The Danes

 

Danes have a reputation of being friendly, liberal and open-minded. Danes also have a reputation of being a little reserved, but most Danes will be happy to help you and to practise their English.

 

Family and friends play an important role in Danes’ social network. The home is a central concept in the life of a Dane – socialising often involves inviting family and friends to informal get-togethers, lunches and dinners, and Danes put a lot of effort into making their homes “hyggelige” – cosy.

 

Wintertime focuses on in-door activities, but come spring and summer, Danes will rush out to enjoy any little ray of sunshine in firm conviction that sunshine means hot weather, and most of the time is spent outdoors in parks, outdoor cafés or on the beach.

 

Danish students are usually in their early twenties when they start their university degree. Many have taken one or two years off after completing secondary school and have spent time travelling or working. Student life focuses on studies, family, friends and often a part time job. Many students live in student dormitories, and even more live around Copenhagen in shared apartments.