The International - August 2019

international

the

ISSN 2596-5220

END OF SUMMER SWEET CORN

5 DARLING DANISH VILLAGES

SUMMER EVENTS AROUND DENMARK

RETURN OF THE VIKINGS

AUGUST 2019 - THE-INTL.COM

BRAZILIAN HERALDO

FREE

PAPER

LIVING HIS DRAG DREAM IN COPENHAGEN

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A NEW CHAPTER IN YOUR LIFE AS SUMMER HOLIDAYS DRAW TO A CLOSE, A NEW SCHOOL YEAR AND POSSIBLY A NEW JOB ARE JUST BEGINNING. WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU SETTLE INTO YOUR NEW LIFE IN DENMARK.

A

AUGUST SPELLS THE

end of summer holidays. Summer late nights with friends and family, long hot days of hanging out with the kids at the beach, and discovering new destinations in Denmark, and the rest of the world. August, for a lot of us is preparation time - time to go out shopping for first days back at school, and back at work. Be sure to catch Laura's informative article on Danish education and childcare for all you new parents to Denmark (page 29).

This is also the time (between August and September) that a lot of new internationals arrive from all over the world. This can be both an exciting and daunting time. I always say that those first few months in a new country are like the honeymoon days. It's exciting, things are new and inspiring. Then reality starts to kick in once you have to start doing practical things like: organising your CPR card, bank accounts, schools, and even simple things like going to the grocery store and trying to figure out the difference between milk and yoghurt in another language.

With T h e In t e r n a t i o n a l my hope has always been to equip internationals with articles that are informative and offer support in those early years

of moving here. We have two articles that explore moving to a new p art of D enmark, an expat reception in Aarhus (page 28), and how Esbjerg is making it easy to move there (page 25) - very informative and something not to miss.

Not only is August filled with exciting events around the country (pages 3-7), but also the colourful, and spectacular Copenhagen Pride - with activities happening during Pride week (13-18 August), we've given you our top 4 events at Pride during this time (page 12). Performing at Pride week, and our feature story this issue is gorgeous Brazilian Heraldo! Don't miss out on his amazing story, and life as a drag queen in Copenhagen (page 8).

To understand the Danish business culture we have a really interesting article this issue from Mariano, exploring the Nordic culture and how Viking history is strongly rooted in their business values (page 17). Perfect if you're starting a new job this month!

As we come to the end of the holidays, there are still weekends to explore your neighbourhood, don't miss Erin's 5 darling villages around Denmark (page 14).

Best of luck to all you students out there as you start another school year, and we wish you all a great August!

"The breaks you take from work pay you back manifold when you return because you come back with a fresher mind and newer thinking.

Some of your best ideas come when you're on vacation."

Love,

- Gautam Singhania

LYNDSAY JENSEN EDITOR & FOUNDER THE-INTL.COM

MEET THE TEAM SALES

For advertising sales, please contact: sales@the-intl.com

ADDRESS

The International ApS, Industrivej 14, 4683 Rønnede; +45 42676745

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Provins-Trykkeriet ApS, Vordingborg

COVER PICTURE EDITOR & FOUNDER LYNDSAY JENSEN has twenty years' experience in the advertising and publishing industry, and holds degrees in Business and Desktop Publishing (print and repro).

Born in the UK, and brought up in South Africa, she has the ability to understand different cultures, and is passionate about networking. She is a wife of twenty two years and mother to two boys aged 21 and 15. She loves travel, photography and art. lyndsay@the-intl.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR & PARTNER KENNETH MACALPINE is a Nordic Financial Manager in the Transport industry. His education is in Finance and he has a business degree obtained in the UK. Born in Norway he moved to Denmark at the age of 22. He is of Danish Scottish ancestry and lives in southern Denmark with his large multi-national family consisting of Danish, Irish and Brazilian heritage. He is always interested in new challenges and loves to live life to the fullest. kenneth@the-intl.com

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SUB-EDITOR STELLA SOERENSEN M.A. (Linguistics), TESL, born in the UK, left after university and travelled to Germany and then Kenya where after many happy years running a teacher-training scheme she relocated to Denmark in 1988. A writing and editing career with international companies followed before she began her first novel. It is currently doing the rounds of the agents. A Tai Chi expert, she has three children and four grandchildren. Her passion is constant learning. stella@the-intl.com

DISTRIBUTION SATYA PRAPANCA is married, and moved to Denmark one and a half years ago from Indonesia. His previous work experience includes; subtitle translator, documentary films, photographer, and music curator in his spare time! Satya's passion is composing music with his guitar and laptop. He enjoys nothing more than taking in the beauty of Copenhagen while enjoy coffee/tea and cake at a local cafe.

Kelley Hudson - www.kelleyhudson.com / mcgeehudson@gmail.com

DISTRIBUTION

The International is available at a range of businesses, institutions, cafĂŠs and public libraries across Denmark

SUBSCRIPTIONS

For home or corporate delivery of the printed edition please contact: distribution@the-intl.com The International is published 12 times a year.

This issue was published on July 30, 2019

CVR:

39118181

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

I N AU G U S T

VIOLENCE, SEX, HUMILIATION, MURDER AND RUIN. RICHARD III IS PROBABLY THE EVILEST VILLAIN IN THE HISTORY OF THEATRE. DO YOU DARE LOOK HIM IN THE EYE?

VISITDENMARK PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS FROM: NICLAS JESSEN; KAM & CO; MADS ARMGAARD; MARK GRAY

AS A CHILD, I ALWAYS HAD THE ‘HEEBIE-JEEBIES’ WHEN I SPOTTED SCHOOL EQUIPMENT AND DRESSES IN THE STORES - THREATENING AN END TO FREEDOM. LUCKILY, BACK TO SCHOOL, WORK AND WINTER AREN’T QUITE WITH US YET, AND SUN-KISSED DENMARK IS STILL OFFERING US SOME LANGUID AND FUN-FILLED NIGHTS AND DAYS. PHOTOGRAPHS VISIT DENMARK

TEXT HEATHER GARTSIDE

HELSINGØR

ISTOCK

TICKTES & PICNIC WWW.HAMLETSCENEN.DK

1 – 30 AUGUST SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL AT KRONBORG Every year in August HamletScenen presents Shakespearian theatre from around the world. The stage is set in the open air, in front of Kronborg Castle, a timeless backdrop under the swirling skies of a typical Danish summer. This year there will be two performances – an inhouse production of RICHARD III and the music performance Songs Of Lear by the Polish company, Song of the Goat Theatre.

SPONSORED BY

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/EVENTS/796748464029036/

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COPENHAGEN

DANSKE KUNSTHÅNDVÆRKERE

FREDERIKSBERG

WEFRB

HAMLETSCENEN

HELSINGØR

1 – 23 AUGUST

3 AUGUST

8 – 10 AUGUST

RICHARD III

STELLA POLARIS FESTIVAL

Read more about the performance and book your tickets here:

Stella Polaris is an easy-going, family-oriented music festival which takes place in the gorgeous gardens of Frederiksberg Have from 12:00 – 21:00. The parkland creates the perfect setting for a day of pure chillout, surrounded by green fields, two stages, bars, some great street food and an extensive children’s activity area. The musical line-up will be announced closer to the date on the website.

VORES FRUE MARKET (OUR LADY’S MARKET)

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.HAMLETSCENEN.DK/EN/PERFORMANCE/ RICHARD-III/ TICKET PRICE FROM: DKK 230,00-500,00.

PERFORMANCE TIME: 20:00

The Danish Crafts & Design association presents their famous craft fair. This year will be its 36 time in the paved area outside Copenhagen Cathedral. The key ingredients are aesthetics, craftsmanship and a unique trading experience where you can get to meet the artists and designers who’ve made collectable ceramics, glass, jewelry, textile design, graphics, wood and design.

The market in Frue Plads, 1168 Copenhagen is open from: Thursday: 12:00 – 19:00 Friday: 10:00 – 19:00 Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.STELLA-POLARIS.DK/FESTIVAL-INFO/ FREDERIKSBERG/ INSTAGRAM: HTTP://INSTAGRAM.COM/STELLAPOLARISDK

DANSKE KUNSTHÅNDVÆRKERE & DESIGNERE

TEATERBILLETTER.DK

STELLA_POLARIS_NIKOLAJ_THANING

HAMLETSCENEN

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/COPENHAGEN/FRUEPLADS-MARKED-8-9-10-AUGUST-2019/200017356482254

H i g h Acad em i c S t an d ar d s C h ri s t i an E t ho s C onv e n i en t l y l o c at ed i n H el l er u p

rygaards.com AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

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HELSINGØR

10 AUGUST

11 AUGUST

16 – 18 AUGUST

ESBJERG INTERNATIONAL DAY YOGA AT KRONBORG

STREET FOOD FESTIVAL 2019

This is the day when Esbjerg shows its cultural diversity! You’re invited to take a walk through the multicultural market, meet people and taste food from all over the world as well as enjoy performances on the stage featuring dance, performances, fashion shows and music from many continents.

Meet on the grassy area at the front of the Kulturværvet from 10:00 until 11:30 for some great yoga under blue skies (hopefully!) Bring your yoga mat and a blanket.

The event will be cancelled if it’s raining. MobilePay 51887154 with the suggested donation of 100 kr towards www.micro-biogas.com.

For three days from 11:00 – 21:00 you can graze your way through a veritable gastronomic jungle of more than 25 of Denmark’s very best street foods. Not just a delight for the tastebuds because there’s also fun activities, great atmosphere, a flea market on Sunday and non-stop “Rå hygge!” (Clean cosy fun)

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/606171823220628/

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/419141011984785/

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/ÅRHUS/ALL?PAGE=8

ROSKILDE

COPENHAGEN

HAMLETSCENEN

EVENTYRANALYSER H.C. ANDERSEN

HELSINGØR

17 – 18 AUGUST

ALL OF AUGUST

ALL OF AUGUST

SONGS OF LEAR

FOOTSTEPS OF THE VIKINGS DAY TRIP

SELF-GUIDED PUZZLE WALK

Read more about the performance and book your tickets here:

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.HAMLETSCENEN.DK/EN/PERFORMANCE/ SONGS-OF-LEAR/ TICKET PRICE FROM: DKK 170,00-250,00 PERFORMANCE TIME: 15:00

HAMLETSCENEN

AARHUS

VISITAARHUS

ISTOCK

ALLEVENTS.IN

ESBJERG

At the remarkable UNESCO listed Roskilde Cathedral, the famous Viking kings of Harald Bluetooth and Sweyn Forkbeard are buried alongside almost 40 Danish kings and queens. The cathedral is one of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in Northern Europe, where you can hear stories of how Sweyn Forkbeard conquered England as well as tales of Harold Bluetooth.

Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings at Lejre Museum in the national park Skjoldungernes Land, learn about ferocious myths and taste a glass of the legendary Viking drink mead, which legend has it he who drinks mead is ensured eloquence and knowledge.

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.GETYOURGUIDE.COM/ROSKILDEL2752/COPENHAGEN-IN-THE-FOOTSTEPS-OF-THE-VIKINGSDAY-TRIP-T142734/

Imagine you found a notebook. Your curiosity doesn’t allow you to just return it, you want to know what is inside and who it belongs to. The package contains a notebook, a map, letter with instructions, and a pen.

This discovery will lead you on a 1.5 to 2-hour scavenger hunt in the charismatic former-meat-packing district of Copenhagen.

You can gather your friends, family, or colleagues, and meet them at the location that’s written on your package. From here, simply open the package and let your adventure begin.

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.GETYOURGUIDE.COM/COPENHAGEN-L12/COPENHAGEN-SELF-GUIDED-KDBYEN-PUZZLE-WALKT252612/

ED'S PICK!

