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It
may be little, but it is lovely, and it is sad indeed
that Belgium is often overlooked when travellers plan
a tour of Europe. Tucked between the desirable and
obvious destinations of London, Paris and Amsterdam,
Belgium is usually used merely as a stepping stone
for crossing the English Channel, or, at most, a quick
stop-over for a looksee in the capital, Brussels.
Beyond
that city with its historic Gothic buildings and tall
European Union office blocks is a treasure-trove of
undiscovered lazy seaside towns, and inland the wooded
gorges of the splendid Ardennes, sprinkled with medieval
castles and steeped in folklore.
The medieval city of Bruges has character
and charm galore with a rich architectural heritage,
graceful canals and waterways and cobbled streets, and
is a favourite with visitors. Belgium is a country that
has inspired artists and writers with its Gothic cathedrals,
town halls, gabled guildhouses and rich museums.
After a busy day exploring it all, spend an evening
experiencing Belgium's fantastic cuisine and sampling
some of the country's 300-odd brews of beer. Belgians
have a reputation for being extremely hospitable; welcoming
travellers, no doubt because the country's location has
ensured it has always been an international crossroads
for commerce and culture. Despite this Belgium and its
distinct regions of Flemish Flanders (north) and French
Wallonia (south) has proudly preserved its traditions
and identity. |
GMT
+1 (GMT +2 from March to October). Belgium is six hours ahead
of Eastern Standard Time and nine hours ahead of Pacific
Standard Time.
220
volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs can be used.
The
Flemish, in the north, speak Dutch (60% of the
population); the Walloons in the south speak French
(40%). Brussels is bilingual, the majority of citizens
speaking French. In the east there is a small German-speaking
community. English is also spoken.
The
international access code for Belgium is +32. The outgoing code is 00
followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom).
City codes are required for all calls within Belgium; the area code for
Brussels is (0)2. Mobile phones operate on GSM and 3G networks. Public
phones take coins or phone cards. Internet cafes are widely available.
Belgium has temperate weather, warm in summer
(May to September) and cool to cold in winter, with snow very
likely.
Car Rental
If you like to drive and stay at hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts, that is
fine. We offer a choice of 5
companies offering budget vehicles, new vehicles and mini-buse. If you tell us
your requirements we will happy prepare a quotation for you. See details: Belgium
Car Hire
Motorhome - RV - Campervan
- Camper
For flexibility, freedom and value for money it is really hard to beat Motorhome,
RV, Campervan or Motorcaravan hire or rental. Our friendly and experienced team
are here to assist and provide valuable free advice, plus the most competitive
quotes. We offer the widest selection and we have a best value and best price
guarantee.
See details: Belgium
Campervan Hire
You can also travel by boat. As the largest global canal boat wholesaler,
we offer you a choice of 3 self skipper companies: Amadeus, Lufner, Peter Deilmann
and Viking River Cruise: European Waterways. Self drive
barging
or cruising is lots of fun. No license is required and boats are available for
2-12 passengers. It really is a terrific bonding time for families or just a
great time for a group of friends. The boats are very comfortable and most boats
have en-suites and comfortable cabins. BBQ's , fishing rods and outdoor deck
furniture complete the picture.
For details, Belgium
River Cruising
Entry requirements for Americans: US
nationals must have a passport valid for at least three months
beyond
period of stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to three
months.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK nationals must possess
a valid passport. A visa is not required for stays of up to
three months. British Overseas Territories Citizens, and British
Overseas Citizens require an endorsement on their passports
guaranteeing re-admittance to the UK or the country that issued
the passport.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadians must have a passport
valid for at least three months beyond period of stay. A visa
is not required for stays of up to three months.
Entry requirements for Australians: Australian nationals must
have a passport valid for at least three months beyond period
of stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to three months.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South African nationals
require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended
period of stay. A visa is required. Entry is entry is not permitted
when holding aTemporary Passport due to a new ruling by the
Benelux countries on 1 May 2007.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals require
a valid passport. No visa is required for stays not exceeding
three months.
Entry requirements for New Zealand nationals: New Zealand nationals
require a passport valid for at least the period of intended
stay. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.
Passport/Visa Note: The borderless region known as the Schengen
area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg,
The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden. All these
countries issue a standard Schengen visa that, in principal,
allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all.
All visitors require a passport that is valid for at least
three months after leaving Belgium. Nationals of non-EU countries
are recommended to hold return or onward tickets, sufficient
funds and documents for their next destination.
