There seems to be some confusion over my complaints about Denmark. Firstly, everyone I worked with (aside from Ken Primby of course), was fair, honest and hard-working. In fact, you have to have a high work ethic because every worker in Denmark carries at least two lazy, useless Danes on their shoulders, through the high taxes they pay. Even worse is that it means you have very little left for the people who actually matter in your life, which in my case is my wife and our four children.
So there you go, just in case anyone I ever worked with reads this!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Roskilde Bank Nationalised...and "Social Duty" in Denmark
As Denmark is now officially the most-personally-indebted nation in the entire world on the basis of debt versus disposable income, at 260%, it's no surprise that they are suffering under the credit crunch. Following on from what happened with the Northern Rock in the UK, Denmark's Roskilde bank went into administration and, taking similar mistaken steps to the UK government, it has been nationalised. What I found most amusing were the Danish central bank governor, Nils Bernsteins' comments about how the "bank was not fit to survive", "shareholders getting no compensation" and finally, how the bank "abused the credit system for breakneck growth without proper regard for social duty".
Well, of course, I agree shareholders of ailing businesses should never be compensated for their risk when things turn bad, just as they should not be taxed when things go well. The major comment of note, and a major insight into the Danish mentality, is the comment on how the bank didn't have proper regard for social duty. Okay, I run my own business, so should I have any regard for "social duty", or do I run the business to make as much profit as I can within the law?
Perhaps Mr Bernstein needs to look in the mirror and question if the Danish central bank and government has been neglecting it's own social duty. In the opinion of old-school economists, the main role of a central bank is to "maintain a strong and sound trusted currency for the citizens of the nation, backed by real assets, for the conduct of trade", and taking that into account, the Danish central bank and government fail, with their ludicrous tax reliefs on any personal loan taken out and the consequent flood of paper money created out of nothing these past ten years or so. The national currency is not something you should play with to win votes or induce a temporary boom.
Well, of course, I agree shareholders of ailing businesses should never be compensated for their risk when things turn bad, just as they should not be taxed when things go well. The major comment of note, and a major insight into the Danish mentality, is the comment on how the bank didn't have proper regard for social duty. Okay, I run my own business, so should I have any regard for "social duty", or do I run the business to make as much profit as I can within the law?
Perhaps Mr Bernstein needs to look in the mirror and question if the Danish central bank and government has been neglecting it's own social duty. In the opinion of old-school economists, the main role of a central bank is to "maintain a strong and sound trusted currency for the citizens of the nation, backed by real assets, for the conduct of trade", and taking that into account, the Danish central bank and government fail, with their ludicrous tax reliefs on any personal loan taken out and the consequent flood of paper money created out of nothing these past ten years or so. The national currency is not something you should play with to win votes or induce a temporary boom.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Denmark...Happiest Nation in the world again...Well, I'm laughing anyway.....
Yet again, the BBC nee "British Brainwashing Corporation", feeds us more tales of Denmark being the happiest nation in the world. Well, I cannot think of a worse place to work than Denmark, and unlike these closet communists, I tried for 3 years for my Danish partner's sake.
Can anyone enjoy knowing that over 50% of your pay doesn't even make it as far as your pocket, but goes to fund the benefits of the lazy majority, so they can continue living in the employment-free style to which they've become accustomed. Conversely, this makes it a fantastic place for those to live who are not interested in working, although the Danish state has a myriad of rules to ensure non-Danes cannot claim any benefits or even come to live in Denmark unless they have a load of cash in the bank. This does not fit in with the supposed EU free movement regulations, but since Denmark is so small and irrelevant, the EU doesn't really care.
In Denmark, what is the point in trying harder? Everyone just tries to drag you back down to their own mediocre standards of starting at 8.30 and leaving around 3pm. People were honestly stunned I stayed until 5pm. If anyone is in any doubt about the Danish workplace, look up "Jantelov".
Woe betide anyone completely qualified in their chosen profession, but not actually having Danish qualifications. This little known xenophobic attitude pervades most of the heavily-unionised professions such as teaching and healthcare.
As for the much quoted "Denmark - happiest nation in the world..." waffle, you need to understand that the place is so extreme, anyone motivated and with a bit of "get up and go", does exactly that and gets up and goes to a different country. With over 50% of the remainder on some form of welfare payment or other, who wouldn't be happy about getting something for nothing?
Unsurprisingly, they have major shortfalls in skilled workers in IT, doctors, engineers, etc. I wonder why. I'd recommend anyone gives it a try though. It's a bit like that film Mr destiny, where you think the grass could be greener but then you realise how much worse life can get!
Can anyone enjoy knowing that over 50% of your pay doesn't even make it as far as your pocket, but goes to fund the benefits of the lazy majority, so they can continue living in the employment-free style to which they've become accustomed. Conversely, this makes it a fantastic place for those to live who are not interested in working, although the Danish state has a myriad of rules to ensure non-Danes cannot claim any benefits or even come to live in Denmark unless they have a load of cash in the bank. This does not fit in with the supposed EU free movement regulations, but since Denmark is so small and irrelevant, the EU doesn't really care.
