Europe, including England, Scotland and Wales,” Andersen states.

Being the world’s most northern dog sled race, Finnmarksløpet based in Alta, Norway, can offer a variety of adventures and experiences in astonishing surroundings along with its main attraction: the race. The race that starts and finishes in Alta, the largest town in Finnmark, will take the competitors on a 500 or a 1,000-kilometre journey through the spectacular scenery of the north, where the longest run will last for about seven days, with its participants having to cross most of Finnmark county to Kirkenes in the east, before finishing in Alta. “This is an incredible cultural arrangement,” says Trond Anton Andersen, head of public relations and media contact for Finnmarksløpet. “This is a race with nonstop action all the way; everyone who does dog sled racing knows how big this race is.” Including the race itself, which starts on 10 March in 2012, Finnmarksløpet also has its very own cultural programme, and

By DidrikOttesen | Photo: Anita B. Svaler

Photo: Jørn Losvar

For more information, please visit: www.finnmarkslopet.no

Husky sledding for all in the northern wilderness By Sven Riis Houston Photos: Holmen Hundesenter

Holmen Hundesenter, located in the town of Alta, is home to over 80 specially bred Alaskan husky dogs. Led by owner Eirik Nilsen, they offer visitors a chance to command their own dog sledding unit out into the vast terrain of Altadalen and Finnmarksvidda. Holmen Hundesenter was established by Nilsen in 1994 as a result of a dog sledding career that now spans nearly 30 years. He is a three-time winner of Europe’s longest race, having participated on 13 occasions. The centre offers two types of excursions, the first being a two-hour trip suitable for the entire family. Visitors will be picked up at their hotels and provided with a full kit of winter clothing before spending two hours in the terrain with a guide, enabling them to take in the surroundings

48 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Alaskan husky dog

Dog sledding in Finnmarksvidda

while personally steering the dogs. The day concludes with some coffee and cake inside the glowing warmth of the Hundesenter’s lavvo tent. A more extensive and adventurous five-day tour is also available. The guide will take you from cabin to cabin with all equipment, clothing, accommodation and meals provided. “The five-day adventure runs from March to May when the temperature is

comfortable and the sun is out, and it is a journey that anyone can complete,” Nilsen explains. A cat and dog hotel is also available, catering for up to 50 dogs and 12 cats. The hotel, along with all other services, is open all year round. For more information, please visit: www.holmenhundesenter.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

Northern Lights Husky offers views of arctic scenery with a difference If you want to experience the Artic sceneries of Northern Norway during the winter from a sleigh pulled by husky dogs, look to Northern Lights Husky. They are able to help, if you want to enjoy an excursion during the exotic lights of the winter day or the majestic northern lights at night. The latter are only visible north of the Arctic Circle. Customers are expected to participate actively in preparing for the experience in order to learn more about and form a relationship with the dogs. The company has 30 dogs and can accommodate up to 200 tourists at a time. In 2007, the company’s owner and manager Trine Lyrek formed Northern Lights

Husky in order to combine passion with business. The company is based near a town in Finnmark called Alta. Finnmark is Norway’s largest, north-easternmost county. Alta’s airport is served by Norwegian and SAS, and both airlines offer

flights from Europe via Oslo. Lyrek has raced with huskies since the early 1990s, at times also competitively. In 2012, the company will receive full environmental certification by the Norwegian government for offering tourism activities in harmony with the environment. The season lasts from midDecember to early May, with 2.5-hour excursions scheduled twice a day. All-day and allnight excursions are available on request. These packages include meals by camp fire in the Arctic wilderness. By Stian Sangvig | Photos: Northern Lights Husky

For more information, please visit: www.northernlightshusky.com

A festival steeped in Sami traditions Each year at Easter, Karasjok, the Sami capital in the heart of Norwegian Lapland, hosts The Karasjok Easter Festival, a modern festival with roots in Sami traditions and way of life. Traditionally, Easter was when the seminomadic Sami population returned home, and thus a time for family gatherings, weddings and christenings. Over time, this tradition has evolved into a modern Easter festival. “As a festival, we are fairly young,” says festival director Randi Olstad, “but the traditions it builds on go back a long time. It is a Sami festival first and foremost, but we aim to be an all-inclusive event.” The festival programme is varied, featuring music, fashion, art, culture and literature, as well as many outdoor activities, like reindeer races, a cross-country skiing competition and snowmobile racing.

Concert by the band rOlfFa. Photo: Ken A.Brox, Finnmark Dagblad

Beginning on the day after Palm Sunday, the festival runs until April 24. “We start the week with Sami literature, including interviews with authors and performances for children,” says Olstad. “Towards the weekend, there is more of a focus on music, with both small intimate concerts and larger ones.” The musical programme promises traditional Sami joik and modern Sami music, as well as mainstream Norwegian artists.

By Karin Modig

Thursday and Friday’s programme is aimed at adults and families, whereas Saturday is aimed at teenagers and young adults, with both up-and-coming and established artists set to perform. With the light starting to return after the long, dark winter months, Easter is a great time to experience Karasjok. Add to this a festival steeped in Sami traditions, and anyone making the journey to the north of Norway is in for an Easter experience with a difference. "Catwalk" 2011. Anna Fenger Lynne shows a dress designed by Tonje Plur. Photo: Randi Olstad.

For more information, please visit: http://festival.karport.no

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 49

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

From midnight sun to northern lights:

The city that has it all In 1891, Hammerfest became the first town in northern Europe to install electric street lamps. Fittingly, perhaps, for a region famed for its spell-binding northern lights and midnight sun, yet there is far more to Hammerfest than meets the eye. Its intriguing history, complete with devastating fires and Nazi occupation, combined with its cherished Arctic heritage, makes it an ideal destination all year round. By Sven Riis Houston | Photos: Hammerfest Touristinformation AS

January,” explains Knut Arne Iversen at Hammerfest Tourism AS.

Hammerfest has been a hub for fishermen and Arctic explorers for centuries, and with good reason. Its location, right at the tip of Norway, means it is officially recognised as the northernmost city in the world. Not only is it blessed with beautiful surroundings, but it also plays host to some truly mesmerising natural phenomena. The socalled polar days, during which the town is engulfed in 24 hours of daylight during the summer months, mean visitors can engage in otherwise unimaginable midnight activities such as a round of golf or a coastal sightseeing tour.

The summer period is a particularly busy time for the city, but it remains an appealing destination all-year round thanks to a multitude of museums and exhibitions, which pay homage to the region’s colourful past. Top of the list is the Museum of Reconstruction which, as its title suggests, serves to preserve the memory of a particularly traumatic event during the Second World War.

“In a way we have four months of extreme and contrasting natural conditions. We have the two months of constant daylight from May to July, before we get the complete darkness between November and

In 1944, the city’s inhabitants were forcibly evacuated by German soldiers, before the latter proceeded to burn the city to the ground. The sheer magnitude of the fire was devastating and just one solitary

50 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Rich history

building survived the blaze: a graveyard chapel. Erected in 1937, it still stands proudly today with the title of Hammerfest’s oldest structure. “Our city was completely burned to the ground during the war, and the Museum of Reconstruction has several artefacts and tells the story of how everything was rebuilt. This, of course, after two thirds of the city was destroyed by a fire in 1890,” said Iversen. Another notable historical aspect is the city’s Arctic traditions, which are proudly treasured by the Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society. It was set up to preserve Hammerfest’s status as an Arctic city, and its visitor centre is open to the public allyear round.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

The city takes great pride in being the northernmost in the world, and its unique location has attracted pioneering adventurers for centuries. This is particularly evident when taking in the sight of the Meridian Column, a large statue erected in 1853 in memory of the first international measurement of the earth’s circumference. It is a marvellous structure, something which is reflected in its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Northern lights Modern-day Hammerfest is a thriving city with plenty to offer in terms of activities and culinary experiences. Guided coastal boat tours, ample hiking terrain and city tours all form part of a lengthy list of outdoor offerings. The city tour is a bus trip around the city, featuring a stop at the interactive energy exhibition centre, which pays tribute to the region’s growing status within the renewable energy sector.

Meridian Column at night.

Those keen to sample some of the local culinary delights face no shortage of options. And while there are plenty of eateries, one in particular stands out from the crowd. Mikkelgammen is a Sámi restaurant which, with its quaint grass-covered exterior, bares a hefty resemblance to an ancient Viking house or even a hobbit’s home from the Lord of the Rings films. Famed for its exquisite food and idyllic location, it has also proved to be an ideal spot in which to observe the awe-inspiring northern lights. “Catching the northern lights from within the comforts of Mikkelgammen is a magical experience, and well worth the visit. The lights can be seen from around the middle of October to March and early April, and on a clear night, they are just immensely beautiful,” says Iversen. Mikkelgammen restaurant with northern lights. Photo: Lars Anders Mathisen

In terms of accommodation, the city offers a variety of hotels as well as camping sites during the summer months. Regular ferry services make it easily accessible, while the city airport has frequent flight connections to Tromsø. The Arctic city is also home to numerous festivals throughout the year, details of which can be found on the Hammerfest Tourism Association’s website.

For more information, please visit: www.hammerfest-turist.no

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 51

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

Opening show of the Barents Spektakel 2010: “Il Corso” by Pan. Optikum Theatre. Photo: Sergey Pribylsky

A northern spectacle February 2012 sees the return of the annual Barents Spektakel. A forum as much as a festival, Barents Spektakel is a meeting place for people interested in contemporary art, culture and politics. From political debates to the launch of a computer game, this festival seemingly has it all. Organised by local women’s art collective Pikene på Broen, or the Girls on the Bridge, it will be held for the ninth year in 2012, and the programme will centre around the theme DARE TO SHARE.

By Karin Modig

influenced by these issues. Set to appear are politicians, business leaders and scientists, alongside architects, musicians and artists.

“The idea behind our theme is that if you want to make something happen in the areas around the borders, you have to cooperate with your neighbouring countries,” says Kuzovnikova.

“We think of Barents Spektakel as a unique winter adventure, and a festival that pushes the boundaries in terms of content,” says Inger Blix Kvammen, local artist and curator, and one of the organisers. The Barents region is a meeting point between East and West, and Kirkenes has gone from being a town on the border of the iron curtain to becoming a creative hub where different cultures meet. The DARE TO SHARE slogan is based around that notion, and during the festival there will be debates and commentary on the issues facing this region, as well as music, performances and art inspired and

52 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Many unique productions are being made especially for the festival. There will be music from Russia, Norway and Finland, creating an informal atmosphere.

