Greenland, predominantly known for its icy landscapes and chilly weather, demands specific attention to clothing and personal gear from expats planning to move there. The weather plays a significant role in everyday life, and understanding what to expect can vastly improve your experience.
Winter Clothing: Investing in high-quality thermal wear is crucial. Layers are your best friend in Greenland. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating middle layers, and top them off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
Summer Considerations: While summers are milder, temperatures can still be cool, especially in the evenings or when you are near the ice fjords. Lighter layers that can be easily adjusted to the changing conditions are ideal.
Footwear: Durable, waterproof boots are essential for dealing with snow and wet conditions. For summer, lighter hiking boots or sturdy shoes are advisable for exploring the rugged terrain.
Learn Basic Greenlandic or Danish
Although many Greenlanders speak good English, especially in larger towns and tourist areas, learning the local language can significantly enrich your stay and help in integrating into the community.
Greenlandic: The predominant language in Greenland, it can be challenging to learn but showing effort will be appreciated by locals.
Danish: As a former Danish colony, Danish is widely understood and spoken, especially in official contexts. It might be easier to start with if you have familiarity with other Scandinavian languages.
Language Resources: Consider using language apps, local classes, or online courses to get a grasp of basic phrases and communication essentials.
Navigate the Housing Market
Securing accommodation in Greenland can be one of the more challenging aspects for expats due to limited availability, especially in smaller towns and villages.
Rental Market: Most expats rent their homes. It’s advisable to start looking for accommodation well in advance and possibly secure something temporarily through local contacts or your employer.
Understanding Leases: Leases can be different from what you might be used to. Ensure you understand all terms and conditions before signing anything. Use local real estate agents or relocation services for assistance.
Considerations: Housing in Greenland is often functional and designed to withstand extreme weather, which means aesthetics might differ from what you’re used to.
Embrace the Local Diet
Food in Greenland is heavily based on local resources, which means a lot of fish, seafood, and game meats like reindeer and muskox.
Supermarkets: While you can find supermarkets in larger towns, the selection and availability of goods can be limited and expensive due to import costs.
Local Markets: Try to visit local markets for fresh produce and to support the community. This is also a great way to integrate and understand local culinary practices.
Cooking at Home: Learning to prepare local dishes can be both a rewarding and practical way to adapt to life in Greenland.
Prepare for Limited Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare facilities in Greenland are adequate but can be limited, especially outside major towns. Expats should be prepared for this and consider what it means for their health needs.
Health Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.
Medications: If you require specific medications, bring an ample supply and check their legal status in Greenland. Refills might be challenging to obtain.
Local Clinics: Familiarize yourself with the locations of clinics and hospitals near your area of residence.
Get to Know the Transport Options
Transportation in Greenland is unique due to its terrain and weather conditions, with no roads connecting towns.
Air Travel: Air Greenland operates flights between towns, which is a common way to travel long distances.
Boats: In coastal areas, boats are widely used, especially in areas without airport facilities.
Local Transportation: In towns, walking is common, and some places offer bicycle rentals. Understanding your options will help you plan your travel within Greenland effectively.
Understand the Cultural Norms
Greenlandic culture is rich and rooted deeply in respect for nature and community. Understanding and respecting these norms can help you integrate better and enjoy a more fulfilling expat experience.
Community Involvement: Participating in local events and volunteering are excellent ways to meet people and understand the local way of life.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local traditions and practices, especially those related to nature and wildlife, which are central to Greenlandic identity.
Dressing Appropriately: For cultural events or gatherings, make sure to ask about or observe any specific dress codes or expectations.
Manage Your Connectivity Expectations
Internet and mobile services in Greenland are improving but can still be less reliable and more expensive than in many other countries.
Internet Services: Be prepared for potentially slow and intermittent internet connections, especially in remote areas.
Communication Apps: Using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom can help keep communication costs down when contacting friends and family abroad.
Local SIM Cards: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better rates on calls and data within Greenland.
Explore the Natural Beauty
One of the biggest perks of living in Greenland is access to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world—from ice fjords to the northern lights.
Outdoor Activities: Engage in activities like hiking, kayaking, and dog sledding to truly experience what Greenland has to offer.
Guided Tours: Consider taking guided tours to learn more about the environment and gain access to more remote areas safely.
Photography: Greenland’s landscapes are a photographer’s dream, so consider taking up photography to capture the beauty of your surroundings.
Set Realistic Financial Expectations
Living in Greenland can be expensive due to the high costs of importing goods and the general cost of living.
Budgeting: Carefully plan and budget your finances, considering higher costs for food, housing, and transport.
Banking: Set up a local bank account to manage your finances more efficiently. Be aware of any fees for international transactions if you are still financially tied to your home country.
Additional Costs: Factor in costs for leisure and travel, which can be significant but are integral to making the most of your time in Greenland.
Stay Mentally and Physically Prepared
Living in a remote and challenging environment like Greenland can take a toll on your mental and physical health.
Mental Health: Be proactive about maintaining your mental health. This might include regular communication with friends and family back home, finding a hobby, or seeking professional help if needed.
Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can help combat the effects of long, dark winters. Find indoor and outdoor activities that suit your interests and keep you moving.
Community Support: Don’t underestimate the value of having a support network, whether it’s other expats or locals, to help you navigate the challenges of expat life in Greenland.
By following these top ten tips, expats in Greenland can enhance their experience and face the unique challenges and opportunities that living in such a distinctive environment presents.
