In Århus – a city by Danish standards in any case – there is tremendous potential to lead an active life, with all the associations and leisure activities the place has to offer. What is more, forests, beaches and parks offer a multitude of ways to enjoy nature, all at no cost.
”I love the countryside around Århus and I am able to cultivate my interest in rowing as well as other outdoor activities, and can cycle home along the water. The countryside is so close to the city centre – no wonder the Århusians name their city 'the world's smallest big city'," says Viola Burau, a lecturer at the Department of Political Science at Århus University. To begin with she thought it was a bit odd that the Århusians should call their city the ‘City of Smiles’, but having lived in the city for several years she has fitted in so well that she really feel at home – perhaps precisely because of the size of this little big city.
Geet Shroff, back home in India at the moment, but who came with her husband to Denmark, found Århus and East Jutland extremely attractive. She is looking forward to moving back when she and her husband both have jobs in the area again.
”There's no doubt about it, Århus is my favourite destination in Denmark – it's a lively, colourful place and seems very cosmopolitan because there are so many internationally-minded people around. I was especially impressed by the architecture and the incredibly kind, accommodating and friendly Danes I met everywhere – integrating in Denmark will be quite easy, I am sure," says Geet Shroff.
She points out the importance of a reasonable work-life-balance in the Danes' work culture. "My husband suddenly had time to be a family man, which made him extra pleased about the job he got in Denmark. This is an aspect of the work-life-balance.”
Charles Thiam, who left Germany in early 2010 to take a job at Vestas in Hammel, agrees with her. He describes East Jutland as an attractive area in which to set up home with a family, although he is still has not got used to his working day ending at 4 pm.
"My colleagues and the whole atmosphere of the place are very open. People are polite and friendly, and my general impression is that the Danes are very open to new ideas and ways of solving problems. But I still have to get used to the idea of everybody going home at 4 pm. to pick up their children and spend time with their families. I will also have to work out how to build a social network among my colleagues," Charles Thiam smiles.