Performance “There Are Places In Our Heads One Can Travel To”. Barents Spektakel 2011. Photo: Stefan Daub

“What we are trying to do is to create a festival that can be experienced from different points of view. Generally people come both to have lots of fun and to learn something new,” says artistic director Luba Kuzovnikova.

The official festival runs from Wednesday the 8th of February till Sunday the 12th, with plenty of events in the week leading up to it. Around 15,000 people from several countries are expected to attend.

For more information and ticket booking, please visit: www.barentsspektakel.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

Winter at Juhls Silvergallery. The architecture of the house has developed over 50 years. It is in one with the landscape and is inspired by the formation of the snow.

A thriving business born out of hard work and creativity Aside from producing extraordinary silver jewellery inspired by northern Norwegian nature, Juhls Silvergallery in Kautokeino is also worth a visit for its history, architecture and interior. The family-run business is a labour of love, set up by husband and wife Frank and Regine Juhls. Truly a one-of-a-kind, the building is a work of art in itself. Originally built in the 1950s, it has had one new room added per decade and decorated accordingly. Anyone visiting is invited in to marvel at the building and the art on display. Regine and daughter Sunniva Juhls design the jewellery, while father Frank makes striking, colourful paintings. “My parents came to Finnmark in the 1950s from Denmark and Germany, and worked very hard to set up this business,” says Sunniva. “It was by no means plain sailing, but they made it a success.”

By Karin Modig | Photos: Juhls Silvergallery

Their foray into the jewellery business was born out of Frank’s fascination with the ancient trade routes used by the Sami population, who used jewellery, but had no tradition of making it. He decided to train as a silversmith, first and foremost with the intention of learning to repair items. “My mother had no choice but to help, and soon realised that making jewellery was her calling,” says Sunniva. Regine is inspired by the vast plains in Finnmark, the tundra, which she has named her collection after. “We are so far north, right in the middle of the Arctic, where plants only grow for four months of the year,” says Sunniva. “My mother’s collection is influenced by this fact, with large and organic pieces.”

Sunniva, on the other hand, is inspired by snow, winter and frost. “My pieces tend to be smaller and more discreet, but still with plenty of character and references to nature,” she says. Today, Juhls Silvergallery is one of Norway’s largest silversmith workshops, and they produce modern, timeless pieces. Unusual for this day and age, every single piece is made in their workshop, a fact they are very proud of. Juhls Silvergallery produces three jewellery collections, Tundra, New Collection and a Traditional Jewellery line for Sami costumes, as well as a collection of Frank’s paintings. All lines are available to buy online through their website. Juhls Silvergallery is about a two-hour drive from Alta, and is open year-round.

"Magic ball" - A historical piece of jewellery originally from the south of Norway.

Earrings, Tundra design

Bracelet from the Tundra range by Regine Juhls. A modern classic.

For further information, and to buy their lines online, please visit: www.juhls.no

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 53

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

An Arctic photography adventure

By Magnus Nygren Syversen Photos: Tormod Amundsen

Whether you prefer the view through a camera lens or a set of binoculars, the wonderful Varanger fjord in the far north-eastern reaches of Norway offers an Arctic bird scene unlike anywhere else in the world.

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the northern lights come to life and light up the night sky,” adds Utsi. For more information, please visit: www.varanger.com

www.arktiskmeny.no

Steller's Eider, King Eider, Common Eider, Long-tailed Skua and the characteristic Puffin make this area a bird watcher's paradise. “In February and March, when the daylight returns, Varanger turns into an El Dorado for bird photographers,” says Kate Utsi, general manager of Destination Varanger. Longer hours of daylight peeking over the low horizon create a unique canvas and colour spectrum for photographers looking to capture that “once in a life time” motif. “You are also guaranteed a beautiful play of colours when the sun sets, and

ARCITC MENU

Surrounded by the rugged, yet colourful, wilderness that defines this region, the Varanger fjord opens up into the cold Arctic waters of the Barents Sea. This is the only fjord in Norway facing east, and its secluded location and large areas of untouched nature provide the perfect habitat for a rich variety of Arctic bird species looking for a place to nest. Each year an abundance of both seabirds and mountain birds migrate to the shores of the Varanger fjord. Here, where the great open plains meet the calm waters of the fjord, they can spend the winter protected from the harsh climate further north. Species like the

Arcitc Menu is a network of 33 enthusiastic eating establishments from Northern-Norway and Svalbard. Arctic Menu represents the good taste of Northern-Norway. As a guest you’ll be served local dishes and produce of high quality. Look out for our logo when you are travelling!

Gapahuken Restaurant. Photo: Geir Moen/GoFoto Kirkenes

Aina Basso Photo: Tove K. Breistein

Anna Fiske Photo: June Witzøe

Gyrðir Elíasson Photo: Einar F. Ingólfsson

Kerttu Vuolab Photo: Common Cash/D. Girji

Lisa Aisato Photo: Einar Børresen

Tor Åge Bringsværd Photo: Roger Pihl

A Nordic literary extravaganza in Finnmark Following the success of the first festival in Alta in 2010, Finnmark International Literature Festival returns in 2012. This time, it is moving to Kirkenes and promises an interesting programme of events centred on the theme of languages. By Karin Modig

Kirkenes, in the extreme north-eastern part of Norway, is the perfect location for a festival exploring languages, situated, as it is, close to both Russia and Finland, and in an area with a large Sami population.

Events will be spread throughout Kirkenes and nearby areas, and the festival is cooperating with kindergartens, schools, youth clubs and libraries, with an expressed aim of reaching as many people as possible.

“As this is the only festival of its kind in Finnmark, we decided to hold it in a different place each time, enabling us to reach as wide an audience as possible,” says Stine Qvigstad Jenvin, festival coordinator. “What we want to do is to create a place where people can meet and talk about literature, without limitations,” says Qvigstad Jenvin. “There will be meetings with authors, a poetry slam, discussions and several lectures by academics and others.” The festival looks to cover several issues within its theme, linking the topics to the area of Finnmark. Both factual writing and fiction will be represented, and so will children’s literature.

Music by Niko Valkeapää during the festival opening in Alta 2010. Photo: Sonja Siltala

A strong line-up of authors is already confirmed, both Norwegian and international. Much-loved Norwegian author Tor Åge Bringsværd will be appearing, alongside local historian and author Aina Basso, Icelandic Gyrðir Elíasson, Finnish Kerttu Vuolab and Swedish Anna Fiske, to name but a few.

“Our aim is to have a mixture of international authors, and we are very proud of the ones taking part. In terms of the genres represented, there is a wide spectrum; all bring something different to the table, meaning a greater opportunity for more people to find something that excites them,” says Qvigstad Jenvin. “We will have a poetry evening for children, and we are also creating a programme aimed specifically at young people.” The first festival was a great success, with around 2,500 visitors. Building on that success, and extending the festival to include the weekend, the 2012 festival promises to be a treat. Finnmark International Literature Festival runs from February 29 to March 4, 2012. For more information, please visit: www.finnlitt.org

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 55

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Northern Norway

A husky ride into the wilderness

Easily accessible by car from Kirkenes and Vadsø is the beautiful Tana Valley, home to Tana Husky, a small business specializing in intimate and personal husky rides, combining nature, quietness and culture. Here, owner and competitive husky rider Dag Broch and his 15 huskies welcome visitors for year-round husky rides. The highlight of their offerings is a four-day, intimate husky ride for one or two people. “It is a very exclusive trip,” says Broch, “ideal for anyone really wanting to get away and immerse themselves in nature for a few days.” During the first evening and following morning, visitors get to know both Broch and the dogs. “The visitors will be the

Photo: Reiulf Grønnevik

The spectacular mountain plateau of Finnmarksvidda covers a vast area across the county of Finnmark. A popular destination with locals and tourists alike, a great way to experience the scenery is from a husky dog sled.

By Karin Modig Photo: Dag Broch

in a lifetime experience. You may get to see the phenomenal northern lights, and both moose and reindeer sightings are common. The trip can be anything up to around 100 kilometres, and should the stillness be too deafening, Broch is also a musician who promises to bring his guitar with him on all trips.

ones taking care of the dogs throughout the trip, with me supervising, so there is a focus on safety, and making sure the dogs are equipped correctly,” he says. The following days are spent in the wilderness, staying either in a tent or a traditional Sami cabin with meals, including reindeer meat. The beauty of the surrounding nature means the trip is guaranteed to be a once For more information, please visit: www.tanahusky.no

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Have you booked your christmas Party? Radisson Blu Portman Hotel, 22 Portman Square, London W1H 7BG, www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-london

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Denmark

Stina Nilsson, Spotting 2010

Attraction of the Month, Denmark

Musical theatre for everyone By Signe Hansen | Photos: Sven Berggreen

Old stucco ceilings; rock concerts; chamber music; young, innovative artists; experimental productions - your first sight of Københavns Musikteater (Copenhagen’s Music Theatre) might not give it away, but it is all there. Tucked away in a historic townhouse on Copenhagen’s atmospheric Kronprinsensgade, Københavns Musikteater prides itself on its wide reach, diverse audience and innovative productions. “It is very important to us that we are a multifarious theatre. We are Copenhagen’s Music Theatre, and we want to appeal to everybody in Copenhagen, not just the traditional theatre goers,” says administrative director Anne Rasmussen. Setting the scene Københavns Musikteater was founded three years ago by its current artistic director Allan Kile and spotting coordinator Mikala Bjarnov Lage; and soon after, Anne Rasmussen joined. Located in an old Freemasons’ Lodge, the theatre’s interi-

ors still carry marks from its past such as the Freemasons’ characteristic white and black tile patterns. “The atmosphere here is really that of an old-fashioned Copenhagener flat, and guests are often really amazed when they see our main theatre hall, because they don’t expect to find such a great hall inside the old city centre,” explains Rasmussen. The theatre hall seats 150 spectators; a smaller hall for around 40 people is used for more intimate performances.

sible, the only restriction is, of course, that it has to involve music,” explains Rasmussen. “Our goal is to broaden and develop the concept of musical drama – most often we think of operas or musicals when we think of musical drama, but it is a lot more. It’s a genre that needs to be developed, and because we are a small, new theatre, we can do a lot of original performances with new music and innovative ideas, which huge theatres simply can’t do.”