In Denmark, what is the point in trying harder? Everyone just tries to drag you back down to their own mediocre standards of starting at 8.30 and leaving around 3pm. People were honestly stunned I stayed until 5pm. If anyone is in any doubt about the Danish workplace, look up "Jantelov".
Woe betide anyone completely qualified in their chosen profession, but not actually having Danish qualifications. This little known xenophobic attitude pervades most of the heavily-unionised professions such as teaching and healthcare.
As for the much quoted "Denmark - happiest nation in the world..." waffle, you need to understand that the place is so extreme, anyone motivated and with a bit of "get up and go", does exactly that and gets up and goes to a different country. With over 50% of the remainder on some form of welfare payment or other, who wouldn't be happy about getting something for nothing?
Unsurprisingly, they have major shortfalls in skilled workers in IT, doctors, engineers, etc. I wonder why. I'd recommend anyone gives it a try though. It's a bit like that film Mr destiny, where you think the grass could be greener but then you realise how much worse life can get!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Useless Danes Named and Shamed
Following the famous 80:20 rule, I expect generally that any country I go to, I'll find 80% of people to be generally helpful, friendly and law-abiding, while 20% might be rude, unpleasant, criminal or generally otherwise best avoided.
During my time in Denmark, however, I found the reverse applied. Probably only about 20% fitted into the first category, while it often seemed like 80% were rude, unpleasant, disrepectful and criminal. The last category, the criminal one, is what amazed me most, beginning with the huge chunk of people who think it's OK to feign illness or an inability to work, so they can claim huge chunks of government benefits and other various freebies, right through to the builder, Ole Grønlund, who made an appalling job of restoring our house, before failing to return to finish the job, Morten Høgenhav, the worst bunch of cowboy painters even seen, and the children who stole our childrens' toys from our own garden, then proceeded to treat our garden as a playground for 2 weeks, destroying yet more, unstopped by the various adults who must have witnessed it, probably including their own, useless, benefit-claiming parents.
Next, a dishonourable mention must go to Ken Lynge Primby and his Connect Resourcing/Recruitment Agency. Ken has a nasty and previously proven habit of accidentally letting his business fall into liquidation once every few years, leaving the debts (like mine) with the unfortunate encumbents, while a new Connect rises like a phoenix from the ashes. It's now looking like I'm only going to get a few percent of what I'm owed.
Finally, who could forget the biggest thieves of all, the Danish government. Who through various taxes end up helping themselves to approximiately 70% of your income and a huge chunk of your savings.
Needless to say, if I ever see a Dane in distress, they can expect little help from me. And if any of the above should step out onto the road, not seeing the huge lorry chundering towards them, I can only hope I'm there to see the moment of impact.
During my time in Denmark, however, I found the reverse applied. Probably only about 20% fitted into the first category, while it often seemed like 80% were rude, unpleasant, disrepectful and criminal. The last category, the criminal one, is what amazed me most, beginning with the huge chunk of people who think it's OK to feign illness or an inability to work, so they can claim huge chunks of government benefits and other various freebies, right through to the builder, Ole Grønlund, who made an appalling job of restoring our house, before failing to return to finish the job, Morten Høgenhav, the worst bunch of cowboy painters even seen, and the children who stole our childrens' toys from our own garden, then proceeded to treat our garden as a playground for 2 weeks, destroying yet more, unstopped by the various adults who must have witnessed it, probably including their own, useless, benefit-claiming parents.
Next, a dishonourable mention must go to Ken Lynge Primby and his Connect Resourcing/Recruitment Agency. Ken has a nasty and previously proven habit of accidentally letting his business fall into liquidation once every few years, leaving the debts (like mine) with the unfortunate encumbents, while a new Connect rises like a phoenix from the ashes. It's now looking like I'm only going to get a few percent of what I'm owed.
Finally, who could forget the biggest thieves of all, the Danish government. Who through various taxes end up helping themselves to approximiately 70% of your income and a huge chunk of your savings.
Needless to say, if I ever see a Dane in distress, they can expect little help from me. And if any of the above should step out onto the road, not seeing the huge lorry chundering towards them, I can only hope I'm there to see the moment of impact.
A World First for Denmark...yippee!
In case you weren't so economically aware as to have noticed it, Denmark is officially the first country in the world to fall into recession. The way these things are measured, that means three consecutive quarters of negative economic growth. Well, you can only inflate the currency for so long before the balloon starts to lose some air. And in Denmark's case, given that 70% of the economy is owned and run by the state, the private sector doesn't really have much room for manouevre.
Of course, this would be the time to start cutting taxes and benefits big time, thus encouraging more productivity. I very much doubt all these socialists will do it though. Expect increased taxes, although income tax won't rise, it'll be inflated property values and "environmental" taxes that take the extra cut here. There isn't much scope to increase income taxes when they're already the highest in the world at 68%. Even the stupidest Dane going (and there about 5 million of them), would see through that one.
