Travel to Belgium: travel tips
We have selected the most interesting and unusual features of Belgium that may be useful to the traveler.
Patience and tolerance
Speaking about Europe, especially Belgium, it is worth mentioning the tolerance and tolerance of its citizens. Therefore, carefully and accurately express your opinion in relation to people of a different race, country or religion. Intolerance and negative statements are considered by the Belgians a sign of stupidity and ignorance.
Linguistic diversity
Differences in languages sometimes frighten travelers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to study in which part of the country which language is spoken In Brussels, you will be understood in English or Dutch, as in the north of the country in Flanders. But in the south, in Wallonia, the majority speaks only French.
Who are the Walloons and Flemings
Before traveling to Belgium, study the map of the country. When driving through the northern part of Belgium, you should not start speaking French with the locals. Because it is home to Flemings who speak the Dutch dialect. But in the south, you will calmly hear Walloon and French.
Guest etiquette
If you are invited to visit, you need to buy a bouquet of flowers. But by no means chrysanthemums, they are given for funerals. There should be an odd number of flowers in a bouquet, but not 13. This is considered an unlucky number among the Belgians. An alternative to flowers can be a box of chocolates. But it is better to save alcoholic drinks for close friends.
Russians like to come to visit without an invitation, but in Belgium we do not recommend doing that. Even a warning one hour before the visit is considered rude. Residents of the country plan days, weeks and even months, so your sudden arrival can spoil all plans. It is also not worth inviting someone to the theater or a bike ride at the last moment.
Without an umbrella, nowhere
It often rains in the country. This is not a heavy downpour, but still little pleasant. Therefore, when going on a trip, do not forget to bring a raincoat or umbrella. This will definitely come in handy while walking around the city.
Welcome to complain
If you hear complaints from locals, don't be surprised. The Belgians are indignant at the slightest reason: the song on the radio is tired, it is raining again, the bus is late, the prices for bread have gone up. People love to discuss a wide variety of discontent phenomena. Be prepared for this.
Shopping in the country
When shopping in Belgium, remember that Sunday is not the best time. This day is considered a day off for most residents of the country. And those places that work on weekends are often packed with people.
Be punctual
If you have made an appointment, be sure to come on time. The maximum time it is polite to stay is five minutes. Being late is considered an insult.
Laziness and bragging are not held in high esteem
Belgians love hardworking and humble people. Visitors who start to brag and be lazy will never win the favor of a local. Therefore, try to show the best qualities of your personality. On the other hand, the inhabitants of Belgium do not exaggerate financial wealth and are always neatly dressed. Therefore, they expect this from other people as well.
Try not to criticize
Belgians are very vulnerable people, even if it looks implausible. Therefore, they should not be severely criticized, but if the remark needs to be conveyed, try to present it in a friendly manner.
Beware of scammers
Unfortunately, the country is full of pickpockets and other types of scammers. Gullible tourists often fall prey to thieves. Beware of crowded places, do not leave things unattended and do not keep all your money in one place. Compliance with simple rules will help to avoid unpleasant situations in this wonderful country. For safety you can find local guides in Brussels on 1001guide.net.
Try not to criticize
Belgians are very vulnerable people, even if it looks implausible. Therefore, they should not be severely criticized, but if the remark needs to be conveyed, try to present it in a friendly manner.