New ideas Every year 12-15 musical drama productions and 20-25 concerts are presented at Københavns Musikteater. Some are produced by the theatre; others are set up by independent artists or theatre groups. Among the independent groups are those created through the theatre’s spotting process, for which individual artists can apply to develop ideas through workshops and network forums. “Many groups have really good ideas but don’t have a scene; we try to accommodate as many as pos-

Morten Lutzhøft and the cast from the performance “Jeg er drömmenes Labyrint” (I am the Labyrinth of Dreams).

For more information, please visit: www.kobenhavnsmusikteater.dk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 57

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Iceland

Harpa is easily one of Iceland’s most important cultural hubs and architectural landmarks, combining designs by renowned visual artist Olafur Eliasson as well as Henning Larsen Architects and Batteríið Architects. Bringing new life and a dynamic energy to Reykjavik’s central harbour and waterfront area, Harpa is a world-class venue that has already attracted big names from different music genres as well as international businesses in search of a state-of-the-art conference centre. Performers so far have included pop sensation Jamie Cullum, tenor Jonas Kaufmann, pianist Maria João Pires, violinist and conductor Maxim Vengerov, conductor Gustavo Dudamel and clarinettist Martin Fröst. Among the international conferences that have already taken place at Harpa are EUWIN 2011 and EABCT 2011.

Attraction of the Month, Iceland

Iceland’s new and dynamic cultural centre By Nia Kajastie | Photo: Hördur Sveinsson

Harpa forms a striking new addition to Iceland’s cultural scene, finally offering a home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra as well as the Icelandic Opera. The country has never before had its own music hall and had to wait almost a hundred years before Harpa was established, and even this turned out to be a rocky road affected by the financial crisis. Nonetheless the city of Reykjavik and the Icelandic state decided to take over the management and financing of the whole project, and it has certainly paid off. “Since its opening in May, more than

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350,000 people have attended the hall already, which is more than the whole population of Iceland, so it is fair to say that it has been very successful,” explains musical director Steinunn Birna Ragnarsdóttir.

Photo: Bára Kristinsdóttir

Harpa, Reykjavik’s concert hall and conference centre, which opened its doors to the public in May 2011, has been a long time in the making. The country’s brand new cultural centre is set to host a wide array of word-class concerts, from classical to contemporary, as well as large international conferences and other prestigious events.

“Icelandic music has been a strong factor in introducing Iceland to the world, through artists like Björk, who brought her Biophilia live show to Harpa in October and early November, and the myriad of artists performing at Iceland Airwaves. This building now puts a strong emphasis on the importance of music, from classical to rock, as Iceland‘s focus is set on culture during the recovery from the financial crisis that is happening slowly but surely,” concludes music director Steinunn Birna

Event highlights: The Iceland Symphony Orchestra performs weekly concerts. 21 November 2011: Elvis Costello Until 25 November 2011: The Magic Flute, The Icelandic Opera 19-20 January 2012: The music of James Bond, The Iceland Symphony Orchestra 16-17 February 2012: The Lord of the Rings Symphony, The Iceland Symphony Orchestra

For more information, please visit: en.harpa.is

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Attraction of the Month, Norway

A journey in the footsteps of the Sami population By Karin Modig | Photos: De Syv Kaffekok

The semi-nomadic Sami did not use kilometres or miles to tell the distance, instead judging the length of a journey by how many coffee breaks it included. This old tradition provides the framework of an innovative active holiday in Finnmark, the Sami heartland. De Syv Kaffekok can be loosely translated as The Seven Coffee Stops, and is a journey in the footsteps of the indigenous Sami of Northern Norway. It is a co-operation between 14 different businesses, providers of accommodation and activities. All in all, there are seven coffee stops, each representing a different part of Sami culture, tradition, history and way of life. The brains behind this trip is Esther Utsi, owner of guesthouse Polmakmoen Gjestgård and the lighthouse and guesthouse

Kjølnes Fyr in Berlevåg. “I started working on the concept of De Syv Kaffekok as a holiday experience about ten years ago,” she says. “I divided the area up into seven stops, and invited local businesses to participate.” Utsi’s family were reindeer herders, and the journey follows the route her father and his reindeer made every year, from inland Finnmark to the coast. The area is notable for the frequent northern lights during the darker months, whilst the summer months present plenty of opportunities for bird watching. The journey starts at Polmakmoen Gjestegård in Tana, on the border with Finland, where Utsi dishes up locally produced food and gives you the history of the area. “From there, the journey goes north

through Finnmark, ending up in Berlevåg right on the northern coast,” she says. “During the journey, we will see a crosssection of Finnmark, where every place represents a different part of our culture.” The journey covers most aspects of Sami culture, from mysticism and magic to the women’s place. “What is important to me is to show that our culture is so much more than just tents and reindeer,” Utsi says passionately. It is around 150 kilometres from the first to the last stop. You can make the trip by car in a day, or you can do it on foot, taking days soaking up the history and nature. Throughout, there are masses of opportunities for activities to take part in, including salmon fishing, bird safaris and snow mobile rides, to mention a few.

Polmakmoen Gjestegård is easily accessible from Kirkenes Airport. For more information, please visit: www.polmakmoen-gjestegard.no/ NOR/de7kaffekok.html

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 59

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland

Hotel of the Month, Finland

A hotel and so much more Sokos Hotel Flamingo is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the countless pampering experiences on offer. Along with being perfect for leisure breaks, it provides versatile business facilities and excellent meeting premises. So whether you are after a relaxing business stay or some action-packed leisure time, or vice versa, this hotel caters for all your needs. By Inna Allen | Photos: Sokos Hotel Flamingo

Sokos Hotels is the largest hotel chain in Finland. With a wide selection of hotels in Finland, Tallinn and St. Petersburg, the chain is well known for offering convenient amenities and excellent locations. Whether in city centres or at holiday resorts, all hotels are easily reachable and within good traffic connections. In addition to accommodation, Sokos Hotels include a wide range of restaurant and meeting services, conveniently all under one roof.

Area, and only a few kilometres from the airport. Built in 2008, the hotel is part of the Flamingo entertainment complex, which also houses the popular Jumbo shopping centre. The biggest entertainment centre in Scandinavia, Flamingo includes a wide variety of spa facilities, wellness services and a water park, as well as shops, bowling alleys, a cinema and an array of restaurants. Open all year round, the complex brings some serious fun to its visitors.

For business and leisure Sokos Hotel Flamingo is located in the city of Vantaa, in the Helsinki Metropolitan

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“We have 309 comfortable high-quality rooms here at Sokos Hotel Flamingo,”

says hotel manager Päivi Holappa. “All rooms are non-smoking and have an adjustable room-based air-conditioning system and Wi-Fi internet access.” The hotel’s restaurant Amarillo provides tasty food, good beverages and a laid-back sociable atmosphere. Famous for its Mexican-themed menu, Amarillo welcomes guests to eat, drink and have fun. There is also a private restaurant in the hotel, which is ideal for organizing various types of events, accommodating up to 300 guests. “Our superb banqueting facilities, available on request, have proven highly popular,” Holappa continues.

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland

In addition to all the leisure amenities, Sokos Hotel Flamingo also boasts excellent conference facilities. There are 12 meeting rooms varying in sizes, accommodating anything from 12 to 140 people. The hotel is easily accessible by public transport, and a taxi rank is located right outside the main entrance. There are also 800 free parking spaces in the Flamingo car park. Abundance of wellness and entertainment Flamingo offers a unique spa experience with a blend of quiet chill-out relaxation for adults and energising fun for the family. The luxurious Spa & Wellness world is ideal for winding down in quiet surroundings, while the Water Park keeps children and adults alike entertained for hours with its five different pools and slides. Guests can also make use of the comprehensive gym centre, and there is, of course, a proper Finnish sauna. From bowling and billiards to glow golf and cinema, Flamingo’s leisure world offers so much to choose from that you might need a few visits to experience everything. Become a golf expert at the state-of-the-art golf simulator, or try putting a ball into a shark’s mouth at Europe’s first glow mini-golf course. Flamingo’s super-modern cinema complex is equipped with world-class screening technology, while the bowling centre boasts 20 bowling alleys and 8 pool tables. A taste for good food and shopping Flamingo houses a variety of specialist shops and boutiques, open seven days a week. In addition, the Jumbo shopping

The Mexican-themed Amarillo restaurant

centre, the largest in the region, is only a short walk away across the indoor passage. Along with over a hundred stores, the complex is bursting with different restaurants and cafés to keep all the shoppers energised. From breakfast to a

night snack and from pizzas to sushi, the eateries cater for many needs, while pubs provide sociable fun if you feel like partying. With so much to see and do, this hotel complex really delivers all services under one big roof.

Sokos Hotel Flamingo Tasetie 8, 01510 Vantaa, Finland Distance to Helsinki-Vantaa airport is 3.2 km and 15 km to Helsinki city centre.

For more information, please visit: www.sokoshotels.fi and www.flamingo.fi

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 61

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Indulge your senses at the old manor house Comwell Borupgaard is part of the renowned Comwell chain of 15 luxurious hotels and conference centres. Borupgaard was originally an old manor house, and the grandeur is still evident, blending seamlessly with the modern facilities. Borupgaard is located near the coastal town of HelsingĂ¸r (Elsinore), in one of Denmark's most historic regions, and amid the stunning nature of North Zealand. The hotel is just one hour's drive from Copenhagen Airport. By Yane Christensen | Photos: Comwell Borupgaard

Situated in a beautifully maintained park, every room in Comwell Borupgaard has a view over either the park or the lake. The lines between the inside and the outside are deliberately blurred: the panoramic windows bring nature inside, and the nature is also reflected in the dĂŠcor which mainly consists of materials with an organic origin. The hotel has 149 rooms, newly renovated to a high standard, including four suites and four rooms for guests with disabilities. All rooms have Internet connection, a flat-screen television, mini bar, large work desk, spacious bathroom and, of course, views of the beautiful park or lake.

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The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. There are walking and cycling routes, tennis courts, and golf courses, to name a few. The hotel is also within reach of several popular tourist attractions, such as Kronborg Castle and Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Conferences and meetings Comwell Borupgaard is a renowned conference centre, and it has recently won the prestigious MPI Meeting Venue of the Year 2011 award. The facilities include several meeting rooms, seminar rooms, exhibition areas and an auditorium with a

capacity of up to 330 people. All venues are equipped with modern AV equipment and wireless Internet, and there is even a customer centre, offering technical support. Professional conference coordinators are available to help you host a successful event, offering ideas and advice on how to tailor-make your meetings to suit your particular needs. A popular option is combining meetings with spa activities. The conference coordinators can suggest ways in which breaks can be used to re-energise and spoil your conference participants.

