Travel Alert Status
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Travel Climate
Belgium's climate is characterized by moderate temperatures, prevailing westerly winds, cloudy skies, regular rainfall, and a little snow. The weather is variable. Summer temperatures average 60°F (16°C). Rare annual extremes are l0°F (-12°C) and 90°F (33°C).
Travel Currency
0.9214
Language Spoken
Belgium has two official languages: Flemish, which is a form of Dutch, and French. Flemish is spoken in the northern region known as Flanders. French is spoken in the southern region known as Wallonia. As a result of having two languages, many cities have two or three names, and some Belgians cannot speak with other Belgians. The language is also reflected in the media, which offers both French and Flemish versions of TV, news, and radio. Many Belgians speak more than one language and are therefore sought after as employees for international companies.
Languages
Dutch (official) 60%, French (official) 40%, German (official) less than 1%, legally bilingual (Dutch and French)
Ethnic Groups
Fleming 58%, Walloon 31%, mixed or other 11%
National Holiday
Belgian National Day (ascension to the throne of King LEOPOLD I), 21 July (1831)
Geographic Coordinates
50 50 N, 4 00 E
Location
Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands
Airports
26