Home of the European Union, Brussels has become
a bustling centre for bureaucrats and businessmen and is a thriving cosmopolitan
metropolis. The buildings in the city are a fascinating mix of architectural
styles, and there are numerous museums of interest throughout. Within the 14th-century
city walls is the compact centre of the old city with the beautiful Grand Place
at its heart. Visitors rarely stray beyond the walls of the 'petit ring' of the
city centre, clearly defined from the newer glitzy quarters by its narrow maze
of streets. This is where the key sights can be enjoyed, together with the best
bars and restaurants.
Visitors can experience the beauty of the art and architecture,
marvel at the bizarre sight of the Mannekin-Pis statue, and
spend time shopping for traditional souvenirs such as Belgian
chocolate and lace. The National Opera House and many other
theatres host a variety of events and concerts for those wanting
some high culture, and there are plenty of restaurants offering
gastronomic delights. These outings can be rounded off by a
drink or two in any one of the lively bars located near the
Grand Place.
Vibrant and energetic, Brussels is a city of museums and architecture
among Europe's finest, a shopper's fantasy and a diner's capital.
The Grand
Place is the heart of Brussels and has been since the Middle Ages. One of Europe's
more beautiful squares, it lies in the
centre of a confusion of small cobbled streets, and is surrounded by richly
decorated 17th century Baroque Guildhouses, various Neo-Gothic buildings and
museums. It is, however, the town hall, a magnificent Gothic building that
dominates the square. Markets, flower stalls and various events are held here
and this is the place to get to grips with the essence of Brussels, perhaps
over a local delicacy at a pavement café.
The distinctive statue has been described as the Eiffel
Tower of Brussels and tourists throng the streets in search of the tiny urinating
urchin. The bronze Mannekin is thought to represent the 'irreverent spirit'
of Brussels, but there are numerous tales about its beginnings. Started by
Louis XV of France many years ago, it has been the custom of foreign countries,
companies, visiting dignitaries or charities to donate an outfit to the Mannekis-Pis
and the little boy is usually decked out in the latest costume; previous costumes
are displayed in the City of Brussels Museum.
BRUSSELS EVENTS
Europalia
Festival
The first Europalia (from the Roman 'Opalia', meaning 'rich
harvest') was conceived in Brussels in 1969, and the festival
has been held annually ever since to showcase the visual and
performing arts of different designated guest countries each
year. Numerous exhibits, concerts, film screenings and other
events are held in and around Brussels between October and
early February of the following year. The latest country to
be featured was Russia, and next will be Europe. It will be
the first time in the history of Europalia International that
several countries participate together in the festival. Contact
the Europalia International Foundation at info@europalia.be
for more information.
Venue:
Various around Brussels; Date: 3 October 2007 to 3 February
2008; Website: www.europalia.be
Art Brussels
Art Brussels © Artexis
Tens of thousands of art experts and art lovers from all over
the world eagerly await ArtBrussels, Belgium’s premier
art festival, renowned for its high standard. The Belgian Association
of Contemporary Art Galleries instituted ArtBrussels in 1968
and today the work on view, selected by an international committee,
represents more than 150 international galleries.
Venue:
Brussels Expo; Date: 18-21 April 2008; Time: 11am to 7pm
(until 10pm on Monday); Website: www.artbrussels.be
Brussels Beach
Not just a beach, but a real seaside resort in the heart of
Brussels on the edge of the canal, Brussels Beach, or Bruxelles
Les Bains, offers half a mile (1km) of fine sand, coconut palms
and waterfalls, and plenty of sport, relaxation and cultural
activities. Sports like beach volleyball, pétanque and
ultimate frisbee are available, or for the less actively inclined
a Thai pagoda houses several professional masseurs for complete
relaxation. Two stages provide entertainment in the form of
live music, DJs and shows, and food stalls and beach bars afford
the chance to savour flavours from around the world. Children
are well catered for with activities and entertainment that
includes sandcastles, clowns and water games.
Venue:
Bassin Béco, Port de Bruxelles; Date: 13 July
to 12 August 2007; Time: 11am to 10pm (except Mondays); Website: www.bruxelleslesbains.be
Brussels Flower Carpet
Brussels Flower Carpet
For a few days every two years, the beautiful Grand Place in
the centre of Brussels is transformed into a gigantic carpet
of fresh begonias, intricately worked into a themed pattern.
