Relocation Guide

reloCatioN

guide autuMN 2011

all about the royals

fiNdiNg the right sChool

get out & about

*adVertisiNg suppleMeNt*

Take a look at Workindenmark.dk - the official Danish website for international recruitment and job seeking

For international jobseekers, employees and their spouses, Workindenmark offers: •

In our job bank you can search for jobs in Danish companies looking especially for international labour force.

You can sign up for a subscription service and receive news of relevant new job advertisements.

•

You can submit your CV to our CV bank and make your qualifications and competences visible to Danish companies.

•

You and your family can receive useful information on all aspects related to moving to Denmark for work – for example job hunting in Denmark, rules related to residence and work, corporate culture, Danish classes and living conditions in Denmark, including childcare, education and housing.

•

Get a good start. Visit International Citizen Service and get help with the paperwork.

Workindenmark can help international students find a student job by: •

Offering targeted information on our website for international students www.workindenmark.dk/students.

This subsection also presents student job openings.

• Giving you the opportunity to add your CV to our CV bank to make yourself visible to Danish employers.

You can find vacant jobs in our job bank, where you also submit an application.

•

Giving you personal advice on applying for student jobs, training placements and work experience placements.

Coming to Denmark to work or study is a major life change – not just for you, but also for your family.

If your partner accompanies you, Workindenmark has a lot to offer: • • •

Job search courses Individual guidance about CV and job applications Help with contact to relevant companies

Get a good start!

Visit www.workindenmark.dk if you plan to work or study in Denmark.

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

pOsT BOX president and publisher: Ejvind Sandal Chief Executive: Jesper Nymark Editor: Jane Graham production & Layout: Lyndsay Jensen sales director supplements: Hans Hermansen sales and Advertising: Jeanne Thames, Mark Millen, Lyndsay Jensen If you would like to contact us or leave a comment: info@cphpost.dk This supplement is published by The

Skål to your new home Words like ‘skål’ and ‘hygge’ are some of the most overused words in the danish language. neither is necessary to survive; but understand both and you’re well on your way to appreciating why most danes never feel like leaving their home country. By Jane graham

s

ocial occasions are the foundation of Danish society. Observing traditions, like Christenings, Confirmations, Christmas and Easter with formally planned dinners that evolve into long nights, new friendships and an excess of beer (hence the toasting: Skål!). This is where ‘hygge’ comes in: Vivienne McKee, founder of London Toast Theatre and long-term Brit in Copenhagen, calls it, ‘The four Cs - comradeship, conviviality, cosiness and Carlsberg’.

It might seem like we’re getting ahead of ourselves. You haven’t even unpacked, and we’re advising cracking open the beers and joining a club. But while taking care of practical matters is important (don’t worry, we’ve got that covered, too) a good network is a key factor in a successful relocation. The people involved in this supplement come from many different backgrounds, but all are in agreement on one thing: socialising in your new country is a vital part of living here, one you should start right away. Whether you choose the social life of the expat community or are all set for immersion into Danish society, finding a network of friends and joining social clubs should be up there on your to-do list along with finding a doctor.

Copenhagen Post, please refer to our disclaimer on page 2 of the newspaper.

RelocAtion

guide

There’s plenty in here to get you started, from free things to do in your new city to addresses for the local sports clubs.

With so much to do in Copenhagen, we love living here - and we hope you will, too.

We don’t presume to suggest this supplement will do the work for you – but we do hope you find the contents inspiring, and that you use the suggestions and resources to point you in the right direction. There are helpful tips on housing, work and that strange, elusive CPR-number you’ve no doubt heard about, as well as essential information on places to study, worship and even where to send your children. There’s also information on the services available to newcomers from advice centres like Workindenmark.dk.

Autumn 2011

Moving house is said to be one of the biggest events in a person’s life; and relocation to a new country is about as eventful as it gets. It doesn’t have to be your life’s most stressful, however - with the right help, connections and outlook, it can be rewarding and possibly life-changing, developing new horizons, language skills and hopefully friends.

All About the RoyAls

Finding the Right school

get out & About

*AdveRtising supplement*

As June Persson from Relocation Scandinavia puts it, newcomers to Denmark should be met with a welcoming committee. Welcome!

There are no foreign lands.

It is the traveler only who is foreign.

R.L. Stevenson

THE AARHUS ACADEMY FOR GLOBAL EDUCATION opened its doors to the first international kindergarten in the greater Aarhus area on November 1st 2011- and the school bell rings for all grades by August 2012.

Sign up for Kindergarten, After School Activities and Summer School as well as the grade school which opens next year – and more than 40 children have already registered. The After School Activities at AAGE are also open to children attending other schools. The Summer School Programme opens on July 2nd 2011.

The Aarhus Academy for Global Education has from the beginning been an active IB interested school. AAGE caters to both Danish and international students. The primary instructional language will be English.

If you would like to know more, please visit www.aarhusacademy.dk

Aarhus Academy for Global Education is a non-profit organization run by sponsorships, governmental support from the Ministry of Education and tuition fees.

Ann_Relocation_Guide.indd 1

15/11/11 10.55

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

A VeRY ROYAl stORY the danish monarchy manage to combine a regal manner with an appearance of normality

By Catherine gordon

H

eaded by Queen Margrethe II, the Royals can often be seen out and about in Copenhagen. Young Prince Christian, eldest child of the Crown Prince couple, has even been enrolled in an ordinary public school. With such modern attitudes, you might be surprised to discover that the Danish monarchy is one of the oldest in the world.

The lineage can be definitively traced back to Gorm the Old, who died in the year 958, since which an unbroken line of 52 monarchs have ruled Denmark.

throne. The laws of succession were amended permanently following a 2009 referendum that ruled in favour of succession in order of birth, regardless of gender.

Princess Margrethe became Queen Margrethe II of Denmark on January 14th 1972 and her husband, French-born Henrik, became her prince consort. The couple’s first child, Crown Prince Frederik, was born in 1968, thus securing the succession.

In the year 2000 Frederik met an Australian by the name of Mary Donaldson whilst he was visiting Sydney for the Olympics. The couple announced their engagement in 2003 and were married in Copenhagen on 14 May 2004. The bride spoke no Danish before moving to the country; an intensive language course soon followed, however, and Mary’s Danish has now been accepted by both the public and the media.

In 2005 the couple’s first child, Prince Christian, was born. He was joined Originally, the succession was elective and in return the king (present by a sister, Isabella, in 2007, and twins were born to the family in January 2011. The pair, Prince Vincent Frederik Minik Alruler included, there have only been two Danish exander and Princess Josephine Sophia Ivalo Mathqueens) had to sign a charter which agreed upon a ilda, were christened on April 14, at the same church Møller also attributes balance of power. This changed in the early 1600s, where their grandparents had married some 40 years when Frederik III introduced a hereditary, absolute royal popularity to the earlier. monarchy for both Denmark and Norway.

‘

fact that the family have a

Today, the Royal Family are a respected, and even Norway had been ruled by a Danish monarch since very clear understanding cherished, part of Danish life. Jes Fabricius Møller, the creation of the Kalmar Union in 1397, a clever royal expert and lecturer at the University of Copenmove on the part of Queen Margrete I which lasted of their role in society hagen, feels that the Royals owe much of their popuuntil 1814. This period of absolutism, where no one larity to the Queen herself. could question the power of the monarch, continued until a constitutional monarchy was introduced by Frederik VII in 1849.

“Historically speaking, royal popularity is a recent thing, and it has risen In 1863, Christian IX ascended the throne. His three daughters married significantly since the current monarch took the throne. This is because into royal houses across the continent, including both British and Russian she has a very elegant way of dealing with the public; she is both dignidynasties, earning Christian IX the title, ‘the Father-in-law of Europe.’ In fied and direct and not afraid to talk with the press. This is a far different the early 1900s, these families often came to Denmark to spend holidays approach to the British queen, for example.” together at one of the many royal palaces. Frederik VIII and Christian X Møller also attributes royal popularity to the fact that the family have a were to follow before Frederik IX ascended the throne in 1947. very clear understanding of their role in society.

Frederik and his wife Ingrid had no sons, and it was widely accepted that his younger brother Knud would ascend the throne upon his death. “The present queen’s father, Frederik IX, embraced democracy and since Knud was an unpopular choice with the nation, however, not being seen then there has been a very clear division of work between the head of as ‘the ruling type’; instead, a new Act of Succession was drawn up in state and the head of government. The Royals have largely steered clear 1953 allowing Frederik’s eldest child, Princess Margrethe, to ascend the of politics and scandal and the Danish people respect them for it.”

‘

4

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

Once you’ve obtained your residency or work permit, you can register with the National Register of Persons (‘folkeregister’ in Danish). Everyone who intends on staying in Denmark for longer than three months (six months for those from other Nordic or EU countries) is required to register at the National Registration Office in the municipality (kommune) where they will be living.

