Other Belgium

To stay up-to-date with local news in Belgium, there are several convenient ways available that cover various languages and news source formats.

 

Online news portals

   - RTBF — a leading news source in French; offers real-time news, as well as programs and analytical articles; news is available through their website or mobile app.

   - VRT — the main Dutch-language news service, providing news, analysis, and video reports; has a mobile app.

   - BRF — a news source in German; covers news from the Eastern Belgium region.

 

Newspapers

   - Le Soir — one of the most popular French-language newspapers in Belgium; offers both print and online versions of their editions.

   - De Standaard — a leading Flemish newspaper covering national and international news, available both in print and online.

   - Grenz-Echo — the main German-language newspaper covering news in Eastern Belgium.

 

Radio and television

   - RTBF and VRT also broadcast news on radio and television, making them accessible for listening or viewing on the go.

   - BRF offers radio broadcasts in German.

 

Social media and apps

   - Local media actively use social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to disseminate news. By following the accounts of major news agencies, you can receive updates in real-time.

   - There are specialized apps, like Sudpresse and Nieuwsblad, that provide access to news and notifications.

 

Mobile news apps

   - HLN.be (Het Laatste Nieuws) and La Libre Belgique also offer mobile apps for convenient access to news in various languages.

Belgium is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage, yet it is the subject of several stereotypes that may not always correspond to reality. Here are some of the most common stereotypes about Belgium:

 

Belgium is a country of chocolate and beer

   - One of the most popular stereotypes is that Belgium is known for its chocolate and beer. While this is indeed true, Belgium offers much more than just culinary delights. The country has over 2000 types of beer and more than 500 chocolate brands, but Belgium's cultural and historical heritage is also very rich and diverse.

 

Belgians only eat waffles and fries

   - Another common stereotype is the belief that Belgians eat nothing but waffles and fries. Although these dishes are indeed popular and are an important part of Belgian cuisine, the Belgian diet includes a wide range of other dishes, including various meat and fish dishes, vegetables, and cheeses.

 

Belgium is a dull and monotonous country

   - Some believe that Belgium is a dull country with no noteworthy attractions or unique culture. However, this is far from the truth. Belgium is famous for its picturesque medieval towns, castles, world-class museums, and festivals such as the famous Carnival in Binche and music festivals Tomorrowland and Rock Werchter.

 

Belgium has no national identity

   - It is often said that Belgium lacks a unified national identity due to the division into French-speaking, Dutch-speaking, and German-speaking communities. However, this division gives the country a special cultural multi-layeredness. Belgium is an example of successful coexistence of different cultures and languages in a single state.

 

Belgians don't like to work and spend a lot of time on vacation

   - Another stereotype claims that Belgians are not very diligent at work and prefer to spend a lot of time on vacations. In reality, Belgians are known for their hard work and professionalism, and the vacation system and social protection in the country simply provide a high quality of life.

 

Belgium is constantly rainy

   - Many people believe that it always rains in Belgium and the weather is very bad here. While the climate in Belgium is indeed moderate and rainy, sunny days are not uncommon, especially in summer. The weather may be changeable, but it does not prevent Belgians from enjoying an active lifestyle.

 

These stereotypes do not always reflect real life in Belgium, and it is important to remember that each country has its own characteristics and unique culture that are worth discovering and exploring personally.

There are many useful mobile apps in Belgium that will help you simplify your life and adapt to new conditions. Here is a list of essential apps to install:

 

Civic and Governmental Services

   - Itsme: This app is used for safely logging into various government and private online services, including banking apps, tax declarations, and medical records. It is widely used for digital identity verification.

   - MyBEnefits: Allows checking social benefits and rights to various governmental allowances, including social security and pensions.

 

Transport and Navigation

   - SNCB/NMBS: The official Belgian railway app, providing train schedules, ticket purchases, and tracking of train changes.

   - STIB/MIVB: The public transport app for Brussels. It allows route planning, schedule checking, and ticket purchases for buses, trams, and metro.

