Denmark is a Scandinavian country located at the Northern part of Europe bordering Germany. Its capital is Copenhagen, has an approximate area of 16,639 sq miles and 5.65 million populations as of October 2014. Danish is Denmark’s national language. Some part of the country recognized German as their regional language particularly the regions closely located at the Germany while its 0.1% population speaks Greenlandic, an Inuit language.
Danish Characteristics
Denmark was once ranked as the happiest country in the world. This is due to their characteristics of being not judgmental to others and living the kind of life they want. Personal privacy is very important to them and it would be unethical for one to ask Danish about personal issues, salary or property. They don’t take things too seriously and they avoid getting into arguments, however they don’t want to be interrupted during a conversation. Moreover, the people are well involved into arts, sports and outdoor activities.
Danish Society And Culture
Denmark has a casual society where people are most likely relaxed and doesn't put too much emphasis on formality. They did not boast about their achievements and are more concerned about the needs of others. They are very particular with their history and cultural heritage and actively participating to any cultural events. Danes are not keen to arguments and they believe that there is a right approach for any circumstances. They expect one to be polite and humble. They have a standard culture called “Hygge” which is about gathering with good friends or love ones over good food and drinks.
Most families live peacefully in modern lifestyle and keep a happy family life and work. Denmark believes in the equality of all people and gives them their equal rights. Usually, men are the ones who handle the child’s care and upbringing although the household responsibilities are equally distributed. Women are well respected and have equal benefits as men. Because of being equal by law, men and women are highly independent with divided roles in the family in order to provide each and everyone’s needs.
Danish Etiquette
When dealing with business meetings or proposals, punctuality, respect and honesty are so important to Danes. Their character is expressed in simple yet conservative dress code particularly to important business appointments. For ordinary events, casual clothing is preferred but women should also need to consider the conservative side.
Danes give high value to time and they considered each minute must be used productively and effectively. Always ensure to arrive on time or if not, send a notice as early as possible. If you are invited to someone’s occasion at home, get ready to bring some gifts for the hostess. During the Danish meal, don’t start to eat until the host or hostess says, "Værsgo og spise" which means, "Come on and eat!" and when you are finished, don’t forget to say "Tak for mad” which means "Thank you for food".
So if your next vacation target is one of the happiest countries in the world – Denmark, learning this information is a good way to start.
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