Registering will give you your vital CPR number, which is not only your key to becoming a legal member of society but is also necessary for such things as opening a bank account, receiving your salary, registering with a doctor and enrolling in school or day-care institutions.

getting settled

Once you have your CPR number you will also be covered by public health insurance. The key to this service is your little yellow card, one of the most important things you’ll receive in Denmark. The public health insurance is financed by your taxes and designed to ensure that everyone has equal and free access to health services. It’s important to deal with this quickly, as some newcomers may have to wait up to six weeks before they become eligible for the insurance.

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

Free schooling is available for every child from the age of seven in Denmark, and while all families with children aged six to 16 will automatically receive information on schools and education when they register with the National Register, Copenhagen Relocations recommends making contact with the international schools and day-care institutions before the physical relocation itself, since many schools have waiting lists. The sooner they are made aware of the arrival, the better.

The key to a successful, stress-free relocation, according to Copenhagen Relocations, a company specialising in helping expats and corporate employees relocate to Denmark, is to start preparing early. The more you can get done before leaving home, the easier things will be when you actually arrive in your new country.

Copenhagen Relocations also advise signing your child up to more than one school to really ensure there’s a place waiting for them, and also to allow for more flexibility when looking for a house. The school year in Denmark starts as early as the beginning of August and ends in the middle of June, though students are generally admitted at the time they arrive in the municipality.

An example of this is to file the necessary residency and work permits in advance, meaning that when you arrive you can hit the ground running – there’s so many better ways to spend the first few weeks following your arrival than waiting in line at the immigration office.

“Enrol at Danish school: it’s a great way to start learning the language as well as to meet new friends and start developing a social network.”

Jennifer Buley (Journalist)

One seemingly inconsequential, yet vital part of the relocation process is the ability to keep an open mind. Things in Denmark are different from where you come from and the more you compare things to home all the time the more you can miss out on what Denmark has to offer. Life in Denmark is unique in so many ways, and getting settled in quickly and maintaining a good attitude through the process can be the start of an enjoyable experience in the ‘happiest’ country on earth.

” We create a breeding ground for your employees” We help companies welcome their foreign employees in a way that make them want to stay.

Relocation with Care: Support that reaches beyond finding a home.

Integration with Sense: Welcome procedures and in-house networking initiative.

Relocation Scandinavia provides a retention strategy that pays off and we look forward to sharing our expertise with you.

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

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

the little yellow Card

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

By Celia thaysen

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

so how does it work? step 1 - resideNCe/work perMits

if you are an eu citizen If you plan to stay in Denmark more than three months, you must apply for a certificate of registration before those three months expire. Be prepared for it to take a couple of weeks.

The application must be submitted in person to the Regional State Administration (RSA) where you live. Check with the ‘Statsforvaltning’ which

RSA you belong to and whether you need to make an appointment first. The State Administration office for Copenhagen is located at: Borups Alle 177, 2400 Cph NV. (72 56 70 00; EU residence opening hours: Mon 9am-2pm, Tues 12noon-2pm, Wed 9am-2pm, Thurs 1pm-5pm, Fri 9am-1pm.

Remember to bring your passport and one passport photo. You will also need to bring documentation proving the reasons for your stay, e.g.

• Proof of employment: employment contract if you have one. Must be signed and max 1 month old or bring Employer’s declaration (Appendix A of the application form) • Proof of sufficient means: documentation showing means of financing your stay, e.g. bank account statement in your own name and max 14 days old. (N.B. as of January 2009, this amount was approx. DKK 70,000 per adult).

• Students: documentation for (eligible) educational programme.

For non-EU family members of EU citizens, check the requirements with the ‘Statsforvaltning’ first.

Once citizens of EU or EFTA countries are issued a residence permit, they do not need a separate work permit (arbejdestilladelse).

step 2 - your yellow Card - Cpr NuMber

This card is the Danish equivalent of a Social Security number or ID card and is the key to accessing almost everything in Denmark. First and foremost, it’s your personal health insurance card and entitles you to doctor’s visits and emergency treatment under the Danish state healthcare system.

You will also need this number when you deal with public authorities, open a bank account, set up utilities, take a language course or enrol your child in school, for the tax office, often to get a job, and even to use the library.

Once you have your residence permit, you need to visit the Citizen Service Centre (Borgerservicecenter) in your local authority (kommune) in person to register with them. Bring your residence permit, photo ID, and marriage or birth certificates for your children, if applicable. You also need a fixed home address (a hotel or business address won’t suffice). A proof of your address – i.e. rental lease, contract or letter from your landlord. At the same time as registering for your CPR number, you will also be asked to choose a GP (general practitioner or doctor).

if you are not an eu citizen If you aren’t an EU citizen, check with the Danish Immigration Service (www.nyidanmark.dk) regarding visa requirements, residence and work permit regulations, as these vary. Much will depend on your profession as to what type of residence permit (opholdsbevis) is issued. If you are being expatriated, your company or a relocation agency will offer the best advice.

In Copenhagen you register at the Citizen Service Center, Nyropsgade 1, 1602 København V, open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. You will get a CPR number right away, except in peak seasons Jan/Feb and September and your health insurance card will arrive within 2 weeks. Be aware that you have to put your last name on the mailbox or mention your landlords name in order to receive it.

It is a personal letter and is only delivered to persons mentioned on the mail box. Else it will be returned and destroyed without notice.

If you are in Denmark as a tourist and wish to apply for a residence permit, you need to go to: The Danish Immigration Service (Udlændingeservice), Ryesgade 53, 2100 CPH Ø. (35 36 66 00).

It’s worth noting that state health insurance does not cover the cost of medicine, dental treatments and some special treatments such as physiotherapy.

step 3 - taX

The third step, once you’ve received your CPR number, is to register with the tax office (SKAT) for your tax card (skattekort). This is vital if you are working. You will need to provide details of your annual income and an assessment of your tax liability. If your employer does not have your tax card, you will automatically be taxed in the region of 55-60 percent, which can be reclaimed but may leave you a little short of cash. Check www.skat. dk for more information. The central tax office in Copenhagen is at: Sluseholmen 8B, 2450 Cph S (72 22 18 18; opening hours: Mon 10am-4pm, Tue-Fri 10am-2pm).

New to denmark

www.nyidanmark.dk Before you arrive, check the New to Denmark portal - the official Danish Immigration Service website for foreigners and immigration. The site is in Danish and English, has sections in other languages, and is especially useful for finding information on visa requirements, work permits and entry rules for students and au pairs. www.kk.dk/cphinternational On this website you will find information about living in Copenhagen. CPH International Service host an ICS- International Citizen Service office.

Get help with the paperwork and get good advice on what it’s like to live and work in Denmark. All relevant authorities under one roof. A public service for foreign employees,job seekers and Danish companies Nyropsgade 1, 1602 Cph V. Opening hours: Wed 1pm-5pm, Thu 11am-3pm.The service also has a walk-in centre in central Copenhagen, open Wednes-Thurs only.

www.statsforvaltning.dk

Click on ‘In English’ and then in the left margin marked, ‘EU residence’. The Regional State Administration’s website has information on what to do, where to go and what you need to bring with you to apply for a Certificate of Registration or residence permit (registreringsbevis).

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

Get off to a good start in Denmark

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

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

Homework

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

S

ascha Eichendorff was an easy sell. He knew that the fourth-floor apartment in downtown Aarhus was the one he wanted as soon as he laid eyes on it.

But before German-born Eichendorff, a student at Aarhus University, could move in, he was given a contract so intricate that even a PhD student in medical biochemistry like himself was confused. Everything about the apartment was spelled out in the agreement, right down to the aluminium tube connecting the sink to the dishwasher and the type of soap to use on the floors.

“It was like a recipe,” Eichendorff says of the soap instructions. “It said I could use ammonia, but only up to a very specific percentage. It was bizarre.”

Equally surprising to Eichendorff was how much he would have to pay: before moving in he had to hand over not only a deposit of three months’ rent but an additional three months’ prepaid rent as well as his first month’s rent.

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

Strange as the contract seemed to Eichendorff, such details are commonplace in the Danish housing market. For while it is indeed possible for foreigners like Eichendorff to both buy and rent housing, there are a number of rules worth knowing first.

According to Peter Høyer, the managing director of Scandia, a housing firm founded in Copenhagen in 1993, Eichendorff ’s hefty deposit is nothing unusual. In fact, there are Danish laws – found in the detailed (25,000 word) Rent Act (‘Lejeloven’ in Danish) – requiring tenants to pay at least three months’ rent up-front.

“In the US and some places in the Far East and Middle East,” he says, “you can rent out apartments the same way you rent

out a hotel room. That can be great for the tenant, but the person who owns the property is exposed. So the law protects owners in case the tenants don’t follow the rules.”

Another distinguishing characteristic of the Danish housing market is the length of the lease. In the US, Høyer says, it is not unusual for a tenant to sign a one-year lease and then extend it indefinitely. But in Denmark, the duration of a lease is predetermined and rigid – you can’t simply extend or terminate a lease at your convenience.

“Here, that’s illegal,” he says. “You have a fixed time. So the idea that you make a year-by-year contract isn’t something that’s done in Denmark, and that may surprise some people.”

