Clothing
There is no particular dress code in Belgium... But if you don't want to look like a tourist... try to forget baggy jeans... Most of the people here in Belgium like wear tight pants..especially girls !!!

Currency
€ Euro is the common currency. Many foreign exchange offices open on Sundays. Foreign exchange traffic is not regulated. No limit on the amount of foreign currency which may be brought in or out of the country.

Drinking Age
The drinking age is 18 years old.
But you certainly can get a beer in a cafe from the age of 16. Most of the belgians are used to drink since they are quite young, so we can stand a couple of beers without feeling the alcohol... So if you are not used to drink, take it it easy on yourself... !!

Driving Information
- A US driving license is acceptable if staying less then 90 days in the country
- Drive on the right.
- Speed limits: 31mph (50km/h) in the city, 56mph (90km/h) outside the city, and 75mph (120km/h) on 4-lane highways.
- Front and rear seat belts must be worn at all time. Children under 12 years are prohibited from sitting in the front seat.
maximum blood alcohol level = 0.5g/l (1 glass of wine)

Electricity
A.C. 220 volts - 50 cycles. Plugs are of the round 2-pin type.

Language
There are three officially recognized languages: French and Dutch are the main languages; German is spoken by a small segment of the population and English is widely spoken.
Major Belgian city names are in English, in French and in Dutch. Do not hesitate to start a conversation in english... most of belgian people speak it fluently, with that charming french or dutch accent, of course...!!!

Religion
Belgium is a predominantly roman-catholic country. Most churches in Brussels are Roman-Catholic. In the Saint-Nicholas church off Grand'Place services are held in other languages than French and Dutch.Most other religions also have prayer houses in Brussels. Check out the phone directory to find the nearest Mosque, Synagogue, Protestant Church, Orthodox church that is closest to your hotel or apartment.

Time Zone
Belgium is six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and nine hours ahead of Pacific Standard time.
If it's 2:00 p.m. here, what would be the time in Brussels/Belgium?

Tipping & VAT
Service charges and VAT are always included in the price
You do not have to tip but if the service was excellent, feel free to leave 0.5 to 3€. You'll get a smile in return.

Taxis
They are available at Taxi stands or at entrance of hotels. The price of the trip is displayed on the meter, including the service charge. The minimum charge is 2.5 € in daytime and 4€ at night. The average price per KM (0.621 miles) is 2€) except in Brussels 1€. Taxi from/to the Airport to/from Brussels center: average BF 30€ - discount for advance purchase of a roundtrip to/from Airport from/to Hotel offer by taxis carrying a orange sticker with a white aeroplane on their windshield.