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The majority of expatriates live in one of the following areas of Copenhagen:

• Østerbro: many of the embassies are based in this area. It is not the most centrally placed district, nor the best for transport, but it has a chic shopping area with pleasant café culture and is generally quieter than the city centre
• City: very well placed for bars, restaurants and transport, but property is expensive and the location will not be ideal for those with children
• Christianshavn: very close to the town centre (just the other side of the water) the area has some attractive buildings, including waterfront apartments, and a somewhat bohemian feel, with plenty of little bars and cafes.
• Frederiksberg: a lively suburb to the west of Copenhagen, with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. Popular with families, and home to a large attractive park and the city zoo
• Charlottenlund, Klampenborg: further along the coast to the north of Copenhagen, these areas are ideally suited to families, with access to parkland and the sea. Transport connections are more limited, but still good. Those seeking a house rather than an apartment may find it easier to find a suitable property here

Congestion can be a problem during rush hour in the city. It is best to try to live within reasonable driving distance of your workplace, or to choose an area with good public transport links.

Parking is very limited in Copenhagen and finding a space when you return from work can be challenging. Enthusiastic enforcement of parking restrictions makes parking in restricted areas an expensive mistake, with tickets imposing a 500dkk fine per offence. In most areas of the city, if you want to park on the street near your home you will need to obtain a Residents Parking Permit from the local city hall.

Flat sharing is popular in Copenhagen, particularly among the large international student population at the Name Copenhagen Name Business Type School. To share a good-quality apartment, you can expect to pay in the region of 3500 - 6000 dkk per month.

Some tips for finding accommodation:

The English-language newspaper The Copenhagen Post carries advertisements from both letting agents and private individuals.

On the Internet:

• Boligportal.dk - in Danish, but has a wide range of property to rent
• Bolig1.dk - also in Danish, with a good selection of rental and sale properties

Youth Hostel:

The Danish Youth Hostel association, Danhostel, has a large hostel in Copenhagen, within 10 minutes walk of the main square.
Details of all of the hostels, as well as online booking, are available on their website http://www.danhostel.dk