Of course, this would be the time to start cutting taxes and benefits big time, thus encouraging more productivity. I very much doubt all these socialists will do it though. Expect increased taxes, although income tax won't rise, it'll be inflated property values and "environmental" taxes that take the extra cut here. There isn't much scope to increase income taxes when they're already the highest in the world at 68%. Even the stupidest Dane going (and there about 5 million of them), would see through that one.
Monday, June 9, 2008
A Trip to legoland, Billund, Denmark
Just come back from a 2 day break at Legoland in Billund, Denmark, including an overnight stay at the Legoland hotel, which put us conveniently close to the theme park, as well as direct tickets into the park, with no queues.
While I so far sound like an unpaid affiliate link, its worth noting that not everything was rosy. For starters, the theme park is much smaller than I expected, although I guess that is due to the fame and cachet of the LEGO branding more than inadequacies in the park itself.
What surprised me mostly, going on a Sunday and Monday, was the shortness of the queues to get on the rides. The weather both days was sweltering hot, so I'm not sure that had much to do with it, but the theme park, with signs for approx minutes wait times, etc. is obviously built to do much brisker trade than it got. while this could be a forbinger of the credit crunch and less free cash in consumer wallets, maybe LEGO is losing its trendiness? Either way, if this is an indicator of regular trade levels, it seems like an excellent time to consider a trip. Overall, I can honestly say, all our kids loved it, and they range from 7 to 20 months, so there is plenty of range there to test the rides available to all ages. Especially great is the pirate ship, where you can fire water gun broadsides with competing ships, and also at innocent passers-by who happen to get in range.
Anyhow, so far the good bits. Not so good is one my bugbears, a captive audience theme park that also charges you for parking, in this case 49 kroner. We stayed at the hotel, which offers free parking, and this leads onto my tip, which is to park at, or near to, the hotel, which has plentiful free parking and also a nearby swimming baths with extended free parking, then walk to the theme park itself (I guess if the wife complains, you could drop them off at the gate then park up for free and walk back)
The second bugbear is that the food inside the theme park is awful. Yes, I don't expect Egon Ronay standard at these places, but even a basic chicken salad contained only reconstituted mush passed off as barbecue chicken pieces, and the family buffet at the pizza restaurant was pathetic. Fries generally tended to be laced with dangerous levels of added salt, which even our kids refused to eat. The safest option, therefore, is a Danish hotdog, since at least these were made to a decent enough level. Be prepared for the higher prices you find at theme parks, which also makes the awful standard stand out even more. As a comparison, Djurssommerland in Northern Jutland does similar catering, but much better quality, funnily enough.
By the way, my food criticisms do not extend to the morning breakfast buffet at the hotel. This is really good, and a highly recommended part of the trip.
While I so far sound like an unpaid affiliate link, its worth noting that not everything was rosy. For starters, the theme park is much smaller than I expected, although I guess that is due to the fame and cachet of the LEGO branding more than inadequacies in the park itself.
What surprised me mostly, going on a Sunday and Monday, was the shortness of the queues to get on the rides. The weather both days was sweltering hot, so I'm not sure that had much to do with it, but the theme park, with signs for approx minutes wait times, etc. is obviously built to do much brisker trade than it got. while this could be a forbinger of the credit crunch and less free cash in consumer wallets, maybe LEGO is losing its trendiness? Either way, if this is an indicator of regular trade levels, it seems like an excellent time to consider a trip. Overall, I can honestly say, all our kids loved it, and they range from 7 to 20 months, so there is plenty of range there to test the rides available to all ages. Especially great is the pirate ship, where you can fire water gun broadsides with competing ships, and also at innocent passers-by who happen to get in range.
Anyhow, so far the good bits. Not so good is one my bugbears, a captive audience theme park that also charges you for parking, in this case 49 kroner. We stayed at the hotel, which offers free parking, and this leads onto my tip, which is to park at, or near to, the hotel, which has plentiful free parking and also a nearby swimming baths with extended free parking, then walk to the theme park itself (I guess if the wife complains, you could drop them off at the gate then park up for free and walk back)
The second bugbear is that the food inside the theme park is awful. Yes, I don't expect Egon Ronay standard at these places, but even a basic chicken salad contained only reconstituted mush passed off as barbecue chicken pieces, and the family buffet at the pizza restaurant was pathetic. Fries generally tended to be laced with dangerous levels of added salt, which even our kids refused to eat. The safest option, therefore, is a Danish hotdog, since at least these were made to a decent enough level. Be prepared for the higher prices you find at theme parks, which also makes the awful standard stand out even more. As a comparison, Djurssommerland in Northern Jutland does similar catering, but much better quality, funnily enough.
By the way, my food criticisms do not extend to the morning breakfast buffet at the hotel. This is really good, and a highly recommended part of the trip.
