Other Denmark

News in Danish

DR Nyheder: The national public broadcaster of Denmark provides up-to-date news on its website and via a mobile app.

TV 2 Nyheder: A commercial TV channel with an extensive news section on its website and app.

Print publications:

- Politiken: One of Denmark's leading newspapers with an online version.

- Jyllands-Posten: A major daily newspaper providing news and analysis.

- Berlingske: Denmark's oldest newspaper, covering a wide range of topics.

 

News in English

The Copenhagen Post: A weekly newspaper providing news about Denmark in English.

The Local Denmark: An online publication covering Danish news and events in English.

Ritzau: A Danish news agency providing news in English through partner publications.

 

News in other languages

RFI (Radio France Internationale): An international radio station offering news about Denmark in French.

Deutsche Welle: A German international broadcaster covering events in Denmark in German.

 

Social media and messengers

Facebook: Many Danish media outlets have pages in English where they post current news.

Twitter: Official accounts of news publications and government institutions often post news in English.

 

Recommendations for immigrants:

Online translators can help understand the content of news in Danish.

Understanding local news contributes to successful integration and awareness of events in the country of residence.

Main stereotypes about Denmark

 

Denmark is the happiest country in the world

Basis of the stereotype: Frequent mentions of Denmark in international happiness rankings.

Reality: A high standard of living, social security, and work-life balance indeed contribute to the general well-being of the population.

 

Danes are all blond with blue eyes

Basis of the stereotype: Typical perceptions of Scandinavian appearance.

Reality: While fair hair and eyes are common, the population is becoming more diverse due to immigration.

 

A love for bicycles

Basis of the stereotype: A large number of cyclists on the streets of Danish cities.

Reality: The bicycle is a popular and eco-friendly mode of transport; the infrastructure supports cyclists.

 

High taxes but extensive social services

Basis of the stereotype: Denmark's well-known welfare state model.

Reality: Taxes are indeed high, but in return, citizens receive free education, healthcare, and other social benefits.

 

The concept of "hygge" as a way of life

Basis of the stereotype: The popularization of the "hygge" concept in international culture.

Reality: Hygge reflects the value of coziness and comfort in Danish culture but is not the only aspect of life.

 

Danes are reserved and unfriendly

Basis of the stereotype: Some foreigners note restraint in communication.

Reality: Danes value privacy and may seem reserved, but are open to communication in an appropriate setting.

 

Denmark is an expensive country to live in

Basis of the stereotype: High cost of goods and services.

Reality: The price level matches high wages and social security benefits.

 

Everyone knows English

Basis of the stereotype: High proficiency in English among the population.

Reality: Most indeed speak English, which facilitates communication for foreigners.

 

Danish design is minimalism and functionality

Basis of the stereotype: The worldwide fame of Danish design.

Reality: Danish design is valued for its simplicity and practicality, reflecting cultural values.

 

Constant rain and cold climate

Basis of the stereotype: The country's geographical location.

Reality: The climate is moderately oceanic; the weather is changeable, but there are distinct seasons.

 

Tips for immigrants

Don't rely on stereotypes: Personal experience and openness can help better understand the culture and people.

For successful integration and comfortable living in Denmark, it is recommended to install the following local mobile applications:

 

NemID/NemID nøgleapp: A unified digital identification system used to access government services, online banking, and other services; it allows generating one-time codes for login without using a physical card.

 

MitID: Gradually replacing NemID and is the new digital identification system in Denmark; recommended to install for access to digital services.

 

Digital Post: An application for receiving official correspondence from government institutions in electronic form.

 

Rejseplanen: An application for planning public transportation routes throughout Denmark; provides information on schedules, transfers, and travel times.

 

MobilePay: A popular mobile payment application; allows instant transfers between users and payments in stores and online.

 

e-Boks: A digital mailbox where official correspondence from governmental and private organizations is stored; ensures secure access to important documents.

 

MinSundhed: An application by the Danish Ministry of Health; provides access to personal medical data, test results, and vaccination information.

 

Borger.dk: The official citizen portal application, through which you can access various government services and information.

 

DSB: The application of Denmark's national railway company; allows ticket purchases, train schedules review, and trip information.

 

Too Good To Go: An eco-friendly app; allows purchasing surplus food from restaurants and cafes at reduced prices, promoting food waste reduction.

 

Sundhedskortet: A digital version of your health card used in Denmark's healthcare system.

 

ParkPark: An application for parking payment in various Danish cities; simplifies the process of finding and paying for parking spots.

 

DR Nyheder: The official application of Danish Radio; provides access to news, articles, and radio programs in Danish.

 

The Local Denmark: A news application in English; covers events and news in Denmark.

 

Copenhagen City Guide: A guide application for Copenhagen; provides information on attractions, restaurants, events, and more.

Festivals and cultural events

 

Roskilde Festival: One of Europe's largest music festivals, held annually in the city of Roskilde. It attracts thousands of music lovers from around the world.

 

Copenhagen Jazz Festival: An annual event that attracts world jazz stars and takes place at various venues in the capital.