   - De Lijn: The public transport app for Flanders, similar to the STIB app, providing information on bus and tram services in the region.

   - Waze: A navigation app that uses user information to provide current data on road conditions, including traffic jams and accidents.

 

Financial and Banking Services

   - Bancontact: This is a popular payment app enabling secure transactions using QR-codes. It supports payments in stores, online, and between individuals.

   - Payconiq by Bancontact: A mobile payment app that allows for purchases, bill payments, and transfers between users via smartphone.

 

Health and Safety

   - Doccle: An app that allows you to store and manage your medical documents, bills, and insurance policies in one place. It integrates with various healthcare and insurance services.

   - 112 BE: The official emergency services app for Belgium. It enables quick contact with emergency services, sharing your geolocation, and providing vital medical information.

 

Information and News

   - RTBF Auvio and VRT NU: These apps allow streaming of live broadcasts and recorded programs from leading news channels in French and Dutch respectively.

   - HLN.be: A news app providing up-to-date news in Dutch.

 

Shopping and Delivery

   - Colruyt and Delhaize: Shopping apps for popular supermarkets in Belgium, allowing you to order groceries online with home delivery.

   - Takeaway.com: An app for ordering food delivery from local restaurants throughout Belgium.

 

Utilities and Weather

   - Fluvius: An app for managing electricity and water bills, also allowing meter readings and consumption tracking.

   - KMI/IRM: A weather forecast app from the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium, providing accurate and up-to-date weather information.

 

These apps will help you better navigate everyday life in Belgium, simplifying access to various services and information.

Belgium is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse entertainment that attracts both locals and tourists. Here are some of the most popular cultural events and types of entertainment worth visiting or trying in Belgium:

 

Festivals and Cultural Events

   - Carnival in Binche: One of the most famous carnivals in Europe, listed as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. It takes place annually in February and features vibrant parades, traditional masquerade costumes, and the throwing of oranges into the crowd.

   - Ghent Festival: The largest cultural festival in Ghent, held in July, attracting thousands of visitors. The festival includes music concerts, theater performances, street performances, and many other entertainments.

   - Rock Festivals: Belgium is renowned for its music festivals, such as Rock Werchter and Tomorrowland. The former attracts rock music lovers, while the latter appeals to fans of electronic music from all over the world.

 

Historical and Cultural Landmarks

   - Atomium: One of Brussels' main attractions, representing an enlarged model of an iron atom. Inside the building, there are exhibition halls, and from the top, there's a panoramic view of the city.

   - Medieval Towns: Cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp are known for their well-preserved medieval centers, picturesque canals, and historic buildings. These towns offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Belgium.

 

Gastronomic Delights

   - Chocolate Tours: Belgium is famous for its chocolate, and many tourists make it a point to visit chocolate shops and workshops. Cities like Bruges and Brussels offer tours of chocolate factories and workshops.

   - Beer Tours: Belgium is the birthplace of over 2000 types of beer. Tourists can visit famous breweries such as Westvleteren and Chimay, and try various kinds of beer.

 

Museums and Exhibitions

   - Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels: Comprises several museums dedicated to various art movements, from antiquity to the present day.

   - Magritte Museum: Dedicated to one of Belgium's most famous surrealist artists, René Magritte. The museum is located in Brussels and holds an extensive collection of his works.

 

Natural Parks and Outdoor Activities

   - Ardennes: A mountainous region in the south of Belgium that attracts outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can go hiking, cycling, kayaking, and rock climbing.

   - Hoge Kempen National Park: The only national park in Belgium, located in Flanders. It's an excellent place for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying nature.

Public Toilets in Cities

   - In major cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, public toilets are typically found at train stations, in parks, large shopping centers, and tourist areas. These toilets are often paid, with usage costs usually ranging from 0.50 to 1 euro.