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ODENSE

HELSINGØR

GET YOUR GUIDE

BELLEVUE THEATRE

EVENTYRANALYSER H.C. ANDERSEN

KLAMPENBORG

17 – 25 AUGUST

21 AUGUST

ALL OF AUGUST

DANISH DESIGN SUMMER BALLET

KLOKKEN / THE BELL BY HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN

AARHUS LIKE A LOCAL

Bellevue Theatre is an architectural landmark by architect Arne Jacobsen, from 1936 inspired by the Bauhaus Style. The 17th of august the show Danish Design will premiere at Bellevue Theatre, starring Alban Lendorf, principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, in the leading role.

To complete the design experience, the theatre will host an exclusive exhibition of Danish Design classics curated by the auction house Lauritz.com. The exhibition features video clips elaborating on the history of Danish Design, and the exhibited furniture and objects will be up for auction on Lauritz.com.

The event culminates with a newly choreographed ballet concerning the creation of Danish Design – a celebration of Arne Jacobsen, Bauhaus and the Danish Design tradition.

The show is non-verbal and perfectly suited for an international audience.

Using 3D imagery projected upon the biggest fountain in Scandinavia in Odense’s magical forest, you are invited to come on a magical journey through the pages of H.C. Andersen’s story: The Bell. Acrobats and fire complete the dramatic and colourful enactment of a group of children in search of a bell.

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://WWW.BELLEVUETEATRET.DK/EN/FORESTILLINGER/DANISH-DESIGN/

ED'S PICK!

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/ODENSE/KLOKKEN/200017377845507. ALL WELCOME FROM 22:00 – 22:30 TO THIS FREE ARRANGEMENT AT MUNKE MOSE, 5000 ODENSE C

Experience a tour that will transform the way you travel to make it as much about the people you meet, as it is the places you see. Your local guide (Lokafyer) will be passionate about their city and eager to share their knowledge and perspective. Since Lokafyers are not professional guides and tour occasionally, they provide an experience that’s authentic and personal, like a friend showing you around their city.

After being picked up from your accommodation, explore your local area to get familiar with the neighborhood, find out about the best places to eat, the easiest ways to get around, and the hidden gems you might have missed. By the end of the tour, you'll feel comfortable navigating the city and confident that you have all the information you need to make the most of your stay.

Through conversations with your Lokafyer, you’ll learn about cultural differences, local events, and what it’s like to be a true local.

The more notice, the better, as these tours are organized on demand and are completely personalized. With this experience, you won’t be just passing through the city, you’ll be a part of it.

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.GETYOURGUIDE.COM/ AARHUS-L32302/AARHUS-LIKE-A-LOCAL-CUSTOMIZED-PRIVATETOUR-T169516/

ED'S

BELLEVUE THEATRE

PICK!

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ODENSE

KOLDING

TREKANTOMRÅDETS FESTUGE

DIT HELSINGØR

ODENSE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

HELSINGØR

24 AUGUST

26 AUG – 1 SEP

29 AUGUST

SUNDTOLDSMARKED / SOUND DUES MARKET

OFF19 - ODENSE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

BOOK SOUP – FULLSTOP ACROBATIC STREET THEATRE

It’s hard to create an elegant title in English for this amazing historical re-enactment day. The market and events around the venerable old city of Helsingør celebrate the heyday of the infamous toll in the 18th century. The atmosphere is perfect, as the proud citizens dress the part and revel in the glorious ‘400 years of legal piracy’ (See Paying Our Dues To Helsingør by Heather in this issue) in which every ship passing the mighty fortress of Kronborg was demanded to pay a sizeable toll to the Danish King in order to pass in or out of the Baltic. More details at: www.helsingorhandel.dk

Save the date! It's time for the next Odense International Film Festival - OFF19! A week filled with talent, creativity and short film. Since 1975, the festival has brought the wonders of the world to the cinemas of Odense making it the oldest film festival in Denmark.

OFF19 offers hours and hours filled with films, talks, debates and lots of love. Discover new worlds and travel to faraway lands with our diverse competition programme.

Or be inspired and learn new things in our focus programme. And best of all: almost everything is FREE!

Have you ever tasted book soup? Do you know anyone that can fly? If you kiss a frog will it turn into a prince?

Fullstop Acrobatics answer these and many more questions when they bring the world of children’s fiction to life through circus, music, theatre and dance. You and your children will get to sample a delicious book soup flavoured with many tasty characters. The event is free and will be performed outside in Nicolai Gården at Nicolai, Skolegade 2C, 6000 Kolding from 11:00 – 11:40.

Speak Hellerup Bernstorffsvej 20C 2900 Hellerup Speak Lyngby Klampenborgvej 221 2800 Kgs. Lyngby

hello@speakspeak.dk +45 3946 3050

speakspeak.dk

Learning Danish is expanding your horizon

Speak Frederiksberg Lindevangs Allé 8-12 2000 Frederiksberg

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ON STAGE I GIVE

MY ALL

YOU NEED TO LEARN HOW TO WALK IN HIGH HEELS, DO MAKEUP, TUCK, SEW, CHOOSE THE RIGHT MUSIC AND IGNORE DIVAS WITH BIG EGOS. BUT IT IS ALL WORTH IT IF YOU MAKE PEOPLE FEEL HAPPY AND SPECIAL

PHOTOGRAPHS KEL HUDSON

T

TUCKED AWAY IN a large beautifully maintained courtyard just off a very busy street in Fredericksberg I find the block of flats I am looking for. The garden complete with new teak furniture and special areas for outside eating is immaculate. Children’s bikes and toys litter the play area. As I climb to the second floor I hear a door being opened for me. A guy wearing yellow/green shorts and a matching T-shirt covered with a dark blue fern motive, smiles, invites me in and offers coffee. Having lived in Denmark for twelve years he knows that it is traditional to show the visitor around the home, although coming from Brazil – Rio de Janeiro — he has a natural friendliness and a smile about him that, perhaps, you wouldn’t see on a Dane. And his dark tan is not fake. He looks very athletic; his hair is pulled back and slightly coloured at the tips. He shows me the living room, the kitchen, the dining room: all stylishly Scandinavian, and then we get to his office. “Here is my office,” he says opening the door to what would probably be a second bedroom in a flat of this size. The first thing I see is a dressmaker’s dummy, gallantly displaying a black body-hugging suit almost like a one-piece swimsuit. Fitted over the suit a bright cream, gemmed bra winks at me whilst a neck/shoulder holster falls down around the arms. Pieces of material scattered here and there and bags and boxes overflowing

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TEXT STELLA SOERENSEN

with bling give contrast to the spotlessly tidy rooms we have just passed through. “And this is where I keep my costumes,” he says sliding open the massive wardrobe doors.

There, hung meticulously in order are the most magical costumes I think I have ever seen off screen. They are not gaudy; they are not dull: they are absolutely creatively unique. Works of art.

He opens the other side of the wardrobe and picks out his favourite pair of shoes. Slightly mauve made of thin woven material with heels are so high and so thin I can only gape, transfigured by them. I want to feel them, touch them but he is very possessive of them.

“How on earth do you wear these?” I ask.

“Oh, they are like so painful to wear,” he says, “but I love them, so I live with the pain.

I just love them. But I need to work out a lot so that my balance is fine on stage.” So now I know why he has those muscles that first caught my eye.

Heraldo Balbino is arguably one of Denmark’s most prestigious drag queens. In 2013 he was queen of the carnival and his stage show depicting Beyoncé (where he also does a lip sync) is available on YouTube. It is an absolute stunning performance. A true art form. “I need to lip sync,” he says, “but all drag queens do that, unlike cross dressers.”

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"THIS WAS WHAT I WANTED TO DO FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. DRESS UP AND ENTERTAIN. BUT I WANTED TO DO IT SERIOUSLY AND PROFESSIONALLY, SO I STARTED LEARNING HOW TO BECOME THE BEST DRAG QUEEN." “Oh, really?” I am aware that I am stepping into a world of which I know very little. “So, you don’t just put on a woman’s dress?” I ask tamely.

“Cross dressers are basically men who dress up I women’s clothes, go out and have fun. Drag Queens are different. They take great pride in their makeup. Their eyes, eyebrows, are their trademark.

And Hair. I love hair. It has to be made from human hair, so it is expensive, but it lasts. Hair must make a statement, be a presence, almost become the person you are on stage.” He hands me a wig and as I run my hand over it I can feel it is indeed made of human hair.

I turn back to the wardrobe full of costumes, gently reach out to touch a gold one. “What of the costumes then, if you can’t just find a woman’s dress?”

“My costumes are made by a friend in Brazil. The one I had for Copenhagen in 2013 cost upwards of 30,000 kroners. The feathers (turkey feathers) are real. The gems come from China,” he hands me some and they sparkle in the sun streaming through the window.

FULL DISCLOSURE “Are your costumes inspired by the carnival in Rio?” I ask.

“Well I came first to Denmark, many years ago now, because of love but it is true, I do come from Rio, and when I was a child, of course, I went with my younger brother and my sisters to the carnival but the costumes I wear today are often my own creation. And what is more, my makeup takes hours.” He quickly and expressively tells me how a drag queen worth his salt will concentrate on eye makeup and eyebrows. Apparently it is necessary to recreate eyebrows on the face not just ‘do up’ your own. To do so involves making your own invisible. To do this, four layers of a special glue and four layers of makeup are needed before the skin is accepting of new, exaggerated eyebrows. And then you have the eyes to do. Heraldo does his eyes first before the eyebrows, but most drag queens put their eyebrows on first. “It is the eye makeup and eyebrows that mark out a drag queen from a cross dresser and absolutely must not dissolve under the heat of a performance.”

By now the coffee he offered has been waiting for some time, so we retire to the front room but not before he allows me to handle the crown which he takes from his desk and hands to me.

It is unbelievably intricate, different shades of blue and green

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

gems and material sown together creating a tiara of dominant proportions. It is decorative, colourful – but heavy. I look at Balbino’s delicate, beautifully shaped face, and this time notice his neck is thick. Perhaps thicker than one would expect but to wear a crown such as the one I am holding. Then I remember: he “works out a lot.”

Then quite suddenly he is scrambling to reach the top of the wardrobe where he retrieves his prize crown, made of bird feathers again from Brazil. He carefully and graciously hands me a feather to keep.

I am absolutely won over and pleased I made the effort to meet this marvellous inventive, creative, captivating man.

In the front room and a coffee or so later he assures me I can ask him anything. “Anything, anything,” he sits forward on the sofa, expectantly, his smile even wider.

I’VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF BEING A PERFORMER “So why a drag queen? It surely can’t pay enough for you to live on.” I look around the room at the enormous flat screen TV, HiFi of the finest quality and the beautiful soft carpet. “Well, my Danish husband does help a little,” he laughs, “but I supplement my income by teaching children dance, modelling, jewellery making, food at the local after-school activities centre. I was lucky enough to get the offer from the job-centre and I love teaching and learning from children, but my heart is on stage. I am a performer, an artist. The first time I felt that this was to be the life for me I was celebrating on Christmas Eve in a friend’s home and he had a wig lying on a chair. I popped it on, danced around a little, flicked the hair to and fro and then ‘POW’ just like Saint Paul on the road to Damascus it was a moment of stupendous, blinding honesty to myself. This was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Dress up and entertain. But I wanted to do it seriously and professionally, so I started learning how to become the best drag queen and where to do this safely. Brazil is not the safest of places for “trans” people.

You know “trans”? he asks.

I mumble a little bit about the LGBT community embarrassed that I don’t know the latest letter that has been added (LGBTQ) and then laugh. “They add more letters every time I hear about the gay community”.