 

Sand Sculpture Festival in Hundested: An event where artists from around the world create impressive sand sculptures.

 

Amusement parks

 

Tivoli Gardens: A historic amusement park in the center of Copenhagen, offering a variety of entertainment for the whole family.

 

Legoland: A theme park dedicated to LEGO constructors, located in Billund. Popular among children and adults.

 

Museums and art galleries

 

National Museum of Denmark: The country's main history museum, located in Copenhagen, with an extensive collection of artifacts.

 

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: Located in Humlebæk and known for its collection of contemporary art and scenic sea views.

 

Theaters and opera houses

 

Royal Danish Theatre: Offers high-level ballet, opera, and dramatic performances.

 

Copenhagen Opera House: A modern building on the Holmen Island hosting opera and music performances.

 

Traditional holidays

 

St. Hans' Day: Celebrated on June 23 with bonfires and songs, symbolizing the summer solstice.

 

Christmas Markets: Held across the country before Christmas, offering traditional treats and handmade items.

 

Sports events

 

Copenhagen Marathon: An annual marathon attracting runners from around the world.

 

Football matches: Football is a popular sport, and attending local team matches is a common pastime.

 

Natural Attractions

 

Beaches and Resorts: Denmark is surrounded by the sea, and summer vacations on the coast are a popular pastime.

 

National Parks: Such as Mols Bjerge and Wadden Sea, offer opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.

 

These activities and entertainments reflect the richness of Danish cultural life and offer diverse opportunities for leisure and acquaintance with local traditions.

In Denmark, public toilets are widely available and maintained in cleanliness and order. You can find them in the following places:

 

City parks and squares: Many parks and central squares are equipped with public toilets for visitors' convenience.

Transport hubs: Railway stations, bus terminals, and metro stations are usually equipped with restroom facilities.

Shopping centers and large stores: Most shopping centers provide free toilets for shoppers.

Museums and cultural institutions: These places often offer access to toilets for visitors.

Cafes and restaurants: Although toilets are intended for customers, in emergencies, staff may allow you to use them.

 

Features of public toilets in Denmark:

 

Cleanliness and hygiene: Public toilets are regularly cleaned and maintained in good condition.

Accessibility: Many toilets are equipped for people with disabilities.

Paid and free: In large cities, some toilets may be paid, but the fee is usually low.

Modern technology: Some toilets are equipped with automatic cleaning and disinfection systems.

 

Toilet Finder Apps:

 

Toilet Finder: A mobile app that helps find the nearest public toilet.

Flush: An app with a database of public toilets worldwide, including Denmark.

Learning the Danish language is a key step for successful integration into Danish society. Let's consider the most effective study options:

 

Government Language Courses

Denmark offers free Danish language courses for immigrants through municipal language centers. These courses are structured by levels and are aimed at developing communication, reading, and writing skills. To enroll, you need to contact the local municipality or visit borger.dk.

 

Private Language Schools

In addition to government courses, there are private language schools offering flexible schedules and an individual approach.

 

Online Courses and Apps

For those who prefer to study remotely, various online resources are available:

Duolingo: A popular app for learning languages, including Danish.

Babbel: A platform with interactive lessons and exercises.

Memrise: An app using memorization techniques for learning words and phrases.

 

Self-Study

For self-study, you can use the following resources:

50LANGUAGES: Free materials for learning Danish, including audio and text lessons.

LinGo Play: An app offering Danish courses for beginner and advanced levels.

 

Language Exchanges and Practice

Practice with native speakers accelerates the learning process:

Tandem: An app for finding language exchange partners.

Local language clubs: Many cities organize meetings for practicing Danish.

 

Intensive Courses and Immersion

For quick progress, you can consider intensive courses:

17 Minute Languages: A course offering mastery of over 2000 words and expressions in Danish.

 

The choice of the suitable method depends on your preferences, goals, and available time. By combining different approaches, you can effectively learn Danish and integrate into Danish society.

Denmark is rich in national holidays and traditions, reflecting its cultural heritage and social values. Below are the main holidays and their associated customs:

 

New Year — January 1

The celebration of New Year is accompanied by numerous fireworks and a televised broadcast of the annual New Year speech by the Queen.

 

Easter — March or April

Easter in Denmark is celebrated with special traditions, including home decoration and the preparation of special dishes.

 

Great Prayer Day — the fourth Friday after Easter

This day is celebrated in Denmark as a public holiday.

 

Constitution Day — June 5

Denmark's Constitution Day is celebrated on June 5 and is a public holiday.

 

Christmas — December 24-26

Christmas in Denmark is a time for family gatherings, home decoration, and the preparation of traditional dishes.

 

Shrovetide — February or March

Shrovetide in Denmark is celebrated with special traditions, including costume parades and games for children.

 

Carnival in Denmark

Carnival in Denmark is a vibrant event with costume parades and music.

 

These holidays and traditions reflect Denmark's rich cultural heritage and are an integral part of Danish life.