Mere Løn
Right now, a lot of the public sector workers in Denmark are holding various strikes. While a lot of them would probably not be missed if they decided to hold a permanent strike (fact, 38% of working Danes have direct government jobs, to say nothing about another 30-odd percent indirectly employed by the government), two of the most interesting ones are the pædagogs (childcare workers) and nurses. Since at least they contribute something useful.
The first response to this must be the old time-honoured tradition of: If you're so unhappy with your current pay levels, why not go and find another job that pays better? But the main thing, for me, to consider is that these workers are already probably the best paid in the entire world for the jobs that they do. Given that, the real solution for the economy must come in the form of lower taxes. Any foreigner coming here can see that, but all these Danes, with their long tradition of suffocating socialism seem unable to see it, instead concentrating on the free rides they have been used to getting off the miracle of the welfare state.
Of course, lower taxes also means the capitalist scum these people despise so much will also benefit, conveniently forgetting the point that its the same "scum" who paid their wages in the first place.
If Denmark has to live through a 1970s UK-style depression to change, then I'm all for it. Bring it on.
The first response to this must be the old time-honoured tradition of: If you're so unhappy with your current pay levels, why not go and find another job that pays better? But the main thing, for me, to consider is that these workers are already probably the best paid in the entire world for the jobs that they do. Given that, the real solution for the economy must come in the form of lower taxes. Any foreigner coming here can see that, but all these Danes, with their long tradition of suffocating socialism seem unable to see it, instead concentrating on the free rides they have been used to getting off the miracle of the welfare state.
Of course, lower taxes also means the capitalist scum these people despise so much will also benefit, conveniently forgetting the point that its the same "scum" who paid their wages in the first place.
If Denmark has to live through a 1970s UK-style depression to change, then I'm all for it. Bring it on.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Domain Name Investment
Domain Name Investment is the new Holy Grail amongst thousands of investors throughout the whole world today.
The concept that you can buy a name for a small fee then resell it for millions of dollars is the rags to riches story we all dream of.
Truth is, that that kind of story happens very rarely, but there are people out there who do it, and even more people or businesses who simply make a living from the purchase, development and resale of domain names.
Domain Name Investor, my latest creation, specialises in what I perceive to be important parts of the internet which I believe will see further growth in future years.
I mainly invest in .co.uk and .eu Domains, which I especially feel has room for future expansion as the EU expands to include more Eastern European countries with younger, more tech-savvy populations, but also own domains as far afield as India and the USA.
And where to buy these domain names? Well, the cheapest .eu domain name seller I've found is BuyDomains, which works out about £6 per .eu domain, while 123-reg seems to be a decent balance between cost, at approx £3 per .co.uk domain.
If you're looking for just a single domain, with high traffic potential, I highly recommend One. They are a Danish company but provide their domain and hosting services worldwide in many different languages. The price and the service are both superb.
You can also visit Servage for web hosting of multiple sites and if you just want to buy domain names, visit BuyDomains.
The concept that you can buy a name for a small fee then resell it for millions of dollars is the rags to riches story we all dream of.
Truth is, that that kind of story happens very rarely, but there are people out there who do it, and even more people or businesses who simply make a living from the purchase, development and resale of domain names.
Domain Name Investor, my latest creation, specialises in what I perceive to be important parts of the internet which I believe will see further growth in future years.
I mainly invest in .co.uk and .eu Domains, which I especially feel has room for future expansion as the EU expands to include more Eastern European countries with younger, more tech-savvy populations, but also own domains as far afield as India and the USA.
And where to buy these domain names? Well, the cheapest .eu domain name seller I've found is BuyDomains, which works out about £6 per .eu domain, while 123-reg seems to be a decent balance between cost, at approx £3 per .co.uk domain.
If you're looking for just a single domain, with high traffic potential, I highly recommend One. They are a Danish company but provide their domain and hosting services worldwide in many different languages. The price and the service are both superb.
You can also visit Servage for web hosting of multiple sites and if you just want to buy domain names, visit BuyDomains.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
My personal belief in life
My core belief in life is that no man has any right whatsoever to the earnings or productivity of another man, unless the other man assigns him that right.
Obviously, in todays taxation nation society, this right is not being given, and in fact, governments probably need to become more understanding of the fact that many people today are outwardly resentful of the way others are helping themselves to their earnings, pruductivity and past earnt wealth.
Government is finished long term, simply because for now they choose to spend the earnings of the productive segment of society on schemes to secure the votes of the non-earning, parasitic portion of society.
In fact, the more you look into life in general, the more you realise everything is set up to steal your productivity and "redistribute" it to the lazy and the useless.
But thanks to the internet, globalisation, and the greater and freer movement of people, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Deep down, I'm quite optimistic that governments control over their more productive citizens is coming to an end, although there are many years of struggle on the way. It's a secret war that's already going on in many places, witness the USA and it's "patriot act", supposedly a law to counter terrorism, but really an attempt at controlling its citizens, or the EU savings directive.