“Yes, they do,” he laughs too, and goes on to seriously explain the differing sub-sections within the community. I get lost along the

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way, which he quickly senses, so returns to what he does. “I don’t see myself as just a drag queen,” he says to get my attention back. “I am a performer, an artist. I love my drag sisters. Cross dressers dress up go out and have fun. I perform. But more than that, I become free, and am taken over by my stage personality.

www.cis.dk

WHAT’S IN A NAME? “Your stage name is ‘Lucciana’ and it emanates beauty. Where and why did you chose it?”

“I had a very close, special friend that I grew up with. She was the one I could talk to. I told her I felt different, lost and a little alone. She understood, stood by me, so I took her name as my stage name.”

“And do you still feel lost?”

“In Denmark? No! Only cold in the winter,” he laughs. “Now, I feel safe and SO LOVED.” As I leave the flat, he gives me a hug and I have an overwhelming desire to give him a hug back. How, I ask myself, in an article of black words on white paper can I do justice to this unique, colourful, genuine person?

See him for yourself August 16 at Drag Night in Pride Square Copenhagen. I will be there. Front row. THE-INTL

Before long, you’ll belong Settling into a new country can be challenging – especially for the nonworking spouse. We know, from studies and from experience, that a successful posting depends on the happiness of the entire family – and our school is home to a very active, warm and welcoming community.

Our PTA offers a wide range of opportunities: newcomers network, Spring Fair, Halloween, Yoga, Activities Fair, Wine and Cheese Evening, Dads’ Club and Ladies’ Night Out. Dedicated parents coach our sports teams, run our boy scouts and serve on the school Board. ing her favorite subjects to photograph.

Since relocating to Copenhagen she has moved into content production, hav-

At CIS the whole family finds a place to grow roots and make friends. So to quote one of our parents: “I came for the job, but we stayed for the school.”

ing created content for several Danish startups like Solosocks and Life X. Kelley has a beautiful daughter, Tess, and is married to the American music composer, Aaron Hudson. www.kelleyhudson.com

ABOUT OUR PHOTOGRAPHER

KELLEY HUDSON

mcgeehudson@gmail.com @sequoiakelley

Kelley is a photographer and content producer from San Diego, California. Known for a softer editorial style, Kelley works primarily in event and lifestyle photography with weddings and families be-

www.facebook.com/eyhudson/ www.linkedin.com/in/ kelleyhudson/

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OUR TOP FOUR CPH PRIDE EVENTS WITH SO MANY GREAT EVENTS HAPPENING AROUND CPH PRIDE, IT WAS DIFFICULT TO PICK ONLY FOUR OF THE INTERNATIONAL'S TOP EVENTS. FOR MORE EVENTS, PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE: WWW.COPENHAGENPRIDE.DK

HUMAN RIGHTS PROGRAMME FRIENDSHIP DATING DATE: TUESDAY, 13 AUGUST TIME: 17:00 - 17:30 LOCATION: HUSET-KBH (THE COURTYARD), RÅDHUSSTRÆDE 13, 1466 COPENHAGEN LANGUAGE: ENGLISH Are you looking for new acquaintances and potential friends in the LGBTQ community? Then join Friendship Dating in Huset’s courtyard where we will facilitate different conversations to give you the opportunity to expand your network. Who knows? Maybe you’ll meet people you can relate to or who can expand your horizons.

HUMAN RIGHTS PROGRAMME DRAG FOR BEGINNERS DATE: TUESDAY, 13 AUGUST TIME: 19:00 - 19:45 LOCATION: DEBATE TENT ON THE RAINBOW SQUARE LANGUAGE: ENGLISH We’re inviting you to the workshop ’Drag for beginners’. Would you like to be transformed into a drag queen or drag king? Join us and meet some of Copenhagen’s popular drag queens and kings and learn about everything from tucking, contouring and makeup for queens to binders, packing and makeup for kings.

PRIDE STAGE PROGRAMME PRIDE RUN COPENHAGEN 2019 DATE: WEDNESDAY, 14 AUGUST TIME: 17:30 - 18:30 LOCATION: HUSET-KBH (THE COURTYARD), RÅDHUSSTRÆDE 13, 1466 COPENHAGEN LANGUAGE: ENGLISH For the first time ever Copenhagen Pride, Pan Idræt and Copenhagen Frontrunners invite you to Pride Run. The run is roughly 5 kilometres.

The route will take you through several LGBT+ hotspots in Copenhagen and will be full of experiences that will appeal to your senses, brain and body. Participants will be divided into small groups during the run. You can walk or run – it is up to you. The run starts and ends on Pride Square. After the run, there will be drinks and some food for you to enjoy. You can read more about the event and sign up on Facebook in the group called: Løbeklubben Copenhagen Frontrunners.

PARADE PROGRAMME COPENHAGEN PRIDE PARADE 2019 DATE: SATURDAY, 17 AUGUST TIME: 13:00 - 16:00 LOCATION: FREDERIKSBERG TOWN HALL SQUARE The highlight of Copenhagen Pride Week is considered by many to be the huge parade marching through the Danish capital on Saturday afternoon. The parade takes off from Frederiksberg Town Hall Square at 13:00 and proceeds via Allégade, Frederiksberg Allé, Vesterbrogade, Hammerichsgade, Jarmers Plads and Vester Voldgade before reaching its final destination which is Copenhagen City Hall Square (Pride Square). For spectators popular viewing spots include Frederiksberg Allé, Sankt Thomas Plads and Vesterbro Torv.

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

KIM WYON

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WHAT'S HOT IN AARHUS With only a few days of freedom before school starts, make sure to round up the kids, get into the great outdoors, and make every last glorious second count!

PHOTOGRAPHS VARIOUS / VISITDENMARK

TEXT BARBARA BALFOUR

TALL SHIPS RACES The world’s largest sailing race attracts at least half a million people to the harbour of Aarhus every year and features a program of entertainment the entire family can enjoy. From scuba diving and climbAUGU ing aboard old ships, to ST live maritime folk music on multiple stages and taking a spin on the largest Ferris wheel in Denmark – there is truly something for everyone here.

1-4

WWW.MARCELLODAMILANO.COM

9-11

AUGU ST

ITALIAN FOOD FAIR

WYLDE SWAN

■ WWW.THETALLSHIPSRACES. AARHUS.DK/ENGLISH/

TELEVISION HOST, PRODUCER, PUBLIC SPEAKER, AND INTERNATIONAL PRINT JOURNALIST.

Wouldn’t your pantry look better with a bottle of balsamic vinegar in it? Milanese restaurant Passione & Enoteca is celebrating its 20-year anniversary with a three-day food fair at Ridehuset, where you can sample Italian delicacies, compete in a pizza-making contest judged by world champions, and bring home a taste of the Old World. Admission is free. Saturday, August 10 from 11:00-17:00 and Sunday, August 11 from 11:00-16:00. Tickets to a special event on Friday, August 9 from 18:00 to 21:00 may be purchased for 499 DKK and include live opera performances from Puccini and Verdi, as well as a buffet of Italian ham and a bottle of wine.

■ VESTER ALLÉ 1, 8000 AARHUS ■ WWW.MARCELLODAMILANO.COM

TAKE YOUR KIDS TO LEGOLAND Round up the kids for a weekend staycation and check out the quirky new castle-themed hotel at Legoland, which opened just this past spring at the resort in Billund. Choose from 142 rooms in either the wizard’s quarters, the dragon knight’s living room or the princess’s royal chambers and let yourself surrender to Lego magic in the property’s indoor and outdoor play areas.

■ AASTVEJ 20, 7190 BILLUND

■ WWW.LEGOLAND.DK/EN

World-class dance performances under summer skies? Yes, please. This collaboration between Danish Dance and the Moesgård Museum allows audiences access to the best of modern dance and ballet while seated on the grassy sloped roof of the Museum’s new exhibition building. Admission to the onehour performance is free.

■ MOESGÅRD ALLÉ 15, 8270 HØJBJERG ■ WWW.DANSKDANSETEATER.DK/

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AUGU ST

MOESGÅRD MUSEUM

LEGOLAND BILLUND

GET YOUR GROOVE ON AT AARHUS SUMMER DANCE

BARBARA BALFOUR

In addition to hosting a live talk show, she writes regularly for BBC World News, The Globe and Mail, and ELLE, to name a few. She has published two children’s books, contributed to tourism guidebooks on Iceland and Chile, and co-edited an anthology of essays on Canada-European Union relations.

Her work has taken her to over 40 countries, but she currently calls Aa rhu s home . W he n she’s not curled up with a good book and a hazelnut hot chocolate, you might be able to find her spinning away on the dance floor of a salsa club, or nestled in a window seat on a plane, en route to some exotic new destination. www.barbarabalfour.com

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

14

DISCOVER FIVE DARLING VILLAGES AROUND DENMARK PHOTOGRAPHS ERIN GUSTAFSON

TEXT ERIN GUSTAFSON

WHILE COPENHAGEN AND AARHUS HAVE DECIDEDLY COSMOPOLITAN VIBES, YOU CAN GET A REAL FEEL FOR AUTHENTIC DENMARK WHEN YOU SPEND TIME IN A LITTLE DANISH TOWN OR VILLAGE. HERE ARE FIVE OF OUR FAVORITES TO FIND AND ENJOY ALL AROUND THE COUNTRY.

#1

GUDHJEM

It is definitely worth the effort to get to Denmark’s own island in the sun, beautiful Bornholm. Once here, make your way to Gudhjem, which has all the trappings of a delightful Danish village.

Cute houses? Check. Fishing boats in the harbor? Check. Cosy cafés? Check. Local artisans? Check. Smoked fish? Of course.

Gudhjem even has its own smoked fish dish. Try the Sol over Gudhjem, (sun over Gudhjem) from the local røgeri (smokehouse).

Freshly smoked herring is served atop rye bread with raw (yes, raw!) egg yolk, sliced radishes, red onion and chives as garnish.

Wash it down with some local snaps – as they say in Gudhjem, “fisk skal svomme.” (Fish shall swim.) If you prefer ice cream more than herrings, head to Gudhjem Special, where you can order Denmark’s largest ice cream cone, the Apollo, a half-meter tall frosty treat. Smaller cones of delicious soft ice cream with your choice of sprinkles available too.

FOR MORE INFO: www.smokedfish.dk

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

#2

DRAGØR

Coming to Copenhagen? Step away from the city for a bit and seek out the adorable fishing village of Dragør, perfect for a day out. Stroll the cobblestoned corridors of this tiny town for a fleet of little yellow houses that bloom with roses and hollyhocks come summer. Peruse the shops and then nab an ice cream for your stroll down to the water. Traditional and delicious Danish dishes are served daily at Café Espersen.

Take your fare on their patio for an excellent vantage point of all the harbor’s happenings. Dragør has been home to Danish fishermen for a truly long time - learn more inside the wee museum here on the pier.

FOR MORE INFO: www.cafeespersen.dk/en

15

ERIN GUSTAFSON WRITER & BLOGGER

Erin is a travel writer and culture hound exploring a

#4FAABORG

life across borders in Co-

You’ll find Faaborg on the southern side of Denmark’s

verdant middle island - Fyn. A favourite summer spot for many Danes, Faaborg deserves a few days to explore. Half-tim-

Oregon Girl Around the

historic details dominate the old town. Find some of the best

World, a blog that focuses

#3

(smokehouse) down by the water. The cosy café affords views of the village from inside and come summer you can sit

Come to Ebeltoft for the quaint charm. Stay for the beer. Ebeltoft Gaardbryggeri (farm brewery) makes delicious craft beer. This place hums come summer when they put tables outside and fire up the grill. In fact, you can bring your own food to cook while you sample something from their taps. Or join in one of the community dinners on Tuesdays in July and really rub elbows with the locals. For cobblestoned cuteness, wander along the rows around the town square.

