FAQs

Why Belgium?
Belgium is the Capital of Europe. In a small friendly country we find most of the reasons we might travel to Europe: Great food and drink (hello? Belgian beer? Belgian chocolate?), impressive historical architecture, castles, scenic mountains, crafts and art, military history, cathedrals, canals, and folk festivals. If the pictures on this site prompt you to dig deeper, please check out our Belgium Information pages.

If I have to cancel my trip, will I receive a refund?
We do our best to refund any money possible in the event of a cancellation. We require a deposit of 60% of the total cost by March 15, 2024. This deposit secures air tickets, in-country transportation, and hotel rooms. Some of that may not be refundable. The remaining 40% of the cost is due May 1, 2024 and is refundable up to 1 week prior to departure. After that point, we would make every effort to refund unspent funds but the full amount may not be able to be returned.

Will there be opportunities for us to explore on our own apart from the group?
Absolutely! Some free-time is built in to our itinerary every night. Additionally, on the final Saturday, participants can participate in group activities, schedule their own activity (we will provide advice and help when we can), or return home a day early. All activities are optional, but the costs cannot be refunded if participation is declined.

How many people are going on this trip?
We believe that smaller groups lend themselves to more effective professional discussion and to the ability to better appreciate culture beyond standard tourist experiences. We will limit the trip to a maximum of 14 participants (veterinarians and partners) in order to maintain small-group dynamics.

Are my meals covered?
The price of the trip includes breakfast and lunch every day. Participants have their evenings free and will be on their own for dinner. We will provide advice and assistance as to where to eat and what to do if needed. We promise that lunch will be filling – a snack may be sufficient at dinner!

Is the CE approved for my annual requirements?
This continuing education event is organized by the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The majority of state boards recognize university-provided CE, but we cannot guarantee the response of every state board in the event of an audit. A certificate of attendance will be provided.

Are partners welcome?
You are welcome to bring your spouse or partner. We have activities specifically for them if desired. Please see the cost page to see the pricing information when accompanied by a partner whether or not they are a veterinarian.

What will my partner do while I am in the CE meetings?
We have separate activities scheduled for partners during the morning CE meetings. Of course, they are welcome to sleep in or venture out on their own. We can provide advice if they have specific objectives.

Are the tourism outings mandatory?
Nothing is mandatory. Although we cannot refund the cost of the activities if you decide to skip one, we will do our best to facilitate any alternative plans you develop.

Are children welcome?
Unfortunately, this trip is not designed to cater to children.

Is this a safe trip?
We have made every effort to assure a safe and stress-free itinerary. Europe is a safe destination. Of course, accidents, natural events, and other random difficulties can occur to any of us in any location and traveling abroad is no exception. We have led multiple tours and have never had an untoward event. We are happy to discuss specific concerns.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations?
As an American citizen, you do not need a visa to travel to Belgium. If you extend your stay and journey to another country you will need to determine entry requirements on your own. You will need a U.S. passport valid for six months past the conclusion of the trip.

No specific vaccinations are required to travel to Belgium. We urge you to consult your health care provider about routine vaccine recommendations and any medications they may recommend you keep with you.

I have never traveled abroad. Is this a good trip for first-time travelers?

This is the ideal trip for first-time travelers, but is also ideal for those with more experience. We have arranged a schedule that has all the details taken care of. At the same time, we have consciously included opportunities to dive deeper into the culture off the tourist track! Please see our helpful travelers’ tips page.

Can I extend my stay?
Participants are welcome to extend their time abroad on their own. The cost of the trip includes a return flight from Brussels International Airport. If you choose to return from a different airport or at a different time, you will be responsible for any increase in the cost of your ticket beyond what the original itinerary would have been.

What are the topics of the CE sessions?
For 2024, the topics will be small-animal focused, with a mix of disciplines. Speakers include both faculty from KSU and lecturers from the veterinary schools in Belgium.

Do I have to participate in the CE?
No. If you choose to only participate in the tourist activity you would be grouped with the spouses and partners – or can spend additional free time. A certificate of attendance will reflect any CE sessions you attended.

Do I need additional insurance?
We encourage you to check with your health-care provider as many do not cover medical expenses in other countries. Health insurance for traveling is easy to obtain and relatively inexpensive if you opt to purchase it.

How much physical activity is involved with this trip?
All activities are optional, but some walking is involved with the tourist outings. Bear in mind that old cities often have cobble-stone paving and many buildings are not accessible according to ADA standards.

Do you have any advice for participants as we prepare?
Please see our Advice for European Travelers page