Today, I received all of my Danish banking documents! I thought this was very cool, until I realized I can’t read them :(
As a business traveler in Denmark, I’ve been spoiled by everything being in Danish and English. However, day to day life is a whole other experience. I realize now how much I’ve taken literacy for granted and this is a completely humbling experience.
I don’t even know which of those is my credit card and which is my debit card! I also have no idea how to access online banking because that little calculator-like thing is a PIN code generator, but all of the menus are in Danish.
I’m learning bits of Danish here and there, mostly by reading and guessing, but I still can’t speak a word of it and I feel silly every time I try. I can pretty safely navigate a restaurant menu, and I know that a “bilvask” is a car wash… it’s the practical things that count ;)
Once I’m juggling a few less chainsaws, I’m going to sign up for Danish classes, but I just cannot take on another thing before I’m somewhat settled. So until further notice, I’ll learn my Danish by walking around the grocery stores, and by randomly asking my Danish speaking friends what “insert butchered word here” means.
And in case you were wondering, my work laptop OS is half in English and half in Danish, with a Danish keyboard. The other day, I had to call the help desk and read them a Danish error message. I really need to get on those lessons…
Smilingsurfer says
Any chance that a personal assistant could be employed until you are up to speed? Your company will benefit from your improved efficiency.
Congrats on establishing your DK bank account! You are one brave and determined lady.
Smilingsurfer says
Many people learn new languages by reading the comics in newspapers. Worth a try :)
DragonflyC says
At first glance, I thought this entry was “Danish Baking.” Alas.
dimpleddarlin' says
Haaaahhhaha! I thought it was baking too! and not banking! Well at least you have a start even if it is not so clear and maybe money in it that someone can help you spend. Good Luck with the Danish!
Sage says
Hi Ladies,
Baking posts are coming :)
Learning to bake in centigrade should undoubtedly be a blog worthy experience. I learned over Xmas that it’s not a straight conversion when I asked my host to bake my tangine at 176 degrees for about an hour.
~ Sage
P.S. I’ve found free online Danish courses!