Moving from Hong Kong to Denmark, Claire’s journey has been one of adaptation, reinvention, and resilience. From cultural contrasts and career shifts to navigating
Denmark’s social and dating scenes, she has embraced the challenges of expat life with humour and determination.
Photographs: Pablo Ezeb / Wilfred Gachau / Olivia Kutuzova
Text: Lyndsay Jensen
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Claire grew up in a city that uniquely blends Eastern and Western cultures. Hong Kong's historical ties to Britain, which ruled for over a century before its return to China in 1997, contributed to its diverse and international atmosphere. English was widely spoken, and the city functioned as a crucial financial bridge between East and West. Fast-paced and food-obsessed, Hong Kong instilled in Claire a deep appreciation for efficiency, innovation, and, of course, exceptional cuisine.
However, Claire's life took a turn when she moved to Denmark, a country that, at first glance, seemed vastly different from the bustling metropolis she once called home.
Adjusting to life in Denmark
Claire arrived in Denmark in 2001 after living in the UK. The move was motivated by a long-distance relationship with a Danish partner. When she gained admission to the Denmark Design School, she took it as a sign to embrace Copenhagen as her new home.
Her first year in Denmark was relatively smooth, thanks to the welcoming environment at her school. An extrovert by nature, Claire quickly found her footing, making friends and adapting to Danish society. But no transition is without challenges. The notorious Scandinavian winters were a stark contrast to Hong Kong's humid climate, and Claire was taken aback by Denmark's nationalistic pride—particularly the emphasis on speaking Danish.
Cultural contrasts: Hong Kong vs. Denmark
Denmark’s patriotic traditions were one of Claire's biggest cultural shocks. The Danish flag is a symbol of celebration, and newcomers often feel pressured to learn the language quickly. Claire, like many internationals, found this frustrating. "Every party I went to, the first conversation was always about how long I’d been in Denmark and why I wasn’t fluent yet," she recalls. In Hong Kong, on the other hand, foreigners were encouraged and praised even if they only knew a couple of words in Cantonese.
Social etiquette was another area of stark contrast. In Hong Kong, children are taught civic responsibility from a young age—giving up seats for the elderly, queuing in an orderly manner, and respecting public spaces. In Denmark, Claire was surprised to see people putting their feet on seats and skipping lines for public transport.
The food culture in Denmark was also quite different. In Hong Kong, food is central to social life, with people frequently gathering over meals. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle means there’s always an abundance of food options available at all hours. Denmark, however, has a more structured meal culture, with a strong emphasis on home-cooked meals and early dinner times. While Claire enjoys Danish cuisine, she deeply misses the variety and vibrancy of Hong Kong’s food scene.
Claire enjoys the freedom that entrepreneurship offers. She emphasises the importance of networking - not just for business opportunities but for genuine connections. "You never know who you'll meet or how they might help you in the future," she says.
Building a career in Denmark
Claire’s professional journey in Denmark has been anything but conventional. Initially trained as a graphic designer, she spent years freelancing and working part-time in cafes, restaurants, and retail while seeking full-time positions in her field. However, the rigid 9-to-5 office culture never appealed to her. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she pivoted her career, shifting her focus to social media strategy and branding.
This change felt natural. Claire found fulfillment in helping solopreneurs, particularly those unfamiliar with social media, boost their visibility and grow their brands. With a knack for creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit, she became known as "Claire the Creator"—a social media cheerleader empowering businesses to shine online.
Entrepreneurship vs. the Danish job market
Has Claire fully integrated into the Danish workplace? Not quite. Most of her clients come from the international community in Copenhagen, and she’s found that working independently suits her personality and skills. For those seeking traditional employment in Denmark, Claire advises persistence, networking, and, above all, embracing the local mindset.
Starting a business, however, is not for everyone. While some people prefer the stability of a full-time job, Claire enjoys the freedom entrepreneurship offers. She emphasises the importance of networking—not just for business opportunities but for genuine connections. "You never know who you’ll run into or how they might help you down the road," she says.
In addition to running her own business, Claire has collaborated with numerous international and local communities in Denmark. She regularly attends networking events and believes that integrating into Danish society requires a proactive approach. "You have to put yourself out there and engage with different groups," she says.
The Danish dating scene: A rollercoaster ride
Dating in Denmark has been a mixed experience for Claire. She had been in long-term relationships with Danes but has also found many to be emotionally distant and uncommunicative. "Ghosting is a real problem here," she says. "People are comfortable being single and often just looking for short-term fun or casual 'situationships.' It’s not my thing at all."
She also notes that some Danish men seem particularly interested in dating foreigners, as if they are collecting nationalities. This has made Claire more cautious when entering new relationships. "If dating doesn’t work out, I just see it as networking now!" she laughs.
"If you believe it’s hard to make friends, it will be. If you tell yourself opportunities are scarce, they will be. But if you step out of your comfort zone, attend events, and proactively engage in conversations, you will meet people."
Finding joy in community and creativity
Despite the challenges, Claire has carved out a fulfilling life in Denmark. Teaching Zumba brings her immense joy, both as a physical workout and as a mental health booster. Her pug, Mogwai Boyboy, is her constant companion, and she credits her close friendships for helping her navigate life abroad.
Claire is also deeply involved in community building. She has worked with Career Club DK, a network for international women in Denmark, and recently founded Copenhagen Connectors, a platform for international freelancers and entrepreneurs. Through social media and events, Copenhagen Connectors promotes collaboration and support among self-employed professionals.
Advice for new internationals: Mindset is everything
For newcomers to Denmark, Claire's advice is simple but powerful: mindset is everything.
"If you believe it’s hard to make friends, it will be. If you tell yourself opportunities are scarce, they will be. But if you step out of your comfort zone, attend events, and proactively engage in conversations, you will meet people."
She encourages expats to view networking as a chance to build relationships rather than just a way to find work. "Older guys are often more forward about asking women out because they have nothing to lose. Adopt the same mindset with social interactions—just put yourself out there!"
Claire also advises new internationals to take advantage of Denmark’s growing international community. "There are so many social activities and groups now, it’s impossible not to meet people if you make an effort."
Claire’s journey from Hong Kong to Denmark is proof that resilience, adaptability, and the power of community really pays off. Whether navigating cultural differences, building a business, or redefining success, she has managed to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with life abroad. And through it all, she continues to create, connect, and inspire others to do the same - one Zumba step at a time.
Stay connected with Claire’s world by following her two distinct ventures! For a behind-the-scenes look at her creative journey, projects, and business insights, follow @claire_the_creator. To engage with her community-driven initiatives that bring people together in Copenhagen, check out @copenhagenconnectors.
Whether you're interested in creativity or community, there’s a space for you to connect and be inspired! #ClaireTheCreator #CPHConnectors