   - Tourist sites may also be equipped with public toilets, although they may be less common in smaller towns or rural areas.

 

Toilets in Cafes and Restaurants

   - In Belgium, it's customary to use toilets in cafes, restaurants, and bars. Although they are intended for customers of the establishment, many places allow their use for a small fee (usually 0.50 euro) even if you're not ordering anything.

 

Mobile Apps for Finding Toilets

   - There are mobile apps such as Toilet Finder and Flush that help locate the nearest public toilet. These apps are useful, especially if you're in an unfamiliar area or tourist zone.

 

Toilets in Shopping Malls and Museums

   - In shopping malls, museums, and other cultural institutions, public toilets are usually free for visitors. These toilets are often clean and well-equipped.

 

Cleanliness and Maintenance

   - The quality and cleanliness of public toilets can vary significantly. In large cities, modern automated cabins are often installed, which are regularly cleaned, but in more remote places, toilets may be less well-maintained.

 

Toilets for People with Disabilities

   - Many public places, including train stations and shopping centers, have toilets for people with disabilities. These toilets are usually more spacious and equipped with everything necessary for comfortable use.

 

Overall, public toilets in Belgium are accessible, but it's important to be prepared for them to possibly be paid and not always easy to find in more remote areas.

Learning the local languages in Belgium is an important step for integration and successful interaction with locals. Depending on the region, you may need to learn French, Dutch, or German. Here are some of the best options for learning languages in Belgium:

 

Language Courses in Educational Institutions

   - CVO: These are centers for adults offering Dutch language courses (as well as French and German) for beginners and advanced learners. These courses are available in most major cities in Flanders and Brussels.

   - Alliance Française: French language courses offered throughout Belgium, especially popular among those wishing to study French. They offer courses at various levels, including intensive programs.

   - Volkshochschule: In the German-speaking region of Eastern Belgium, these courses offer German language learning for adults. Programs may range from basic to specialized.

 

Online Platforms and Applications

   - Duolingo and Babbel: These platforms offer interactive and convenient courses in French, Dutch, and German. They are suitable for beginners and can be a great supplement to main courses.

   - Lingoda: An online school offering courses in French and German languages with live teachers, allowing for effective language learning through conversation practice.

 

Integration Programs

   - Inburgering (in Flanders) and BAPA (in Brussels): These programs provide Dutch and French language courses for immigrants, helping them integrate into society. Courses often include not only language training but also cultural orientation.

   - Objectif Langues: A program in Wallonia offering French language courses for foreigners with varying levels of proficiency.

 

Conversation Clubs and Language Exchange

   - Meetup and Tandem: These platforms allow you to find partners for language exchange. You can find groups or individuals willing to practice the local language with you in exchange for help in learning your native language.

   - Conversa: An organization that offers conversation practice clubs and language meet-ups where you can improve your communication skills in French, Dutch, or German.

 

Local Libraries and Cultural Centers

   - Libraries and cultural centers often offer free or affordable events, such as book clubs, lectures, and discussions, that can help you improve your language skills in a casual setting.

Belgium is a country with a rich cultural heritage and many national holidays and traditions that reflect its layered history and cultural diversity. Here are some of the most significant holidays and traditions celebrated in Belgium:

 

National Day of Belgium (July 21)

   - This is the main national holiday, marking the day in 1831 when the first King of Belgium, Leopold I, took the oath of allegiance to the Constitution. On this day, parades, concerts, fireworks, and other festive events take place throughout the country. The largest celebrations are held in Brussels.

 

Carnival in Binche

   - This traditional carnival, held 40 days before Easter in the city of Binche, is listed as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. The carnival is known for its bright costumes, masks, and the throwing of oranges to the crowd, symbolizing luck and prosperity.

 

Carnival in Aalst

   - The Carnival in Aalst is another significant event also included in UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. It is held in the Flemish city of Aalst and is famous for its satirical parades where locals mock politicians and celebrities.

