Belgium

It may be a little country, but it is a lovely one, so it is sad that Belgium is often overlooked when travellers plan a trip to Europe. Tucked between the desirable and obvious destinations of London, Paris and Amsterdam, Belgium is usually treated as a stepping stone to the English Channel, or, at most, a quick stop-over for a look-see in the capital, Brussels.

Beyond the city of Brussels with its historic Gothic buildings and tall European Union office blocks, is a treasure-trove of undiscovered lazy seaside towns, and the inland 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, winding waterways and cobbled streets, and is a favourite with visitors. Belgium is a country that has inspired many artists and writers with the charm of its Gothic cathedrals, town halls, gabled guildhouses and rich museums.

After a busy day exploring it all, evenings are best spent experiencing Belgium's fantastic cuisine and delighting in the country's variety of 300-odd brews of beer. Belgians have a reputation for their gracious hospitality, no doubt due in part to the country's location, which has created 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.

Climate

The Belgium climate is temperate, with warm weather in summer (May to September) and cool to cold weather in winter. Winter snow is very likely in Belgium.

Money

Euro (EUR) divided into 100 cents. Most credit cards are accepted (Visa, American Express, Diners Club and Eurcard) as are travellers cheques (though it is best to carry them in Euros, US dollars or Pounds Sterling to avoid additional charges when exchanging). ATMs are available in all major cities. Banks are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Some banks close for an hour during lunch. There are however some foreign exchange offices that trade on Sundays.

Passport Visa

The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. Nationals of non-EU countries are recommended to hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and documents for their next destination.

Entry Requirements

• 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.
• UK nationals must possess a valid passport. A visa is not required for stays of up to three months for passports stating European Union on the front cover, British Overseas Territories Citizen, British National (Overseas), British Citizen or British Subject, with the right of abode in the UK. Other passport holders require a visa.
• 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.
• 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.
• South African nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended period of stay. A Schengen visa is required and should be obtained before travel. South African temporary passports are not recognised.
• Irish nationals require a valid passport. No visa is required.
• New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended period of stay. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.

Health

No vaccinations are required for travel to Belgium. Medical facilities and care in Belgium is excellent but expensive so travellers are advised to take out medical insurance. UK citizens receive emergency medical care for a reduced cost, but should have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to qualify.

Embassy Consulates

• Embassy of Belgium, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 333 6900.
• Embassy of Belgium, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7470 3700.
• Embassy of Belgium, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 7267.
• Embassy of Belgium, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 2501.
• Belgium Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 440 3201/2.
• Embassy of Belgium, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 205 7100.
• Consulate of Belgium, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 974 9080.

Foreign Embassies

• Embassy of the United States, Brussels: +32 (0)2 508 2111.
• British Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 287 6211.
• Canadian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 741 0611.
• Australian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 286 0500.
• South African Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 285 4400.
• Embassy of Ireland, Brussels: +32 (0)2 282 3400.
• New Zealand Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 512 1040.