European Travel Guidelines

We hope this trip to be relaxing, enjoyable, and low-stress. Toward that end, here are a few suggestions that we have found may help make your trip a pleasant one.

It is a good idea to inform your credit card company that you will be traveling – including locations of layovers. Additionally, be aware that many places in Europe only accept credit cards with a microchip imbedded in them, so if your card is not so-equipped it may be refused. Additionally, some merchants also require a PIN with the card, so it would be best to check if this is available for your card. Be sure you know if your card charges extra for foreign transactions. Lastly, there will be occasional cash-only situations (generally small cafés or small vendors and the occasional public restroom) so having some cash on hand is wise. There is a Western Union location near our hotel where money can be exchanged and also an ATM if your card has international capabilities.

Always have a copy of your credit cards and passports with you – separate from your luggage and wallet. In case of loss or theft this makes life easier. Keep copies of any important prescriptions with you.

The climate in Belgium in June will be pleasant but with a chance of rain. We encourage you to pack lightly but include the option of wearing layers if the weather should cool off. A light rain jacket is helpful. We will be walking quite a bit, so wear comfortable shoes (cobblestones are tough with heels). Europeans tend to wear muted colors rather than loud patterns and graphics. Rarely do they wear baseball caps, shorts or t-shirts. I tend to dress a bit nicer than I would at home for a given occasion, and will typically wear nice jeans with a collared shirt. You are all adults and can do as you please! The point is not to avoid being identified as a tourist (impossible) but merely to avoid standing out too much so as to maintain good first impressions.

We will be primarily visiting areas where tourists are common and you will be able to get by with English for the most part. The country of Belgium is split into French and Flemish (~Dutch) speakers, and this creates some confusion. For example, even city names may be different and so signs can be tricky. We will provide walking maps for you and will be available to assist you in your adventures.

Food and drink are reasons in themselves to visit Belgium – be adventurous and enjoy. Note that tip is included in the price at restaurants unless otherwise noted. If you have questions about specific items please ask. Note that the beers of Belgium are famous and you should try them, but be aware that many of them are stronger than you may be accustomed to. Water may be an extra charge and is usually fizzy mineral water unless you specify otherwise.

Belgian electric outlets are 220V compared to our 110V. They also have a different prong design. You will need a simple adapter in order to plug in recharging units for smart phones and computers which should be able to deal with the different voltage. Items such as hair dryers will NOT deal well with the additional voltage, so you will need to use the units at the hotel. If you bring a phone, be sure to check with your carrier or turn OFF the data plan. Depending on your plan, sending or receiving texts and calls can be very expensive, even if your phone shows coverage. WIFI can still be used and is available at the hotel.