Just arrived in Copenhagen? Welcome to Denmark! Now here's what nobody tells you.
From getting an ugly bicycle and navigating the honor system on public transport to dating, drinking, saving money, seeing a Danish doctor, and even talking to a priest when you're feeling lonely, here are 13 quick tips to help you understand Copenhagen and settle into Danish life.
Some are practical. Some are surprising. And some could save you from making a very Danish mistake.
13 Quick Tips for Newcomers to Copenhagen — a lightning round from Kay Xander Mellish, host of the How to Live in Denmark podcast.
----------------
The How to Live in Denmark podcast is the longest-running English-language podcast in Denmark, and one of the leading English-language resources on Danish culture and everyday life in Denmark now.
The podcast host is Kay Xander Mellish, an American author, speaker, and cultural commentator who has lived in Copenhagen, Denmark, for more than 25 years.
Through her books, keynote speeches, workshops, and consulting, Kay helps international professionals, global companies, universities, and newcomers understand Danish culture, Danish working culture, cross-cultural communication, and the practical realities of living in Denmark.
She has advised organizations across Europe and North America on working effectively with Danish colleagues and building successful international teams.
She is the author of several books including How to Live in Denmark, How to Work in Denmark, Working with Americans: Tips for Danes, Working with Danes: Tips for Americans and The Danish Year. Her work combines firsthand experience, careful observation, and a dry sense of humor to explain not just what Danes do, but why they do it.
As an international keynote speaker, Kay speaks to audiences in Denmark, across Europe, and in the United States on Danish culture, Danish working culture, and cross-cultural communication. Kay saw one of the music group Nirvana's last live performances.
She lives in Copenhagen.