Foreigners might also be surprised by the myriad taxes levied against buyers. Søren Jespersen, a broker for EDC, a national chain of estate agents, says the tax structure set up around buying a home or apartment can be dizzying.

According to Jespersen, a buyer must pay the state 0.06 percent of the price of the house, in addition to a flat fee. And that’s just for the right to buy – it’s separate from the actual cost of a property. There are also taxes based on the value of the land (‘grundværdi’) and the value of the building itself (‘ejen-

domsvurdering’).

“This can add up,” Jespersen says. “If you bought a flat for five million kroner, then you’re paying a lot of money just for the right to buy your flat, before you even get into the actual cost.”

And should someone need a mortgage, Jespersen says they must pay the state 1.5 percent of the amount of the loan.

“The state actually earns a lot of money when people buy and sell houses in Denmark,” Jespersen says. “A lot of Danes don’t even know that. And this can be a lot of money if you’re loaning four or five million kroner.”

While taxes represent a big difference between renting and buying a house – according to Høyer, no taxes are levied against renters – buyers and renters alike might want to consider is getting outside help. Høyer says that renters should hire an agent to avoid confusion and surprises, and Jespersen’s advice goes a step further: get a lawyer.

This assistance isn’t necessary for everyone. Eichendorff, for one, was able to wade through his housing agreement without any real problems. Still, he double-checks that soap recipe whenever he cleans his floors.

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Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

CHOOSING WHERE TO LIVE

CHrIsTIANsHAvN With its picturesque canals and pretty painted houses, Christianshavn was created in the dutch style in the 1600s. These days, this upmarket neighbourhood is one of Copenhagen’s most desirable districts, connected to the centre by Metro and known for its trendy cafes and upscale restaurants.

Copenhagen and its suburbs has a vari- Top cultural pick: Dragør Harbour (leisure and fishing) ety of neighbourhoods and outlying towns, distance from the city centre: less than each with their own distinctive characteristics. 30 minutes Choosing which one is right for you and your similar areas nearby: Tårnby, Islands Brygge family depends on your own needs and wish- FrEdErIKsBErg es – as well as on how much you’re prepared Actually its own municipality although it seems more like a district of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg is a modern metropolis with to spend numerous parks, leisure and cultural facilities, cafés and shopping areas connected to central Copenhagen by the Metro

Hellerup

Type: Middle-class metropolis Ideally suited for: Everyone, in particular creative types, students and families postal districts: 1800-1998 (Frederiksberg C), 2000 (Frederiksberg) Housing: A full range of apartments, terraced houses, villa-apartments and detached houses rent prices: 4,000-32,000kr universities: Copenhagen Business School, University of Copenhagen Faculty of Life Sciences International schools: No international schools, but Johannesskolen is one of the best private schools in Denmark Top cultural picks: Copenhagen Zoo, Forum (exhibition and concert centre) shopping: Gammel Kongevej, Godthåbsvej, Falkoner Alle and Frederiksberg Centre Where to find International products: SuperBest distance from the City Centre: 10-15 minutes similar Areas Nearby: Valby

Østerbro

Frederiksberg

Central Copenhagen Christianshavn

Ørestad

ØsTErBrO

Dragør

drAgØr dragør is a picturesque, quaint fishing village on the island of Amager near the airport, and out of the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Type: Middle-class village Ideally suited for: Families with young children postal district: 2791 Dragør Housing: Terraced houses and detached villas rent prices: 7,000-16,000kr

One of the largest Copenhagen districts, residential Østerbro is ringed to the west by sortedam Lake and has plenty of cafes, restaurants, takeaways and shops. It offers a variety of living options, from city apartments in inner Østerbro to large houses in the embassy district.

Type: Urban Ideally suited for: Couples and families postal district: 2100 (København Ø) Housing: Apartments and houses of all sizes rent prices: 7,000-45,000kr Top cultural picks: Parken stadium, the Lakes and Fælledparken shopping: Østerbrogade, Øster Farimagsgade and Nordre Frihavnsgade distance from the City Centre: 5-15 minutes similar Areas Nearby: The Inner City, Hellerup, Nørrebro

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

ØrEsTAd Ørestad is Copenhagen’s newest neighbourhood, an exciting area on the island of Amager connected to the city centre by Metro and close to both the Airport and the Øresund Bridge. The university campus has brought young people to the area in droves, while exciting architectural projects offer attractive, affordable housing to families.

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

HELLErup smart suburb Hellerup has a flourishing ex-pat community, thanks to the many embassies and international schools in the area. Other attractions include upscale shops, cafes and a nearby beach.

Housing ranges from palatial early 20th century villas to new harbour-front apartment developments.

Type: Wealthy suburbia Ideally suited for: Families with school-age children postal district: 2900 Hellerup Housing: Everything from modern apartments and self-contained flats to palatial villas rent prices: 8,000-65,000kr International schools: Copenhagen International School, Bernadotteskolen, Rygaards Top cultural pick: The Experimentarium (science museum) shopping: Strandvejen, Water Front Shopping Centre Where to find International products: SuperBest distance from the City Centre: 15-20 minutes similar Areas Nearby: Gentofte, Charlottenlund, Klampenborg

newcomers should have a welcome committee It’s not high taxes or bad weather that puts most foreigners off staying in Denmark; according to statistics, 80 percent of long-term visitors leave because of loneliness

J

une Persson, founder and owner of Relocation Scandinavia, is in no doubt as to what Danish companies need to do in order to retain new employees they’ve coaxed from overseas: welcome them into their community.

In 2006, June returned home to Denmark after seven years in the United States, where she had relocated with her husband, an employee in a large biotech firm. Her time in the US taught her many new things, but one experience proved to be a key factor as she started up Relocation Scandinavia the year following her return - the welcome that her family was given by her husband’s firm.

“Danish businesses really could learn a lot from

8

American companies in that regard,” says June Persson. “They appreciate the importance of making employees feel at home.”

Relocation Scandinavia helps people get settled into the country in the same way other relocation companies do, finding them housing, CPRnumbers and other essentials. But they also offer one other particularly special service – and that is finding them good friends.

When Relocation Scandinavia is approached by a company to help relocate workers from their home country to Denmark, it isn’t just the arriving worker and his or her family that are in focus.

Danish employees are also involved in a process that aims at helping new workers, and their families, become a part of the Danish community as quickly and successfully as possible.

“We aim to find you a good new Danish friend in the company,” June explains. “And if you are a

family, we’ll find you a family.”

June goes so far as to suggest companies create a database matching available workers with arriving employees to make this service as efficient as possible. And it’s successful – rather than isolation, families can enjoy an instant family network that can last for years.

“If mum’s not happy, nobody’s happy,” June reminds us. She also points out how vital it is for newcomers to break out of the expat bubble.

“Expat communities are great, but they don’t help integrate foreigners into the Danish community,” she says. “Being part of a community and being invited your colleagues’ kids’ birthday parties and other social gatherings... It’s such an important part of life here.”

June sums it up: “Integrating newcomers is crucial for companies if they want to hold onto their new workers.”

More information about Relocation Scandinavia can be found at the company’s website: www.relocationscandinavia.com

Learn Danish Learn Danish fast anD efficientLy

focus on pronunciation anD oraL communication

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centraLLy LocateD (near centraL station)

Københavns Sprogcenter • Valdermarsgade 16, 1665 V • Tel: 33 21 31 31• Email: adm@kbh-sprogcenter.dk • www.kbh-sprogcenter.dk • Enroll today: 33 21 31 31

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

Prepping for Preschool Denmark is one of the best countries in the world for those with small children, with almost every aspect of society geared towards families.

Yet this amount of choice can make decisionmaking difficult – and day care is no exception

Photographer - Kasper Thye

Photographer - Christian Alsing

By Jane Graham

A

lthough children in Denmark starting school relatively late (during the year of their sixth birthday) a tiny few will be unused to waving goodbye to mommy; most will have been in day care since they started learning to walk.

Denmark has one of the most comprehensive childcare services in the world, with places for all children from the age of six months upwards. It’s government subsidised, so those on low incomes can apply for reduced rates, and even those on good salaries shouldn’t find themselves paying as much as in some countries.

With such an all-encompassing programme, knowing just which institution is right for you and your child can be confusing. Basically, the Danish childcare system breaks it down into two age groups: the youngest child, from six months up to three years (some municipalities, Copenhagen included, make the transition at two years and ten months) and the slightly older child, from three up to school age (this is less rigid here than in many countries, varying from five years-old to seven, dependent on a child’s readiness for school).

Babies and toddlers can go either to a nursery (vuggestue) or to a registered childminder (dagpleje).

Here, children are cared for on a staff-child ration of four children to one childcare worker. According to Danish principles of childcare extolling the virtues of fresh air, the children are laid outside in prams for their midday nap.

Older children, meanwhile, attend kindergarten (børnehave). Even here, however, the possibilities appear endless. Here are some of the main options:

• ‘Udflytter børnehave’ – Copenhagen has more than fifty of these ‘outlying kindergartens’, where children meet at premises in their local area and are driven out to an institution with large grounds and close to fields, woodland or beach. Some will attend the outlying kindergarten only, while other institutions alternate between countryside kindergarten and the one in the city.