Situated in Djursland on the west coast of Jutland, Ebeltoft is a brilliant seaside escape with beaches along a protected harbor. Nearby, Mols Bjerge National park offers trails to explore through Denmark’s highest hills. Or step aboard the Fregatten Jylland (Frigate Jutland) - a 19th century ship turned naval museum.

is the creator-in-chief at

bered and thatched-roofed houses with colorful doors and smoked fish this side of Scandinavia at the Faaborg Røgeri

EBELTOFT

penhagen, Denmark. She

with the fishing boats at picnic tables outside. Catch the vintage car shows here every Wednesday evening from Easter through September. Ferries to other little islands along the south Funen archipelago are available right from Faaborg.

on sustainable travel for the whole family.

With a background in graphic design, photography and art history, Erin has a creative way of see-

FOR MORE INFO: www.faaborgroegericafe.dk

ing a destination and believes that travel choices can have positive impacts for both the traveller and the communities visited.

A local in Denmark since 2014, Erin has embraced the green city of Copenha-

FOR MORE INFO: www.ebeltoftgaardbryggeri.dk; www.fregatten-jylland.dk; www.eng.nationalparkmolsbjerge.dk/

gen and loves to share her insider tips. For more Scandinavian travel inspiration and Copenhagen culture, follow Erin around the world here:

#5LØKKEN

oregongirl

On the wild west coast of Jutland, nestled safely behind the broad dunes, you’ll find lovely little Løkken. A perfect base to explore this side of Denmark, Løkken is a beachy Danish delight with wide swaths of windswept sand and opportunities to surf. Yes, surf! North Shore Surf offers lessons, rentals and a sauna to warm up once you’ve caught all the waves you want. Even if surfing isn’t your thing, you can soak up the scene at North Shore’s own café. Grab one of the loungers and sit with your toes in the sand while you sip a coffee. Or— try the fish and chips! On Løkken’s cute town square, your littles will love to make their own slikkepind (lollipop) at Bolcheriet, (the candy shop). And don’t miss nearby Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse precariously perched on shifting dunes. Efforts are underway to ensure it stays safe from falling into the nearby North Sea.

aroundtheworld.com @oregongirl_ aroundtheworld @oregongirlworld www.facebook. com/oregongirl roundtheworld/ www.pinterest.dk/ oregongirlworld/

FOR MORE INFO: www.northshoresurf.dk; www.bolcheriet.dk

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PAYING OUR DUES TO HELSINGØR My favourite Danish city is clustered around the narrow entrance to the Baltic sea.

A place filled with grand buildings wearily reflecting upon the days when they were MISTRESS TO a CUNNING plan - 400 YEARS OF LEGAL PIRACY.

PHOTOGRAPHS HEATHER GARTSIDE

TEXT HEATHER GARTSIDE

HEATHER GARTSIDE STORYTELLER AND TOUR GUIDE

H

HELSINGØR, LIES AT

the neck of the Baltic. It’s always been busy, and it’s history as strong and turbulent as the current which flows beneath the dark waters.

RED HERRING

The city is situated in a crucial position and once controlled all the shipping which passed to and from the Baltic. During the sixteenth century, Denmark was the most powerful continental kingdom in Northern Europe. The reasons for this rise to wealth, riches, and fame, were conceived 150 years earlier by a young king, Erik of Pomerania.

Fifteen-year-old Erik has the daunting challenge when he found himself the sole ruler of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, the Orkney Islands, the Shetland Islands and Schleswig Holstein. A vast swathe of far flung lands, that became immensely costly to rule. Previously, huge shoals of herring had more than filled the royal coffers, but these oily fish had mysteriously slipped out of his hands to move elsewhere. Young Erik tackled his changing fortune with genius and hatched an idea so brilliant that it has been described as 400 years of legal piracy. Erik informed the known world that henceforth he intended to levy a new toll; every ship wishing to sail past Helsingør would have to dip its flag, strike its topsails and cast anchor so that the captain might go ashore and pay a handsome toll – the Sound Dues.

DRUNKEN SAILORS Naturally, the amorous crew would disem-

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bark and spend their money in whore houses and taverns. Ship supplies would be replenished; ropes and sails mended.

The butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker, all visited. Often the paperwork would take weeks while the final flourish of this scam was that the ships would then have to wait patiently for the right wind to sail.

THE DUBAI OF THE MIDDLE AGES

TIME TRAVELLING IN HELSINGØR

garish liquor shops and discount stores now lurk. Helsingør has declined since its heady days as the Dubai of the middle ages, but with a little imagination and the timely tolling of an ancient bell you can easily slip into the past.

If you drag your hands through the shiny pebbles on the beach close to Kronborg fortress you will uncover a fistful of sea worn treasures. From sandblasted glass, to terracotta jug handles; tiles, red brick, patterned plate fragments and chipped memories of rustic mediaeval faience wear. Last summer I was doing just that. I was lying on the beach making pictures of cloud galleons in the sky with my daughter, when I casually remarked that I knew that I would find some treasure.

Minutes later, as I dredged the stones behind my head I came across a twisted pewter spoon. The time travelling began as I held my treasure and eyed the vast bulk of Kronborg fortress behind us from this energy charged shoreline. With every turn past the red brick battlements of the fortress or the ghastly dungeons, I felt that I could almost glimpse the fleeting shadow of past inhabitants. Layer upon layer of lives, all churned by the constant tide and scattered across the beach. You just need to know how to look.

As you walk through the ancient streets of Helsingør you see evidence of how Helsingør, thanks to the Sound Dues, quickly became a boom town. Stately brick merchant houses, grandly wrought facades of embassies from the 16th century which nestle inbetween more modest half-timbered taverns and chandlers. Underneath lie the grand old bones of these once noble buildings where

BOOZE CRUISE Today the city bursts with its past, but modern times grip you too if you close your eyes and hear the jolly “rattle, jingle and thump” of beer crates being pulled on trolleys across the old cobbles, as day-tripping Swedes purchase cheap Danish booze to take home. Summer café terraces are filled with their happy countrymen, downing their beers and marveling at the salacious nature of the city, now a mere shadow of her former self.

If you’d like to explore Helsingør with Heather, then her tours are available at: Time Travelling In Helsingør at Airbnb Experiences.

On August 24 it will be the fabulous Sundtoldmarked, or Sound Dues market if you'd like to explore. THE-INTL

Heather is a successful storyteller, she’s also a tour guide, event organiser, photographer and mother of three. All these ingredients are carefully blended together, with a pinch of sea salt, to create her unique take on life in Denmark and around the world. You’ll find more vivid descriptions and bittersweet adventures in her novels, ‘Rice Pudding In A Duvet’ and ‘Middle Distance’ which are available on Amazon. This summer Heather’s Time Travelling tours of Copenhagen and Helsingør have become a sensation with travellers from around the world.

More details on her website and at Airbnb Experiences. @timetravellingin copenhagen @gartsideheather @timetravellingin copenhagen Amazon: @heather-gartside/ LinkedIn: @heather-gartside Airbnb Experiences: @timetravellingin copenhagen and @time travellinginhelsingør

17

RETURN

OF THE VIKINGS THE INCLUSIVE, TRUSTING, AND COLLABORATIVE STYLE OF NORDIC LEADERSHIP.

PHOTOGRAPHS VISIT DENMARK - KIM WYON

TEXT MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES

R

RETURN OF THE VIKINGS - NORDIC LEADERSHIP IN TIMES OF EXTREME CHANGE BY CHRIS STERN AND HENRIK JEBERG, published by Danish Psychological Publishers, tells the story of the rich heritage of the Nordic peoples: as explorers, navigators, trendsetters, political and educational innovators. This heritage provides deep roots which can be traced back to the Viking era and to the nine noble virtues of Nordic mythology.

And, they argue, still defines the way the Nordic peoples live and work today.

The authors offer an intriguing perspective on the Nordic societies, their leadership style and way of doing business. Interwoven with their own stories are also those of a diverse range of interviewees, including business executives, politicians, writers, designers, athletes, military personnel and entrepreneurs.

Their overall conclusion is that the nine noble virtues of Nordic mythology still permeate the inclusive, trusting and collaborate style of Nordic leadership today.

MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES PRESIDENT & CEO BOSS CERTIFICATION UK LIMITED Mariano has over 30 years' global experience as a busi-

THE NINE NOBLE VIRTUES

ness executive. He spent ten

#1 COURAGE can be defined as the ability to confront fear,

pain, danger, uncertainty or intimidation. In our modern world, the book refers to courage as the exposing of wrongful practices by a whistle-blower or flighting against racism, sex ism and misogyny. #2 TRUTH is defined as the state of being in accordance with fact and reality – the quality of being free of pretence, deceit or hypocrisy. #3 HONOUR is associated with a keen sense of ethical conduct which allows everyone to be regarded with great respect and

esteem. This very often reflects on a level-type of social stand ing in a community. #4 FIDELITY is defined as faithfulness to one person, to a cause or to a belief, and is shown through loyalty, trust and support.

In this context, fidelity is synonymous with trust. #5 DISCIPLINE is defined as the ability to suppress base desires – to show restraint and self-control. Discipline is also the abil

ity to stay the course and to have the strength to stick to what must be done, even when you do not want to do so. #6 HOSPITALITY is defined as the relationship between a guest and a host, where a host receives the guest with goodwill. Hospi tality includes a notion of protection. #7 SELF-RELIANCE is a state of reliance on oneself or one’s own powers or resources. It is a state of personal independence. #8 INDUSTRIOUSNESS is the ability to work energetically and the ability to complete tasks, which means having a strong work ethic. #9 PERSEVERANCE is described as the steady persistence in a

course of action or purpose. In other words, not losing heart, simply giving up or choosing the easy way out.

Nordic culture, politics and philosophy seems to be defining some of the best trends in design, gastronomy, literature and the visual arts. These qualities have been moulded into a very distinctive

approach to leadership that is recognised globally and which, at the same time, is disproportionate to the geographical size of the Nordic region.

‘Return of the Vikings’ is very much in sync with the recent report of the Nordic Council of Ministers, which states that Nordic leadership is also generally less masculine and with shorter chains of command than many other places in the world. The report also points out that education is essential for leadership, as is transparency, integrity and trust. The Council’s report recognised that, as with all types of leadership, the Nordic model is also a reflection of Nordic values.

THE-INTL

years with KPMG, twenty-one years with British Chambers of Commerce (while also running his own companies) and now BOSS Certification. He is a British citizen, who grew up in Kent, went to boarding school in Sussex and has a British university education.

He has been married to a Dane

THE METHODS, VALUES AND LEADERSHIP PRACTICES

for over 42 years and has held

OF THE VIKINGS ARE WOVEN INTO THE DNA OF INTER-

over 100 official anti-Brexit

NATIONAL BUSINESSES FOUNDED IN THE NORDICS AND

speeches. He both speaks and

ARE EXEMPLIFIED BY MANY NORDIC PRACTITIONERS

writes Danish without diffi-

WHO WORK IN OTHER COUNTRIES OR FOR NON-NORDIC ORGANIZATIONS. THE INCLUSIVE, TRUSTING, COLLABORATIVE STYLE OF NORDIC LEADERSHIP OFFERS AN ALTERNATIVE WAY TO NEGOTIATE THROUGH OUR

culty. www.boss-register.com

CURRENT TIMES OF EXTREME CHANGE. WHAT MANY OF US ARE NOW EXPERIENCING ONLINE IN DISTRIBUTED, FLUID, NETWORKED COMMUNITIES, THE NORDICS HAVE BEEN PRACTICING ON LAND AND SEA FOR CENTURIES. THE NORDICS ARE NOT WAITING AROUND TO FIND OUT WHEN THE FUTURE BEGINS. THEY ARE ALREADY LEADING THE WAY.