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

There is a range of professional meeting packages available. These can be upgraded or adjusted to suit your preferences, providing you with a perfect meeting package. There are plenty of outdoor facilities at Borupgaard, which are suitable for team building events. In collaboration with professional event bureaus and course organisers, they arrange a range of activities, including sailing and park olympics. A full-size spa with a unique philosophy One of the biggest and best spas in Denmark is located in the old manor building. Modern facilities have been added to create a delightful and extremely wellequipped spa. The spa's philosophy is based on its so-called four cornerstones: Physical Flow (treatments), Mental Calm, Physical Activity and Comwell Care (a carefully devised combination of healthy eating, physical activity and pampering for body and mind). The spa offers an array of treatments, beautifying as well as relaxing and

restorative. In the 15 treatment rooms, there are several types of massages available, such as aromatherapy and hot stone massage, classic Swedish massage, and also body scrubs, deep-cleansing clay treatments and facials. Following your treatments, you can relax in the Silent Retreat Room with guided meditation or in the Relax Room, where healthy drinks and fruit are served. Throughout the spa, guests are surrounded by a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with relaxing spa music. The spa extends to the outdoors, with yoga sessions in the park and outdoor saunas and a Jacuzzi, both with panoramic views of the lake. The spa also offers various physical activities, such as yoga and aqua gym, and also the Five Tibetan Rites, healing breathing exercises, and sauna treatments with essential oils. The unique AquaSpa offers a large range of modern facilities such as the Relax Sauna with scents, Steam Sauna, Hot Sauna, and as the only spa in Denmark, a Salt Sauna, which strengthens your immune system and skin.

Food also plays a huge part in the spa programme at Borupsgaard. Guests are tempted away from the traditional buffet and familiar choices, by some delicious, healthy and balanced options, such as a super-healthy breakfast, especially developed to set you up for the day. The food served at Borupgaard is generally based on Nordic cooking, using high-quality produce. You do not have to be an overnight guest at Borupgaard to enjoy the spa facilities either; you can come as a DaySpa guest too. And with winter approaching, you should consider booking yourself in for an immune system boosting session at the spa. The signature treatment PureSpa is designed to prepare you for the cold season. Depending on which package you have booked, you are guaranteed to leave Borupgaard feeling renewed, relaxed or energized.

For more information, please visit: www.comwell.dk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 63

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

Take a bite of Italy A visit to Ristorante Aldente in the heart of Aarhus lets you experience not only the tastes and smells of Italy but also its sounds, sights and atmosphere. Owned, managed and waited by Italians, Aldente is really, says its new owner Valentin El-Mais, Aarhus’s only real Italian restaurant. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Ristorante Aldente

“Danish people are really fond of Italian food, but they expect more than just a dish of pasta - they have high standards. To be a true Italian restaurant you need the Italian atmosphere and you need Italian chefs, and I think that we are the only restaurant in Aarhus that has that.” Italian all the way through While Valentin has a Danish manager to help him run the restaurant, he is keen to make sure that the Italian atmosphere is what shines through. This is one of the reasons he has recently hired two Italian chefs, two of his own acquaintances from

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Italy, who have just arrived in Denmark to work at the restaurant. The chefs prepare and cook the food in the restaurant’s characteristic open kitchen, which is part of what creates Ristorante Aldente’s special atmosphere. “The open kitchen allows people to see and hear what is going on. They can hear the chefs talking and calling out in Italian; I hadn’t thought about it, but a lot of guests have told us that they actually find that quite charming,” explains Valentin. In the background, classical Italian music is playing, so guests, who are seated

among rustic Italian furniture, wine bottles and old Italian paintings, should be in no doubt as to what kind of restaurant they have entered. The food is served by Valentin himself, his mother, the restaurant’s two Italian waiters or the restaurant manager. Changing with the seasons Together with his mother, Valentin, who is half Italian, took over Ristorante Aldente just a month ago when the previous Italian owner had to give up the business. “We are continuing the Italian concept, but we have made some improvements

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

and changes. For instance, we are very keen on always using fresh produce, so we buy new ingredients every day,” explains the restaurant owner. “And everything, like bread and pasta, is freshly made in the restaurant’s kitchen.” Ristorante Aldente changes their menu once every three months, and the continued renewal has many benefits; one is that it allows ingredients that do not have their full flavour in that season to be replaced by seasonal vegetables. “We adapt the menu to the seasons here in Denmark but also to match the Italian seasons, so our guests get the same experience they would in Italy at that time of year,” says Valentin. A hint of Danish Christmas In the winter months, Ristorante Aldente offers a special winter menu of three courses of typical Italian dishes. However, for Christmas, a special menu of four or five courses, which Valentin has allowed to be slightly influenced by the Danish Christmas traditions, is on offer. “We also

have a new very accomplished Danish chef, who, of course, has also left his mark on the menu. Obviously, our guests are Danes, not Italians, so we have to adapt it a bit to their taste buds,” Valentin explains. “What is most important to us is that people walk out of here feeling that they had a great experience with good food and friendly service.”

home or hotel room, that is no problem either. The restaurant offers a delicious takeaway menu just as they do catering for company events, parties and much more.

Ristorante Aldente is open Monday to Sunday from 5pm to 10pm, but can be booked in advance for parties and catering outside these hours as well.

Having a party? With room for 150 guests and a charming and warm atmosphere, Ristorante Aldente is a popular venue for birthday parties, baptisms and other festive occasions. The 150 seats are divided between the ground floor and lower ground floor. On the lower ground floor, 80 people can be seated in one room, and it is therefore ideal for large celebrations; and for bigger events, the whole restaurant can be rented for both lunch and dinner. And, even though the atmosphere at the restaurant is relaxed and friendly, if you prefer to enjoy Ristorante Aldente’s delicious food in the comfort of your own

For more information, please visit: www.aldente-ristorante.dk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 65

Scan Magazine | Columns | Humour

IS IT JUST ME...

By Mette Lisby

Who feels it is a huge inconvenience that I have to actually leave my house to exercise? This to the extent that my husband and I recently bought a cross-trainer. Now we only have to go to our guest bedroom to get a good work out. Excellent! The purchase was a phenomenal success. My husband and I both worked out adamantly every day. We celebrated our brilliance and newly toned bodies, agreeing that the cross-trainer was “awesome” and the idea of having it in-house was “genius”. Now, a few months down the line, I find myself slipping behind. I can no longer muster the will, excitement or energy to get on the cross-trainer and work out on a daily basis. The novelty – and what seems to have been a beginners’ endorphin rush – has worn off and I am forced to face the sad fact: I am just not the kind of person who works out to “feel better”. I work out with one sole, over-

Poetry

Moving countries halfway through my teenage years made me a very miserable immigrant. I’d left all my friends behind, had a problem with blushing and was generally depressed. To add to my misery, I found British boys HOT. Hot and unattainable, to a glum, red-faced foreigner. This resulted in me writing lots and lots of fervent, angst-ridden poetry, scrawled in the margins of my coursework. My English

66 | Issue 35 | November 2011

shadowing purpose: to eat more cake. That’s me: efficient, result-oriented and focused… on cake. I get confused momentarily by crisps, but the main focus is cake. You got to have a vision! And the largely accepted and highly praised “to feel better about myself” is egocentric and lacks understanding of the bigger picture. Cake and crisps help out the economy. Noble, right? Yes, but it doesn’t get me back on the cross-trainer. I have tried everything. Even the little dirty disillusion that most joggers turn to, to glorify their workout: “It feels good afterwards.” I cannot go through with this level of self-deception. To me the concept of “feeling good afterwards” is much too vague. It can be said about way too many things: Libyans feel good AFTER Gadaffi

died, students feel better AFTER the math exam, and last but not least, you do feel a lot better AFTER you throw up. See? A lot of really horrible stuff feels good AFTERWARDS. As in: “…when it’s finally over.” Sorry, but if it doesn’t feel good WHILE it’s going on, it’s not my thing. Not even in my own house.

Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of “Have I Got News For You” and “Room 101”.

By Maria Smedstad

teacher, to whom I’m eternally grateful, noticed my tortured hobby and packed me off to attend poetry classes. These were held at the local posh school. The local posh school for boys. Suddenly there I was, surrounded by hot British boys all into writing fervent, angst-ridden poetry. Not only that, but halfway into the term, we were all sent away on a week-long poetry writing course in the country. My life at this point was at a sort of emotional pivotal peak. To make things even more tumultuous, it turned out that the teachers who accompanied us were the sort of teachers used to the sort of teenagers who could be trusted with a little ale before their 18th birthdays, and so happily allowed us to indulge. So there I found myself, awkward, awestruck and drunk in a barn in Devon, surrounded by everything that seemed to be of any importance in life. No miracle occurred, I didn’t score or anything. But by the end of the week I managed, in a croaky little voice, to read out one of my poems to

the group without dying of mortification. I felt I had crossed a significant threshold. Thanks to an attentive English teacher, a bunch of posh boys, many bleak lines of (often grammatically incorrect) prose and a little West Country cider, life in England was definitely on the up from then on.

