Denmark’s emphasis on family and work-life balance makes it a welcome destination for American emigrants. A 37-hour work week comes with a living wage and universal healthcare for most residents. The public childcare system teaches Danish and social skills to children before their first birthday, freeing parents to join the workforce. Surfers will find ample waves to catch, as you’re never more than 30 miles from the beach here. However, adapting to the local lifestyle takes time. Applying for your visa can be a lengthy—and sometimes futile—process. Most jobs require you to speak fluent Danish, while the cold and rainy weather fills most of the calendar, outside of an 8-week summer. Looking for furnished rentals will help you avoid surprises like empty kitchens. Those expats who can find joy in the gray skies should discover a robust new life here in this Scandinavian nation.