Denmark 101 with Alex Berger

Tips, tricks, and cultural observations about the Danes and life in Denmark. From Copenhagen on the island of Sjaelland to Aarhus, Alborg and the far reaches of Jutland. I aspire to explore Denmark and to report back on Denmark's wonderful people, rich traditions and subtle quirks.

Shoe Etiquette and Danish Homes 12/24/2018

Shoe Etiquette and Danish Homes When you visit a Danish household, apartments in particular, there tends to be one hard and fast rule....the podcast title probably gives it away, but give this episode a watch and weigh in with your own stories and experiences. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/7897772

Danes and Doggy Bags 12/12/2018

Danes and Doggy Bags The meal was amazing. The portions were bottomless. You're ready to go home but feel guilty about wasting food. You're also feeling a bit lazy - why cook tomorrow morning? So, you ask for a doggy bag. What's a doggy bag? It's a to-go bag for your leftovers and while it may eventually find its way to a canine friend, the food you save and take home is usually reserved for human consumption as delicious leftovers. At least, that's how we do it in the US. But, what about Denmark? /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/7897736

Scandinavia and Fur Fashion 11/17/2018

Scandinavia and Fur Fashion Yikes! It's a hard topic. What's up with all the Danes wearing fur and working it into Danish fashion? Why is it still so popular in Nordic and Scandinavian fashion when most other regions have abandoned it? I encourage everyone tow atch the full video for commenting, particularly as I know it's an emotional and sensitive topic for most. Right or wrong is up to you, but, as with everything in this series - I aim to better understand and explain the what and the why. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/7595459

Famous but Controversial Licorice Pipes 11/06/2018

Famous but Controversial Licorice Pipes They may be delicious and a simple candy, but that does not mean they're not noteworthy and are without controversy. Tune into this episode of Denmark 101 for a look at one of Denmark's most iconic candied treats! /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/7462316

Julefrokost: Danish Christmas Lunch Parties 09/02/2018

Julefrokost: Danish Christmas Lunch Parties Starting in late November, the Christmas Lunch / Danish Julefrokost season starts and it is a wild and crazy time. With charming dinners, fancy clothing, wonderful food (and not so wonderful food) as well as inappropriate flirtations and more than one or two frisky encounters - it's quite the cultural experience. Here's a quick down and dirty look at what it is and some casual observations. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6997226

Danish Snaps vs Akvavit: What's the Difference? 08/04/2018

Danish Snaps vs Akvavit: What's the Difference? WTH is Snaps? Is it the same as Akvavit? Do you spell it snapps, schnaps, akvavit, or aquavit? In this episode of Denmark 101 I take a shot at explaining how Danish snaps is made and its cultural significance in preparation for next week's julefrokost video. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6887366

The Danish Export Economy 07/22/2018

The Danish Export Economy At the heart of understanding Denmark, Danish history, and Danish culture is the Danish economy. To do that, I've put together this video summarizing and discussing a number of statistics that serve as a great insight into where Denmark's job market is centered, where the country's economy is going, potential pitfalls in the future, and exciting opportunities. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6838358

Boobs and Danish Beaches 07/15/2018

Boobs and Danish Beaches For my 50th Denmark 101 episode it's time to circle back around to the topic of Danes and Nudity, this time, let's focus in on beaches, breasts, and general nudity. Is it legal? Is it true that Europeans run around beaches naked? Are the men naked? Do people still go topless? Tune in and find out in this episode of Denmark 101 - and just a reminder for those watching, idiotic or disrespectful comments will be treated with disrespect or re-located to where they belong; the trash. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6812178

Copenhagen's Neighborhoods 07/10/2018

Copenhagen's Neighborhoods Do you know the difference between København V, Vesterbro, Nørrebro, Østerbro, Christianshavn, Christiania, Amager and Frederiksberg? Each is widely different with very distinct with their own unique personalities. I do my best in this episode of Denmark 101 to give you a quick crash course run-through. Hint: If you're not familiar with Copenhagen, you may want to also pull up a map for this one! /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6795106

Danish Bodegas 06/23/2018

Danish Bodegas There are few things more Danish than the Bodega. Far from a local corner shop which might share the same name in other countries, a Bodega is the name for the traditional Danish corner bar. They're small, they're gritty, they're a bit rough, and they're overflowing with charm. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6736109

Candles and Hygge 05/14/2018

Candles and Hygge Hygge? You bet, but don't forget your candles! In today's episode I dive into the differences between how Americans deal with and view candles (especially southwesterners like myself from warmer regions) and how Danes view and use candles. Five years in, I've got to admit the Danes have won me over completely and I'm now decidedly on #teamcandle and loving the warmth and charm they offer. Though, we're still going to have to agree to disagree on how to use aromatic candles. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6583640

Danes Hate Root Beer 05/13/2018

Danes Hate Root Beer Root Beer. As an American it's a classic cornerstone of American culture. Even though it's not as popular these days, it's still the definition of iconic for many Americans right there next to a Hamburger shop or Drive in Movie. For Danes though? Whew. Not so much. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6583627