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. She writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

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Scan Magazine seeks Freelance Journalists We are currently looking for qualified journalists on a freelance basis. We are looking for journalists with Danish, Swedish, Norwegian or Finnish background. You need to be confident in English as well as at least one of the Nordic languages. To apply, please email your CV to Nia Kajastie at nia@scanmagazine.co.uk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 67

Scan Business | Key Note | Karlsson Scandinavian Design

Scan Business Tax Column: Swiss Account Holders 70 | Conferences of the Month 72 | The Scandinavian Chambers of Commerce 75

Out of love for design I love Scandinavian design. Actually, I love great design, clever or amusing, from anywhere. I appreciate the care and attention to detail, and the designersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; understanding of the manufacturing process that has gone into turning a sketch into something truly wonderful. Great design transcends decades, never appears to age, and finds new followers and devotees with every generation. Wait until tomorrow for the thing you love, instead of buying an inferior item today. A pertinent thought considering the world we live in today, and yet a sentiment that seems to fit more comfortably within the Scandinavian ethos. I am a demi-Swede, a strange place to be, stuck between two worlds. I started my business to help combine them. Opening the retail business five years ago gave me an opportunity to show many of the products that I had been bringing back from Sweden for years. This included lighting, fabrics, glassware and homeware from companies well known in their own and surrounding countries, but not exactly household names here in the UK. Our website was launched in June this year as a new direction for the business. Missing the wonderful interaction with

By Anna Yates, Director, demi-Swede, design addict, Karlsson Scandinavian Design Ltd.

people has been the downside of being purely web based. On returning from Formex in Stockholm, where I met suppliers and discovered new products, I received my new edition of Elle Decoration, and found with great delight the supplement about The Scandinavia Show. A phone call later, I had the last stand. You can never underestimate the amount of organisation and man hours that go into making such an event, or even one stand happen. The following monthsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; planning gave us exclusive show offers from Iittala, Gubi, Muuto and Design House Stockholm.

fascinated by the area, this show is the best place to go for your fix, as well as to add more items to your collection and to gather knowledge. So much to see, so much to learn, and as always, we all left talking about food. Anna Yates

At the show we were busy, very little time left for coffee. This was the first event of this size we have exhibited at, and many lessons have been learnt: better planning, bigger van, more staff on the stand and more coffee. I loved the eclectic range of businesses and services on offer at the show. This drew visitors to walk around the entire event for fear of missing something. As an exhibitor, we just wish we had had the time to see it all. For all of us who are part Scandinavian, married to one, love the place, spend time there, speak the language or are generally

For further information, please visit: www.karlssondesign.co.uk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 69

Scan Business | Column | Tax

Swiss account holders – the UK tax net is closing in By Helena Whitmore, McGuireWoods London LLP | Photo: Yiannis Katsaris

Over the past few years, the tax authorities around the world have increased their focus on stamping out tax evasion through accounts held in other countries. In the UK, various disclosure opportunities have been announced, as well as new strategies for collecting information and taxes across national borders. Continuing this trend, on 6 October 2011, a tax agreement was signed between the UK and Switzerland, which is designed to ensure that UK resident taxpayers cannot continue to evade UK tax on bankable assets held in Switzerland. The agreement is expected to come into force in 2013. Anyone who has a Swiss account and who is resident in the UK, has a UK address or holds a UK passport will need to consider the impact of this agreement, even if their tax affairs are in order. The agreement provides for a one-off levy of between 19% and 34% to be deducted based on the value of accounts held in Switzerland on 31 December 2010. The levy is designed to settle income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax and VAT liabilities in relation to the account. The rate of the deduction depends on the length of time the account has been held and the activity on the account. Going forward, there will also be a withholding tax levied by Swiss paying agents, ranging from 27% on capital gains to 48% on interest and certain other income. In order to avoid the levy and withholding tax being applied, the taxpayer will need to authorise the Swiss bank to disclose the account to the UK tax authorities HM Revenue & Customs (“HMRC”). Affected assets in Switzerland include cash accounts, precious metal accounts, bankable assets held by Swiss paying agents, all forms of stocks, shares and

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securities, options, debts and futures contracts as well as other structured products traded by the banks, such as certificates and convertibles. The contents of safe deposit boxes, real property, chattels and certain insurance contracts (but not insurance wrappers) will be excluded. Non-domiciled individuals who have claimed the remittance basis in 2010/11 and/or 2011/12 can opt out of the one-off levy to clear past tax liabilities. However, the Swiss paying agent may only accept that an individual is non-UK domiciled if they are provided with a certificate produced by a lawyer, accountant or tax adviser confirming that the individual is nonUK domiciled and has claimed the remittance basis of taxation for the relevant tax years. Going forward, a declaration of intent to claim the remittance basis for the next tax year needs to be produced by 31 March before the beginning of the year, and confirmed by a certificate that this has been done following the end of the tax year. If an individual has made a declaration of intent to claim the remittance basis, but this has not been certified by the specified date, withholding tax will be levied at increased rates ranging from 28% on capital gains to 50% on interest income. Those who may be tempted to transfer their accounts elsewhere to avoid the tax deductions should note that the agreement also provides for exchange of information. The Swiss authorities will be required to report to HMRC to confirm the 10 states to where persons who close their Swiss accounts have transferred the largest volume of relevant assets, as well as the number of persons concerned for each state. This will give HMRC a strong pointer of where its next target should be. Taxpayers who have outstanding tax lia-

Helena Whitmore

bilities should take advice on the most appropriate way to put their affairs in order. The situation immediately becomes more serious if HMRC raise an enquiry first, so if there is a problem it is important to act quickly.

Further information is available on HMRC’s website www.hmrc.gov.uk, or by contacting the writer. This column is intended to provide information of general interest to the public and is not intended to offer legal advice about specific situations or problems.

Helena Whitmore McGuireWoods London LLP (hwhitmore@mcguirewoods.com).

Scan Business | Feature | Relocation

Take the stress out of relocating and add the human touch By Linnea Dunne | Photo: City Moving & Storage

Often listed among the most stress-inducing life events, moving house can be everything but enjoyable. Add to that the complications of relocating to a different country, and you can see how hair would shift to grey at the sheer sight of cardboard boxes. Thankfully, it does not have to be like that.

start his own business, and this year marks its 25th birthday.

For Alan Hovell, the man behind City Moving & Storage, running a removal business is about much more than just boxes. “I really like people,” he explains. “I enjoy helping people move and making sure that everything runs smoothly.”

As an established member of both FIDI and the British Association of Removers, industry bodies that regulate service standards and provide financial protection, City Moving & Storage offers an all-inclusive service of packing, shipping and unpacking, including packaging materials. With a minimum shipment of one cubic metre, posting Christmas presents for the loved ones back home is easy.

As Hovell reminisces about two decades of working with Scandinavians, it is clear that he is genuinely a people person. “Scandinavians have a lot of integrity, and I find them very easy to work with.” Alan Hovell

Dating back to 1976, Hovell’s credentials include the shipping of antiques and vintage cars worldwide. After ten years in the industry, Hovell decided it was time to

It seems perfectly clear that whatever stressful experiences life throws at you, relocating should not be one of them. Enjoy making plans for your new life; the friendly faces over at City Moving & Storage will deal with the rest. For further information, please visit: www.citymoving.co.uk

“I made the most out of my inherited wealth by securing my daily living expenses as well as making my dream come true” Stefan, 44, Sales Director, International Private Banking client

Needs beyond the ordinary? International Private Banking is a service for clients with high income or wealth, who have chosen to live outside the Nordic countries. You and your family are assigned an Executive Wealth Manager – a financial specialist – who can guide you on your overall private finances. Your Executive Wealth Manager is available for meetings outside normal opening hours and can draw upon experts within the Group or our network of external specialists on areas such as domiciliation, insurances and audit.

We can tailor solutions to bridge your worlds, wherever you are. We call this solutions beyond the ordinary. To become an International Private Banking client, visit our web site www.danskebank.lu or call us in Luxembourg at telephone +352 46 12 751.

Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Finland

The Sibelius Hall congress and concert centre

Conference of the Month, Finland

A Finnish dream come true The Sibelius Hall congress and concert centre, named, of course, after world-renowned Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, is located in the city of Lahti, less than an hour from Helsinki. It is truly a Finnish dream come true: an impressive wooden building set idyllically by a lake, exuding Nordic cool. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Sibelius Hall

Lahti’s congress and concert centre was completed in March 2000, merging together old and new, as it was built on the site of a steam sawmill that had been there since 1869. It was a natural progression to choose wood as the main material, and it was also selected to be a part of a project that at the time was trying to seek out innovative wooden construction solutions.

tique of the Finnish forest. The sophisticated acoustic design was created by the US-based Artec Consultants Inc, also presenting the Lahti Symphony Orchestra with an ideal home concert hall and setting for the annual Sibelius Festival. Sibelius Hall is also host to more than 140 concerts per year by artists from different musical genres as well as varied entertainment events.

Sibelius Hall was designed by architects Hannu Tikka and Kimmo Lintula, who drew their main inspiration from the mys-

Set by the lake Vesijärvi and close to the Lahti city centre, it truly shows off the best sides of Finnish creativity and nature

Congress Manager Anu Kärkkäinen

72 | Issue 35 | November 2011

through its architecture and location. The inside of the building is equally impressive, offering 18 different spaces suitable for conferences and events of all sizes, and, of course, a VIP sauna suite, perfect for a meeting, a private dinner as well as a relaxed evening spent in the sauna itself. “Whether you need an exhibition space, a party venue or a room for a meeting, we can handle it all,” says congress manager Anu Kärkkäinen. “There isn’t necessarily a readymade model for every client we have; we do have conference packages, but we can tailor things according to clients’ needs as well. We want it to be as easy as possible for them, so if they need a translator, a red carpet or anything else, we will do it or contact the right subcontractors for it. We get a lot of good feedback especially for our flexibility and for finding the best solutions at short notice.” Lahti has been known as a winter sport city, but on top of that, the compact area also offers professional and convenient wellbeing services and plenty of cultural happenings. The countryside is also never far away, and with regular bus connections to Helsinki Airport, great rail links and free parking by Sibelius Hall, Lahti is an excellent choice for a conference destination.

For further information, please visit: www.sibeliustalo.fi

Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Sweden

Conference of the Month, Sweden

Tailor-made conferences in the best location in Malmö Set close to the sea and opposite the Malmö Central Station, Malmö Börshus offers an ideal location for your next event, conference or meeting, with plenty of parking, shops, restaurants and hotels to choose from in the surrounding area. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Malmö Börshus

The premises that today house Malmö Börshus, a modern meeting place, date back to 1877 and have previously been used as a customs building, under the name of Malmö Tullhus. In the year 1879, Malmö Börsförening (stock exchange association) was formed, and they also operated from the building. In 1907, Malmö Börsförening moved to another part of town, and in the 40s, the customs service was also relocated. Up until the 80s, there was very little activity in the building and it fell into decay. It was finally rebuilt and extended in1985-1986, and given the new name of Malmö Börshus. Today, the building includes nine meeting rooms suitable for any kind of conference or event, whether for business or pleasure, with a capacity ranging from 2-350 participants. The venue’s professional conference hosts will be able to tailormake any event according to the clients’ exact wishes, taking into account every-

thing from timings and meals to furniture setup.

own technician in house, who can help with any sound, light or picture related issues. And if the needed equipment is not at hand in the building, the conference hosts will be able to rent some for the clients. The conference guests will not be left hungry either, as Malmö Börshus works together with one of the best restaurants in Malmö, namely Årstiderna, which is run by Wilhelm Pieplow, one of Sweden’s top chefs.