• Kindergarten with its own bus – Many institutions have their own bus, called a ‘rumlepot’, which they can use to drive out of the city to parks, woodland and other recreational areas. Most institutions will alternate which ‘rooms’ in the kindergarten use the bus each day, and trips will generally be once or twice a week.

• Integrated institutions – Larger institutions, where younger kids and kindergarten-age are cared for in the same building, although usually in different rooms.

• Institutions with extended opening times – these kindergartens are reserved for those who work odd shifts, and are often based in hospitals. Some are open at weekends, while others offer late-night opening.

• Naturbørnehave – Outside of central Copenhagen, nurseries with larger grounds, access to green areas and policies promoting outdoor activities are known as ‘nature kindergartens’.

• Privately-run institutions – Of these, Rudolf Steiner kindergartens are the most common. The Rudolf Steiner movement is popular throughout Denmark, with over 25 Rudolf Steiner kindergartens in the Greater Copenhagen alone.

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Whatever option you go with, we highly recommend you visit a place before signing up for its waiting list. Ring first, and they’ll be happy to see you.

A list of municipal childcare institutions (and even information on private ones) can be found from your local municipality, either online or at the local town hall. For those in Copenhagen, this is at Pladsanvisningen, located on the third floor at Frederiksborggade 15 or virtually at www.kk.dk (English pages are available under ‘Living in Copenhagen’: Childcare & School.’ Note that many institutions have long waiting lists. It varies from municipality whether you’ll have to wait for your first choice or if you are offered a guaranteed place when one first becomes available, wherever that might be.

Whatever option you go with, we highly recommend you visit a place before signing up for its waiting list.

Ring first, and they’ll be happy to see you.

More information in English is available in the booklet, ‘Day care offers and child-minding arrangements in the City of Copenhagen’.

While most nurseries have policies on diet and try to restrict the amount of sugar children consume, you’ll more than likely be expected to take a lunch box for all children over three. There was a government initiative to offer cooked meals for all children in institutions throughout 2010, but it proved less popular than expected.

No matter what kind of provision you opt for, one philosophy runs through the entire Danish childcare system, and that is to teach children independence and self-reliance from the very start. To many, this can seem like a very free-floating curriculum, but the sight of a group of twenty Danish four year-olds armed with backpacks for a two-mile hike into the woods is something to behold.

The downside of this complete day care package is that parents who choose to stay at home with their toddlers may find it hard to join a playgroup. Mothers’ groups, set up with the help of municipal health visitors shortly after a baby is born, tend to break up after about nine months as the mums’ maternity leave draws to a close and the group drifts back to work. In fact, almost all the playgroups in and around Copenhagen survive thanks to the enthusiasm of expat mothers.

Ladies International Network København (LINK) run two playgroups: Bumps & Babies for children up to 18 months (every Monday morning from 10-12) and Mums & Tots (every Wednesday from 10-12) for slightly older kids. While both groups are held publicly at Hellerup Church, Margrethevej 9b in Hellerup, the playgroups are run by and for LINK members, and non-members are asked to join after three sessions. The price for non-members is 40kr. More information is available at www.linkdenmark.com

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

Back

to School

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

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or any family coming to Denmark, the education of their children is of paramount importance.

Safe and welcoming Copenhagen is a great place to have a young family, with a child-friendly culture and some excellent schools.

Some expats decide to send their children to the local Danish school. Education is compulsory for all children in Denmark from the year they turn seven up until the age of 16, and the Danish system is considered one of the best in the world, with particular focus on social skills and confidence.

Many families opt to place younger children into a Danish preschool institution before moving them to an international environment when they are of school age. Preschool options are divided into vuggestuer (up to age 3), børnehaver (3 to 6 years) and then the final børnehaveklasse, located in primary schools and catering for that final year before a child enters primary education.

Roughly a third of preschool education is privately run, and there are various international choices in the Greater Copenhagen area.

The term ‘folkeskole’ covers the entire period of compulsory education, and is not divided into separate primary and secondary sections as most newcomers might expect. The vast majority of students attend the municipal folkeskole and there are some that have both Danish and international sections.

At the discretion of the school principal, children who require it are offered training in Danish as a second language; those who have attended preschool in this country are unlikely to need it.

Finally, there is what is known as ungdomsuddannelse, or youth education. This is not mandatory, and is normally attended by those between the ages of 15 and 20 for a period of two to four years.

The most common route is through gymnasium in preparation for a programme of higher education, but many also choose a vocational school.

Although the Danish system can be a good fit for many people, Copenhagen does have many international options. The Copenhagen International School in Hellerup offers the full International Baccalaureate programme, while Nørre Gymnasium and Herlufsholm (the country’s only boarding school) provide the Diploma programme. Other schools, such as Rygaards Skole and Bernadotteskolen, have both Danish and international sections up to the age of 15. Copenhagen even boasts a Lycée Francais in Frederiksberg as well as a German school.

With such a range of choices, any expat parent can be sure that they will find an institution that will suit their child’s needs.

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services • Pre-arrival and Planning • Area and Orientation Tours • Legal Entry • Home Finding • Temporary Accommodation • School / Day care • Bank / Insurance • Settling in Services • Group Moves • Tenancy and Expense Management • Spouse Support and Job Search Support • Cross Cultural Training • Pets Handling • Car Import / Change of Drivers License • Home Purchase and Home Sale Assistance • Departure Services • Removal Services • Assistance with Out Bound Relocations • Design your own Relocation Package

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Throughout Denmark

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

Jobs

for spouses

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

By Jimmy Fyfe

F

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

Networking is key

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

chance you need to be prepared and make the most of the opportunity.

As well as reiterating the need to apply in the way that Danish employers are accustomed to, Steffensen also stresses the importance of showing that you are willing and able to work in a different environment from one you’re used to and to target yourself specifically to the role you are after.

Use the tools on hand

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

Make sure your CV is up to scratch

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

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

Registering a company in Denmark is much easier than you might think – making starting your own business not only an attractive option, but a viable one as well. All EU citizens are permitted to establish a self-owned business in Denmark and the municipal Copenhagen Business Centre (Københavns Erhvervscenter) offers all the practical advice you need, with free seminars and answers to questions that you might not even know to ask. With consultants from a variety of cultural and professional backgrounds, they can help formulate business plans and offer information on essentials like bookkeeping and budgeting.

While job-hunting in Denmark can seem challenging, learning how the job hunting game works, thinking outside the box and focusing on your skills, strengths and unique talents opens up options available for those eager to find success.

While your CV might have looked impressive back home, it could still be rejected here if the qualifications and experience isn’t understood

by Danes. Pilmark is quick to remind jobseekers to adjust their resumes to fit the Danish norm, and to be aware too that most job applications require a cover letter as well as the CV itself.

Play to your strengths and make the most of opportunities

According to Mette Steffensen from Supporting People, an expat employee support and integration guidance company, the small size of Denmark combined with its high number of qualified workers means that all publicly advertised jobs receive a high volume of applicants. Because of this, Steffensen stresses that when you do get a

Starting your own business

Tips for finding work from those that have succeeded: Susan Avery: Give away some of your time for free. Often volunteering some of your time to begin with can get you a foot in the door and lead to paid work and a full time job in the end.

John Francis: Get out and about in the community. To find a job here it’s all about networking, so you need to meet people to enlarge your social network. Things like joining sports clubs or meetup groups are a great way to start, and if you have a Danish partner, get to know their friends and colleagues.

Peter Wills: When it comes to the Danish language, a little goes a long way. You don’t need to be fluent in the language, but just trying to speak a little shows that you are open-minded and eager to learn and that can make a lasting impression on would-be employers.

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

Expat Women: Upgrade your Professional and Personal Skills in one go

By Kirsten Stendevad, founder and leader of GlobalGoddessSchool.com

I

t has allways been a challenge for women to ”have it all”, but for expats, add the limited career and network oppportunities of being in a forein country. Although Danish, Kirsten Stendevad, MA and leader of the Global Goddess School knows this situation. At 6, she moved to Belgium and

throughout the 24 years she spent outside of Denmark, she witnessed lots of talented women losing touch with their unique gifts, and often losing self esteem and happiness too.

Kirsten wanted to find new ways for women who want to have it all, with pleasure. She wrote the bestsellers Motherhood as a Career Booster and The Millionairess Method and gave workshops at Harvard Business School, Microsoft etc. In 2003, she created a place where women can get support and tools for realizing their visions with pleasure. The Global Goddess School has turned hundreds of women into ”feminine powerhouses”, who master the fine art of bringing out the best in themselves and others. ”I am so pleased I finally offer this unique training in English”, says Kirsten. ”I believe the Dalai Lama was right when he said the world is to be saved by Western women. The time for us to get our Greatness and live it, is NOW.”

