TRAVEL
TIPS
| Driving |
U.S
Driving Permit accepted |
| Currency |
(EUR)
Euro |
| Electrical |
230 Volts |
| Telephones |
Country
Code 32, City Code Brussels 2+7D, Antwerpen 3+7D, Wavre 10+6D |
Getting
Around
Belgium's rail service is fast and offers frequent connections
to the country's main towns and cities. Traveling by car is another
option; Belgium boasts an excellent network of roads and highways.
When It's Open
Museums are generally open 6 days a week; many are closed on Monday.
Shops are open weekdays and Saturdays, and generally stay open
later on Friday. Post offices are open Monday through Friday,
and are closed on weekends and public holidays. Belgian banks
are usually open from Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. In
Luxembourg, banks are open from 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., often with
a 1-hour lunch break. Some city banks are also open on Saturdays.
Banks are closed on public holidays.
Money
NOTE: This member state of the European Union is participating
in the use of the euro common currency. The euro replaced local
currency on January 1, 2002. The rate of exchange for cash and
travelers cheques is best at banks, but airport and other money
exchange bureaus run a close second. ATMs are available in many
places. Credit cards are widely accepted and, in many cases, give
you a better exchange rate. Have some currency on hand for making
small purchases, such as snacks and souvenirs from street vendors.
Value-Added
Tax (VAT) is included in prices. It is refundable only if you
exceed a required amount. Ask for a refund form and then, before
leaving the country, have a customs official stamp it. Then, after
your return home, mail it back to the store, and they will reimburse
you, though it will take several months.
Tipping
A service charge is included in restaurant and hotel bills. The
tip is also included in taxi fares. Railway porters expect to
be tipped, as do bellhops, doormen, and washroom attendants in
public places.
General
Information
There are 3 languages spoken in Belgium: French is spoken in the
South; Flemish in the North; and German in the East. Many people
speak English as well, especially in Brussels.
Belgium
is primarily a Catholic country, with religious traditions continuing
to influence many aspects of life.
Electricity
is 220 volts; 50Hz. Check out our Travel Store before you go for
converter or adapters for hairdryers, electric razors, laptops,
etc.
The
country telephone code for Belgium is 32; the city code for Brussels
is 2.
Belgium
is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the US.