“We create the conferences or events just like the clients want us to, as we have no pre-set packages for sale,” explains managing director Karin Fäldt. “The client can decide on every aspect, and we will always create the best event possible. We’ve had many clients show surprise at how accommodating and flexible we are, and that’s very nice to hear.” The technical equipment at Malmö Börshus is also first-class; they even have their

Currently, Malmö Börshus has also gone through some changes, as their largest conference room has swapped its seating style from cinema chairs to ones that can easily be moved around, in order to afford further flexibility for conference and event setups. For further information, please visit: www.malmoborshus.se

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 73

Conference of the Month, Denmark

Feel inspired in style and comfort Højstrupgård, located three kilometres from Elsinore and just a stone’s throw from the Sound (Øresund), offers a beautiful and tranquil setting for conferences, courses and special events. Here, you can let your mind wander, as there are both inspiring and relaxing activities on offer, as well as plenty of room to make those big decisions. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Højstrupgård

Højstrupgård consists of a main building together with two additional structures, creating a small and intimate conference centre. The original building was built in 1897 as a family holiday residence; however, in 1957, it was bought by the Danish Confederation of Trade Unions and made into a conference venue for their members. In 1967, an extension with guest and meeting rooms was erected, and the conference centre was made available for everyone.

their creative cooking), as around 50 of the largest companies in Denmark are among Højstrupgård’s clients, and it is also an immensely popular wedding venue.

Today, after further additions in 1990 and 2007, Højstrupgård, now an independently owned company, consists of 47 rooms, a restaurant, a modern kitchen known for its healthy and locally-sourced food, meeting rooms and a conference hall accommodating up to 90 participants, as well as a 9-hole golf course.

go the extra mile to offer the most accommodating service possible. “As a small conference centre, we can be very flexible,” explains general manager Eva Holten. “We can easily make changes to any plans, even if it means moving an inside event outside or vice versa. We are happy to cater to our guests’ wishes; and with a small staff, you can ask anyone for help and they’ll be able to assist you.”

On top of an idyllic location by the beach and close to nature, Højstrupgård will also

Eva Holten and her team seem to have found a successful recipe (not only for

74 | Issue 35 | November 2011

So choose Højstrupgård for a conference experience consisting of a beautiful location; energising snacks; great opportunities for exploring the close-by forest and beach; an inspiring round of golf, possibly in the company of an experienced instructor; some relaxation indoors in the fireplace lounge or sauna; and, of course, a productive meeting in a modern conference facility. With easy access to the airport by train and a ferry service to Sweden, as well as free parking, Højstrupgård offers the perfect package.

For further information, please visit: www.hoejstrupgaard.dk

Scan Business | News | Chambers of Commerce

Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce THE FREE ZONE – Discover the Danish Spark

intention to create a united and broad marketing platform for Denmark.

By Henrik Kahn, Director, International Business Tourism, VisitDenmark

The Free Zone will involve the guest as an active part in communicating Danish values, lifestyle and culture. The guest is

VisitDenmark and TV2 are proud to present the Free Zone, which will be the largest and most spectacular UK showcase of all the best Denmark has to offer. Set in the heart of London, with easy access to the Olympic Village and other attractions, St. Katherine’s Dock provides a unique and outstanding united marketing platform to promote the Danish lifestyle and Danish products. VisitDenmark is in this regard pleased to work with DUCC, which because of its strong network of Danish companies in Britain will ensure the above-mentioned

therefore not to be seen as a passive observer, but instead as an integrated part of the event as well as a co-creator of value in The Free Zone. In short, it is about individual freedom to experience, interact and to be inspired.

Key facts: • 5.5-6 million visitors more than usual are expected to visit London during the Games. (Source: VisitLondon) • The event is expected to reach an audience of no less than 20 million. • The Games will be the largest international sport event in recent history. (Source: VISA) • Approximately 20,000 accredited British and international media will be covering the Games. (Source: LOCOG)

UPCOMING EVENTS 2011 2 Nov

The Future of the Forestry/ Paper Industry 24 Nov Nordic Thursday Drinks at Scandinavian Kitchen 6 Dec Offshore Wind in the UK 2011 9 Dec Annual Christmas Lunch

Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce | Phone: +44 (0) 20 7259 6795 | Email: info@ducc.co.uk | www.ducc.co.uk

Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce prior experience with the Norwegian Chamber, it is a great way to get familiar with the Chamber and its activities. Maritime and Shipping Seminar

Audience at the Nordic Career Forum 2011

As we approach Christmas,the planning for next year’s business networking activities is already well under way. Radisson BLU Portman Hotel in Central London will host the first monthly Joint-Nordic Thursday drink of 2012 on 26 January. The drinks are a great opportunity to meet over 100 business people from Norway, Britain, Denmark and Finland for an informal drink after work. If you have no

For those of you who have an interest in the Maritime and Shipping industry, there is a topical seminar planned in the first quarter. More information about the seminar will be available on the NBCC website in January. Nordic Career Forum 2012 The annual Nordic Career Forum in conjunction with the Danish, Swedish and Finnish chambers of commerce in London has been scheduled for March/April 2012. There was a large turnout at last year’s Career Forum, and the Norwegian Chamber would therefore like to encourage companies who wish to be represented

with an exhibition stand to get in touch early on info@nbccuk.com in order to avoid disappointment. Over two hundred people attended the Nordic Career Forum last year, and the 2012 Career Forum is scheduled to become even bigger. UPCOMING EVENTS 2011 10 Nov Event with OilCareers.com 23 Nov Aberdeen Christmas Networking drinks at Pavarotti Restaurant 24 Nov Nordic Thursday Drinks at Scandinavian Kitchen 25 Nov Christmas Dinner for young professionals at the Norwegian Church in Southwark 8 Dec Christmas Luncheon with the Norwegian Ambassador (for the NBCC advisory board)

Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce | Phone: +44 (0) 20 7930 0181 | Email: info@nbccuk.com | www.nbccuk.com

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 75

Scan Busines | News | Chambers of Commerce

Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK Creative thinking has helped make Sweden one of Europe’s and the world’s most innovative nations, according to numerous surveys. A range of Swedish companies have managed to turn innovations into wealth (think Ericsson, Volvo, Tetra Pak and AstraZeneca), while the likes of Skype and Spotify can be attributed to the next generation of Swedish technology success. In 2006, the Swedish Chamber’s Centenary Innovation Award was awarded to Niklas Zennström, co-founder of Skype (amongst many other ventures). In November 2011, he returns to the chamber’s Industrial Forum as CEO and co-founder of Atomico, a venture capital firm focused on investing in technological companies, as keynote speaker. The Industrial Forum was created in the 1990s as a forum for the industrial companies in the network and the largest financial contributors, the

Patrons, and is hosted at the Swedish Ambassador’s Residence and is strictly by invitation only. Sweden invests about 3 per cent of its GDP in research, one of the highest rates in the world. The Swedish Government itself invests heavily in research and development; among the top recipients is research in medicine and bioscience. Some of Sweden’s opinion makers and experts within life science will join on 21 November, in cooperation with Rhenman

& Partners Asset Management and Ipsen Biopharm. Speaking of innovation, the Nobel Prize – founded on the wealth of Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel’s last will – ceremony will be taking place on 10 November, and for the first time in many years, a Swedish recipient will take the podium when Tomas Tranströmer receives the Nobel Prize for Literature from the hands of HM King Carl XVI Gustaf.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2011 8 Nov

JCC Entrepreneurship: Social entrepreneurship 17 Nov Fashion indulgence at Älva 21 Nov From great science to great medicine – Swedish models of getting there 24 Nov JCC Management Forum: Cross cultural leadership

Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK | Phone: +44 (0) 20 7224 8001 | Email: info@scc.org.uk | www.scc.org.uk

Finnish-British Chamber of Commerce At the beginning of October, the FBCC had the pleasure of hosting a Joint Nordic event together with the DUCC and the NBCC. In his key note speech “Rethink, listen to the consumer, not the forest”, Mr Jouko Karvinen, the CEO of StoraEnso, addressed Rethinking as their company philosophy and change process. StoraEnso is the global rethinker of the packaging, paper and wood products industry. StoraEnso always rethinks the old and expands to the new to offer customers innovative solutions based on renewable materials. The event drew a very good number of people and was generously sponsored by our Patron Citibank to guarantee fruitful networking. On 18 November, the FBCC is very proud to have Stephen Elop, President and CEO of Nokia Corporation, as our Guest of Honour for the annual private

Patrons’ Dinner. In his key note speech, Mr Elop will speak about "the journey of transformation of Nokia." December starts with the traditional Christmas Lunch at the Jouko Karvinen, CEO of A m b a ss a d o r ’s StoraEnso Residence on the second. We will enjoy the delicious Finnish Christmas dishes and good company with traditional Finnish and English Christmas carols. Do not miss the after drinks either! FBCC is constantly animating the Finnish-British business networking scene. For more information about our upcoming events, especially in the begin-

ning of 2012, please browse our web site www.fbcc.co.uk or contact us via email at info@fbcc.co.uk

UPCOMING EVENTS 2011 18 Nov Annual Patrons’ Dinner: Stephen Elop, President and CEO of Nokia: "the journey of transformation of Nokia" (By invitation only) 22 Nov Christmas event at Marimekko shop at St Christopher's place 24 Nov Nordic Networking Drinks at Scandinavian Kitchen 2 Dec Christmas Lunch at the Ambassador’s Residence

Finnish-British Chamber of Commerce | Phone: +44 (0) 20 8741 6352 | Email: events@fbcc.co.uk | www.fbcc.co.uk

76 | Issue 35 | November 2011

Scan Magazine | News

The Power of Practice! One of those who has impressed me most in my deep dive into the mysteries behind high performance is a professor of psychology named Anders Ericsson. In the 1990s, Ericsson and a group of scientists carried out a study at an academy for some of the world’s best violinists in Berlin. Ericsson and Co. divided the institution's violinists into three groups. Group one consisted of the stars who were expected to become world-class soloists. Group two consisted of first-rate and promising violinists who were not quite of the same standard as those in group one. Group three consisted of those violinists who were not expected to join the world elite, but who were likely to make a living from music, for example, as school and college teachers. All of them had the exact same teachers, and they received the same amount of scheduled instruction during the week. So why had some become better than others?