Danish Hard Alcohol 05/12/2018

Danish Hard Alcohol Experiencing Danish culture means experiencing Danish alcohols. From Gammel Dansk to Aalborg Gold and Fisherman's Friend in-between, this episode is dedicated to exploring many of the most common Danish hard alcohols. Just writing this description and thinking about how horrible a lot of it is gives me chills and goosebumps. So, on that note, enjoy and...skal! /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6583614

Trying to Find and Buy Condoms 05/11/2018

Trying to Find and Buy Condoms In the last few years there have even been some very widely viewed TV commercials which tackled the topic, such as Speis' "Do it for Denmark" campaign. But, one thing that doesn't get mentioned much, despite Danes reputation as some of the most shameless and sexually well-rounded folks out there, is condoms and condom use. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6583596

Danes and Religion 05/11/2018

Danes and Religion You requested I share observations about religion, religiosity and related considerations in Denmark, including some comparisons to what I was exposed to growing up in the US. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6583570

University Graduation Ceremonies 02/27/2018

University Graduation Ceremonies When I graduated from Arizona State with my Bachelors there were three separate ceremonies all of which required I purchase and wear a maroon robe. I was initially skeptical of it all, choosing to only attend one, and thinking it was overhyped, a bit tacky, and ridiculous. But, later, I came to realize it offered a sense of closure and bookmarked the end of one chapter and the start of another. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6308347

Studenterhue and Graduation Wagons 02/24/2018

Studenterhue and Graduation Wagons Remember the incredible experience that came with graduating from High School or Gymnasium? The Danes know how to kick things up a notch with their Studenterhue and "wagon" ride around town. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6296346

Searching for a Job 12/03/2017

Searching for a Job Searching for a job in Denmark was something that ended up being deeply educational, humbling, and challenging. In this episode I explore what I learned during the process, advice I wish I'd known at the start, and some of the tangible first-steps I suggest for job seekers gearing up and hunting for work here in Denmark. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/6004348

Creating a Danish Resume 11/01/2017

Creating a Danish Resume This episode is dedicated to the subtle (and not so subtle) differences in how Danes write their resumes. I discuss the evolution my resume had to go through and point out a few key differences I've picked up on. Of course, resume varies widely from industry to industry, not just country to country, so use your best judgment. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5901336

Neck Ties and Job Interviews 10/05/2017

Neck Ties and Job Interviews This kicks off a series of videos looking at lessons learned during my time looking for work in Denmark and shares lessons garnered from helping friends go through the same process. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5811678

Danish Summer Homes 10/03/2017

Danish Summer Homes Summer homes are a key and common part of Danish culture. In this episode of Denmark 101 I delve into what they are, how they fit within culture and how I've typically seen them used. When I first arrived in Denmark I found it particularly surprising just how prolific summer homes/summer cottages were. Over time, I've come to realize just how integral a role they play in Danish culture and history. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5804546

Taxes and the Tax System 10/01/2017

Taxes and the Tax System The Danish tax system is relatively simple (for a tax system). /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5794640

Wedding and Reception Traditions 09/20/2017

Wedding and Reception Traditions Denmark is a country with a long and rich history. So, it only makes sense that they'd have equally rich wedding traditions. In this episode of Denmark 101, I delve into Danish wedding traditions, things to expect at Danish wedding receptions and discuss some of what you'll find when couples in Denmark decide to tie the knot. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5759701

Biking Like A Local (Rules and Advice) 09/20/2017

Biking Like A Local (Rules and Advice) You've asked repeatedly for a video covering biking rules, norms, and suggestions for Copenhagen (and the rest of Denmark). After debating recording a traditional Denmark 101 video it struck me that it would be far better to go out and recruit some locals to tell you a bit about their approach to biking in Copenhagen, the rules...norms...and then to offer up some great (and some really bad) advice. /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5759663

New Years Traditions 07/18/2017

New Years Traditions What are Danish New Years celebratory traditions? I dive into several of the major ones and describe the series of events that make up a typical Danish new year in this episode. If you're Danish hopefully you'll find this series interesting, a bit informative, and not too outlandishly offensive. If you're a foreigner coming to Denmark, I hope this helps you build upon observations and insights the rest of us had to find out the hard way. Topics that will be covered include the Danish approach to nudity, how to make Danish friends, how to meet Danes, Danish manners, and even a look at Janteloven. Stay tuned for future updates - this is just the beginning! Explore the stories behind this podcast at http://virtualwayfarer.com. Where you can find me: BLOG - http://www.virtualwayfarer.com FACEBOOK- http://www.facebook.com/virtualwayfarer INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/virtualwayfarer TWITTER - http://twitter.com/AlexBerger /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5551852