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Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

The place where businesses and professionals meet Check out recruitment service Workindenmark and make your qualifications work for you By Jane Graham

M

arianne Hansen is director for Workindenmark East. Her staff of 10 dedicated recruitment consultants is ready if you need a good engineer or a biochemist, or if you’re looking for a company willing to recognise your qualifications and talents.

Workindenmark East – the Copenhagen branch of this international recruitment service - helps make those important meetings between employer and jobseeker a reality.

“Workindenmark provides services for Danish companies and foreign jobseekers,” Marianne Hansen sums up the company’s purpose in a nutshell. “For a start, we host a website for people thinking of coming to Denmark to work and have a large job bank, not only to show what is available but also for you to upload your CV.” This is a great opportunity to make your qualifications visible, and there is certainly a market for it, as Marianne Hansen confirms.

“Every month, there are between 60,000 and 70,000 people viewing our website from other

“workindenmark provides services for danish companies and foreign jobseekers, “ Marianne hansen sums up the company’s purpose in a nutshell. countries, either looking for jobs or reading information.

“We work hard at contacting companies and bringing them to our website, and focus on areas where there is a definite labour shortage, i.e. engineering, pharmaceuticals, the health and IT sectors... In these areas, there is a high demand

for qualified professionals – and we’re very proactive.”

In addition, Workindenmark is connected with the EURES website (European Employment Services), meaning all job ads are automatically advertised throughout Europe. Workindenmark co-operates with a network of about 800 EURES advisors throughout Europe to find the ideal candidates for Danish companies.

Workindenmark is not only online, however: it’s also an office that people can visit, both as jobseeker or company representative. Workindenmark East’s office is based in central Copenhagen, but there are also offices in Aarhus, Jutland and Odense, Funen.

“The office is there to offer guidance,” elaborates Marianne Hansen. “You can drop by for information about job opportunities, or you can book a time to speak to an adviser, who will look through your CV and at your qualifications and let you know if there are jobs available for you.”

Qualifications are not always enough; trends in the labour market can make a difference, too.

“Our advisers know a lot about the labour market. We can tell you what kind of job opportunities are out there right now, or if you might have to wait a few months for something to appear.”

Workindenmark places special attention on those already living in Denmark, particularly students and spouses of those already in work.

“We can help students directly after they’ve finished their studies go straight into a job,” says Ms. Hansen. “We also offer a number of opportunities for spouses; as well as our job-seeking courses tailor-made for spouses, we can present them to relevant companies.”

Outside of the job market, does Marianne Hansen have any tips for newcomers to Denmark?

“Very often it’s about developing a network,” she says. “This can be difficult, as we Danes are often told we are ‘closed people’ and hard to come into contact with... but having a network is so important! Joining in with spare-time activities, like sports associations, is an ideal way to start making Danish friends.”

For more information, check out www.workindenmark.dk

Denmark’s most effective Danish courses! www.kiss.dk

Bernstorffsvej 54, 2900 Hellerup t +45/ 3962 1053 f +45/ 3962 1081 email: admin@rygaards.com

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

She didn’t move, however, and has no intention of ever leaving. Or as she explains: “I changed my mind, and decided to embrace the language.”

She attended six hours of private lessons at Berlitz to acquire the basic skills required for communicating in Danish. However, whenever she tried to put her Danish to practice, most people simply responded in English. So she thought, ‘why bother?’ Sharon also points out that she feels like a different person when she speaks Danish.

“I can’t be myself, because I am not comfortable... I don’t speak Danish because I don’t need to.”

By contrast, Kirsten, 45, an American stay-at-home mother with two teenage children, opted to send her children to a Danish school.

Like Franklin, Kirsten felt learning Danish was a sign of respect for the Danish culture. Learning Danish, she said, allowed her to, “gain a good understanding of where I was”.

Not wanting to be a ‘social burden’, as she put it, she started to see learning the language as the only way for her to truly assimilate into Danish society.

TAILOR YOUR OWN DANISH COURSE

stays, Franklin was able to pick up quite a bit of Danish by communicating with Danes on a daily basis, watching TV and using a dictionary.

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

Three newcomers to Denmark offer three quite different approaches to the language

By Dominique Barir Jensen

O

ne of the first things people notice when visiting Copenhagen is just how easy it is to get by without any Danish skills whatsoever, especially if you are only planning on living here for a short period of time. What’s the point, then, in bothering to learn the language? Do you need to be able to communicate fluently, or is it simply a matter of understanding and expressing the basics?

Three members of the expat community shared their views with The Copenhagen Post on the importance of and reasons for learning Danish. Although all three have taken it upon themselves to learn the language, each has their own intentions and strategies.

Franklin, 23, a Portuguese artist and ballet dancer, was living in Denmark ‘on and off’ for three years before he decided to move here permanently and start learning the language. During his early

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Franklin was able to pick up quite a bit of Danish by communicating with Danes on a daily basis, watching TV and using a dictionary.

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

“When I first got to Denmark, I just couldn’t wait to get out of here,” she said. “Taking the step to learn Danish, for me, would have meant that I was accepting life in Denmark. I didn’t want to be stuck here. And if I was going to move anyway, why bother learning how to speak a language that only five million people understand?”

She adds that she didn’t need to learn Danish, as Danes were always polite and spoke English to her. However, at some point, they would, “turn away and speak Danish” to a person next to her, making her feel socially handicapped, as she was no longer able to participate in the conversation. Not wanting to be a ‘social burden,’ as she put it, she started to see learning the language as the only way for her to truly assimilate into Danish society.

She began learning Danish through the course provider AOF, but although the classes provided a fun and free opportunity for her to meet ‘people of different ages and social groups with a common interest in learning Danish’, she felt that her progress was too slow, and that she needed to take part in smaller, more intensive classes tailored to her level of understanding.

Kirsten switched to intensive classes at KISS four times a week; it took six months for Kirsten to become fluent in Danish. Nevertheless, Kirsten finds it, “difficult to explain thing’s from the heart” when speaking Danish, and is grateful that she can always switch into English to be understood when she really needs to.

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

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Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

For those who genuinely want to return from their posting having made some Danish friends, how do you go about it? First things first, you need to learn the language. A word of warning, though: this is not as easy as it might seem. While on paper it’s a simple language with basic grammar and a relatively small vocabulary, speaking it is an entirely different jar of pickled herring, and mastering the deep monotone and throaty rasp requires years of practice.

Thankfully, you don’t actually need to speak it (although a little goes a long way). Most Danes speak English and once you begin to understand Danish, it’s easy to interject into conversations in English.

While some find it difficult to handle a conversation spoken simultaneously in two languages, I’ve found the majority of Danes cope well with the arrangement.

HOW TO N MEET THE

DANES

By Peter stanners

ot everyone enjoys living in the expatriate bubble when abroad. While many revel in the camaraderie of the diplomatic dinner circuit where the high turnover of consular staff ensures plenty of fresh faces, sipping G&Ts in hotel lounges surrounded by the same people you thought you’d left behind when you accepted a posting overseas is not everyone’s cup of tea.

And while those stationed in Mogadishu or Baghdad can be forgiven for hiding in barricaded compounds away for security reasons, those on European postings have no excuses for avoiding mingling with the natives – especially in a country like Denmark, where the prohibitively high cost of running a car offers a financial imperative for trading the motor for a cosy ride on the bus.

Should you be questioned on your unwillingness to speak Danish, simply answer that if they understand English well, and you understand Danish well but have trouble speaking it, then it’s in the best interests of good conversation that you adopt this arrangement.

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

And that’s just the way it is. So resist the urge to be offended, Danes just see the world differently. In public, they are frank and no-nonsense and expect

each other to be brimming with self-esteem: being determined or arrogant in Copenhagen is seen as an attractive quality, not a self-obsessed one. The essential premise is, if you don’t believe in yourself, who will?

So now you can navigate in public without getting the hump because the bus driver didn’t smile at you, how do you go about making some friends?

Networking comes more naturally to some than to others, but don’t spoil it at the start by being choosy – accept invitations to anything and everything, because you don’t know who you’ll meet next. What you need is an ‘in’; someone to invite you into the bowels of their society.

This is important because in Danish society bonding is conducted behind closed doors with their nearest and dearest. From the Christian Confirmation of their 13-year-olds and truck-ride graduation celebrations to their many Christmas and Easter dinners, they jump on any opportunity to celebrate and fly their flag. But while they embrace community and celebration as a means to reinforce social bonds, intimacy is key and invitations to outsiders are hard-won.

It’s worth the effort: volunteer and introduce yourself, find out where the parties are held and start showing up. After a while, you’ll start getting invited along to other events. And from then, it just snowballs – who knows, you may end up an honorary Dane.

No culture is perfect, and not everyone will find the Danish culture as embracing as I have. I find the Danes fiercely loyal and incredibly generous.

I don’t need the superficial kindness of strangers, just good friends who will invite me along to great parties. Perhaps I just got lucky. But you’ll never know if you don’t try.

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DaNish for forEigNErs More info at Studieskolen.dk or call +45 3318 7900

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The progression is fast and the level high.