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

18

DEATH AT A DISTANCE:

HOW TO DEAL WITH GRIEF ABROAD THE DEATH OF A LOVED IS ALWAYS A PHONE CALL AWAY. THE DISTANCE, HOWEVER, CAN BE MUCH TOUGHER WHEN YOU HAVE EMIGRATED AND LIVE FAR AWAY FROM YOUR LOVED ONES. THAT PHONE CALL CAN SNEAK UP ON YOU AT INCONVENIENT MOMENTS, AND IN THAT INSTANCE, YOUR WORLD COMES TO A SCREECHING HALT.

PHOTOGRAPHS JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN / ISTOCK PHOTO

TEXT JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN

F

FUNERALS ARE AN important ritual in all cultures. They are

ity, compromise, communication and understanding to keep a way of accepting the reality of life, death and grief. Recentthese bonds alive. ly, I found myself at the funeral of a Kenyan lady. She was my age-mate and we’d both been living in Denmark for the same THE BIGGEST SACRIFICE amount of years. We had even attended the same language Death proves again that it is the ugly fact of life, it lurks around school, yet our paths had never crossed. the corners of our lives waiting for our mortality to go out, like I gathered from the large attendance in the quaint Danish the snuffing of a candle. church, as well as the heartfelt eulogy by her husband, daughSome deaths are slow, and you might be able to say your goodter, and the priest that she was a remarkable and hardworkbye, but the reality is that as the years go by, you will start to see ing woman. She met her untimely death in a motorcycle acmore of the people you love die and distance will alienate you. cident. I was attending the funeral at the behest of a mutual Flying home may not always be possible because of cost, viKenyan friend. sa, invalid passport, school commitments or other extenuating In Denmark, it may seem strange or even intrusive to atreasons. tend the funeral of a stranger. However, it is not uncommon Being unable to attend a funeral can leave you in a state of dein African countries to find peonial. You might find it difficult to ple grieving with strangers. Fufind closure. It is crucial that you nerals allow us to show support find healthy ways to grief. Grief during difficult times. and guilt can isolate you, making Through our actions of supyour life abroad, even lonelier. port, we show respect for life, Find a community of support. and comfort to those who are These are people often from your mourning, even when we barehome country, your peers, or a ly know them. professional who will help you Danes are, understandably, come to terms with your loss. more private when it comes to You can also perform rituals and their funeral etiquette. prayer rites to help you cope.

Sitting in that church, I was Nowadays, thanks to digital struck by the fact that this bedevelopments, you can still parreavement felt familiar: I was ticipate in a funeral through live a foreigner attending anothstreaming, either on Skype or soer foreigner’s funeral. It was cial media. Being able to feel that an odd feeling as if I was obyou are part of the funeral, albeit serving myself from a distance. from a distance, makes a remarkFUNERALS ARE AN IMPORTANT RITUAL It could have been me in that able difference. white casket.

For any immigrant, every year IN ALL CULTURES. THEY ARE A WAY OF This realization got me thinkthat you live abroad while having ACCEPTING THE REALITY OF LIFE AND ing about how one can confront the same number of family memtheir own mortality while livbers and friends as when you EXPRESSING GRIEF AT ITS PASSING. ing abroad. Changing the way left home, is a bonus. It makes you think about death can make the process of balancing integrayou prioritize your relationships.Perhaps in a way you can put tion into your new countries easier. That dreaded phone call will more effort in maintaining relationships with the people you come, of course, but for now, do your best to create meaningful left back in your home country as well as with those you have relationships that give opportunities for growth. bonded with in your new country of residence.

Death will come for us – some sooner than others – and when Maintaining friendships and relationships after you move my turn comes, I hope there will be a stranger in the crowd to abroad is not easy. In fact, it takes a concerted effort, flexibilcomfort my loved ones. THE-INTL

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN JOURNALIST, WRITER, PHOTOGRAPHER Judy is a Kenyan, and mother of two Afro-Viking boys. She first moved to Denmark for her MA in journalism at Aarhus University. After completing her studies, Judy found herself back in Aarhus, this time for love and a career. When she is not working on her writing and photography craft, Judy likes to bring people together through food. You can follow more of Judy’s experiences on her blog ‘Memoirs of a Kenyan mom abroad’. www.judywanderi.net

19

LIVING WITH A GREAT DANE

PA R T 1

BEING AN EXPAT IS NOT THE EASIEST THING IN THE WORLD BUT BEING AN INTERNATIONAL COUPLE AND LIVING THE EXPAT LIFE IS A WHOLE DIFFERENT STORY. IT IS A LIFE FILLED WITH A MULTITUDE OF POSITIVES AS WELL AS NUMEROUS CHALLENGES. LET US TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT LIFE WITH A DANE! PHOTOGRAPHS VISITDENMARK - NICLAS JESSEN

T

THIS ARTICLE IS based on research I conducted, interviewing multiple Internationals living with Danes. It brings to light their own personal experiences and opinions. Each story is unique, and no two people or relationships are the same.

However, when it comes to expat living we often see similarities or patterns that tend to reoccur.

I have been married to my great Dane for 11 years now, and having a Cultural Studies background I am always curious about culture, cultural awareness, multicultural couples/families, the similarities and differences, how to navigate in this country that still has a strong grip on traditions and national culture. As a long-term resident of Denmark, I have met and talked to numerous Internationals and my curiosity runs particularly deep with those who are living with Danes. Do we experience similar challenges? If so, why? Are some cultural traits just a part of us and something we are not even aware of? Why is it there are times we are on two completely different planets? How can we make this easier?

When I asked about challenges, misunderstandings and cultural differences many answers focused on communication/language, family life and culture.

TEXT KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI

Sometimes, a small gesture or a thumbs up can turn our day around. We need to be heard and feel that we can allow ourselves to be vulnerable with our Danes.

We are here in Denmark, and willing to learn and take on this new challenge but we are out of our com-fort zones. A smile, a longer answer than ‘yes’ or ‘no’, or some comforting words can make a world of difference.

Being aware of, and hearing, the challenges of the nonDanish spouse/partner is vital if the relationship is to succeed. Stay tuned for Part 2, coming in the next issue. THE-INTL

KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI FOUNDER, ACTIVE ACTION

TALK TO ME Being in a relationship requires work. Having a solid partnership is often dependent on the ability to communicate well with one another. When you add to the equation people who come from two different backgrounds, who speak different languages and often the language spoken in their homes is the 3rd language - you are bound to encounter challenges. How you say something is just as important as what you say. Delivering the message is very important and many of my interviews highlighted that the very direct, “no extra sugar” way of speaking can cause tension.

Speaking in at times blunt or a curt manner is quite common in Denmark. Other cultures pay closer attention to using extra words to make their message sound gentler. In our house “the tone” is often focused on and discussed.

Fluency and the ability to express ourselves in our partner’s language is important. The Internationals I interviewed expressed a wish that at times it would be helpful to feel more empathy from their loved one. Living in a country where, as an adult, you need to learn a language from scratch is tough. Many everyday tasks become very big things to us, especially in the beginning. The difficulty with tackling simple tasks in a new language is at times draining. It is as if suddenly we were taken back in time to our child-hood years when we struggled to express our needs and wants.

WE ARE HERE IN DENMARK, AND WILLING TO LEARN AND TAKE ON THIS NEW CHALLENGE BUT WE ARE OUT OF OUR COMFORT ZONES. A SMILE, A LONGER ANSWER THAN 'YES' OR 'NO', OR SOME COMFORTING WORDS CAN MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE.

Kathy was born in Poznań, Poland and has lived in four countries and on two continents. Growing up as an immigrant and a cross cultural child she was able to discover a multicultural world that shaped her into the person she is today. As an adult she experienced life as a re-pat as well as an expat and she is not a stranger to the challenges and opportunities that life abroad offers.

Just when she least expected it, she met her Danish husband and once again packed her life in boxes and set off to live the happily-ever-after life in the land of the Vikings and Hygge.

Over the span of 10 years she has lived on Fyn, in Jylland and currently in Nordsjælland.

Kathy has a background in Cultural Studies and also a degree in American Studies. She has been able to combine her passion and profession as a Cultural Transition and Expat Spouse and Partner Specialist at Active Action.

A firm believer that if you are lacking something - create it. She is the founder of two International Mom Groups in Denmark, a running enthusiast, active lifestyle advocate, wife and mom. www.activeaction.dk kbs@activeaction.dk

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20

HOW TO NAVIGATE

YOUR DANISH ICE CREAM ORDER Waffles? Whipped cream? Jam? Guf?! Here’s a breakdown of the options so you can order your next frosty treat with ease.

PHOTOGRAPHS GINA LORUBBIO / VISITDENMARK - NICLAS JESSEN

B

BEFORE LIVING IN Denmark, the hardest part about ordering an ice cream cone was deciding which flavours to get.

But here, that’s just the beginning. I now know to expect an onslaught of additional questions after the flavour choice has been made. This is how it goes:

1. VAFFEL (CONE OR WAFFLE) OR BÆGER (CUP)?

Instead of calling the hollow, cylindrical object that will hold your scoops a kop (cup) or a skål (bowl), in Danish it’s called a bæger (yet another way of saying ‘cup’). You’ll need to employ this word to have any chance of the person behind the counter understanding you. The standard alternative to the bæger is the vaffel (waffle/cone). But unless you see signs of flat, thick Belgian waffles being made in the back, chances are that vaffel refers to a crispy, thin waffle rolled into a cone, ready to contain your scoops.

This is the foundational choice upon which the rest of your ice cream tower will be built. At this point, you’ll order kugle (balls, or scoops) of ice cream, noting how many and which flavours you want.

This is standard practice – you don’t need some food writer’s help with this.

But here are the questions that will come next, and you best be prepared.

2. GAMMELDAGS? (OLDEN DAYS) Do you want the ‘old days’ on top of your ice cream? While that’s what gammeldags means literally, in the ice cream context, the question is: Do you want whipped cream and jam on top? Proceed accordingly.

3. GUF? (GOODIES/SWEETS) Sure, this looks like a made-up word, but

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it’s a very real thing. Guf is a gooey marshmallow fluff made by whipping egg whites with powdered sugar. It’s basically what you would get if you burrowed out the inside of a flødebolle and plopped it on your ice cream. You may find pink guf on the menu, which likely means it’s strawberry-flavoured.

4. FLØDEBOLLE? (MARSHMALLOW BALL) If you like marshmallow fluff, but prefer it in a self-contained shell, you may want to opt for a flødebolle (chocolate-coated marshmallow puff). Doing so will mean that a fist-sized treat, that could easily be a dessert in itself, will be shoved into

TEXT GINA LORUBBIO

the mass of ice cream and toppings – the crown atop a teetering structure that, thankfully, needs only to remain vertical for ten minutes, tops.

It has recently come to my attention that it’s possible to order a cone with (almost) everything: whipped cream, jam, and a flødebolle (I don’t believe it includes guf – thank goodness, because that would have been one step too far). At my favourite ice cream spot in Tivoli, they call this creation the Amerikaner (American). I couldn’t help but chuckle, because the vast majority of folks living in the U.S. have no idea what a flødebolle is, and they have never finished their sundae with a spoonful of jam. Sure, the name probably refers to my country’s reputation for indulgence. But can I call this mile-high cone American in good conscious? No, I cannot. This is a Danish delicacy all the way. THE-INTL

GINA LORUBBIO ARTIST & WRITER Gina is a food illustrator and storyteller in Copenhagen. Upon arrival from the U.S., she made an art series called ‘How to Fall in Love with Denmark through Food in 100 Days.’ She’s now creating art in 2019 that inspires us on the adventure of everyday home-cooking. To buy artwork, commission an illustrated recipe, or follow her series, visit: www. HeirloomFood Project.com @heirloomfoodproject

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ROAD TRIP / WEEKEND AWAY

THE MAGIC OF OXFORD

THINGS TO DO

Oxford is absolutely packed to the brim with interesting things to do and see. From fascinating museums to iconic historical places of interest, you’ll be hard pushed to decide what to do first.

