I have been living here in Copenhagen, Denmark for about two months now. One thing that, minorly, factored in to my decision to study abroad in Copenhagen was the fact that I would be able to fairly easily blend in with the Danish population. My blonde hair, fair skin and relatively tall stature allows me to pass through Danish society relatively unnoticed. Being an American living in Copenhagen with a strong desire to learn about Danish life, I knew that blending in with those around me would help me to “observe” without disrupting the homogenous population that surrounds me. However, just looking the part sometimes isn’t enough. There are elements within Danish culture that I had to learn, some the hard way, before I could seamlessly pass as a Dane (until I opened my mouth that is).
I used to love when people would compliment my big smile or new haircut, but the compliments I wish for most have now drastically changed since moving to Copenhagen. My desire to not only fit in, but also blend in has officially permeated every aspect of my life. If you’re looking to truly flatter me, one of these “compliments” will more than make my day!
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1. “I’m sorry, I thought you were Danish.”
This one is pretty self explanatory I’d say.
2. “I like your scarf.”
Spend more than five minutes in Denmark and you’ll understand how much the Danes love their scarf. If a Dane likes your scarf you feel an enormous sense of pride.
3. No one ringing their bell at you in the bike lane.
Only thing that helps you blend in more than looking like a Dane is biking like a Dane. Always afraid my true identity of being American will be discovered in bike lane but so far, so good.
4. “Do you know how to get *insert any location in Copenhagen*?”
You obviously look like you belong in this city if someone is going to ask you for directions, bonus points if you can actually help them.
5. Going to a coffee shop and being surrounded by only Danes.
I feel like a true success when I randomly wander into a cafe, order my latte, sit down and am surrounded only by Danish, it’s a sign I’ve even started to THINK like a local.
6. “You’re not how I imagined Americans to be.”
Not ever quite sure how it’s intended so I usually just take it as a compliment.
7. Using the little Danish you know well enough that no one questions where you’re from.
I don’t know very much and I can’t quite figure out how to speak with a true Danish accent, but if I can check out at the grocery story without the check-out boy switching to English I feel quite a sense of accomplishment!