Exciting and potentially troubling times ahead. I recommend we all watch governments like a hawk, and be prepared to move if the going gets too tough.
Now I've said all that, you can probably see why communist, socialist, Denmark disagrees so much with me. I've never seen so many lazy useless unproductive people before in my life, and considering I originally come from Consett, a hotbed of council estates, single mothers and lifetime benefit claimants, that's really saying something.
If you feel the same, and you're considering moving to Denmark, I urge you to think twice.
Obviously, in todays taxation nation society, this right is not being given, and in fact, governments probably need to become more understanding of the fact that many people today are outwardly resentful of the way others are helping themselves to their earnings, pruductivity and past earnt wealth.
Government is finished long term, simply because for now they choose to spend the earnings of the productive segment of society on schemes to secure the votes of the non-earning, parasitic portion of society.
In fact, the more you look into life in general, the more you realise everything is set up to steal your productivity and "redistribute" it to the lazy and the useless.
But thanks to the internet, globalisation, and the greater and freer movement of people, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Deep down, I'm quite optimistic that governments control over their more productive citizens is coming to an end, although there are many years of struggle on the way. It's a secret war that's already going on in many places, witness the USA and it's "patriot act", supposedly a law to counter terrorism, but really an attempt at controlling its citizens, or the EU savings directive.
Exciting and potentially troubling times ahead. I recommend we all watch governments like a hawk, and be prepared to move if the going gets too tough.
Now I've said all that, you can probably see why communist, socialist, Denmark disagrees so much with me. I've never seen so many lazy useless unproductive people before in my life, and considering I originally come from Consett, a hotbed of council estates, single mothers and lifetime benefit claimants, that's really saying something.
If you feel the same, and you're considering moving to Denmark, I urge you to think twice.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
The Nordic Model on Wikipedia
There's been an unknown battle going on on Wikipedia these past few months.
After finding one of the most biased pieces of pro-socialist junk ever on there, I did a few key modifications to correctly represent the truth of placing yourself in the Nordic Model.
Funnily enough, some pro-socialist (Wolfman?), came along and took out the newly added facts covering High taxation (undeniably true), and the capital flight of high-worth, highly productive people such as Ingvar Kamprad (Ikea, himself and the business), Janus Friis (Skype), Mikkel Kessler (just before his big prize fight), and finally, even Stephen Kinnock, son of former UK Labour Party leader Neil Kinnock, and the husband of the Danish Socialist party leader Helle Thorning Schmidt doesn't base himself in Denmark, probably because of the high taxes.
Finally revisited the page after 2 months, and those key facts are all back in. Well done that someone else saw the light.
After finding one of the most biased pieces of pro-socialist junk ever on there, I did a few key modifications to correctly represent the truth of placing yourself in the Nordic Model.
Funnily enough, some pro-socialist (Wolfman?), came along and took out the newly added facts covering High taxation (undeniably true), and the capital flight of high-worth, highly productive people such as Ingvar Kamprad (Ikea, himself and the business), Janus Friis (Skype), Mikkel Kessler (just before his big prize fight), and finally, even Stephen Kinnock, son of former UK Labour Party leader Neil Kinnock, and the husband of the Danish Socialist party leader Helle Thorning Schmidt doesn't base himself in Denmark, probably because of the high taxes.
Finally revisited the page after 2 months, and those key facts are all back in. Well done that someone else saw the light.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Ken Lynge Primby - the story grows
As people who read my posts in the past probably know, I suffered big time in Denmark, thanks to a certain Ken Lynge Primby and his numerous Connect business companies.
Well, good to see the man getting the publicity he deserves, as evidenced by this article here.
Would you do business with this man?
Well, good to see the man getting the publicity he deserves, as evidenced by this article here.
Would you do business with this man?
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Should Britain join the Euro?
I used to be strongly in favour of a single European currency, and my partner is from the continent, but after living over there for 3 years, I've completely revised my opinion.
Culturally, Europe is much more socialist and controlling, when compared with the historic British attitude of an island nation based on international trade and financial freedoms, as evidenced by our reputation as one of the best places to conduct international business, and our base as the world's leading financial centre.
Using the old dictum that "he who controls the currency controls the nation", by giving up the national currency, you are also giving up much of the control and handing it to another power, with vested interests of its own.
Fortunately, at this point in time, most Britons realise this and are opposed to the single currency. We all know this, so why even bother going to the expense and hassle of a referendum?
Culturally, Europe is much more socialist and controlling, when compared with the historic British attitude of an island nation based on international trade and financial freedoms, as evidenced by our reputation as one of the best places to conduct international business, and our base as the world's leading financial centre.
Using the old dictum that "he who controls the currency controls the nation", by giving up the national currency, you are also giving up much of the control and handing it to another power, with vested interests of its own.
