Belgium

Belgium is a small but vibrant country bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, with a rich history and strong national identity. It is one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in Europe.

Traditional Belgian cuisine is influenced by French, Dutch, and German culinary traditions, featuring dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew), carbonnade flamande (Flemish beef stew), and waterzooi (creamy chicken stew). Other popular dishes include moules frites (mussels and fries), waffles, and, of course, Belgian chocolates. While Belgium is not typically known for its wine production, it does have a thriving beer culture, with over 1,500 different beers brewed in the country.

Belgium's diverse landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. From hiking and cycling in the Ardennes forest to sailing and kayaking along the Belgian coast, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy. Other popular activities include visiting botanical gardens, exploring nature reserves, and birdwatching in wetland areas.

Belgium, though small, is still home to a surprising amount of natural beauty. Except for The Ardennes which is a mixture of deciduous and coniferous forestation, all other parts are characterised by broad-leaved deciduous forest. With the wildlife population reduced by human activities, nature tourists can still enjoy the sight of boars, wild cats, muskrats, hamsters and deer in The Ardennes region. The lowlands also have various species of birds like, sandpipers, woodcocks, snipes, and lapwings.

Belgium hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from history, religion, seasons, music and art to food and folklore. Notable events include Gent Jazz Festival, Rock Werchter or ‘Werchter’ as most Belgians call it,Tomorrowland, Dour Festival and many more.

Travellers to Belgium should be up to date with routine travel vaccinations like flu, chickenpox, MMR and polio. Tick-borne or insect diseases like the West Nile virus are prevalent in Western European countries, and as such, you should be watchful of insect bites and take precautions like using repellents and wearing long-sleeved clothes.

The currency of Belgium is the Euro.

Belgium uses the type C and E plug types and operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Trains, trams, metro, buses and taxis are common ways to move around in Belgium. Buses seem to be the most convenient way to travel as they serve areas not served by other forms of transport, though tram metros are considered ideal as they are likely to be fine with traffic. Taxis from private companies are also available but they can be costly.

Belgium has three official languages, Dutch, French and German, with several minor dialects. Signages are mostly in Dutch and French.

The culture in Belgium is a bit conservative. A handshake is the most common way of greeting. As a visitor, you should avoid discussing personal matters or issues relating to ethnicity due to the diversity among Belgians. Generally, Belgian men are perceived to be respectful, especially to women. Yawning, snapping of fingers, dipping a hand in the pocket, back slapping or using a toothpick in public are attitudes that are not generally acceptable.

• Spring (April to June): Spring in Belgium brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time to visit. The average temperature during this period is 15C. It is a great season for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling and for experiencing notable festivals like the Brussel Film Festival and Jazz Marathon.

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Belgium, with warm weather and long daylight hours. Temperature ranges between 20C to 25C. Visitors flock to coastal resorts like Knokke-Heist and De Haan for sunbathing and water sports, as well as to cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp for sightseeing and cultural events.

• Autumn (September to October): The temperature in autumn is cooler as the intense heat of the summer behind to wears off. This is the period when you can enjoy a laidback trip and interact with the locals more, as there is a reduction in the buzzing of tourists around.

• Winter (November to March): Winter in Belgium is cold and wet, with some coastal regions experiencing rainfall. The average temperature during this period ranges from  1C to 7C. Visitors can explore the historic Christmas markets in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent and enjoy traditional Belgian treats like speculoos cookies, waffles, and hot chocolate.

• Explore the historic centre of Brussels, including the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Atomium.

• Take a day trip to the charming medieval town of Bruges, with its picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings.

• Visit the Belgian Beer Weekend in Brussels or take a brewery tour in cities like Bruges, Ghent, or Leuven to sample a variety of Belgian beers and learn about the brewing process.

• Indulge in Belgian chocolate at one of Brussels' many chocolate shops or take a chocolate-making workshop to learn the art of chocolate making from expert chocolatiers.