Courses start every 6 weeks.

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The courses can be held as group classes or on a one-to-one basis and range from beginners to advanced level.

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Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

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

A

djusting to life in Copenhagen can be hard for many reasons, but learning Danish is at the top of the list. Native English speakers lament that nothing is spoken like it is read, random letters are sometimes left silent and pronouncing the vowels makes you sound like you’ve got a sore throat. Despite all that, it is a language that can be picked up quickly and painlessly; all it takes is the right environment, methods and staff to lead the way.

Københavns Sprogcenter gives students these tools. Nestled in the old meatpacking district of Vesterbro, the school spans two large buildings and boasts a newly renovated computer lab, language lab, library and cafeteria. A surprise perhaps to those who imagine language schools consisting of nothing more than a few rundown classrooms, this language centre has taken extra steps to modernise its space and add a level of comfort to the often uncomfortable experience of learning a new language.

Newcomers are interviewed by one of the school’s five counsellors and placed into courses less than a month later. They are then immersed in Danish from day one by Københavns Sprogcenter’s renowned faculty, which includes more than 10 authors of Danish language textbooks.

Teachers understand exactly what their students

really strong friendships are made in classes, crossing religious, political, social or whatever borders they live with normally. are going through and can help them navigate textbooks that, in many cases, they wrote themselves.

“They’re not only [good teachers], but they’re professionals in their field,” Department Manager Julie Henriques explains. “This also means that

the teachers who haven’t written textbooks are working with the authors, so they understand and are constantly learning as well.”

Københavns Sprogcenter aims to help newcomers pass the Danish language test required by immigration laws, but it also understands that there’s more to a language than that.

“We look at it in a broader sense – what do you need to do the language? What do you need to make it your own?” Henriques elaborates. “It’s not just about passing the test; it’s about how to live - how to buy a pack of cigarettes, how to ask someone out on a date – that’s not on the test.”

To achieve this understanding, the school offers

both fulltime day courses and night classes that give students flexibility to work around their own schedules. Those who want an intensive learning experience can find it here, but so can those with other jobs or schoolwork who can only fit in a couple of nights a week. Traditional lectures and in-class activities are supplemented with practice in the language lab, where students can pronounce words into a microphone and receive individual critiques from staff. Priority is placed on active learning (speaking and writing) rather than passive learning (reading and listening).

Above all else, Københavns Sprogcenter has created an environment where people from around the world can work to overcome a similar challenge. With 1,400 students currently enrolled from over 90 countries, the language centre provides expats with a group of people who can understand their situation.

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

“Really strong friendships are made in classes, crossing religious, political, social or whatever borders they live with normally.”

Danish will always be a tough language to grasp, but the resources at Københavns Sprogcenter can make this process both quicker and easier. With a comfortable environment and informed faculty, you can finally join the real Copenhagen and discover what’s so special about that so-called “throat disease.”

International Chrisitan Community

Why should ICC be your choice of church while in Copenhagen?

• The church is interdenominational.

• Represented by over 40 nationalities from all walks of life.

• 10% of the congregation are ethnic Danes – perfect for integration.

• A child friendly congregation.

• Youth Group, Singles Group, Couples Group, Women’s Group and Men’s Groups catering to various spiritual needs.

• Fantastic gospel choir and music group.

• Over half the congregation involved in volunteer services both spiritual and practical.

• And much, much more….

Copenhagen International School Copenhagen International School is an English Language IB World School, offering the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme which gives access to outstanding universities worldwide: • • • • • •

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Pre-Kindergarten through to Grade 12 Students & Staff from 50+ countries Highly qualified international teachers Curriculum includes wide range of Specialist Classes Comprehensive Extracurricular programme Convenient location: Hellerup Campus (Pre-K – grade 8) right by Hellerup station, 10 minutes from city centre City Campus (grades 9 - 12) right by Østerport Station Accredited by: Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges

For further information please visit our website www.cis-edu.dk or contact our Admissions Office admission@cis.dk Visit www.getintouch.dk for more information Where: Ryesgade 68, 2100 Kbh Ø. When: Sundays from 10:30 to 12:30 Contact: info@getintouch.dk or Tel: +45 3672 6058

Hellerupvej 22-26 2900 Hellerup T +45 3946 3300 admission@cis.dk www.cis-edu.dk

Stockholmsgade 59 2100 Copenhagen Ø T +45 3946 3300 admission@cis.dk www.cis-edu.dk

The Cosmo - International School of Southern Denmark

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International education The Cosmo - International School of Southern Denmark is a private school which attaches importance to professionalism, activity and community spirit set in an international environment using English as the language of tuition.

The Cosmo offers three educational programmes, Cambridge International Primary Programme (CIPP), Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme (CLSP) and the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE).

The philosophy of The Cosmo At The Cosmo we strive, in collaboration with the parents, to provide a secure atmosphere and caring learning environment as the foundation for the development of the full potential of each individual student.

We value cultural diversity, academic excellence and mutual respect, which contribute to the education of future citizens, who weigh values as freedom with responsibility and a democratic disposition.

We strive for the students to obtain basic values such as tolerance, integrity and compassion, which can contribute to the development of the students’ self-confidence and independence.

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k d . o m s o c e www.th

Sct. Joergens Gaard I Hospitalsgade 4 I DK-6000 Kolding I Tel. +45 2052 0549 I info@thecosmo.dk

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

PLACES TO

WORSHIP While Danes are not a visibly religious nation, the state church is an integral part of national society. The Evangelical Lutheran Church or Folkekirken is the official religion of Denmark, receiving tax subsidies from every taxpayer (should you wish to opt out of this, you will need to speak to the tax office); and while most Danes are not regular churchgoers, most still see themselves as Christians and observe traditions like Christenings and Confirmations.

Næstved south of Copenhagen holds a mass every third Sunday followed by a Polish mass at 11.30.

International Church of Copenhagen Services held at St Andreas Church, Gothersgade 148, 1123 Cph K; Sunday Worship 11:30; Parsonage: ICC Church House; Gjørlingsvej 10, 2900 Hellerup; Tel: 3962 4785; www.internationalchurch.dk The International Church of Copenhagen is an ecumenical ministry open to various Christian faiths, holding services following the traditions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America while working together with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark.

During the week, the Church’s prayer and bible study meetings are held in the suburb of Hellerup at the organisation’s Church House, which also functions as their parsonage for the pastor and his family. On Sundays, a Bible study session begins at 10:15 at St Andreas Church, with the worship service following at 11:30. A nursery is available for children during the service.

Copenhagen Community Church Nørre Farimagsgade 45, 1364 Cph K; Sunday service 11:00; Tel: 5155 5376; www.ccchurch.dk The Copenhagen Community Church is a multi-faith organisation meeting in the centre of town for a service followed by presentations from church leaders and readings from church members, in an informal atmosphere popular with students and tourists. The church describes itself as a local ecumenical fellowship with a friendly style of prayer open to contributions from the congregation. The church is a member of New Frontiers, an international group of around 700 churches with a modern approach to faith.

Living Church

R

eligious tolerance is a part of the national constitution and other religions are embraced in this country. Those looking to make connections within their own religious community should check out the list below: in Copenhagen alone, a broad range of denominations and ecumenical organisations hold Sunday worship in English, the Jewish Shabbat on Saturday, Friday prayers for Muslims and temple services for Buddhists and Hindus.

St Albans Anglican Church Churchillparken 11, 1263 Cph K; Services: Sun, Wed 10:30; Vestry Tel: 3311 8518; www.st-albans.dk St Albans is the only Anglican church in Denmark and offers services in the Anglican/ Episcopalian tradition. During the week, the church holds Holy Communion on Wednesday mornings as well as various lectures on faith and theology. The 1885, grey stone church is spectacularly non-Danish in style and shape. Often referred to simply as, “the English church,” the congregation is actually made up of more than 20 nationalities. A part of the Church of England´s Diocese in Europe under bishop Reverend Dr Geoffrey Rowell, St Albans a member of the worldwide Anglican Communion.

Although this Christian organisation doesn’t meet in a church, the range of nationalities and enthusiasm of its members more than make up for the lack of a traditional bell tower. As well as multinational services, the group hosts weekly prayer meetings, bible discussion groups and children’s activities. The centre’s extensive website offers detailed information about all of the events and services as well as video and audio recordings of past sermons and contemporary Christian music. On the last Sunday of the month, the centre hosts an extended service with their Spanish, Filipino, Danish and English congregation, starting at 10:30.

Sakramentskirken Nørrebrogade 27, 2200 Kbh N; Mass in English Wednesday 17.00, Sunday 18.00; Tel 3313 6762; www.sakramentskirken.dk Copenhagen’s Catholic church is located in the centre of Nørrebro, not far from Dronning Louises Bro Bridge. The church holds mass two times a week in English, as well as a regular service in French (Sundays at 11.15) and in Danish. The church is the centre of Copenhagen’s vibrant Catholic community, and regular events include weekly yoga classes in English.

