It can be difficult coming to grips with a new city, starting out with little to no knowledge of your new abode, yet harbouring the niggling feeling that you’re missing out on everything the place has to offer.

International House Copenhagen (IHC) wants to smooth the transition for newbies and encourage them to make Copenhagen their home by hosting a welcome reception (Wednesday March 2, 16:30-18:30) where newcomers can discover the ins and outs of their new host city.

“We want to introduce them to the city that is now their new home and make sure they explore all options: libraries, culture houses and institutions,” explained Alev Vural from IHC.

“We hope they will use the city, meet people, establish a network, make friends and then in the long term, stay here.”

An active city life
The primary aim of the event is to demonstrate to internationals that Copenhagen is a bustling city with lots to offer. Representatives from varying municipality departments will be in attendance, including the Culture & Leisure, Children & Youth, and Technical & Environmental departments.

The city’s main culture houses, libraries and other recreational spaces will also be present – all keen to indicate how newcomers can enrich their experiences in the capital.

Broaden your network
Last year’s Welcome Event had over 350 individuals in attendance and much the same is expected for 2016. It’s an ideal way to meet new people, forge friendships and extend your network in a new country.

Jonas Kongstad Østergård, the project manager at IHC, agrees.
“It’s a great opportunity and it’s free,” he enthused. “You can meet other fellow internationals and see how they are dealing with arriving in a new city.”

The Copenhagen Host Program will also be in attendance, through which internationals can be matched with a knowledgeable Danish host who offers local guidance to an alien city.