Denmark, despite its compact size, is rich in diverse attractions that reflect its rich history, culture, and natural heritage.

 

Copenhagen

The Little Mermaid Statue: A symbol of the capital, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale.

Nyhavn: A picturesque waterfront with colorful houses, restaurants, and cafes.

Tivoli Gardens: One of the oldest amusement parks in the world, offering rides and cultural events.

Amalienborg Palace: The residence of the Danish royal family with a daily changing of the guard.

 

Kronborg Castle

Located in Helsingør, this castle is known as the setting of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Odense

Hans Christian Andersen's House Museum: The birthplace of the famous writer, featuring exhibits related to his life and work.

 

Frederiksborg Castle

A luxurious Renaissance castle in Hillerød, surrounded by picturesque gardens and lakes.

 

Legoland

A theme park in Billund dedicated to LEGO bricks, popular with families with children.

 

Møns Klint

Impressive chalk cliffs on the island of Møn, towering above the Baltic Sea, with hiking opportunities and a geocenter.

 

Wadden Sea National Park

Denmark's largest national park, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, known for its unique ecosystem and bird watching opportunities.

 

Skagen

The northernmost point of Denmark, where the North and Baltic Seas meet, known for its sandy dunes and special light that attracted artists.

 

Egeskov Castle

A Renaissance castle on the island of Funen, surrounded by parks, museums, and mazes, offering a variety of activities for the whole family.

 

Aarhus

The Old Town: An open-air museum representing Danish urban life of past centuries.

Museum of Modern Art: Known for its rooftop panorama.

Equality and informality

First-name basis: It is common in Denmark to address each other by first name, regardless of age or social status.

Flat structures: Hierarchies are not strongly expressed, and everyone's opinion is valued.

 

Punctuality

Time accuracy: Being late is considered disrespectful. It is recommended to arrive a little earlier than the appointed time.

Planning: Meetings and events are usually planned in advance.

 

Straightforward communication

Openness and honesty: Danes value direct and candid communication without hints or euphemisms.

Constructive criticism: Welcomed and perceived as a way to improve.

 

Respect for personal space

Privacy: Personal life is considered sacred, and it is not customary to ask personal questions.

Physical distance: A certain distance is maintained in conversation.

 

Modesty and moderation

Avoiding boastfulness: Self-promotion and exaggeration of one's achievements are not encouraged.

Clothing: Preference is given to practical and quality clothing without excessive flamboyance.

 

Environmental consciousness

Waste sorting: Separating trash is the norm.

Transport: Bicycles and public transport are popular choices.

 

Concept of "Hygge"

Coziness and Comfort: Valuing home coziness, warm gatherings with friends and family.

Simple Joys: Enjoyment of simple things like candles, hot drinks, and pleasant conversations.

 

Work-Life Balance

Working Hours: Strict adherence to work schedules, overtime is not encouraged.

Vacation and Rest: Long vacations and family time are considered important.

 

Following the Rules

Trust in the System: High level of trust in government institutions and laws.

Public Order: Observance of traffic rules and public behavior.

 

Communication and Social Norms

Queues: Strict adherence to queue order.

Volume of Speech: It is not customary to speak loudly in public places.

 

Hospitality

Invitations Home: It is considered an honor to be invited to a Dane's home.

Gifts for Hosts: It is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or wine, when visiting.

 

Dining Etiquette

Start of the Meal: Wait until everyone is seated and the host invites you to begin.

Manners: Use of cutlery according to European standards.

 

Public Transport

Giving Up Seats: It is customary to give up seats for the elderly and pregnant women.

Tickets and Payment: Fare evasion is strictly punished.

 

Attitude Towards Foreigners

Tolerance and Respect: Danes are generally open to different cultures but appreciate when foreigners respect local customs.

Learning the Language: Attempts to speak Danish are perceived positively.

 

Environmental Care

Energy Efficiency: Widespread use of renewable energy sources.

Waste Reduction: Encouragement of reuse and reduction of plastic consumption.

 

Advice for Immigrants

Be Open: Do not be afraid to ask questions and clarify unclear points.

Denmark is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy, where power is divided into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.

Legislative Power

The legislative power is represented by a unicameral parliament — the Folketing, consisting of 179 members, including two representatives from Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Members are elected for a four-year term.

Executive Power

The executive power is headed by the monarch, who primarily performs ceremonial functions. The government, led by the prime minister, carries out actual leadership.

Judicial Power

Denmark's judicial system is independent and includes the Supreme Court, two High Courts, and district courts. The courts ensure compliance with the law and the protection of citizens' rights.

Local Government

Denmark is divided into 98 municipalities and 5 regions.

Municipalities: Responsible for local services such as schools, social welfare, planning, and infrastructure. They are governed by elected municipal councils.

Regions: Primarily responsible for healthcare, including hospital management. Governed by regional councils elected by the population.

Local elections are held every four years, and all EU citizens, as well as citizens from other countries with permanent residency in Denmark for more than four years, have the right to vote in municipal and regional elections.

This structure ensures decentralization of power and active citizen participation in local governance.