Ericsson asked the violinists to estimate the amount of time they had spent playing every week year-on-year since the very first time they picked up a violin, and the outcome of the research was overwhelmingly clear. As 18-year-olds, the violinists in group one had spent an average of 10,000 hours in their lives; group two had spent an average of 7,500 hours, while group three had only practised for 5,500 hours. In other words, students in group one had not simply trained more and worked harder in their lives, they had worked much, much harder. In other words, there seem to be no shortcuts. Researchers have even tried to agree on an extremely precise amount of training required to become world-class: the magic 10,000 hours. Becoming worldclass in any domain, from mathematics to violin to chess, requires 10,000 hours of committed training. It leaves us with an eye-opening question: when we are convinced that we see a

God-given gift, in business leaders as well as in football players, are we in reality simply not seeing 10,000 hours of training consumed consciously or unconsciously at an early stage in a person’s life? Column by Rasmus Ankersen Bestselling author, motivational speaker and advisor for world-class athletes and businesses around the world. Read more: www.rasmusankersen.com

Polarn O. Pyret celebrates stripes and success By Johanne Sofie Nygaard | Photo: Polarn O. Pyret

smart enough for parties,” she says.

The Swedish children’s clothing brand Polarn O. Pyret is celebrating 35 years with a stylish anniversary collection in stores throughout the country. Over the years, designing striped, relaxed cotton clothes, Polarn O. Pyret has succeeded in creating a well-known, highquality brand. The new collection introduces some fresh, happy colours as well as relaunching green and brown, which are back in fashion again. Karina Lundell, head of design, elaborates: “We want younger generations to discover the stripe, while keeping things familiar for people who were there back in the day. The classic stripe was created by graphic designer Gunila Axén, and the stripes remain the same. They are our symbol of true quality, for comfy and clever clothes that are great for children.”

Polarn O. Pyret is made from 100 % organic cotton. In addition, the brand supports the Nordic Ecolabel, meaning that the whole making process is eco-certified.

CEO Maria Öqvist emphasises how the brand represents a single-minded meticulousness when it comes to making the best clothes for children. “Ever since we started out, we have made clothes that let children be children. For us that means clothes that can handle rowdy play, become welcome hand-me-downs for younger siblings, but which also look

The collection will be in shops from early November in versions for children and adults. The sizes run from newborn to age 12,and XS to XL for grownups.

For more information and to find your nearest store, please visit: www.polarnopyret.co.uk

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 77

Scan Magazine | News

Sotheby’s Scandinavian Sale On Tuesday 22nd of November, Sotheby’s Scandinavian Sale will present an important rediscovered work by Vilhelm Hammershøi. Svend Hammershøi: Forarbejde til Møntsamleren (Svend Hammershøi: Study for the Coin Collector) is a preparatory study for the artist’s 1904 masterpiece Møntsamleren (The Coin Collector). The sitter was the artist’s younger brother Svend, who was a painter and a ceramicist. One of only three known studies for the Oslo painting, and the only study to feature the figure, the work offers a fascinating insight into the artist’s working methods, while at the same time evoking the distinctive sense of seclusion and introspection that characterises Hammerhøi’s work. The painting is estimated to be worth £30,000-50,000. The Danish painter rarely used strangers to model for him, and he rarely accepted commissions, which is why his choice of

By Camilla Waaden

his brother as the central focus in this painting reflects his preference for using his close friends and family as his models. This is not the only painting for which Svend modelled. He also plays the leading role in three other paintings by his brother: Interior with a Young Man reading of 1898, Five Portraits of 1901-1902, and Evening in the Drawing Room of 1904. The art of Vilhelm Hammershøi represents the last great flourishing of the Danish Golden Age, when intellectual production in science, philosophy, literature and arts bloomed in Denmark during the 19th century. The 19th century European Paintings Department in London is currently accepting consignments for the Scandinavian Sale. For more information, please visit: www.sothebys.com

Svend Hammershøi: Forarbejde til Møntsamleren (Svend Hammershøi: Study for the Coin Collector). Photo: Sotheby’s

KIKK United to play at Mile End Stadium By Johanne Sofie Nygaard | Photo: Elise Ardal

Tower Hamlets Senior Football Officer, Derek Bennett, recently announced that KIKK, Britain´s only Scandinavian football team, will play their home games at iconic venue Mile End Stadium in the upcoming season 2011/12. KIKK United FC, a London women´s football club, was founded in 2004 by two Swedes. The club now consists of players from all over the world in addition to the Scandinavian core. The team already boasts two championships and a runnersup slot in the club’s first season in Division 1 of the London and South East Regional Women’s League. By taking the initiative to have the team play at Mile End Stadium, the council is showing a commitment to, and commendable support for, women´s football.

78 | Issue 35 | November 2011

The council hope that KIKK´s presence will serve to further stimulate the development of women´s football in the borough alongside Tower Hamlets Women´s FC and East London Ladies FC.

them by bringing back a trophy this season,” Brayford says. Fika, the Swedish bar on Brick Lane, is a proud sponsor of the team.

KIKK coach Chris Brayford and the team are most grateful for the support they have received, in particular from Derek and Tower Hamlets´ Head of Sport and Physical Activity Lisa Pottinger. “I hope, of course, that we’ll go some way to repay

Fans and new players are always very welcome: contact the club at kikkunited@gmail.com or go to ww.kikkunited.wordpress.com for more information.

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Christmas Fair

Scandinavian Christmas Fair:

Supporting Teenage Cancer Trust On Sunday the 4th December, you can help support and raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust Charity by backing the Scandinavian Christmas Fair in Guildford. Word of Mouth Events Networking is an events company introducing women throughout Surrey to the joys of quality services and products from small independent businesses dedicated to offering reasonable prices for their customers. This year, the company is organising a Scandinavian Christmas Fair in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

pected to be even bigger and better. Around 20 specially selected stalls are selling gifts, products and services not found on every high street. Most of these products, of course, have a Scandinavian/Nordic theme. On top of buying gifts and products, there will also be an opportunity to buy glĂ¸gg

By Camilla Waaden Photos: Courtesy of Grethe Vaughan

and gingerbread biscuits, typical Scandinavian Christmas snacks. A number of famous Scandinavian brands will be present at this fair, including Danish Food Direct, TotallySwedish, Polarn O. Pyret, Scandi Living, Lotta from Stockholm, BjĂśrk of Sweden, Nordic Design Forum and many more.

The Christmas fair will be at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Guildford, Surrey, on 4 December between 10am and 4pm. This event was also held last year, and it was a huge success. This year, it is ex-

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Scan Magazine | Culture | City Walks

City Walks with Grethe

Photo: Courtesy of City Walks with Grethe

The City of London has so much to offer. It is not only one of the major financial centres in the world, but it offers stunning architecture - both old and new - and is forever developing. Its history from Roman times, through Saxon times, the Middle Ages, the Great Fire of London of 1666, the rebuilding of London, the Blitz, and the modern development is incredibly fascinating. There are alleyways, hidden gardens, and places where you walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare and Dickens.

After a long professional career and living in London for many years, Grethe Hauge has finally realised her long-held dream of becoming a tourist guide in London. Having graduated with a degree in history from the Open University last year, she has now become a fully qualified City of London tourist guide.

“I am passionate about the City of London. So why don’t you join me on a walk. I am happy to accommodate individuals or groups (rates to be discussed). Hope to see you on one of my walks,” says Hauge.

Grethe is only the second Danish person ever to have obtained this qualification. She has also received the Freedom of the City and will do everything she can to promote the city.

Contact Grethe via her website: www.citywalkswithgrethe.com or by email: gretheh@hotmail.co.uk

Ian Garlant´s new exhibition SYNTHESIS By Johanne Sofie Nygaard | Photos: Ian Garlant

Andipa Contemporary is delighted to announce the new exhibition SYNTHESIS by internationally renowned couturier turned artist Ian Garlant. The half-Norwegian and half-English artist made his name as a talented designer early on. During his fashion design studies at Kingston University, he received numerous awards, including a Royal Society of the Arts bursary. In the years that followed, Garlant experienced a varied and successful career in the fashion industry. His designs have been exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Royal Academy of Arts. Also, he received the honourable task of designing costumes for the world-famous Bolshoi ballet at the beginning of his career. In 2009, Garlant abandoned the materialism and glamour of the fashion world

80 | Issue 35 | November 2011

and returned to his roots in the small Norwegian community of Hartlestrand in the Hardanger fjord. Here, he found inspiration in the wilderness and harnessed his remarkable creative force. By synthesising fire, earth and belief, he stripped away the materialistic and the comforting to focus on the fundamental fabric and philosophies of life. His extraordinary work is created in caves around the fjord, which he retreats to fur-clad. The elements around him are

mixed with original pieces praising powerful nature. The exhibition with Garlant´s eccentric work is showcased at Andipa Contemporary Gallery located in Knightsbridge from 17 November to 17 December 2011. For more information, please contact Sophia Stovall, Scandinavian Art Advisor, at art@andipa.com or visit: www.andipa.com.

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Christmas Fairs

Scandinavian Christmas Fairs in London By Anna Lindgren | Photos: Courtesy of the Scandinavian churches & Dansk KFUK

Christmas is approaching amazingly fast, and there are several authentic Scandinavian events in the pipeline to help you get into the cosy winter spirit. Whether you are familiar with Scandinavia and its seasonal traditions or someone simply interested in a nice, culinary and cultural happening, the Nordic Christmas fairs come highly recommended. First in line is the 80-year-old traditional Christmas fair at the Swedish Church starting on 17 November. This is a lovely opportunity to visit a range of stalls that sell genuine artefacts, traditional food and seasonal decorations. A day later on the 18 November, the Norwegian and the Finnish fairs open their doors for further Christmassy fun. If it is “a little piece of Norway” you are after, try the very traditional and culturally inspired fair at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church; this event has been running for over 30 years. Don’t miss this perfect op-

portunity to find an exotic handmade gift or to taste genuine Norwegian specialities. Also expect to meet staff in traditional costume while you are enjoying a welcoming and authentic atmosphere. If you are looking to meet the real Santa, look no further! All the way from Finnish Lapland, he will naturally come and pay a visit to the Finnish Church to wish all its visitors “Hyvää Joulua!” (Merry Christmas). Other traditional delights and foods will also be available at this charming fair. Furthermore, renowned Finnish singer Jari Sillanpää (“the Tango King”) will perform a Christmas concert on 10 December at Southwark Cathedral. Tickets are £30 and can be purchased at the door. Last but not least, on 26 November, the Danish Bazaar at the YMCA (Dansk KFUK) will open its doors. Here, you will find gorgeous Christmas decorations, a range of Danish gastronomic specialities, such as open sandwiches, frikadeller (meatballs), pølse (hot dogs) and traditional beer. Each

year, “helpers” from Denmark come to assist with this genuinely heart-warming and customary event.

