The Faroe Islands are located in the north of the Atlantic, in the open ocean, significantly north of Scotland. Officially, they belong to Denmark, but in fact life in the Faroe Islands is subject not so much to the Danish crown as to its own laws and rules. Tourists are not waiting here for azure waters, chic hotels and well-trained bartenders serving colorful cocktails to vacationers on the beach. The nearest inhabited coast is Icelandic, and it is 450 km away. But if you are looking for a place to escape from everything, then the Faroe Islands are the perfect place for this.

In one of its publications, National Geographic magazine called the Faroe Islands the best islands in the world. It seems that even their inhabitants themselves more than agree with this characterization.

How to get to the Faroe Islands

By plane to Torshavn with a transfer through Denmark (Copenhagen) or Norway (Bergen or Stavanger). The most popular local transport in the Faroe Islands is, of course, water, and you need to travel between the islands by ferry. In the summer, you can also take a ferry from Bergen to Tórshavn.

Visa

According to cachedhealth, the Faroe Islands are not part of the Schengen area. To visit these territories, it is necessary to obtain a national Danish visa, valid for entry into the Faroe Islands, in addition to the regular Danish Schengen visa. If the tourist already has a valid Schengen visa of another country, it is enough to apply for a national Danish visa with a note about entering the Faroe Islands. The list of required documents and the process of obtaining a visa to the Faroe Islands is identical to the process of obtaining a Schengen visa to Denmark.

History

In total, the Faroe Islands include 18 islands, and people live on all but the last, Small Dimun. The first inhabitants appeared on the islands around the 8th-9th centuries; then the islands saw the Vikings and for some time served as a staging post in their sea expeditions. Once the Faroe Islands were divided between Norway and Denmark, but at the beginning of the 19th century they were completely taken over by the Danes. During the Second World War, the islands were occupied by Great Britain in response to the capture of Denmark by the Germans (this did not affect the course of the war in any way). The next year after the end of the war, the Faroe Islands were about to secede from the Kingdom of Denmark, but it was not there: the maximum that the islanders achieved was partial sovereignty.

Interesting Facts

In one of its publications, National Geographic magazine named the Faroe Islands the best islands in the world (this is a consolidated expert assessment of half a thousand specialists in the tourism industry). It seems that even their inhabitants themselves more than agree with this characterization. Despite the fact that the economy of the islands rests, figuratively speaking, on sheep and herring, the weather is gloomy, and fuel and other essential items have to be purchased on the mainland for five hundred kilometers, the standard of living in the Faroe Islands is one of the highest in the world. And almost all the islanders are ardent patriots who optimistically paint their houses in different colors in spite of gloomy weather and gray skies.

Due to unacceptable fishing taxes for local residents, the Faroe Islands have not yet entered the European Union.

Faroese cuisine

The traditional dishes of the Faroes, dense and simple, are all rather curious, but by modern standards they cannot be called healthy. Although local dishes, for obvious reasons, are often prepared from fish, the Faroese themselves prefer fatty and unsalted meat, in particular lamb, and potatoes from vegetables. However, more and more European establishments have recently been opened in large settlements. So you need to look specifically for traditional restaurants to try smorrebrod for breakfast (a sandwich with butter and meat eaten with cutlery), for lunch – dried cod and mutton kidney soup, and for dinner – puffin meat pie, rhubarb and potatoes.

Weather in the Faroe Islands

The climate here cannot be called mild: in summer it usually does not get warmer than +15 ° C, it rains about 280 days a year, and the winds blow almost constantly. Therefore, there are few trees on the islands – solid rocks and moss, but there are a lot of carved picturesque fjords, bays, bays and mountains.

In winter, the islands are very wet and particularly cold. But the Gulf Stream washing them does not allow coastal waters to freeze and even maintains their temperature at about +10 ° C. This season, when there are no people around, and the water is especially clear, is considered ideal for diving enthusiasts.

3 things to do in the Faroe Islands:

1. Buy and bring home to your grandmother a few hanks of local first-class sheep’s wool for knitting. This can be done in almost any grocery store.
2. Get to the town of Skopun on the island of Sandoy, where the largest mailbox in the world is located. This is a huge blue building of several human heights, against which you should definitely take a picture (alas, the box is non-functional).
3. Try local meat and fish dried-cured snacks: whale meat and lamb in the Faroe Islands are dried in a dozen different ways, sometimes for a year.