 

King's Day (November 15)

   - This holiday is celebrated in honor of the monarch of Belgium. It was established in 1866 and was originally celebrated on November 15, the feast day of Saint Leopold, the patron of the first King of Belgium. Today, King's Day remains an important symbolic holiday, especially for government and military institutions.

 

Saint Nicholas Day (December 6)

   - Saint Nicholas Day is especially popular among children. Saint Nicholas brings gifts and sweets to children, making this day joyful and anticipated. In some regions of Belgium, especially in Flanders, Saint Nicholas is considered even more important than Christmas.

 

Christmas (December 25)

   - Christmas in Belgium is celebrated with family gatherings and traditional Christmas dinner. During this time, cities are decorated with festive lights and Christmas markets, where you can buy souvenirs and try traditional foods and drinks, such as mulled wine and hot chocolate.

 

New Year (January 1)

   - Celebrating the New Year in Belgium involves fireworks, loud parties, and the tradition of giving gifts. Many Belgians also attend New Year's concerts and parties to celebrate the holiday with friends and family.

 

Various regional and local holidays

   - In different regions of Belgium, other important religious and cultural holidays are celebrated, such as Labor Day (May 1), Assumption of Mary (August 15), and All Saints' Day (November 1). These holidays are accompanied by religious services, parades, and family gatherings.

 

These holidays and traditions showcase Belgium's cultural diversity, where each region and community adds its unique elements to national celebrations.

Belgium is a country with a rich cultural and historical heritage, offering many interesting places and attractions to visit. Here is a list of the most significant and popular places to see:

 

Brussels

   - Grand Place: The main square of Brussels, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is surrounded by beautiful Gothic buildings, including the Town Hall and the King's House. The square is especially impressive in the evening when the buildings are illuminated.

   - Atomium: One of the symbols of Brussels, representing an enlarged model of an iron atom. Inside are exhibition halls, and from the top, you get a panoramic view of the city.

   - Manneken Pis: A small bronze statue of a boy urinating, one of the most famous attractions in Brussels. It is a symbol of the city, often dressed in various costumes.

 

Bruges

   - Old Town: The historic center of Bruges is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow streets, picturesque canals, and medieval buildings make it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

   - Belfry Tower: A high tower on the Market Square of Bruges, with a stunning view of the city. Inside the tower, you can see a carillon with 47 bells.

   - Gruuthuse Museum: A museum located in a former noble palace, showcasing life in medieval Bruges.

 

Ghent

   - Gravensteen Castle: A medieval castle in the center of Ghent, preserved in excellent condition. Inside the castle are museums dedicated to medieval weaponry and torture.

   - St. Bavo's Cathedral: A Gothic cathedral known for its magnificent altar crafted by the Van Eyck brothers. It is one of the most significant works of medieval art.

 

Antwerp

   - Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp: A majestic Gothic cathedral, the largest in Belgium. Here, you can see works by the famous artist Peter Paul Rubens.

   - MAS Museum: A modern museum dedicated to the history of Antwerp and its role as a major port city. From the roof of the museum, there is a panoramic view of the city.

 

Liège

   - Montagne de Bueren: A famous staircase with 374 steps leading to the hilltop, offering a magnificent view of the city of Liège.

   - Curtius Museum: A museum located in a luxurious 17th-century mansion, featuring a collection of archaeological finds and decorative arts.

 

Ardennes

   - Durbuy: Considered the smallest city in the world. This picturesque town, surrounded by forests and hills, is perfect for a peaceful retreat and walking tours.

   - Grotto of Han: One of the largest cave systems in Europe, located in a wildlife reserve in the Ardennes. A tour of the cave reveals unique stalactites and stalagmites.

 

Eastern Belgium

   - High Fens: A natural park on the border with Germany, known for its wetlands and rare plant species. It's an excellent place for hiking and exploring wildlife.

Local etiquette and social behavior in Belgium can vary depending on the region, but there are some general norms and rules that will help you feel comfortable and confident in any situation.

