Belgium's history
Belgium is a country with a rich culture and history, although it is diverse. The relatively young nation was formed in 1830 following the Belgian revolution, after which it established its own identity distinct from The Netherlands.
It has inadvertently served as a stage for numerous conflicts, including the First and Second World Wars, earning it the moniker "Battlefield of Europe."
It is today one of the most important members and headquarters of the European Union, as well as a member of the economic and political Benelux Union, which includes Belgium, The Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
Public Transportation in Belgium
Because Belgium is almost entirely covered by the rail network, buses are generally used for short distances, usually connecting train stations with other rail lines. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Charleroi have a very well-developed local railway network that is more convenient to use locally. Apart from local taxi services, Uber and various taxi app systems are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in major cities.
Take note of the following: In order to save money, travelers should plan ahead when traveling within Europe. Flixbus is often a cheaper alternative to travel throughout Europe.
What is Belgium Famous for?
When you mention Belgium, there are a lot of things that spring to mind. The most well-known Belgian products are chocolate and waffles, although one cannot go without mentioning the country's national dish: frites (or French fries). Of course, it must be said that Belgium is also known for producing some of the finest beer in the world. (According on me, Belgium and the Czech Republic produce the best variety of beers in the world.)
Belgium also has beautiful Historical Palaces, fantastic music festivals like Tomorrowland in Boom, and an excellent brewing industry. Belgium is not only the diamond capital of the world, but it is also home to some magnificent historical sites.
Is it safe to go to Belgium?
The nation of Belgium is considered to be a safe destination for travelers. There are no significant worries, and the crime rate is low. However, it is advisable for tourists to be cautious at tourist spots, particularly at night, in order to avoid one-time occurrences of pickpocketing and mugging.
Canada, for example, issues a high alert warning to its citizens as it is vulnerable to terrorist assaults.
Is it expensive to travel to Belgium?
Because Belgium is a popular tourist destination, the costs are typically high there, especially in the Town Centres and other tourist sites.
It's a good idea to book your accommodation downtown rather than close to the Centre and not to eat or drink at popular tourist destinations, as it will save you money.
To save money when travelling and when buying tickets for museums and tourist attractions, many cities offer 24 hour, 48 hour, and 72 hour passes that include access to all public transport and museums.
When is the best time to go to Belgium?
Summer is the most popular time to visit and enjoy Belgium, which has some of the nicest weather in Europe. Although it rains frequently in Belgium, April to September are the drier months. The winter is typically windy and rainy, with occasional heavy snowfall.
I'd advise you to always keep an umbrella and a coat on hand, regardless of the season.
Language Spoken in Belgium
Belgium's size and position make it a major contributor to the world. The country has prominence of language based on the geographical region, such as Dutch-speaking Flanders to the North, French-speaking Wallonia to the South, and German-speaking community to the East.
Belgium is home to many dialects of Dutch, which are collectively known as Flemish. Belgium being a crossroads, English is commonly spoken and it is not difficult to get around or talk in Belgium.
Must do things in Belgium
Visit the ancient city of Brussels
Definitely one of the most lively, buzzing Town Centers on this side of Europe, with activity constantly going on in and around it, whether it's a live performance or just a group of locals and tourists huddled on the cobblestoned floor with a pack of beers till late at night. When in Belgium, visiting Brussels' Historic Centre is a must.
Stroll around romantic Bruges
Bruges, which is only a few hours from Brussels, is one of the most romantic cities you'll ever visit. Make a point of strolling over the charming gated city bridges that crisscross the beautiful canals.
Go cycling
Bicycles may be rented for the hour or day in any city in Belgium. The Netherlands, like other European nations, has a strong bicycle culture, with proper cycling paths and some incredible road bike rides around town. Damme is a small village located near Bruges, on the edge of one of the nation's most beautiful nature areas.
Savour the best chocolates
What's the point if you haven't consumed enough calories from eating the world's greatest chocolate in Belgium?
Try the Trappist beer
This beer was made by monks. Yes! You've got it correct: this beer is produced by Trappist monks in order to fund their monasteries and, of course, for personal consumption. Visit Belgium's 6 trappist breweries if you want to try one of the country's best brews.
Visit the diamond capital Antwerp
Yes! Antwerp is the world's diamond capital, with the biggest diamond trade and industry in Antwerp. Being home to one of the world's largest ports may have aided in that effort. But do not underestimate Antwerp as a trading destination because it is also lovely, characterized by stunning monuments, buildings, and museums.
Look out for the Belgian comic culture.
Did you know that Tintin, the world-famous comic book hero, is Belgian? Many other comics are as well. Belgium has a thriving comic culture, evident in the street art, which includes comic strips and characters for fans to enjoy.