Fortunately, at this point in time, most Britons realise this and are opposed to the single currency. We all know this, so why even bother going to the expense and hassle of a referendum?
Friday, April 11, 2008
Building Work : The Good
After all that, it's worth mentioning some of the firms in Hobro I'd recommend.
Valsgaard El.
Knew what they were doing and had some good recommendations of rewiring to place the meter better.
Holger's Gulvservice
This guy has a good work ethic and a lot of skill in his profession. Our oak parquet floors now look superb.
MP Byg
Restored the steps and terrace around the house. If in doubt, you can always view the house, Montana, if you're walking past!
Rørbæk Oliefyr
This was the only guy with any good advice on how to replumb an oil central heating system. The rest seemed too scared to come up with anything.
Valsgaard El.
Knew what they were doing and had some good recommendations of rewiring to place the meter better.
Holger's Gulvservice
This guy has a good work ethic and a lot of skill in his profession. Our oak parquet floors now look superb.
MP Byg
Restored the steps and terrace around the house. If in doubt, you can always view the house, Montana, if you're walking past!
Rørbæk Oliefyr
This was the only guy with any good advice on how to replumb an oil central heating system. The rest seemed too scared to come up with anything.
Building Work : The Bad and the Ugly Part 2
The next worst was Ole Grønlund, also the most expensive.
Quite simply, even though we agreed with Bent Madsen that the windows of Montana should be replaced if the costs rose too high, he ignored us and then presented us with a bill for window repairs of 170,000 kroner than originally agreed. The guy then left the company without telling us, leaving the restoration of the house incomplete. When we phoned Ole Grønlund, he told us, quite simply, that he wasn't interested in coming back.
The interior windows still await repainting to this day, and the balcony and terrace still stand incomplete.
An expensive mistake. next time it'll be Poles, not expensive Danish planks.
Quite simply, even though we agreed with Bent Madsen that the windows of Montana should be replaced if the costs rose too high, he ignored us and then presented us with a bill for window repairs of 170,000 kroner than originally agreed. The guy then left the company without telling us, leaving the restoration of the house incomplete. When we phoned Ole Grønlund, he told us, quite simply, that he wasn't interested in coming back.
The interior windows still await repainting to this day, and the balcony and terrace still stand incomplete.
An expensive mistake. next time it'll be Poles, not expensive Danish planks.
Building Work : the Bad and the Ugly
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Getting Building Work Done in Denmark
Denmark is one of the most expensive countries in the world to get building work done. Standard daily rates right now are approximately 350 kroner per hour, plus 25% MOMs / VAT.
To be fair, the builders themselves do not see much of it. Of a notional 500 kroner per hour, 100 krone comprises sales tax, so that leaves 400 kroner. Of this, the builder must pay his business expenses, business taxes (25%), then personal taxes on top (at least another 15%). Therefore, out 500 kroner, he probably ends up with about 160 kroner in his pocket.
It's no surprise therefore that "sort arbejde", or black labour / cash in hand work, is so common in Denmark. Furthermore, due the excessive welfare state, many people who would work as labourers, etc., in other countries, find it easier to take the welfare payments and sit on benches in the town drinking beer, rather than bother getting their hands dirty with an honest days graft.
as a foreigner , of course, you are not so likely to have the family or social contacts to employ cash in hand workers, so us foreigners end up footing the bill twice over.
Bear this in mind, if your dream house (eg. The Villa Montana, Hobro) comes up for sale and you need to get a lot of work done.
Next time, I'll give you some personal experiences of Danish Building contractor quality.
To be fair, the builders themselves do not see much of it. Of a notional 500 kroner per hour, 100 krone comprises sales tax, so that leaves 400 kroner. Of this, the builder must pay his business expenses, business taxes (25%), then personal taxes on top (at least another 15%). Therefore, out 500 kroner, he probably ends up with about 160 kroner in his pocket.
It's no surprise therefore that "sort arbejde", or black labour / cash in hand work, is so common in Denmark. Furthermore, due the excessive welfare state, many people who would work as labourers, etc., in other countries, find it easier to take the welfare payments and sit on benches in the town drinking beer, rather than bother getting their hands dirty with an honest days graft.
as a foreigner , of course, you are not so likely to have the family or social contacts to employ cash in hand workers, so us foreigners end up footing the bill twice over.
Bear this in mind, if your dream house (eg. The Villa Montana, Hobro) comes up for sale and you need to get a lot of work done.
Next time, I'll give you some personal experiences of Danish Building contractor quality.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Denmark's Shortage of Skilled Workers
Surprise, surprise, as mentioned in ITContractor Denmark by me well over a year ago, Denmark is suffering a shortage of skilled workers. Can't imagine why, given my own well-documented experiences of trying to make a go of working in socialist hell.
Fair enough, I applaud these companies like www.lifein.dk for offering to help expats fit in, but don't forget to read up www.itcontractor.dk, where it's an expat who's gone through it dishing out the advice, rather than Danes indoctrinated into the dubious benefits of the welfare state from birth.
www.workindenmark.dk is still one of the most comedic sites I've ever read, although the joke is one you, as you only understand the irony once you've lost all your money living here.