Unification of the empire and the Kalmar Union

After bloody civil wars (from 1131) and turmoil of the throne (from 1146) Waldemar I restored peace and unity to the country in 1157. He and his sons Canute VI. as well as Waldemar II. subjugated the pagan turns of the Mecklenburg-Pomerania Baltic coast, in 1201 the German Holstein and in 1219 Estonia; the Wendish-German conquests were lost again by the defeat against the north German princes at Bornhöved (1227). After the death of Waldemar II (1241) there was again a period of civil wars up to the election of Waldemar IV. Atterdag (1340), who succeeded in regaining the lost territories. In 1346 he sold the Duchy of Estonia to the Teutonic Order, conquered Scania back from Sweden in 1360 and occupied Gotland in 1361 (taking Visby). There were repeated conflicts with the German Hanseatic League, which ended in the Peace of Stralsund in 1370 with the Danish recognition of the dominance of the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea. Visit weddinginfashion for Prehistory of Northern Europe.

His underage grandson and successor Olaf was under the tutelage of his mother Margarete, who became regent in Denmark and Norway in 1387. After they had also acquired Sweden in 1389, they brought about the Kalmar Union of the Three Kingdoms in 1397, which existed with interruptions until 1521/23. After the queen’s death (1412), her nephew, Erich VII of Pomerania, succeeded her rule in the three countries. He had to wage war against the Holstein counts, who were later supported by the Hanseatic cities. Between 1439 and 1442 King was Erich dropped in all three countries. Eric’s nephew and successor Christoph III. (from Bavaria) could still maintain the union, but after his death (1448) the Swedes elected Charles VIII Knutsson, the Danes Christian I as king.

World War II and post-war period

In 1939 Denmark signed a non-aggression pact with the German Reich; nevertheless it was occupied by German troops on April 9, 1940. The Stauning government protested, but remained in office. In 1941 Denmark joined the Anti-Comintern Pact under German pressure. The policy of negotiation and cooperation with the occupying power were increasingly rejected by the Danish population; In October 1943, in an unprecedented action, the Jews (around 7,000) who were threatened with deportation to extermination camps in their country helped them to flee to Sweden. The Danish Freedom Council, founded in 1943, increasingly coordinated the resistance. A state of emergency was declared on August 29, 1943. The government resigned, King Christian X. was imprisoned at Amalienborg Palace, the army disarmed. The Danish fleet sank itself. At the end of the war, Denmark was recognized as an ally of the victorious powers. In 1944 Iceland dissolved the union with Denmark.

In 1945, Vilhelm Buhl (* 1881, † 1954) formed a government from among the parties and the resistance, which annulled all laws passed under German pressure and took measures against collaborators. In 1945 Denmark was a co-founder of the UN and participated in the occupation of Germany. Under the government of the liberal Knud Kristensen (* 1895, † 1962; 1945-47) efforts to annex parts of Schleswig failed due to the resistance of the Folketing. In 1947 Friedrich IX ascended the throne.

Orientation towards the West and Euroscepticism

1947–50, 1953–55 was headed the government by the social democrat Hans Hedtoft (* 1903, † 1955), 1950–53 by the liberal Erik Eriksen (* 1902, † 1972). During this time the Faroe Islands received self-government (1948), Greenland became part of Denmark (1953) and received self-government in 1979. In 1953 a new constitution came into force (unicameral system, female succession). In 1955, Denmark and the Federal Republic of Germany signed the Bonn-Copenhagen Declaration on the national minorities of both sides. In 1949 Denmark joined the Council of Europe and joined the North Atlantic Pact. In 1960 it became a member of EFTA, but at the same time applied for admission to the European Economic Community.

From 1955–68 the Social Democrats H. C. Hansen (1955–60), Viggo Kampmann (* 1910, † 1976; 1960–62) and J. O. Krag (1962–68) led the government. Contrary to Denmark’s official position to be a nuclear weapon-free territory, the then Prime Minister Hansen had in 1957In a secret letter from the US (only made public in 1995), it allowed the storage of nuclear weapons at its Greenland military base in Thule and the flight over the area with nuclear-armed aircraft. When an American military aircraft of the type B-52 with four hydrogen bombs on board crashed near the base in 1968, the area around the accident site was severely radioactive and hundreds of workers involved in the rescue and clean-up operations were exposed to dangerous radiation (only 1995 decision, to pay severance payments to the 300–400 survivors).

1968–71 Hilmar Baunsgaard (* 1920, † 1989) was Prime Minister (Radical Venstre, Conservative; defense and administrative reform). 1971–72 again led Krag, 1972–73 his social democratic party friend A. Jørgensen, the government 1972 Margaret II ascended the throne. In 1973 Denmark joined the European Communities (at the same time membership of the EFTA expired). After the parliamentary elections of 1973, in which the traditional parties suffered heavy losses in favor of the Progress Party founded in protest against tax legislation, the liberal Poul Hartling (* 1914, † 2000) 1973-75 was Prime Minister of a minority government; he followed 1975-82 Jørgensen as head of government in minority cabinets. In September 1982 Poul Schlüter (* 1920; Conservative Party) replaced him as Prime Minister (resignation in January 1993). Contrary to the positive vote of the Folketing (13.5.1992) on the Maastricht Treaty, the population rejected these contracts by 50.7% in a referendum on June 2, 1992. Only after a summit conference of the EC member states had granted Denmark special conditions in December 1992 (e.g. on questions of the planned monetary union and defense cooperation) did the Danes agree to the Maastricht Treaty with 56.8% in a second referendum on May 18, 1993.

