Czech expat talks about living and being an entrepreneur in Denmark

Where are you from, and what made you leave your home country?

I am originally from the Czech Republic, but I left my country when I was 18. I moved to London to be an Aupair, expecting to be there for 2 months. I have lived abroad ever since.

Why did you decide to settle in Denmark?

I came here to study. I expected that I would live here for 3.5 years and travel afterward, but I ended up starting my company, and Denmark really supports entrepreneurs, so the benefits and the environment made me stay. But honestly, I do not know if I will stay here forever.

What city do you live in? What do you like the most about it? 

I live in Næstved, a small city near Copenhagen. Before that, I lived in Odense for the first two years, but then I changed schools and moved here. I was a bit skeptical about the size of the town and also about the fact that fewer expats live here, but it really helped me to integrate into Danish culture and discover the secrets to making Danish friends. What I like the most is that I am so close to nature.

What are the things that you enjoy the most about the city? 

It is so calm, with low living costs and nature everywhere. The biggest advantage is that I can get to the center of Copenhagen in 50 minutes by fast train.

Tell us about your business. How did the idea come up?  

I am an Expat Mentor, and I coach people on their journey abroad. I have set up a company to help people settle in Denmark. The idea came last summer when I was traveling to Greece. I only had a one-way ticket and no idea what I would do afterward for the rest of the summer. I started planning at the end of the vacation and relocated to Bulgaria within 3 days. I discovered my own unique combination of skills to help others move abroad too, which is how I came about my business idea to set up Relocate With Eliska.

What are the main challenges you faced when moving to Denmark? 

Many people face difficulties adjusting to Danish culture and making friends. Danish people are so closed-off and not used to meeting new people, especially expats, so you have to keep trying and trying. But I always say that it is not impossible. First, it varies from person to person, and second, it depends on your approach, alongside the activities you do with them. I teach the best tactics in my company's programs.

What made you want to start your own company?

I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur, and my dream was to start and own a business. I like the freedom that comes with it. Freedom in entrepreneurship is not only about autonomy or being your boss. It's the freedom to think beyond the boundaries of your work, bring and execute new ideas, define the standard protocols, and bring innovation to those in order to make them much more efficient.

Why are you passionate about helping people to move abroad?

I am passionate about helping other young people move abroad because I know how beneficial it is for me and how much I enjoy it. I want others to feel the same. Today, I run a company helping young people follow their dreams and relocate abroad.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I really like to walk in nature, read books and hang out with my friends. In Denmark, we call these moments “HYGGE”. It means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life. So to speak, I like to have hygge time. 

Is there any advice you would like to give to those who are preparing to take the leap? 

Be brave and do it. Denmark, for example, will give you such a high standard of living with a great work-life balance and happy people around you. Remember, moving abroad will benefit you for the rest of your life.

You can get in touch with Eliska on the Expat forum in Denmark  or on one of her social media accounts.