With all its sightseeing treasures, Oxford's attractions are without doubt the greatest magnet for holiday makers and visitors. But for many, Oxford’s attractions become the gateway to a wider cultural experience particularly when navigating further afield into beautiful Oxfordshire with its magnificent collection of country houses, parks and historic towns.

The City of Dreaming Spires, is famous the world over for its University and place in history. For over 800 years, it has been a home to royalty and scholars, and since the 9th century an established town, although people are known to have lived in the area for thousands of years. Nowadays, the city is a bustling cosmopolitan town. Oxford is known for its ancient University, but is also home to a growing hi-tech community.

With its blend of ancient and modern, there is plenty for both the tourist and resident to do - Oxford has it all!

ATTRACTIONS:  Bridge of Sighs (Hertford Bridge)  Oxford Castle Unlocked www.oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk  Pitt Rivers Museum www.prm.ox.ac.uk  Harry Potter Film Locations Tour www.getyourguide.com RESTAURANTS AND CAFES:  The Oxford Kitchen www.theoxfordkitchen.co.uk  Cherwell Boathouse www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk/  Modern Baker www.modernbaker.com SHOPPING:  Alice's Shop www.aliceinwonderlandshop.com  Westgate Shopping Centre www.westgateoxford.co.uk

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME WITH CITYBASE APARTMENTS

ARRIVING LATE IN the afternoon after a heavy day of shopping and sightseeing in Oxford, and having navigated through the afternoon traffic, the apartment was easy to find and had convenient parking. This stylish, contemporary apartment felt more like a home as we entered from the ground floor - we particularly loved that it was a few easy steps away from the small parking area, which is handy if you have a lot of suitcases. The owners had accommodated for my family with twin beds in each bedroom, and we enjoyed the modern kitchen and living area, with complimentary tea and goodies. Every modern convenience was catered for, including speedy Wi-Fi which was very popular with my teenage nieces. You can choose from a one or two bedroom serviced apartment. Guests can also benefit from weekly housekeeping service, and a dry cleaning service - quite handy when you're back to back with meetings or sightseeing!

HOW DO YOU BOOK THESE APARTMENTS? Citybase Apartments are specialists in booking serviced apartments in hundreds of cities around the world. What's unique about their service is that they offer the convenience of hotel-like services with the added space, privacy and flexibility of a kitchen and living area.

An added bonus is that their apartments are great value compared with hotels and, if you’re staying for a while or sharing with friends or children, the savings can be significant.

Wherever you want to stay, their friendly and knowledgeable team will help you find the perfect place.

If you're on the go, their simple reservation process, and friendly customer service makes booking super simple.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.CITYBASEAPARTMENTS.COM / TEL: +44 020 8090 8080

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END OF SUMMER SWEET CORN Nothing screams summer like corn on the cob! I recently visited my family in the Midwest of the USA for a few lazy summer days, and the sweet corn was regularly on the table. While it’s great to enjoy corn fresh off the cob drenched in melted butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, I love to use roasted corn in late summer salads as a sweet accent and a pop of colour.

PHOTOGRAPHS ERIN CHAPMAN

TEXT ERIN CHAPMAN, THE AMERICAN PIE COMPANY

THIS CHUNKY SALSA-LIKE SALAD IS HARD TO WALK AWAY FROM! MY FAMILY LOVES IT AS A SNACK, STARTER, OR SIDE AND IT’S A PERFECT EASY-TO-MAKE PARTY PLEASER.

ROASTED CORN AND BLACK BEAN SALAD MAKES ENOUGH FOR 6-8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS 3 large ears of corn 1 can black bean, drained & rinsed 3 medium tomatoes, diced 1½ avocado, diced 1 small red onion, diced ½ red bell pepper, diced 100 g feta, crumbled 1 serrano or jalapeño peppers, finely chopped large handful of cilantro (fresh coriander), chopped juice of 1 large lime salt to taste Tortilla chips for dipping, plus extra lime and cilantro for garnish

METHOD 1. Clean and rinse the corn. Roast on a medium grill about 10 minutes, turning once, until starting to turn golden.

2. Remove from heat and let cool. Cut the kernels off the cob.

3. Gently toss together the corn, black beans, tomatoes, avocado, onion, red bell pepper, feta, and hot pepper.

4. Squeeze on the lime juice and add a couple pinches of salt to taste.

5. Chill or serve immediately with tortilla chips for dipping!

6. Enjoy!

NOTE: ➤ If you’d like extra spice, add more finely chopped hot peppers as desired.

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ERIN CHAPMAN CO-OWNER, THE AMERICAN PIE COMPANY With over 20 years’ experience in the advertising industry, working both in Denmark and USA, Erin has specialised in brand building and image development for lifestyle, food and fashion clientele at both national and international level.

Erin attended DIS, Denmark’s Study Abroad programme in 1996 and made a connection with Copenhagen. She moved to Denmark permanently in 1998 with

GRILLED CHICKEN & CORN PESTO MAKES APPROX. 4-5 SERVINGS FRESH HERBS AND GRILLED SWEET CORN COME TOGETHER TO CREATE A UNIQUE SUMMERTIME PESTO SAUCE

two suitcases and a pocketful of change. Working in the advertising industry she worked her way up as a senior creative, as well as

THAT MAKES A DELICIOUS COMPLEMENT TO GRILLED CHICKEN. YOU CAN ALSO USE THIS PESTO FOR OTHER

a voiceover artist, and then began

GRILLED MEATS LIKE PORK CHOPS OR STEAKS.

her own brand and design business in 2006.

INGREDIENTS 1-1.5 kg bone-in chicken, cut in pieces or whole and spread in half 1 tablespoon olive oil salt & pepper to taste

Merging her love for food and art direction, she began food styling and cookbook design for other authors, and then proceeded

Pesto: 3 ears of corn, cleaned 1 large bunch of fresh basil leaves (about 25 g) 1 small bunch of fresh mint leaves (about 14 g) 80 g Parmesan cheese, grated 1 clove garlic ½ teaspoon salt 1 /4 teaspoon ground black pepper juice of one lemon 3 tablespoons olive oil

to continue with recipe develop-

METHOD

Pie Company in Copenhagen.

1. Heat grill to medium.

2. Brush the chicken with olive oil and salt and pepper to taste.

3. Grill the chicken which should be covered and placed on foil, and turned only once, until cooked through, Meanwhile, make the pesto: 1. Using a food processor or blender, pulse the basil, mint, Parmesan, garlic and salt until finely chopped.

2. Add the lemon juice and olive oil and pulse just until combined.

3. Pour into a mixing bowl and set aside.

4. Clean the fresh corn and place on grill rack alongside the cooking chicken. Roast the corn about 10-15 min, until just turning golden. Remove from grill and allow to cool slightly.

5. Using a knife and holding the grilled corn upright, cut the corn kernels off the cobs.

6. Stir the corn into the pesto mixture until well-combined.

7. When the chicken is done (temperature reaches 165 F (C) in thickest part), remove from grill and place on a serving platter.

8. Smear some of the corn pesto over the chicken and serve alongside the chicken.

ment, publishing two cookbooks in Denmark. While living in Los Angeles, Erin worked with several US brands on image and recipe development and upon returning to Denmark, she partnered with Dorte Prip in 2015 to introduce The American Erin is happily married to her Danish husband and is the mother of a sassy seven year old daughter who speaks fluent “Danglish”. www.theamericanpieco.com

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OUR SCHOOL

OUR WORLD FAMILY At Copenhagen International School (CIS), August is always a time of new beginnings, fresh faces and a celebration of the diversity and internationalism of this unique community.

PHOTOGRAPH COPENHAGEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

TEXT

ALISON BLACK-STORM - COPENHAGEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

T

THIS YEAR IS no different – the school welcomes a new Director in Sandy Mackenzie who makes the transition from Atlanta International School. Although new to this position, his is a well-known face to some as he worked with the school fifteen years ago as the IB Diploma Coordinator, and a Mathematics teacher. It is estimated that, in August, 150 students will join the school, across the 3-18 age range. Those students will hail from over 30 countries, meaning that there will be at least 80 nationalities represented in the community. That diversity in the student body assists the school in realizing the mission of the International Baccalaureate – encouraging students to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right – and creating a rich environment within which young people can learn.

When so many students, teachers, and families move to Denmark, it is vital that they are given appropriate orientation and support in those crucial first few weeks of the new school year. Through pastoral programs, buddies, ambassador families, orientation sessions, cultural introductions and field trips, newcomers are assisted in their transition. Advisors, Counselors and Administration ensure that the open-minded and balanced attributes of the IB Learner Profile are prioritized at CIS and help to ensure that bullying of any kind is addressed appropriately. At Copenhagen International School, people do not stay “new” for very long. They are welcomed warmly and within weeks, feel like one of the family. When away from their home country, making new friends is vital for a family to enjoy all of the wonderful ways of life in Denmark.

The language and culture of Denmark are integral and valuable parts of the experience at CIS. Students learn Danish – some as beginners, others at a native level – within the IB curriculum of PYP (Primarily Years programmes), MYP (Middle Years Programme) and DP (Diploma Programme). Some Danish families choose CIS for their children because of the superb teaching, the international curriculum and the diversity of the community.

Despite enjoying state-of-the-art facilities in a purposebuilt campus, overlooking the water in Nordhavn, CIS is

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built on a rich history of tradition. The students joining the school in 2019 do so 56 years after the opening of the school in 1963, as one of the twelve founding schools of the International Baccalaureate – an organization that today has over 5088 affiliated schools in 156 countries worldwide. As the new families join CIS, friendships will be formed, and collaboration will occur across a multitude of cultures. THE-INTL

"AT COPENHAGEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, PEOPLE DO NOT STAY "NEW" F O R V E RY L O N G. T H E Y A R E W E L COMED WARMLY AND WITHIN WEEKS, FEEL LIKE ONE OF THE FAMILY."

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WELCOME TO ESBJERG! THE TOWN OF ESBJERG WANTS YOU TO MOVE HERE – AND STAY! FIND OUT HOW THEY’RE MAKING IT EASY.

I

PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCKPHOTO / LINDSEY SCAIFE / CATRIONA TURNER

I FIDGET ON the doorstep, clutching an orchid. Having underestimated the journey time, then taken a wrong turn, I’ve already broken the cardinal rule of Danish socialising: I’m late.

But when the door opens, I’m welcomed with a friendly smile. With the typical Danish house pride, Helle shows me round her hyggeligt (cosy) home.

There’s a coffee pot on the table and a plate of flødeboller (chocolate covered marshmallows). We’re already chatting about Danish living, and by the time I leave, two hours later, I’ve borrowed a book. I have a new local friend!

That was my ‘Coffee With a Local’, organised by Esbjerg Kommune’s (Council) Newcomer Service and it’s just one of their impressive range of activities.

I found out about the service very soon after arriving. A coffee date was arranged for me with Pia Enemark and Nicole Hogan, the coordinators of the service, along with a couple of other newcomers. The instant availability of a network and information was like a breath of fresh air for this serial expat.

So, at this time of year as more newcomers arrive, I met with them at Esbjerg favourite Café Guldægget, to talk about their work.

NEW IN ESBJERG? Back in 2013, the initial goal was to help companies recruit internationally, by easing the transition for newcomers. But Pia knew that helping people with the formalities was just the beginning of helping Esbjerg grow. “The best outcome is when people feel settled enough to stay long-term,” she says, “and one of the biggest contributors to happiness in a new place is having a network.”