The Kingdom of Denmark attracts with its coast and one of the most livable cities in the world – its capital Copenhagen. Reason enough to pay a visit to the country. Denmark is not only an attractive destination for holidaymakers, but also for international students. For example, they can do a bachelor’s degree at a university in Denmark.

Reasons for a Bachelor in Denmark

Why should students go to Denmark for a bachelor’s degree? This question is easy to answer:

• Together with its Scandinavian neighbors Sweden and Finland Denmark is in global rankings the top places in the field of higher education.
• The study programs are innovative and are characterized by a high level of practical relevance.

• The universities are modernly equipped and the student support is exemplary.
• A large number of universities attach great importance to internationality. That is why many courses are taught in English.
• Like the Danes themselves, EU citizens, Swiss citizens and citizens of states belonging to the European Economic Area (EEA) do not have to pay tuition fees in Denmark. International students from these countries can therefore enjoy a first-class higher education in one of the most progressive countries in Europe with relatively little financial outlay.

• The international experience is not only used for personal development. A bachelor’s degree abroad also signals to future employers initiative, commitment and independence. The foreign language skills and intercultural skills acquired in Denmark are certainly a plus point for every application.

The Bachelor in Denmark at a glance

According to searchforpublicschools, the study system in Denmark is similar to that in Germany. The Bachelor’s degree can be followed by a Master’s degree in Denmark or a Candidatus degree. This in turn is a prerequisite for a doctorate. An academic year in Denmark has two semesters. Many courses only start in autumn.

In Denmark, universities, but also so-called vocational schoolr, offer the possibility of a bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s degree at a university in Denmark is research-based and lasts six semesters. In the first two semesters of a bachelor’s degree in Denmark, basic knowledge is imparted in the chosen subject. In the following semesters, students can specialize in a sub-area of the subject. At the end of the bachelor’s degree, students have to take both a written and an oral exam. This is a housework and its defense. Bachelor graduates can enter professional life or a master’s or candidate status-Complete your degree.

The bachelor’s degree at a vocational school is job-related and combines theory and practice. It takes between three and four and a half years. It prepares you for a direct entry into the profession.

In addition to courses in Danish, there are also a large number of English-language courses at universities in Denmark. These include, for example, Sustainable Biotechnology, Robotics or IT, Communication and New Media.

Requirements for a bachelor’s degree in Denmark

Applicants for a bachelor’s degree at a university in Denmark usually have to have a general higher education entrance qualification or a subject-specific higher education entrance qualification. Studying at a vocational school requires a high school diploma. As in Germany, many subjects in Denmark have an NC.

In addition, there may be other admission criteria, such as good grades in certain school subjects or passing entrance exams. Anyone interested in a bachelor’s degree in Denmark should inquire about this individually in advance.

linguistic proficiency

A good knowledge of English is an important criterion. Applicants for courses in English can prove this in a standardized language test such as the IELTS or TOEFL.

Applicants who would like to complete their bachelor’s degree in Danish should already have the appropriate language skills in advance. This is the only way they can follow the lectures during their studies, for example. Applicants must prove their knowledge in language tests. You should successfully complete this no later than three months before the start of your studies. At the university, students can then take additional language courses and further improve their Danish skills.

Costs and financing options for the Bachelor in Denmark

Since EU citizens as well as citizens of EEA member states and Switzerland do not have to pay tuition fees in Denmark, the costs for the bachelor’s degree in Denmark are limited to travel and living expenses. The latter are slightly higher than in Germany. Students can estimate around EUR 800 to EUR 1100 per month, depending on their lifestyle.

Foreign BAföG, scholarships and educational loans

There are several ways to cover the costs of a bachelor’s degree in Denmark. For example, German students can for a bachelor’s program in the EU by the BAföG encouraged. This pays subsidies for travel expenses, living expenses and insurance. Researching the responsible office can pay off: In some cases, students also receive BAföG abroad who cannot receive BAföG in Germany because their parents’ income is too high.

Scholarships are another funding option for a Bachelor’s degree in Denmark. Students can also take out a low-interest education loan for their studies in Denmark.

Jobs in Denmark

Another possibility to finance a bachelor’s degree in Denmark is a part-time job in the country of study. As EU citizens, Germans do not have to apply for a work permit. Those who work in Denmark alongside their studies can also get to know the country and its people better and improve their knowledge of Danish.