Copenhagen Christian Centre

Vor Frue Kirke

Københavns KulturCentre, Drejervej 11-21, 2400 Cph NV; Sunday service 13:30, last Sunday of the month at 10:30; Tel: 3531 0010; www.copenhagenchristiancenter.dk

Præstøvej 29, 4700 Næstved; Services Sunday 10.00; Tel 5572 0985; www.vorfrueskole.dk In addition to its regular Sunday prayer, the Catholic church in

18

Femagervej 39, 2650 Hvidovre; Sunday service 12:00; Tel: 3296 4193; www.levendekirke.dk/en The Church of the Living God follows the style of worship popular at the beginning of Christianity and the time of the Apostles.

The Living Church aims to continue the work of the Apostle Paul, with enthusiastic all-night prayer meetings and a variety of charitable ventures to raise money for children in Calcutta as well as the homeless in Denmark. On Sundays, prayer meetings begin at 11:30 - everyone is welcome to attend either in silent or audible prayer – while the worship service begins at 12:00 and is a lively affair, with contemporary gospel songs and plenty of clapping and dancing.

Copenhagen Synagogue Krystalgade 12, 1172 Cph K; Shabbat, Saturday 9:00; Tel: 3312 8868; www.mosaiske.dk/english Copenhagen’s oldest synagogue and headquarters of the Jewish Community in Denmark was built in 1833 in a classical style with

Religious tolerance is a part of the national constitution and other religions are embraced in this country.

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

motifs inspired by Ancient Egyptian art. Currently the building is undergoing a major renovation and is only open for services on Saturday mornings from around 9:00 to 12:00. Both Jews and Gentiles are welcome to visit the building, but need to have photo identification and cannot bring large bags due to security concerns.

in Copenhagen continue to worship at a number of culture centres and meeting rooms around the city. Those who can read Arabic or Danish can find more information about places of worship at the society’s website.

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

Eriksminde Allé 2, 2650 Hvidovre, Friday prayer 1:30; Tel: 3675 7869 Northern Europe’s first mosque was designed by the Muslim engineer John Zachariassen, completed in 1967 and named after the wife of the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement active in Denmark since 1956. Its copper dome has five pillars, and was initially covered with blue mosaic tiles. Friday prayers take place each week at 1:30, but anyone may visit the mosque by appointment.

www.wakf.com Although the first purpose-built mosque, the ‘Grand Mosque of Copenhagen’, has been approved by city planners to be built in Amager, until it is completed most muslims

Svanemøllevej 56; 2100 Cph Ø; Tel: 3929 2711; www.buddha-kbh.dk The centre follows the Diamond Way of Tibetan Buddhism (Karma Kagyu) and offers classes on meditation, guidance and religion: events held in English are marked on the organisation’s calendar.

The centre was founded in Copenhagen in 1972 by a Danish couple

Spousecare - a professional business partner for when your company employs foreign staff members with accompanying spouses

Lieu Quan Temple Tel: 4352 0812 This temple is a centre of worship and celebration for Buddhists following Vietnamese religious traditions. Saturdays services generally attract between 30 and 100 people. In addition to a kitchen, several classrooms and a meditation hall, there is room in the temple for overnight guests such as ordained monks. The Vietnamese Buddhist Association also sponsors language classes in the temple for children and adults.

ISKCON - International Society for Krishna Consciousness

Buddhistisk Centre København The Islamic Society in Copenhagen (Islamiske Trossamfund i Danmark)

Denmark.

Langagervej 54, 2500 Valby; Meetings Saturday 12:00;

Nusrat Djahan Moské Shir Hatzafon

who had received their instruction in Tibet and then returned to

Hare Krishna Temple, Skjulhøj Allé 44, 2720 Vanløse; Services Sunday 3:00; Tel: 4828 6446; www.harekrishna.dk The Hare Krishna school and headquarters of ISKCON in Denmark are located in Vanløse. Each Sunday, the group’s temple holds a vegetarian feast from 3-6pm, while there is a daily programme of classes, lectures and prayers (early mornings and evenings).

Feel at home in Copenhagen

One of the most efficient ways to ensure that foreign employees remain working in Denmark is to make sure that their families and spouses thrive here.

Spousecare is specialised in just that: taking care of spouses. Spousecare introduces the spouses to local networks and helps with everyday life issues in Denmark. With an individual tailor-made service focusing on career counseling and the personal needs and wishes of each newcomer, we care for the spouse and the family while you care for your new colleague.

“When I arrived in 2008, I did not know how I would integrate into the local community. Anette Pilmark from Spousecare opened up her network to me and within a month, I found a job in a local company.

Once that position ended, I decided to start my own business and again, Anette’s advice and insight were invaluable as she helped me meet relevant people and pointed me in the right direction. What I have appreciated most was Anette’s very personal approach and extreme professionalism. She has also been very encouraging and completely devoted to making me feel welcome in Denmark. Thanks to Spousecare, I now feel at home in Copenhagen and I am now the happy owner and manager of Montessori International Preschool.”

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Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

feastiNg with the VikiNgs F Culinary specialities make diving into danish cuisine worthwhile. By lea sibbel oreigners expecting to find Denmark filled with tall, rough guys with long beards and light-coloured hair blowing in the brisk Nordic wind probably don’t add envisage their imagined brawny Viking holding a small piece of bread in his musclebound hands, tenderly decorated with slices of cucumber, neatlyshaped radish and herbs sprinkled precisely on top: but the richly embellished ‘smørrebrød’ (literally, ‘buttered bread’) belongs to Denmark no less than the image of the tough Viking.

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

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

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

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

“After every bite of smørrebrød you have to drink a shot of Aquavit. This is how we create a reason to toast each other all the time,” laughs Trina Hahnemann about some of her fellow countrymen’s customs. The Copenhagen-based chef runs a catering service that can list members of parliament among its customers.

Of course, the eating habits of the Danes are not limited to openfaced sandwiches. After a petite afternoon snack with a sickly-sweet Danish pastry (‘wienerbrød’), the descendents of the Vikings fire up their stoves to whip up a hearty meal – preferably including potatoes, possibly the most important ingredient in Danish cuisine. Served with fried plaice and parsley sauce, the earthy vegetable scrubs up well.

Another classic of Danish cooking is biksemad, or ‘chunks of food’, a sort of Danish equivalent of bubble-and-squeak.

“Biksemad is actually a leftover-dish,” says Noer.

“Whatever is kept from the Sunday roast is minced, fried with onions and then eaten with fried potatoes, beetroot and eggs on a slice of rye bread.”

Around Christmas time, or even two months earlier, Danes really start to blossom; especially in the kitchen, with ‘hygge’ meals of comfort food cooked to boost the anticipation for the Christmas feast itself.

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

“Maybe a new name would be more appropriate,” she adds with a smile.

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

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

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

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

where to eat While much of the attention in recent years has been cast on the restaurants making up Copenhagen’s constellation of Michelin stars, the city is also home to scores of places to eat that suit all budgets and occasions.

Although it’s hard to narrow down the broad selection of restaurants to just a few favourites, we’ve selected six places we find ourselves recommending to friends and family, or where we ourselves head when we’re looking for a special night out or a quick bite to eat.

eXpeNsiVe reinwald’s Farvergade 15, Cph K; open Mon-Sat 14:00-24:00 (kitchen closes at 22:00); 3391 8280; www.reinwalds.dk; three-course menu 350kr, mains 195-275kr

Serving lunch and dinner, a director’s-script length of choices confronts you Reinwald’s, with a who’s who of classic French and French-inspired Danish dishes as well as a monthly set menu that would make any chef proud. restaurant Kiin Kiin Guldbergsgade 21, Cph N; open Mon-Sat 17.30-24.00 (last table reservation 21.00); 3535 7555; four-course set menu 450kr, seven-courses 775kr; www.kiin.dk There are only two Thai restaurants in the whole world that have been awarded a Michelin star. One of them is in London; the other one is Kiin Kiin, which you will find in the heart of Nørrebro.

An exquisite place where every little detail has been well-considered, reservation essential.

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

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

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

Kates Joint Blågårdsgade 12, Cph N; Open Mon-Sun 17:30-22:00; 3537 4496 The place for a bohemian as well as cheap night out, Kate’s world food menu lists the culinary highlights of a round-the-world trip.

Big portions and plenty of veggie options.

More restaurant reviews available each week in the The Copenhagen Post In & Out guide, and online at cphpost.dk.

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Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

The best things *

in Copenhagen

are free

Copenhagen’s high prices shouldn’t stop newcomers from exploring the city on a budget. We’ve compiled ten of our favourite things to do all year round that don’t cost a krone

Statens Museum for Kunst

3 Denmark’s vast national gallery offers free entry to view all its exhibits except the larger temporary shows. The museum’s extensive collections includes famous works from Denmark as well as abroad; it’s no longer arranged chronologically, however, so enjoy the ride. Closed Mondays; late opening Wednesdays.

*

Christiania

4 The Free State may not be what it once was, but remains essential visiting for anyone interested in alternative lifestyles. You’ll have to take out your wallet to buy lunch in one of Christiania’s cafes, but prices here won’t break the bank.