And so, she explains: “Newcomers can stay ‘Newcomers’ for as long as they want.” All their events and activities are open to everyone, whether they arrived last week, or have made their life here over years. Indeed, I have met born-andbred Esbjerg people at Newcomer events

TEXT CATRIONA TURNER

CATRIONA TURNER WRITER AND BLOGGER all keen to embrace Esbjerg’s expanding community. Along with their willingness to be a host for ‘Coffee with a Local’, these activities challenge the perception that Danes aren’t keen to expand their social circle.

ADAPTING TO DANISH VALUES Retaining newcomers also means supporting the partners of those employed here, and that’s where Nicole comes in.

An Australian-American who’s lived in Esbjerg for six years, she coordinates the PartnerJob Program, organising seminars and job-matching events to help accompanying partners make their way in their own career.

More than simply providing resources, she says, “We open a path into the Danish workplace. Many accompanying partners, especially women, may have put their careers on hold, but the availability of our service can shift their mindset, so returning to work becomes an option.” This can be an important aspect of longer-term integration, with many Danish families having two working parents.

Pia mentions another Danish value: self-sufficiency. “We aim to be supportive and empowering, making people feel part of the process. And in Denmark, we favour the word ‘we’, over ‘I’, so we come alongside newcomers adapting to this mindset.”

AN ALL-IN-ONE SERVICE For Pia, the greatest value of her role is that, “We offer a single point of contact for whatever newcomers need to know.”

Nicole embraces being a professional connector. “We connect newcomers with each other, the local community, and with jobs.”

What they both love about their jobs is spending every day meeting people, and making their lives easier. “People are always pleased to see us!” laughs Pia. It’s clear that there’s no reason to be daunted by a move to Esbjerg (or other parts of the kommune, including Ribe, Bramming or Mandø). Make your first contact with the Newcomer Service, and soon you’ll be pleased to see them too!

Follow the Newcomer Service on Facebook at New in Esbjerg / Ny i Esbjerg for regular event updates. THE-INTL

Catriona is a writer and blogger currently living in Esbjerg, Denmark. In the decade since leaving Scotland, she’s also lived in France, Uganda and the Republic of Congo.

At her blog, The Frustrated Nester, she writes about Danish living, travel and the expat life. She has a regular column in The International, a paper for internationals living in Denmark. Her writing has also been published in the anthology Once Upon an Expat, and its follow-up Life on the Move, published in June 2019.

She’s currently working on a memoir of place and home, and is also a freelance copy-editor and proofreader.

“WE AIM TO BE SUPPORTIVE AND EMPOWERING, MAKING PEOPLE FEEL PART OF THE PROCESS. AND IN DENMARK, WE FAVOUR THE WORD ‘WE’, OVER ‘I’, SO WE COME ALONGSIDE NEWCOMERS ADAPTING TO THIS MINDSET.”

Follow The Frustrated Nester: www.thefrustratednester.com www.facebook.com/thefrustratednester @thefrustratednester

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DENMARK MY WAY Life is a journey. Sometimes the path less trodden leads you to Denmark, opening a new chapter filled with learning on multiple levels. Meet four expats who have created a life in Denmark – their way.

VISITDENMARK PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ROBIN SKJOLDBORG; MORTEN BJARNHOF; KIM WYON; MARK GRAY

G

PHOTOGRAPHS VISIT DENMARK

TEXT

KARIN WEISER

G A B R I E L E , A H E A LT H e n t r e p r e neur (www.lifeperfectlybalanced.com), spent her whole life in Hamburg. Love lured her to Denmark in 2016. Suddenly she had to learn to network as a mature expat – a skill new to her. Her life has since been enriched by personal development opportunities and meeting interesting people.

Cris, a professional at Lundbeck, grew up in southern Brazil. She moved to Denmark for love in 2001. Coming from a country where you can meet your best friend at the bus stop, Denmark was a bit of a shock. But she has experienced deep kindness and tolerance on a level she has not experienced before.

Mada, a holistic therapist (www.madaplesner.com), has dual French-Lebanese nationality and has lived in several countries. She moved to Denmark as a student in 2000 and stayed for work.

Now a mother, she dreams of making her roots in Frederiksberg – the Paris of Copenhagen.

Bob, a professional at Novo Nordisk, grew up in China and first came to Denmark as an exchange student in 2010.

He was so impressed by Danish society, the welfare and healthcare systems, he came back. He is settled for now and loves the simple way of life and Danish mindset.

WHEN IN ROME

Adapting is a must, and a lot can be learnt by observing people. Be curious about the Danes and their way of life.

By learning about their history and culture, you will come to understand why they behave as they do.

Experiencing life in Denmark changes you on the individual level. Mada is now more direct and has fully embraced the Danish way of bringing up children. Cris has learnt positive assertiveness in the workplace as well as to tone down her Brazilian temper. Bob is now calmer and no longer fits in back home - according to his peers. Gabriele has stepped out-

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KARIN WEISER INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COACH AND WRITER Karin is British by birth, global by choice. She moved to Copenhagen in 2001 to rediscover her roots. Karin has a professional background in communications, training and teaching English.

Karin is passionate about peoside her comfort zone and been rewarded with international opportunities.

different and reminds us we are all human beings.

ple and positive psychology. After

FEELING DIFFERENT YET STILL AT HOME

FIND YOUR TRIBE

as an international business coach

So how do you fit in when you look and feel different? Embrace it.

“I like being different. It was never my aim to fit in,” says Cris with a smile. Although she speaks Danish fluently and owns a Danish passport. “Being different is my identity. I never found it difficult. And I have no intention of becoming Danish,” explains Mada, who considers herself a chameleon and feels at home everywhere. ‘‘I don’t fit in, but don't feel I have to,” admits Gabriele. ‘‘I still feel at home because I connect with people not a culture.” Bob doesn’t feel

They all agree that finding your tribe is essential to thriving. As an expat this will more than likely be with other foreigners. Why? Although the Danes are welcoming to certain cultures, they are not always open to expanding their friendship circles. It’s easier to make friends with Danes who have travelled and lived abroad. They all agree that you have to make an effort. Be proactive and dare to speak to the Danes – even if you haven‘t fully mastered the language.

Live your life in Denmark your way.

Most importantly, BE YOU. THE-INTL

a corporate career she now works

and writer. Karin helps professionals find their passion and live to their full potential with purpose.

Her personal recipe for a balanced life includes a splash of optimism, yoga and dark chocolate.

www.karinweiser.com email karin@karinweiser.com

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B e s t BEAUTY BUYS SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER VS INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST Social Media Influencers. These groups consist of models, makeup artists, Youtube creators, bloggers and general social media enthusiasts who build their social media based on what we, as the consumers, love to see on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Influencers and Makeup artists are now considered some of the most influential people when it comes to recommendations for the best products to use on the market today.

Beauty brands quick to catch on to this understand that a brand is no longer what they tell their consumers but more what the consumers tell everyone else.

In this month’s issue we are going to share with you which products are hot property from two social media influencers from two completely different backgrounds. One being an original Social Media Influencer and the other a well-respected International makeup artist.

BARBARA MENSAH

RANIM HELWANI, 26 SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER @RANHELWA

TINA ALFHEIM, 23 INTERNATIONAL MAKE-UP ARTIST @TINAONTHEDAILY

I'm a citizen of the world! This literally means that I have been living in so many different countries in the last few years with Denmark, Copenhagen being one of the favourites. I studied International Business and just received my Maters Degree. I started a fashion blog back in 2012 with which I wanted to express my creativity and passion for fashion.

Over the years I was able to build an amazing audience. Follow me and my journey as I show you some of the most on trend beauty products, fashions and try out beauty trends which I’m sure you will all love and appreciate.

I have worked all over the world with experience from Dubai, London, America and now, currently, I am based in Copenhagen. I’m lucky to be in a position where I can influence people with my knowledge on products and techniques in the beauty industry. Social media has been a great platform for me. It is where I can showcase my skills as makeup artist.”

MY TOP 3 BEAUTY PRODUCTS & TIPS: BIOTHERM AQUASOURCE WITH SPF15 After spending a lot of time finding a facial cream with SPF that is light on my face and does not make it too oily, I finally found Biotherm Aquasource with SPF15! Its light and smooth texture sinks directly into the skin and leaves behind a fresh scent. At the same time, it leaves my skin moisturized all day long without producing excessive oil.

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS BROW WIZ I love hot temperatures, but I’m not a big fan of one of its side effects: sweating! Even under such circumstances, I want my makeup to look flawless and stay on all day. Especially my eyebrows! These must not slowly disappear after an afternoon in the sunand a dip into the pool. That’s why I’m a huge fan of Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz. It’s a 2-in-1 tool that is quick and easy to apply. Most importantly, the colour is waterproof!

3INA MAKEUP STICK HIGHLIGHTER When I have finally reached my desired tanning level and my skin is beautifully bronzed, I always feel like I do not need much more makeup. However, I do love adding a little glow to my skin! The 3INA Makeup Stick Highlighter reflects the sun’s rays so beautifully, giving my skin a subtle glow —perfect for summer.

ALL PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FROM: MATAS

MY TOP 3 BEAUTY PRODUCTS & TIPS: SOL DE JANEIRO’S “BUM BUM CREAM”

BEAUTY EDITOR & MAKEUP ARTIST Barbara was born in England, London and relocated to Copenhagen, Denmark in 2017. She has been a professional International Makeup Artist for 11 years and a profes-

Although this cream was originally meant to tighten the skin on your bum I use this one daily on my neck, as well as on my clients’ neck and hands.

TRICK: To add extra glow to your cream, add any of your shimmer pigments. This works much better than any bronzing oil as it will dry down without leaving you feeling sticky.

AVAILABLE FROM: SEPHORA

sional Lash Stylist for 3

IT COSMETICS “CC CREAM”

a welcoming, comfort-

It took me sometime but I have finally found the perfect product for the skin these warm summer days. It’s a struggle for all of us to find the sunscreen that isn’t shiny and that goes well with our other foundations and concealers. Sometimes it can lead to skipping out on sunscreen all together, which isn’t ideal. Now, you don’t need to. A natural but full coverage CC cream with +50 SPF with, of course,UVA/UVB protection.

TRICK: Apply this with a moist and clean Beauty Blender for absolute flawless results, and skip the concealer by applying this under your eyes. Remember to use a thin layer of transparent setting powder under your eyes and in your smile lines to avoid any creasing!

AVAILABLE FROM: MATAS

able space for clients to

BOBBI BROWN POT ROUGE FOR LIPS AND CHEEKS I’ve chosen this as one of my top summer beauty products due to its cream formula. AND, because it’s multipurpose. The cream product will look like it’s coming from within due to its ability to melt together with your skin. This formula from Bobbi Brown will give you the natural look in the summer especially when we want to stay glowing and effortlessly beautiful.

TRICK: Melt this formula in the pan with your ring finger for application with a light touch. For a completed look, blend together on the apples of your cheek and a little up and add the same colour to your lips in a patting motion.!

AVAILABLE FROM: MAGASIN

years. After moving to Copenhagen, Denmark, Barbara became the owner of Barbara Mensah Beauty Studio. Her stylish, cosy and chic studio provides

spend their time getting glammed and pampered for those special moments and occasions.

All bookings for Lash Extension and Makeup can be made via her social media or tel: +45 53564504 barbaramensah. beauty@gmail.com @barbaramensahbeauty @barbara.mensah. beauty

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JUTL AND

EXPAT RECEPTION AN ANNUAL TRADITION

PHOTOGRAPHS VISITDENMARK

TEXT INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY AARHUS

INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY

A

AARHUS AND EASTERN Jutland are home to many internationalminded companies and organizations that all contribute to the internationalization of this particular area. International Community will take you by the hand and show you the diverse scene on which internationalization is built. This month we take a closer look at the annual Expat Reception.