 

Greeting

   - A handshake is the standard form of greeting in both business and everyday settings. In some situations, especially among acquaintances or in a family circle, they may greet with a kiss on the cheek (usually once in Wallonia and three times in Flanders).

 - Always greet and say goodbye to everyone in the group, even if the group is large.

 

Politeness and Respect

 - Politeness and tactfulness are valued in Belgium. Always use "please" and "thank you."

 - It is important to be punctual. Being late can be perceived as a sign of disrespect, especially in a business setting.

 

Personal Space

 - Belgians respect personal space, so try not to invade it. Maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and avoid excessive physical contact.

 

Business Culture

 - In business relationships, it is important to be formal and respect the hierarchy. Decisions are made after thorough analysis and discussion, so avoid pressure or rushing.

 - Dress appropriately: a conservative style is preferred in a business environment.

 

Table Etiquette

 - Dining manners are very important in Belgium. Always wait for the host or hostess to offer seating and start the meal.

 - Use utensils correctly: hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right hand.

 - Do not start business discussions at the table unless initiated by the host.

 

Language Policy

 - Belgium has three official languages: French, Dutch, and German. It is important to respect the language preferences of the residents in the region you are in. In Brussels, where both French and Dutch are used, it is preferred to use French if you are unsure.

 - Switching to English may be possible, especially in a business context, but it is better to first ask if the other person is comfortable conversing in English.

 

Communication and Discussions

 - Belgians value honesty and directness but avoid blunt statements. Constructive criticism is positively received if presented respectfully.

 - Politics and personal finances are topics best avoided in informal conversations, as they may be considered too personal.

 

Holidays and Gifts

 - If invited to a Belgian home for lunch or dinner, it is courteous to bring a small gift such as flowers, wine, or chocolate. However, avoid giving chrysanthemums as they are traditionally associated with funerals.

 

These rules and norms will help you feel comfortable in society and easily find common ground with locals. Respect for culture and traditions is the key to successful integration into Belgian society.

The local government system in Belgium is multi-layered and organized according to the federal structure of the country. Belgium consists of three levels of government: federal, regional, and local. Each of these levels has its own powers and responsibilities.

Federal Level

 - The federal government is responsible for national matters such as defense, justice, foreign affairs, social security, and finance. The federal system also includes the federal parliament and the king, who plays the role of head of state.

Regional Level

 - Belgium is divided into three regions: Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region. Each region has its own government and parliament responsible for matters concerning their territories, including economic development, transport, environmental protection, energy, and regional planning.

 - Additionally, the country has three linguistic communities: French, Dutch, and German. These communities manage cultural, educational, and language use issues in their regions.

Local Level

 - Provinces: Belgium is divided into 10 provinces, each governed by a provincial council and a governor. Provincial authorities coordinate the activities of local municipalities and are responsible for matters such as education, transport, and social services at the provincial level.

 - Municipalities (communes): Belgium consists of 581 municipalities. Municipalities are the primary units of local government and are managed by a municipal council and a mayor (burgomaster). Municipal authorities handle local matters such as housing construction, road infrastructure, social services, education, local taxes, and public order maintenance.

The role of the mayor and municipal council

 - The mayor (burgomaster) is the head of the municipality and is responsible for the execution of the municipal council’s decisions, ensuring compliance with laws, and maintaining public order. The mayor is appointed by the regional authorities, but elections are held among the members of the municipal council.

 - The municipal council consists of elected representatives who determine policy and make decisions on important issues for the municipality, such as the budget, taxation, and local projects.

Interaction between levels of government

 - In Belgium, great importance is attached to the decentralization of power and the autonomy of regions and municipalities. This allows for effective resolution of local issues but also requires close interaction between different levels of government to ensure policy unity and legal compliance.

Thus, the system of local self-government in Belgium is complex and multi-leveled, while providing significant autonomy to regions and municipalities in managing their affairs.