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Country facts

When to visit

May–September: mild, long days, festivals. October + April are shoulder seasons (fewer crowds, lower prices).

Typical costs (USD)

Cheaper than Western Europe. Capital cities priciest; rural areas excellent value.

Essential phrases

Numbers

What to pack

• Layered clothing — temperature shifts day to day
• Compact rain jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Type C/F plug adapter (Europlug)
• Travel umbrella

Cultural notes

• Three official languages — French (Wallonia), Dutch/Flemish (Flanders), German (east)
• Don't conflate Flemish with Dutch when speaking to a Fleming — distinct identity
• Beer is a national obsession; tasting menus pair specific beers with each course
• Brussels' EU bureaucracy lives mostly in French; tourist signs are bilingual
• Frites with mayo, not ketchup — and never call them French fries

Universal courtesies

• Try a greeting in the local language even if it's the only word you know — it's appreciated everywhere.
• Match local dress norms when entering religious sites, government buildings, or rural areas.
• Ask before photographing people, especially children or in religious settings.
• Tipping customs vary — never assume your home country's expectation applies.
• Remove shoes when entering homes if your host does; watch their cue.
• Keep voices lower than at home in temples, mosques, museums, public transport.
• Hands and gestures mean different things across cultures — observe before reaching out.
• Cash + cards: rural areas often need cash; major cities take cards. Carry small notes.
• Don't compare countries to each other in front of locals — every culture stands on its own.
• If you don't know the etiquette, watching for 30 seconds usually teaches it.