Fair enough, I applaud these companies like www.lifein.dk for offering to help expats fit in, but don't forget to read up www.itcontractor.dk, where it's an expat who's gone through it dishing out the advice, rather than Danes indoctrinated into the dubious benefits of the welfare state from birth.
www.workindenmark.dk is still one of the most comedic sites I've ever read, although the joke is one you, as you only understand the irony once you've lost all your money living here.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Print on Demand Publishing subsidiary
One good thing about being in Denmark was the opportunity to spend those cold winter nights reading books..And then, I even started writing my own. This all culminated in the creation of a publishing offshoot, which can be seen at http://www.adpublishing.eu/ and http://www.podpublisher.co.uk/.
So it wasn't all bad. At current rate of return, I'll make back what http://www.connect.dk/ stole from me by the year 2200.
So it wasn't all bad. At current rate of return, I'll make back what http://www.connect.dk/ stole from me by the year 2200.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
IT Contractor Directory
I found this website useful for identifying some of the latest offerings relevant to the world of IT Contractors : ITContractor.Org
And before you say anything, yes, it is only a drop page with google Ads, but there were a good mix of advertisers. Consulting firms, job sites looking for candidates to register, Companies offering IR35 protection insurance, P&I (Protection and Indemnity) or tax investigation insurance. All very relevant factors for the modern IT Consultant.
And before you say anything, yes, it is only a drop page with google Ads, but there were a good mix of advertisers. Consulting firms, job sites looking for candidates to register, Companies offering IR35 protection insurance, P&I (Protection and Indemnity) or tax investigation insurance. All very relevant factors for the modern IT Consultant.
Another "Northern Rock" exits Denmark
From the same part of the world as myself, I was very interested to see one of my recommended financial institutions exiting Denmark, scarcely a year after starting up the venture.
At the time, the offered probably the best savings interest rate in the country, and stirred up a lot of sleeping Danish banks into finally offering something half-decent for their own customers, since Denmark has never struck me as the most financially competitive banking nation.
Well, since then Northern Rock have had their own well-documented problems in the UK, which I covered on the Do it YourSelf ISA blog. Funny thing was, despite everyone racing to withdraw your savings, everyone's savings were protected up to £30k, and the way these banks lend to each other means hardly anyone can tell which are safe and which aren't.
Now the UK government has decided to streamline the Rock operations and I guess a Scandinavian branch was not part of the plan. Check out Eik Bank, the new owners of skandiaBank, an institution I also recommend, instead, as they are offering to match Northern Rock's deal.
At the time, the offered probably the best savings interest rate in the country, and stirred up a lot of sleeping Danish banks into finally offering something half-decent for their own customers, since Denmark has never struck me as the most financially competitive banking nation.
Well, since then Northern Rock have had their own well-documented problems in the UK, which I covered on the Do it YourSelf ISA blog. Funny thing was, despite everyone racing to withdraw your savings, everyone's savings were protected up to £30k, and the way these banks lend to each other means hardly anyone can tell which are safe and which aren't.
Now the UK government has decided to streamline the Rock operations and I guess a Scandinavian branch was not part of the plan. Check out Eik Bank, the new owners of skandiaBank, an institution I also recommend, instead, as they are offering to match Northern Rock's deal.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
CHEAP LAPTOP OFFER
3 of my favourite things in the entire world are :-
1) Shopping online at reputable net stores
2) Getting a bargain
3) paying NO Sales Taxes to Greedy Goverments
And thanks to my contacts in the industry, Play.com, one of the stars of tax-free shopping, have allowed me to pass on this discount code ACER40, which enables you to claim an amazing EXTRA £40 off when you buy an Acer Laptop from them here.
The laptops are available here on the Play.com site and the code to enable the discount on the laptops is ACER40.
The laptop code is only valid against the four products listed and will expire at midnight on Wednesday 26/3/08.
1) Shopping online at reputable net stores
2) Getting a bargain
3) paying NO Sales Taxes to Greedy Goverments
And thanks to my contacts in the industry, Play.com, one of the stars of tax-free shopping, have allowed me to pass on this discount code ACER40, which enables you to claim an amazing EXTRA £40 off when you buy an Acer Laptop from them here.
The laptops are available here on the Play.com site and the code to enable the discount on the laptops is ACER40.
The laptop code is only valid against the four products listed and will expire at midnight on Wednesday 26/3/08.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
What is life like in Denmark?