Useful information about visas and entry into Denmark

No visa is required to enter Denmark. If the stay is to last longer than three months, it is necessary to apply for a residence permit at the immigration authorities. You can then register with the residents’ registration office. It is even easier to apply for a residence permit before you travel to Denmark. This is possible at the Danish embassy or a diplomatic or consular mission of the state of Denmark in Germany.

Health insurance in Denmark

There are social security agreements between the member states of the EU. Therefore, students who are insured with a German statutory health insurance company are also insured during their stay in Denmark. To do this, they need the European Health Insurance Card and, if they stay in Denmark for more than three months, have to register there in order to gain access to Danish health care services. You should also find out in detail what to do in the event of illness or an accident.

Students who are privately insured should inquire with the health insurance company which services are covered in Denmark. If necessary, it can make sense for both private and statutory insured persons to take out additional private international health insurance that covers all costs that may arise.

Restaurants in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has many good places to eat, whether you want a simpler meal at an inn or a nicer dinner at a luxury restaurant. It is no problem to find a good and pleasant inn where delicious Danish food is served, or restaurants with food traditions from all the world’s nooks and crannies. The Danish chefs are known for making good portions of food, and most restaurants have varied menus that should satisfy both large and small stomachs.

Here are some suggestions if you need inspiration in the food route when you are in Denmark’s capital:

• Noma has been named the world’s best restaurant several times. You have to book a table long time in advance, but for food lovers this is definitely the top of the wreath cake in Copenhagen.

• Kiin Kiin and AOC are two good options if you did not get a table at Noma, but still want to go to a restaurant with a star in the Michelin guide. Kiin Kiin was the first Asian restaurant (Thai) to receive a star, while AOC (with two stars in the guide) focuses on Nordic food traditions and ingredients.

• The breakfast place is the restaurant you should visit if you love vegetarian food, and visit the free town of Christiania. Please note that the restaurant does not open until late in the morning, despite the name indicating otherwise (the inhabitants of the sanctuary may not get up as early as other people…).

• Growth in Sankt Peders Stræde is a great restaurant, located in a converted greenhouse. Much of the focus is on fresh vegetables, but not just vegetarian dishes. Here you get delicious seafood and meat dishes as well.

• Cock’s and Cow is the place to go if your stomach is screaming for gourmet-class burgers. The menu has an impressive selection of varieties, and the accessories are perfect for this type of food. Cock’s and Cow has six restaurants in Copenhagen, including the one located at Kastrup Airport.

• Royal Smushi Café is where you have to go if you want to eat the herb Danish open sandwiches, and maybe take another snap. Usually the Danes’ slices of bread are loaded with toppings, and thus you often only need one of them. At Royal Smushi, you get the open sandwiches served in sushi size, so you can taste all varieties if you want.

• Schønnemann is one of the city’s oldest restaurants, and it also serves traditional Danish dishes. Try Scønnemann’s open sandwiches with herring or smoked eel, preferably with ice-cold schnapps next to it.

• Café Far’s Dreng has two breakfast restaurants in the center of Copenhagen. Stop by if you are hungry for what is said to be the city’s best breakfast.

Nightlife in Copenhagen

According to Abbreviation Finder, the nightlife in Copenhagen is not different from what you get in Oslo. The differences are mostly in that there is more to choose from, and the rules for closing time are more liberal. Here is a selection of the better establishments within each category:

Nightclubs

• Chateu Motel– huge nightclub on over four floors.
• HIVE– nightclub with lovely lounges and top DJs.
• Bremen Theater– on Fridays and Saturdays, the foyer of the theater is transformed into one of the city’s best nightclubs.

Bars

• The Jane– nightclub and cocktail bar with both dance floors and Chesterfield
• Curfew– Curfew you will find Stenosgade 1 and it is known as one of the very best bars in Copenhagen.
• 1105– trendy cocktail bar with English style, caters to those over 30 years.
• Madam Chu’s– one of the city’s best bars with Chinese-inspired interiors.

Traditional pubs

• Bo-Bi Bar– old Danish inn with relaxed style and nice prices.
• Vessels Kro– even older pub with a good selection of drinks, and open until late at night.
• Aléenberg– unchanged bodega since 1924, and open until the sun rises.

Beer bars

• Mikkeller and Friends– one of Denmark’s best breweries, with over 40 bottling towers.
• Himmeriget– small and intimate beer bar with beer from the best breweries.
• Taphouse– centrally located and large beer bar with over 60 tap towers.

Wine bars

• Ravnsborg Wine Bar– one of the best wine bars. Intimate with good dishes.
• Nimb Vinotek– choose from over 1000 bottles. Interior in typical Danish design.
• Ancestral– modern and cozy. Top selection in wine and delicious snacks.