The Swedish Church Christmas Fair 6 Harcourt Street, London W1H 4AG. 17 Nov. 11am-8pm, 19 Nov. 11am-6pm, 20 Nov. 12pm-5pm The Norwegian Church Christmas Fair 1 Albion St, London SE16 7JB. 18 Nov. 11am-6pm, 19 Nov. 10am-5pm, 20 Nov. 12.30pm-5pm The Finnish Church Christmas Fair 33 Albion St, London SE16 7HZ. 18 Nov. 12pm-8pm, 19 Nov. 10am-6pm, 20 Nov. 10pm-6pm, 23-25 Nov. 12pm8pm, 26 Nov. 10am-5pm Danish Christmas Bazaar at the YMCA 43 Maresfield Gardens, Hampstead NW5 5TS. 26 Nov. 12pm-5pm, 27 Nov. 12pm-4pm

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 81

Scan Magazine | Culture | Time and Memory

Gunnel Wåhlstrand, By the Window, 2003-2004, ink-wash on paper, The Michael Storåkers Collection. Image courtesy of the artist.

Ceclia Edefalk, CU, 1988, oil on linen. Photo Carl Henrik Tillberg.

Time and Memory: Cecilia Edefalk and Gunnel Wåhlstrand By Christina Cadogan

Scandinavian art in London continues to flourish: Time and Memory, an exhibition dedicated to the work of two Swedish contemporary artists, Cecilia Edefalk and Gunnel Wåhlstrand, opens at the Parasol Unit, at the end of this month. Rather refreshingly, in a world where contemporary art involves anything but painting and drawing, this exhibition focuses solely on these two art forms. Edelfalk is an established artist of critical renown; based in Stockholm, she has held solo exhibitions at both Stockholm’s Moderna Museet and the Art Institute of Chicago, and has had her work exhibited worldwide. Gunnel Wåhlstrand, who graduated from the Royal University College of Fine Arts in Stockholm, in 2003, is a relative newcomer, rapidly establishing a distinguished reputation for her art; this will be her first UK exhibition. Wåhlstrand looks forward with excitement to having

82 | Issue 35 | November 2011

her work shown at one of London’s most respected and vibrant contemporary art foundations. Both artists have memory at the core of their works. Edelfalk’s scenarios carve out haunting exchanges between past and present. Often painted in series, Edelfalk’s paintings allude to and intensify one another. The fact that the relational nature of the pictures is critical means that their physical installation is an integral part of her work. She uses mirror effects, and turns canvases upside-down in order to achieve the desired choreographed whole. Wåhlstrand’s photo-realistic black-ink drawings are a deeply personal and carefully reconstructed documentation of her personal history. Wåhlstrand’s father died when she was one year old, and this has clearly had a profound effect on her life. Poignantly, she says, “Mainly, I see pho-

tographs as a proof of existence.” In her 2003 graduate exhibition, Wåhlstrand showed a series of large-scale ink drawings that re-created photographs from her father’s early childhood. The drawings have an immediacy and moving resonance not present in the photographic originals. The Parasol Unit exhibition will further investigate motifs from family albums. Time and Memory promises to be engaging, thought-provoking and an opportunity for reflection.

Time and Memory: Cecilia Edefalk and Gunnel Wåhlstrand runs at the Parasol Unit from 23 November 2011 to 12 February 2012.

For more information, please visit: www.parasol-unit.org

Scan Magazine | Culture | Jens Lekman

Lekman is making a hopeless romantic out of all of us

online. “One of the best gigs I've seen him play. Makes us want to return to Gothenburg." It's no surprise at all then that The Guardian honoured him with a five-star review.

By Emelie Krugly Hill | Photos: Julien Burgeois

A songwriter, an adventurer, a retired bingo hall employee: there are many ways to describe Jens Lekman, born and bred aside a potato chip factory in Gothenburg, Sweden. Lekman's music has roots in the work of Arthur Russell, The Magnetic Fields, Calvin Johnson and The Modern Lovers, and his songs serve as a reminder to inspect in more detail the world around us, to appreciate beauty when it's both in and out of context, at its most heartbreaking, its most loving and its most absurd. His music is simply more than just words; it's a sharpened type of prose, a richer sense of melancholic humour. 30-year-old Lekman and his drummer appeared on stage after support act LiaIces at club Heaven in central London on 17 October. I must admit, I had not really got to know Lekman’s musical career, so

I was attending without any expectations. But it did not take long to be blown away by this genuine and charming Swedish guy. Lekman chatted to the audience in between songs in a relaxed manner and was very entertaining, amusing us with anecdotes, such as one of stalking Kirsten Dunst in Gothenburg, and how he has been suffering the same dream for 729 nights and counting. He then sang of this and other true life events in new songs entitled Waiting for Kirsten, Cowboy Boots and An Argument With Myself, the setting of which is the streets of Melbourne. Lekman has recently returned from Australia, where he lived and worked on his music and made a living by DJ-ing for two years. "Jens Lekman lives in the hardest-to-getto part of my heart," says a fan in a review

For the last four years, Jens Lekman has, to quote one of his own songs, “seemed oh so silent”. His last album was the acclaimed Night Falls Over Kortedala, released in 2007; last year an EP featured An Argument With Myself, which was naturally embraced. The fans can't wait for the next full-length album. "I wasn't really planning to put out an EP, I was working on an album, but I really loved these songs, and I thought they were great, but they just didn't seem to fit the mood of the record. And they seemed to be the songs that people enjoyed the most when I played them live, so I decided that they belonged together on an EP, this was a little taste of what's not to come," says Lekman.

For more information, please visit: www.jenslekman.com

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 83

Scan Magazine | Music & Culture | Scandinavian Music

Scandinavian Music Let’s take a look at some excellent songs coming out of Scandinavia right now, shall we? Denmark’s musically eclectic Nabiha has combined a brand of 60s soul music with some manic modern-day Euro electro and has come up with Trouble. It’s a bouncy, joyful tune with its head in the clouds, its heart on its sleeve, and the rest of its body throwing some frivolous shapes on a Motown dance floor from eras ago. It sounds a lot like you would imagine Girls Aloud to sound if they ever welcomed Adele into their line-up. Norwegian popster Marit Larsen has returned with a new single, Coming Home, the first to be taken from her forthcoming album Spark. It’s guitar-based, but that

Clarinettist Martin Fröst and pianist Roland Pöntinen will be playing at Wigmore Hall on 10 November. Photo: Mats Bäcker

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guitar is soon joined by pop noise aplenty for the song’s joyous and feel-good chorus. It’s about Marit’s sweet confession that looking into her partner’s eyes feels like “coming home” – and so the song is similarly blissful in its open-hearted affirmation. You can practically see the smile on Marit’s face and feel the warmth in her voice when she’s singing that chorus.

By Karl Batterbee

ear set on an electronic production with dizzying warmth, and the other ear focused on a hair-stand-on-end pop melody.

Eric Amarillo delivered the hit of 2011 in Sweden with his club track Om Sanningen Ska Fram. Now he’s lowering the tempo slightly with new single Fy Fan. It’s beautiful, like something of an electronic symphony. It’s got a buildup, it’s got some almighty strings, and it’s got a subtle crescendo of a chorus. That man is a club chameleon! Finally, you must investigate the new single from Swedish duo the Sound of Arrows. These boys are truly in a league of their own when it comes to their craft. And Wonders is a defining example of such craft – lush synth wizardry with one

www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@googlemail.com

Scan Magazine | Music & Culture | Culture Calendar

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here! Audun Iversen at the English National Opera (Nov) Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece Eugene Onegin returns to ENO in a new staging by director Deborah Warner and music director Edward Gardner. Norwegian baritone Audun Iversen makes his ENO debut as the cynical big-city dandy who discovers, too late, that true love was once within his grasp. London Coliseum, London, WC2N. www.eno.org Martin Fröst and Roland Pöntinen (10 Nov) An evening of music by, among others, Weber, Brahms and Berg with Swedish

By Sara Schedin

clarinettist Martin Fröst and pianist Roland Pöntinen. Wigmore Hall, London, W1U. www.wigmore-hall.org.uk

under the name of Lonely Dear, is back with the largely orchestral album Hall Music. St Pancras Old Church, London, NW1. www.loneydear.com

Roxette (15 Nov) The Swedish 80s pop duo Roxette is back and will perform in London this month. Marie Fredriksson and Per Gessle have not played in the UK for 17 years, so it is about time! Wembley Arena, London, HA9. www.roxette.se

Amorphis (27 Nov) Finnish heavy metal band Amorphis will make a stop in London this month as part of their world tour. amorphis.net

Lonely Dear (21 & 23 Nov) Swedish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Emil Svanängen, who goes

Carl-Einar Häckner (Nov & Dec) Swedish comedian and magician CarlEinar Häckner is bringing his acclaimed solo show to London, where he will treat his audience to comedy, magic and music.

Lonely Dear. Press Photo

Issue 35 | November 2011 | 85

Scan Magazine | Music & Culture | Culture Calendar

Soho Theatre, London, W1. www.carleinarhackner.com Michael Monroe on tour (Nov & Dec) Finnish rock musician Michael Monroe and his band will tour the UK this winter. The band was recently joined by Swedish guitarist Dregen, who is a former band member of Backyard Babies and the Hellacopters. www.michaelmonroe.com Hoffmaestro (2 Dec) Swedish ska, electronic and alternative pop band Hoffmaestro are playing at Koko in Camden, London, NW1. www.hoffmaestro.se Norwegian Christmas Concert (2 Dec) Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing and a quartet from the Trondheim Soloists will perform at Trafalgar Square to mark the arrival of the Norwegian Christmas tree. St Martin-in-the-fields, London, WC2N. www2.stmartin-in-the-fields.org Little Dragon (4 Dec) The Swedish electro-pop quartet is back in London and will play their wonderful dance pop at Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London, W12. little-dragon.net Sankta Lucia (9 Dec) There will be a candlelit procession to celebrate Lucia at St Paul’s Cathedral with Swedish, British and international songs sung by the Cathedral Choir and Ulrika Eleonora Church Choir. Book tickets in advance on the Swedish Church’s website. St Paul’s Churchyard, London, EC4M. www.svenskakyrkan.se

Carl-Einar Häckner. Press Photo

Marthe Thorshaug (Until 15 Jan) Norwegian film maker Marthe Thorshaug is showing her film The Legend of Ygg, a modern take on the Norse legend’s death riders, at the Whitechapel Gallery, London, E1.

Michael Monroe band. Press Photo

86 | Issue 35 | November 2011

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