*

*

Window shopping

*

Mill Stream

5 From Copenhagen’s Saturday morning street markets to English bookshops like Diamantboghandlen in the Royal Libraries and design stores like Hay, window shoppers have hours of potential browsing time on their hands. Some stores, like Georg Jensen, are lavish enough to feel like a design exhibit in themselves.

6 Also known as the cradle of Danish industrialism, the 30-km stream ‘Mølleåen’ running through Copenhagen’s leafy northern suburbs from Furesø Lake to the Øresund is both a historic and natural gem. Walk or bike along the stream.

Rosenborg & Kongens Have

7 One of Copenhagen’s most visited castles, Rosenborg Slot is surrounded by the city’s

most popular park. Although the castle does charge entry, it doesn’t cost to enjoy the grounds, open daily until late all year round.

*

The Botanical Gardens

*

The Little Mermaid

*

Biking

8 Copenhagen’s tropical oasis, The Botanical Gardens is

*

open to the public all year round. Should the weather be a little chilly, head into the elegant Palm House and meditate surrounded by bubbling water and exotic flora.

Nationalmuseet

1 Denmark’s National Museum is a huge place filled with all kinds of exhibits from prehistoric times onwards and free sight-and-sound guides available in the foyer.

The children’s annex is especially great for families, with tons of stuff for kids to touch and play with. Closed Mondays.

*

9 Copenhagen’s most famous landmark might also be its

most overrated, but at least it doesn’t charge an admission fee. The bronze statue is on the small side, but the walk up here is pleasant and it’s a great place to people watch.

Wednesday museums

2 Most of Copenhagen’s museums, from the Royal Armouries to the Hirschsprung Collection, offer free entry on Wednesdays. The sole exception is the Glyptotek, which is free on Sundays instead.

10 Copenhagen’s most convenient mode of transport is also one of the best ways to see the city. It’s not only free but also environmentally sound.

Giving your child a head start The Cosmo International School of Southern Denmark By Matthew Grant Anson

I

n a world where diversity is king, no one can beat The Cosmo International School of Southern Denmark. First opening its doors in September of 2008, The Cosmo now holds a student body hailing from 23 nations around the globe, many of them the children of parents working for companies within Denmark.

In fact, according to headmaster Simon Mosekjaer, this is how The Cosmo got its start. “It all started in the beginning of 2008,” he said. “Some of the larger companies in our area asked for an international school. I was asked if I wanted to be the project manager of it.” The goal of the school was to provide international students with a high quality education and a peer group that students could relate to.

However, the growth of The Cosmo was stunted by the economic crisis. “We opened in September, 2008 with 12 students,” Mosekjaer said.

“We’ve grown, but it has been a rough ride. The financial crisis starting in 2008 hit us quite hard.

Some of the companies were reluctant to hire employees from outside.”

The international feel doesn’t stop with the students either – it extends to the staff with teachers originating from Mexico, France, England, the U.S., China and beyond. For Mosekjaer, it’s these

The teachers are the backbone of the school, there’s no doubt about it! teachers that make The Cosmo the learning institution that it is. “The teachers are the backbone of the school, there’s no doubt about it,” he said.

Now home to about 50 students, the University of Cambridge affiliated school has done its best to maintain a level of high quality learning.

Classes are taught in English, but students are required to take Danish and some Danish holidays are celebrated. “The families want to choose the school where they have a certain feeling of security, and I think we can offer dedication, commitment, and some excellent teachers.”

21

Relocation Guide - Autumn 2011

Lyngby Storcenter (Kongens Lyngby) www.lyngbystorcenter.dk Waves (Greve) - www.waves-shopping.dk

(48 28 64 46) Islamic Cultural Centre: Horsebakken 2, 2400 Cph NV (38 80 03 86)

INTErNATIONAL sCHOOLs

INTErNATIONAL CLuBs

Copenhagen International School (CIS) Hellerupvej, Hellerup www.cis-edu.dk Rygaards School Bernstorffsvej 54, Hellerup www.rygaards.com Østerbro International School Præstøgade 17, Cph Ø www.oeis.dk

direCtory 2011

HEALTH Hospitals in the Greater Copenhagen area with A&E departments: Rigshospitalet Blegdamsvej, Cph Ø

gENErAL INFOrMATION Denmark’s official information website: www.denmark.dk Official Copenhagen Tourist site: www.visitcopenhagen.com City of Copenhagen International Service: www.kk.dk/ThinkinCPH Weather: www.dmi.dk Postal service: www.postdanmark.dk

Frederiksberg Hospital Nordre Fasanvej, Frederiksberg Gentofte Hospital Kildegårdsvej, Hellerup Also: Bispebjerg Hospital, Hvidovre Hospital

TrAvEL Rejseplanen (handy journey planner with English options as well as German and Danish): www.rejseplanen.dk Danish Cyclists Federation: www.dcf.dk Copenhagen airport: www.cph.dk

TAXI COMpANIEs Dantaxi (70 25 25 25) www.dantaxi.dk TaxiNord (48 48 48 48) www.taxinord.dk Amager-Øbro Taxi (32 51 51 51) www.amagerobrotaxi.dk

24-hour doctor (Copenhagen area): 70 13 00 41 Emergency services: 112

24-HOur pHArMACY 24-hour pharmacy Steno Apotek Vesterbrogade 6c, Cph V 33 14 82 66 www.183.netapotek.dk

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

BIKE rENTAL Baisikeli Bike Rental Turesensgade 10, Cph K / Ingerselvsgade 80, Cph V www.cph-bike-rental.dk

sHOppINg MALLs Fields (largest mall in Scandinavia located near the Airport): www.fields.dk Fisketorvet (Dybbølsbro, Vesterbro) www.fisketorvet.dk Waterfront Shopping (Tuborg Havn, Hellerup): www.waterfront-shopping.dk Frederiksberg Centret (Falkoner Alle): www.frbc-shopping.dk

Cyklebørs Gothersgade 157, Cph K www.cykelboersen.dk Østerport Cykler Oslo Plads 10, Cph Ø www.rentabike.dk

• NGG International School (formerly Hørsholm • International School): www.his.dk • Bjørns International School: www.b-i-s.dk • Bernadotteskolen - www.bernadotteskolen.dk • Sankt Petri (German) - www.sanktpetriskole.dk • Prins Henrik (French) - www.prinshenriksskole.dk

FITNEss CENTrEs Charlottehaven Health Club Hjørringgade, Cph Ø www.charlottehaven.dk

Life in Denmark (online expatriate community): www.lifein.dk Expat in Denmark (national network for foreign professionals): www.expatindenmark.com American Women’s Club in Denmark: www.awcdenmark.org Allcanuck (network for Canadians living in Denmark): www.allcanuck.dk The International Women’s Club of Copenhagen - www.iwcc.dk Ladies’ International Network København (LINK) www.linkdenmark.com NZVikings (New Zealand community in Scandinavia): www.nzvikings.dk The Southern Cross Club (Aussie/Kiwi social club): www.southerncrossclub.dk Indians in Denmark (IID): www.indiansindenmark.com Copenhagen Theatre Circle, CTC (English language amateur theatre group): www.ctcircle.dk

spOrTs CLuBs

Well-come Fitness Tuborg Havnevej, Hellerup www.well-come.dk DGI Byen Tietgensgade 65, Cph V www.dgi-byen.com/fitness_center/ Fitness DK (over a dozen centres in the Greater Copenhagen area): www.fitnessdk.dk

HOusEs OF WOrsHIp International Christian Community (ICC): www.getintouch.dk St Alban’s Church (Anglican): Churchillparken 11, Cph K, www.st-albans.dk Sakramentskirken (Roman Catholic): Nørrebrogade 27, Cph N, www.sakramentskirken.dk The International Church of Copenhagen (ecumenical): St. Andreas Church, Gothersgade 148, Cph K, www.internationalchurch.dk French Reform church: Gothersgade 107, Cph K, www.franskreformertkirke.dk Alexander Nevsky Church (Russian Orthodox): Bredgade 53, 1260 Cph K; (33 13 60 46) Synagogue in Copenhagen: Krystalgade 12, Copenhagen K (39 29 95 20) www.mosaiske.dk Gurdwara Siri Guru Singh Sabha sikh temple, Kirkebjerg Alle, Vanløse, www.sikh.dk Hindu temple Iskcon: Skjulhøj Alle Vanløse

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

pETs City Dyreklinik (vet in Kronprinsessegade, city centre): www.citydyreklinik.dk Dyreklinikken Ryesgade 100 (vet in Østerbro): www.dyreklinikken-ryesgade.dk Asserholm (English-speaking kennel in the countryside): www.asserholm.dk The Danish Kennel Club: www.dansk-kennel-klub.dk Copenhagen cat sitters: www.kattevenner.dk Regulations for travelling with pets: www.uk.foedevarestyrelsen.dk

pET suppLIEs Maxi Zoo: www.maxizoo.dk ZooZity: www.zoozity.dk Oliver’s Petfood: www.olivers.dk

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