Leaving Danish Babies Outside 07/01/2017

Leaving Danish Babies Outside Have you heard the stories about Danish parents leaving their young children in strollers outside while they enjoy a coffee or do some light shopping? Those stories are true and the focus of this episode of Denmark 101. The NY story I mention: "A 14-month-old girl who was taken away from her parents after being left alone in her stroller outside an East Village restaurant while her parents dined was ordered returned to her mother by a Family Court judge yesterday." If you're Danish hopefully you'll find this series interesting, a bit informative, and not too outlandishly offensive. If you're a foreigner coming to Denmark, I hope this helps you build upon observations and insights the rest of us had to find out the hard way. Topics that will be covered include the Danish approach to nudity, how to make Danish friends, how to meet Danes, Danish manners, and even a look at Janteloven. Stay tuned for future updates - this is just the beginning! Explore the stories behind this podcast at http://virtualwayfarer.com. Where you can find me: BLOG - http://www.virtualwayfarer.com FACEBOOK- http://www.facebook.com/virtualwayfarer INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/virtualwayfarer TWITTER - http://twitter.com/AlexBerger /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5499476

Bike Riding Danish Mailmen and Women 06/18/2017

Bike Riding Danish Mailmen and Women Danish mailmen and women often ride bikes - regardless of the weather or time of year. Rain? Snow? Wind? No problem. You'll find Denmark's stalwart bike mailmen and women making their rounds. If you're Danish hopefully you'll find this series interesting, a bit informative, and not too outlandishly offensive. If you're a foreigner coming to Denmark, I hope this helps you build upon observations and insights the rest of us had to find out the hard way. Topics that will be covered include the Danish approach to nudity, how to make Danish friends, how to meet Danes, Danish manners, and even a look at Janteloven. Stay tuned for future updates - this is just the beginning! Explore the stories behind this podcast at http://virtualwayfarer.com. Where you can find me: BLOG - http://www.virtualwayfarer.com FACEBOOK- http://www.facebook.com/virtualwayfarer INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/virtualwayfarer TWITTER - http://twitter.com/AlexBerger /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5458045

NemID and Using Credit Cards in Denmark 06/11/2017

NemID and Using Credit Cards in Denmark Visiting Denmark? There are some things you should know about how their credit card system works. This includes the incredibly cool and secure Nem ID security code system used for all secure Danish logins (think taxes, city services, your doctor, etc.), passwords, and credit cards, as well as some of the challenges foreigners face when attempting to use non Dankort credit cards in Denmark. I also explain how chip and pin credit card systems work and how they differ from magnetic strip and sign or chip and sign systems which are much more common in places like the US. If you're Danish hopefully you'll find this series interesting, a bit informative, and not too outlandishly offensive. If you're a foreigner coming to Denmark, I hope this helps you build upon observations and insights the rest of us had to find out the hard way. Topics that will be covered include the Danish approach to nudity, how to make Danish friends, how to meet Danes, Danish manners, and even a look at Janteloven. Stay tuned for future updates - this is just the beginning! Explore the stories behind this podcast at http://virtualwayfarer.com. Where you can find me: BLOG - http://www.virtualwayfarer.com FACEBOOK- http://www.facebook.com/virtualwayfarer INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/virtualwayfarer TWITTER - http://twitter.com/AlexBerger /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5436899

Life Lessons from the Multi-Lingual Homeless 05/22/2017

Life Lessons from the Multi-Lingual Homeless Denmark's homeless population has taught me a very humbling and important life lesson. In today's Denmark 101, I delve a bit into the topic and the humbling realization that virtually all of Denmark's homeless are better linguistically educated than I am. This is a touchy subject, so I invite you to approach comments and discussion with an open mind and to be respectful of reach other. If you're Danish hopefully you'll find this series interesting, a bit informative, and not too outlandishly offensive. If you're a foreigner coming to Denmark, I hope this helps you build upon observations and insights the rest of us had to find out the hard way. Topics that will be covered include the Danish approach to nudity, how to make Danish friends, how to meet Danes, Danish manners, and even a look at Janteloven. Stay tuned for future updates - this is just the beginning! Explore the stories behind this podcast at http://virtualwayfarer.com. Where you can find me: BLOG - http://www.virtualwayfarer.com FACEBOOK- http://www.facebook.com/virtualwayfarer INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/virtualwayfarer TWITTER - http://twitter.com/AlexBerger /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5379590

A Look at Christiania, Copenhagen's Freetown 05/15/2017

A Look at Christiania, Copenhagen's Freetown The Freetown of Christiania is famous the world over as a fascinating cultural experiment. In this episode of Denmark 101 I attempt to combine a mixture of the history, with my own experiences/observations and commentary that has arisen during conversations with Danes. The result is a look at what Christiania was, has become, and how it has experienced radical changes over the past decade which make it a vastly different place than it was 5, 4, or even as recent as 2 years ago. If you're Danish hopefully you'll find this series interesting, a bit informative, and not too outlandishly offensive. If you're a foreigner coming to Denmark, I hope this helps you build upon observations and insights the rest of us had to find out the hard way. Topics that will be covered include the Danish approach to nudity, how to make Danish friends, how to meet Danes, Danish manners, and even a look at Janteloven. Stay tuned for future updates - this is just the beginning! Explore the stories behind this podcast at http://virtualwayfarer.com. Where you can find me: BLOG - http://www.virtualwayfarer.com FACEBOOK- http://www.facebook.com/virtualwayfarer INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/virtualwayfarer TWITTER - http://twitter.com/AlexBerger /episode/index/show/denmark101/id/5358607

Denmark 101 with Alex Berger

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