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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Flanders
Where is Flanders?
Well situated in the heart of Europe, Flanders is a Region in the kingdom of Belgium, a country the size of Maryland.
How do I get there?
Direct flights to Brussels (6 ½ hours) can be made from the US & Canada with American Airlines, Continental, Delta, Jet Airways, United and US Airways. Paris, London & Amsterdam are only a fast train ride away (85 minutes to Paris) with the Eurostar and Thalys: www.raileurope.com.
What language do they speak?
There are three officially recognized languages spoken in Belgium: Dutch, French and German - Dutch is spoken in Flanders. English is widely spoken
What is the currency?
The official currency is the Euro. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at ATM’s, banks, post offices, some hotels and Foreign Exchange Offices, many of which are open on Sundays.
What documents do I need to enter Belgium?
US and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. A visa is not required for stays of less than 90 days. Other nationalities should check with the Belgian Embassy or nearest Consulate Office for visa requirements.
What is the weather like?
Seldom too hot or too cold. Summer temperatures average from 54° F to 72° F and winter averages from 32° F to 43° F. In summer bring lightweight, comfortable clothing, and a sweater or a jacket for the evening. During the winter bring warm clothes, and it is always a good idea to pack an umbrella and a rain coat.
Check www.weather.com before you go.
What type of plug adaptor do I need?
A.C. 220 volts - 50 cycles. Plugs are of the round 2-pin type.
What’s the accommodation and food like?
All hotels, from small charming properties to international chain hotels, assure that a quality experience awaits you. Take advantage of up to 50% discount on hotel rates in Brussels on weekends and during July and August.
Every type of gourmet cuisine in the world is on the menu. You can delight in fine chocolates, munch on fries with mayo, savor fresh mussels from the North Sea and then wash it all down with the country’s diverse variety of beer – over 500 available. Anyway you slice it, everyone leaves the table satisfied.
What about transfers from the airport?
Train shuttle service is located on the lower level of Brussels International Airport and connects to the North, South & Central stations of Brussels. The 20 minute train ride departs every 20 minutes and costs approximately $4.00. Taxi service is available from the airport to the city center and costs approximately $50.
How do I get around Belgium and how far apart are the cities?
An extensive rail network connects all of Belgium. Purchase train tickets after you arrive in Belgium.
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Distances of Cities from Brussels |
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Antwerp = 29 miles |
Leuven = 16 miles |
What is there to see and do?
Belgium is multicultural and multilingual with more to offer in a small area than you ever imagined. Within the span of one day you can explore a fine art museum in Brussels, take a romantic canal ride in Bruges, hunt for diamonds in Antwerp, eat waffles on the beach in Knokke and frolic in a one of the many festivals. Medieval cities, incredible collections of Flemish Art, rich combination of castles, gardens and canals, diversity of architecture, festivals galore and art nouveau make Belgium the perfect tourist destination.
How’s the shopping?
Bargain hunters need look no further than the bustling street of Rue Neuve and fantastic shopping area that stretches all the way up to Rue des Fripiers. Avenue Louise is one long catwalk of famous fashion brands, including big international names as well as more affordable shops. The Antoine Dansaert area is the hub and heart of Brussels’ fashion & design world with the best concentration of avant guard designers and fashion boutiques. Weekend antiquing is the sport of kings in Belgium whether you are in the stylish Brussels Sablon area, or by flashlight early on Sunday morning at the flea market. Souvenir musts include: art deco objects, lace and of course... chocolate!
Where can I find chocolate?
There are more than 2,200 chocolate shops throughout Belgium and the country produces more than 175,000 tons of chocolate per year. Every town and even small villages have chocolate stores with luxurious Belgian pralines. Make sure you bring home a box or two for your friends & family or they will never forgive you!
Isn’t Belgium famous for beer?
With over 500 different varieties, there are almost as many beer styles as there are breweries. Connoisseurs favor Belgian beers for their variety, real flavor and character. The choices are endless when you consider raspberry beer, white beer, geuze beer, cherry beer, brown beer, Trappist beer and of course the beer that Belgium is most famous for - the lambic beer.
What about special interest travel?
Check out these links from our website!
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Battlefields
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