I remember once in junior school, my teacher relating a parable about how some men sat around a cauldron of boiling water. One man had some carrots, another some potatoes, another some meat, another some herbs and spices. After talking amongst each other, they all agreed they could make a delicious broth between them. The first man stepped forward, and unbeknown to the others, pretended to drop his portion of the broth into the cauldron, the next stepped forward and did the exact same thing, followed by the next and then the final man, each only pretending to drop his personal share of the broth into the cauldron. At the end, the men all sat expectantly waiting for the delicious broth they were about to receive. It was served up with anticipation, but each man was left with a bowl of nothing more than boiling water. They all looked at each other, each blaming the other for what had happened, but underlyingly experiencing some shame about their part in this outcome. I can't even remember why she told us this story, but it is the best summation of socialism and in particular, Denmark that I have ever heard in my entire life.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Connect and Ken
In order to bring this blog back on track, any further comments on the allegedly underhand activities of Ken Lynge Primby and Annette Nørgaard, will be covered at the new connect.dk blog.
It's fair to say, as I sit here back in the Uk, missing my wife and 3 children who are still in Denmark, my wife 8 months pregnant, trying to cope alone, while I'm trying to earn enough to keep the family going, that Ken and Annette are responsible for my current situation.
One can only hope that "what goes around, comes around", as the saying goes and that natural justice does exist out there somewhere.
It's fair to say, as I sit here back in the Uk, missing my wife and 3 children who are still in Denmark, my wife 8 months pregnant, trying to cope alone, while I'm trying to earn enough to keep the family going, that Ken and Annette are responsible for my current situation.
One can only hope that "what goes around, comes around", as the saying goes and that natural justice does exist out there somewhere.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Blogging away
If anybody out there is wondering why my blog isn't being updated so often nowadays, the reason is simple enough. Following the latest debacle with Ken Lynge Primby and his "allegedly" fraudulent activity at mine and others expense, I decided to leave. Truth is, this was the last straw in a series of bad experiences in this unpleasant country.
If you read this and you're thinking of moving to Denmark, I'd ask you please to consider very carefully before committing yourself, and, if you do, don't bring any money with you, otherwise they'll get it off you somehow. I have never seen a country more obsessed by money than Denmark, although, since the taxes are so high, criminal activity and theft, which starts with the government and their ludicrously high tax rates, are the only way for anyone to make a bit of money on the side.
I may be financially much, much poorer for the experience of living in this hell, but much wiser in life. I've been more sure of where I stand on the issue of whether the welfare state actually works, thats for sure.
If you read this and you're thinking of moving to Denmark, I'd ask you please to consider very carefully before committing yourself, and, if you do, don't bring any money with you, otherwise they'll get it off you somehow. I have never seen a country more obsessed by money than Denmark, although, since the taxes are so high, criminal activity and theft, which starts with the government and their ludicrously high tax rates, are the only way for anyone to make a bit of money on the side.
I may be financially much, much poorer for the experience of living in this hell, but much wiser in life. I've been more sure of where I stand on the issue of whether the welfare state actually works, thats for sure.
Monday, January 7, 2008
A bit more on Ken Lynge Primby and Connect
A bit more information follows on the Connect Agency in Tvangsopløsning. I have also got plenty of stories and rumour, but what follows is free information, provable from sources such as http:\\www.cvr.dk (The danish central companies register).
In August 2005, as Connect IT Rekruttering CVR Number on 25201604 slipped into konkurs (Liquidation), 2 new Connect companies were opened by Ken Lynge Primby and Annette Ladefoged Nørgaard, both of Borgbjergalle 13, Odder. The first was CRA Holding ApS CVR Number 28976356, described as an investment business whose main business would be investing in the shares of other businesses - main Director was Annette Nørgaard. The second was Connect Resorce Agency ApS CVR No. 28976496, 100% owned and funded by CRA Holding. Note that Ken Lynge Primby, my sole contact during my time working at the Agency has no legal role in either company.
In May 2007, with the first set of accounts overdue, CRA Holdings is put into closedown /Tvangsopløsning state, and a certain Mr Ken Lynge Primby is appointed liquidator by Annette Ladefoged Nørgaard - nice move Annette!
Ken then files for closedown that the company has no assets. Interesting! Myself and at least 5 other contractors are working for them, but it has no assets? Hmmm....
In August 2005, as Connect IT Rekruttering CVR Number on 25201604 slipped into konkurs (Liquidation), 2 new Connect companies were opened by Ken Lynge Primby and Annette Ladefoged Nørgaard, both of Borgbjergalle 13, Odder. The first was CRA Holding ApS CVR Number 28976356, described as an investment business whose main business would be investing in the shares of other businesses - main Director was Annette Nørgaard. The second was Connect Resorce Agency ApS CVR No. 28976496, 100% owned and funded by CRA Holding. Note that Ken Lynge Primby, my sole contact during my time working at the Agency has no legal role in either company.
In May 2007, with the first set of accounts overdue, CRA Holdings is put into closedown /Tvangsopløsning state, and a certain Mr Ken Lynge Primby is appointed liquidator by Annette Ladefoged Nørgaard - nice move Annette!
Ken then files for closedown that the company has no assets. Interesting! Myself and at least 5 other contractors are working for them, but it has no assets? Hmmm....
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