In 2006 the tapestry was inspired by the Middle Ages, with
the flowers arranged on rotating platforms to form a giant
kaleidoscope of 'rose windows'. Past designs have included
scenes from Belgium folklore and mythology, the Brussels Coat
of Arms, and Turkish rugs. Work begins a year in advance with
scale models and detailed plans, and the multi-coloured end
result is well worth it. The multi-coloured carpet can best
be viewed from the balcony of the City Hall. Contact the Brussels
Tourist Information on +32 (0)2 513 8940 for more information.
Venue:
Grand Place; Date: August 2008, TBC; Time: 9am to 11pm; Website: www.flowercarpet.be
Brussels Flower Show
The magnificent and unique Basilica of the Sacred Heart in
the Brussels suburb of Koekelberg is the venue for the city's
annual flower show. Each year in October the grounds of this
massive Art Deco edifice are transformed into an Eden, spread
with flowers, water features and plants arranged by nearly
100 florists. Visitors can delight in the flower show in addition
to marvelling at the Basilica itself, the largest neo-Gothic
church in the world, its interior decorated in 1930s style.
A climb to the dome is rewarded with a beautiful panorama across
the city and surrounds. For more information contact the Basilica
on +32 (0)2 425 8822.
Venue: Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Koekelberg; Date: 1-10
October 2007; Time: 10am to 6pm, (Sat 8pm to 10pm)
CONTACTS:
Lastly and I hope you don't need it, but should
you require consular help - here are the details
Embassy or Consulate in US: Embassy of Belgium, Washington
DC, United States: +1 202 333 6900.
Embassy or Consulate in UK: Embassy of Belgium, London, United
Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7470 3700.
Embassy or Consulate in Canada: Embassy of Belgium, Ottawa,
Canada: +1 613 236 7267.
Embassy or Consulate in Australia: Embassy of Belgium, Canberra
Tel: +61 (0)2 6273 2501.
Embassy or Consulate in South Africa: Belgium Embassy, Pretoria,
South Africa: +27 (0)12 440 3201/2.
US Embassy or Consulate: Embassy of the United States of America,
Brussels: +32 (0)2 508 2111.
UK Embassy or Consulate: British Embassy, Brussels: +32
(0)2 287 6211.
Canadian Embassy or Consulate: Canadian Embassy, Brussels:
+32 (0)2 741 0611.
Australian Embassy or Consulate: Australian Embassy, Brussels:
+32 (0)2 286 0500.
South African Embassy or Consulate: South African Embassy,
Brussels: +32 (0)2 285 4400.
Brussels International Airport (BRU)
Location: The airport
is located eight miles (13km) northeast of the city centre.
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from March to October).
Contacts: Tel: +32 (0)2 753 7753. Transfer to the city: The
train station is located on the lower level (1st Floor). There
is a train shuttle service from the airport to the North, South
and Central stations of Brussels. The shuttle runs every 15-20
minutes and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. It
operates between 5.30am and 12.20am from the airport. There
are also buses that serve Brussels, Antwerp and Eindhoven;
the bus station is below the Arrivals hall. An airport bus
link also operates between the Brussels-Luxembourg railway
station and the airport. There are metered taxis available
outside the Arrivals hall; the 30-minute journey to Brussels
costs around €30. Car rental: Major car hire companies
are represented at the airport, including Avis, Budget and
Hertz; their desks are in the Arrivals hall. Facilities: Airport
facilities include ATMs and bureau de change, a post office,
duty-free shops, cafes/restaurants, a beauty shop, a Communications
Centre with Internet access, religious services, train information
and reservation, travel agency, and luggage lockers. There
is also a mobile phone rental office and Wireless LAN hotspot
service. Parking: Both long- and short-term parking are available
24 hours. NV Interparking SA operates parking facilities for
more than 9,000 vehicles next to the terminal. Car Hotel provides
long-term parking facilities close to the E19, and a free shuttle
service to the passenger terminal every 10 minutes. Departure
tax: None. Website:www.brusselsairport.be
Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
Location:
The airport is located one mile (2km) east of Antwerp. Time:
GMT +1 (GMT +2 from March to October). Contacts: Tel:
+32 (0)3 285 6500. Transfer to the city: Bus 14 leaves for
Antwerp Central Station regularly. Taxis are available outside
arrivals. Car rental: Avis and Hertz operate from the airport.
Facilities: Airport facilities include a bank, restaurant,
duty-free and a business centre. Departure tax: None. Website:www.antwerpairport.be