EXPAT RECEPTION International Community serves as a catalyst for internationalisation in the Aarhus area. The goal is to make sure that newcomers settle in well. Having a social network is key to feeling at home in Aarhus. The Expat Reception is the ideal event to meet like-minded people.

Since networking is so crucial, International Community arranges around 100 events a year. One of my favorite events is the annual Expat Reception, which always takes place on the last Saturday in August as part of Aarhus Festival. The casual atmosphere, the cool drinks and the warm people are all elements of this successful event.

Together with Aarhus University and Aarhus Festival we invite all internationals to come together to enjoy each other’s company.

During the Aarhus Festival the FO courtyard in the city centre is transformed to an international melting pot, when more than 600 internationals meet over a drink and a bite. The Expat Reception

is an intricate part of the Aarhus Festival and a popular event for internationals in the Aarhus metropolitan region. Last year no less than 670 international employees and their families participated.

“Aarhus has become far more international over the past 10 years I have lived and worked here. The number of participants is an indicator of the increased internationalization. It’s great to see so many friends and acquaintances who participate every single year.

It means the world to me that both I and other internationals feel welcome in Aarhus,” says Ken Cordes, Managing Director at Emerson Climate Technologies and board member of Erhverv Aarhus.

Also, the Mayor of Aarhus, Jacob Bundsgaard, acknowledges the importance of welcoming international newcomers to the city.

Every year he takes time to participate by adding a few words and then he talks to the reception’s guests in person.

This year’s Expat Reception takes place on Saturday August 31 from 15.00 to 17.00 – and I can’t wait to welcome all the newcomers and have a chat with all the people International Community welcomed years ago! Taking place in the heart of Aarhus, the reception is just a stone's throw from a number of other entertaining and engaging festival activities for the whole family, making the reception the perfect excuse for a fun day out. THE-INTL

Learn more on our website or follow us on: @internationalcommunityAarhus @internationalcommunityaarhus

www.erhvervaarhus.dk www.international community.dk

THE EVENT IS FOR FREE, BUT SIGN-UP IS REQUIRED ON WWW.INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY.DK.

VISITDENMARK - DENNIS BORUP JAKOBSEN

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We offer a wide range of events, seminars and online activities that help internationals get settled in Denmark.

VISITDENMARK - KIM WYON

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DANISH EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED IN DENMARK, THE LAST THING ON MY MIND WAS THE EDUCATION SYSTEM, OR WHERE I MIGHT FIND CHILDCARE. ALL CHANGED NINE YEARS AGO WHEN WE HAD OUR BABY DAUGHTER. EVERYTHING RELATED TO BEING A PARENT AND HAVING CHILDREN I’VE ONLY EXPERIENCED IN DENMARK…AND IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE: DANISH!

PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO

D

TEXT LAURA WINTEMUTE

DECIDING WHETHER YOUR children should attend the Dan-

AGES 6 TO 16 YEARS.

ish public, private or International institutions, is a major decision for parents who have moved here from abroad. Depending on how long you plan on being in Denmark, the typical choice would be an International School. For those of us who decide to plant our roots here and raise our children in this amazing country, the choice is simple. Go Danish!

There are many aspects to consider when thinking about where your children should attend school. The first being financial. The Danish Public system is offered at no cost, or ”free”. However, it is subsidized by our Danish tax kroners.

The International school system is costly but if you are only here for a short time, it may be worth the money. It’s difficult for children to be thrown into the Danish system, when they don’t speak Danish.

The second aspect would be the social one. If you’re planning on being here for an extended period and want to venture out of the expat bubble, then the Danish system might be the right choice for both you and your children. It wasn’t until my daughter started school, that I really started socializing with other Danish parents. Attending playgroups, birthday parties and school functions enabled us to have something in common and, eventually, we did develop friendships.

 Folkeskole ((the people’s school) Grades 1-3, Grades 4-6, Grades 7-9

DEPENDING ON YOUR CHILD’S AGE THE OPTIONS ARE AS FOLLOWS: AGES 6 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS. 





Vuggestuer (daycare) is for children between 6 months and 3 years old.

Børnehave (kindergarten)is for children from three to five years old.

Dagpleje (‘Individual’ daycare)is a service offered by an individual person who takes care of a small group of children in their own home. And can be used if, for example, your child cannot go to kindergarten/day care because of illness, but you, however, must go to work.

Whichever form of childcare you choose, all municipalities in Denmark have a behandlingsgaranti (guarantee policy) for the public institutions, if your child has been signed up in the system at least 3 months before your desired starting date.

These places are not free but are heavily subsidized. You, of course, have the option to choose a Private Child Care Institution, where the wait may be much shorter, but you will pay more.

The Danish school system is much different from the Canadian system that I grew up with. It is much more “loose” and individual teachers have the freedom to choose their own textbooks, materials and methods of teaching, but the curriculum is the same throughout the state enabling parents to be more flexible in changing jobs and location. It is not until the 8th grade where grades are officially given, then in the ninth grade, students take their final exams.

One thing to note that is more prevalent in Denmark than back home in Canada is that children are in the same class together and, often with the same teacher, called a class teacher, for the entire nine years.

After final exams, students can choose to continue their education for another 3 years and take their Studentereksamen (A-Levels) at either a Gymnasium which prepares them for entry to University, or at a Handelsskole (Business School) which prepares them for the Business University (Copenhagen Business School) or a Business High School. Alternatively, after graduating ninth (or tenth class) they can choose a Ungdomsuddannelse (trade school /apprenticeship). THE-INTL

LAURA WINTEMUTE OWNER, HOMESTEAD Laura is Canadian. After years of living abroad and travelling the world, she moved to Denmark in 2007 and started her new life as an expat living in Denmark.

Laura’s experience working in the Danish relocation industry, encapsulating both her experience as an ex-pat and her desire for helping people, which is WHY she started Homestead.

Homestead offers Settling in Services and Workshops focusing on the day to day challenges of expats, as well as the cultural differences in both their work and daily life.

“In House” consultations for International employees are also one of Homestead’s specialties. Customized, personal consultations focusing on the individual employee.

Homestead. We are You’re Settling in Experts.

www.homesteaddenmark.com

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

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HOW TO SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG Socializing dogs through different stages of life from puppyhood, adolescence to adulthood is the best way to ensure they become confident and friendly. It also helps them to thrive and adapt in new environments. Here are different ways to socialize your dogs at various stages of their lives.

F

PHOTOGRAPHS VISITDENMARK - NICLAS JESSEN

TEXT TAREK ABU SHAM

FOR DOGS, THE

learning period starts from 3 weeks and goes until around 20 weeks. During this period, puppies get exposed to sight, smell, sensation, and sound without being fearful. Puppies that miss this period may never get comfortable in an unfamiliar environment leading to fear, anxiety, and aggression.

Allow different people to cuddle your puppy: This is a great way to socialize them.

Gently expose your puppy to different sounds: A great way to get them used to their environment.

Have people around your puppy while he is eating and encourage them to give him some treats.

Teach your puppy to be alone: One way of ensuring your puppy does not develop separation anxiety is by slowly teaching him to be alone early on.

SOCIALIZING OLDER DOGS Socializing your older dog is a perfect way to ensure your dog lives happily with other dogs.

Create playtime for your older dog: Invite your neighbour’s friendly dog to play with yours, watch and allow them to get accustomed to each other.

Walk your dog daily: Dog walks are a great opportunity to have your canine friend meet other dogs and see people daily. During a dog walk, ensure that you do not shout at your dog when he barks but allow him to associate with other dogs freely.

Use a muzzle for aggressive dogs: If you have a dog that growls at other dogs, then you need a muzzle to prevent him from biting.

Gradually expose your dog to different social activities: While socializing dogs, it is vital to introduce your dog to one social activity weekly; this will go a long way in

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

TAREK ABU SHAM OWNER, THE PET-AGREES Tarek was born in Amman, Jordan and from an early age has had a love for animals.

He met his spouse in Amman and then soon embarked on an

SOCIALIZING YOUR OLDER DOG IS A PERFECT WAY TO ENSURE YOUR DOG LIVES HAPPILY WITH OTHER DOGS.

expat lifestyle that took him to Dubai, Prague, and now Copenhagen. Originally a veterinarian, Tarek reinvented himself profes-

making sure they remain calm and well behaved.

Socializing a dog with a cat: So many dog owners believe that dogs and cats cannot coexist. Not true! Dogs and cats are capable of getting along, but there are some steps you can follow to help them along.

Carefully plan the first meeting: Schedule the first cat and dog meeting at mealtime. Have your cat kept in a carrier on one side of a room, then bring your dog into the room, on-leash and lead him to the dog bed just at the opposite side of the room. Feed your dog his favorite treat and block any attempt he makes to get to the cat. Repeat the same process daily for at least ten days until both the dog and cat become used to each other.

Keep their food and toys separate: En-

sure that you keep the dog's food and toys separate from your cat’s. Schedule a regular mealtime for them and place the bowls in separate areas of the house, or perhaps have the cat bowl somewhere up high.

Consider raising them together: The best way to socialize your dog and cat is by raising them together at a young age. Puppies and kittens are impressionable and love to form new relationships.

sionally and decided to launch his own company.

With The Pet-agrees, Tarek has combined his veterinary experience with his entrepreneurial spirit. He cares for pets in the Copenhagen area, offering services including pet-sitting, walking, and more to come soon.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU! The Pet-agrees is not just about providing exercise and attention for your pets while you’re busy or out of town. With us you’ll have the advantage of having a current or future veterinarian look after your pet.

The Pet-agrees is owned by a trained veterinarian. Send us a message today! THE-INTL

www.thepetagrees.com

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HOLIDAY READING EXTRAVAGANZA! One of the greatest pleasures for me is gathering together my holiday reads.

Whether I’m traveling or enjoying lazy days at home, reading is a huge part of my time off. I’m greedy, but here are just four of my choices.

SUSAN JESSEN SPIELE LIBRARIAN Susan is a librarian at Roskilde Library, and in charge of the English section. She does English events all year; everything from expat dinners and pub quizzes, to karaoke nights and book talks. She is VISITDENMARK - NICLAS JESSEN

also busy with Roskilde Hor-

A SOLID CRIME WRITER THE DEVIL ASPECT

BY CRAIG RUSSELL Prague 1935. Psychiatrist Viktor Kosárek arrives at a remote asylum that houses six of the worst killers. He hopes to prove these patients share a common archetype of evil, a phenomenon known as The Devil Aspect.

Meanwhile in Prague a new killer imitates The Ripper.

THOUGHTPROVOKING AND CURRENT

DRAGONS, INDUSTRY AND FLINTLOCKS

SLEEPING BEAUTIES

BY STEPHEN AND OWEN KING

THE WAKING FIRE

BY ANTHONY RYAN

The small town of Dool-

tions rule and dragon’s

tralian outback, a local

ing, West Virginia, has

blood are a commodi-

farmer dies horribly of

its share of drug abuse,

ty that equals power. A

crime and sexism. And

thief, a spy and a navy

heat exposure. Nobody

now a strange plague

officer get caught up in

hits the women; they

intrigues involving an

fall asleep and if wok-

expedition to find the

en they get extreme-

fabled White Dragon,

ly violent. How to cure

infiltrating an enemy

play would point to one

this and how to live in a

country and working

of them.

world without women?

with a pirate.

A world where corpora-

FAMILY, DEATH AND HEAT THE LOST MAN

BY JANE HARPER Literally in the middle of nowhere, in the Aus-

knows why or how it happened. His fami-

ror, a club dedicated to scaring the town.

DID YOU KNOW? Libraries and local archives are often in the same place.

Here you can get to know the history of your new town in detail. In Roskilde, for example, we have Fototeket where you can see all the old photographs, of people, and places, through the years. Just ask at your local library, they will point you in the right direction.

ly were the only ones in the area, so any foul

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