In a lighthearted attempt to capture the essence of Brussels, we share with you, in no particular order, our top ten tips.
Beware of the beer – It is a little-known fact that Canadians love beer, and Belgian beer is no exception. But with the average percentage of alcohol in local beer ranging between 7-11% we are simply saying – proceed with caution.
Cobblestones can kill – Your ankles and high-heels that is. You might want to reconsider wearing heels for date night, or for afternoon beers, for that matter.
Leave your baking sheets in Canada - Not only because boulangerie is to Brussels as Tim Hortons is to Canada, but also because, most ovens in Brussels are much smaller than North American models and chances are your baking sheets, and other large oven items will not fit.
Study your traffic signs - While you might still be on the right side of the road, driving in Brussels can feel all wrong, at times. Traffic signs can be redundant, confusing or even non-existent. Side streets may have priority over what you would consider the main road, there are often no stop signs at intersections, and you will have to be aware of: trams, busy roundabouts, and different traffic lights for cars, trams, cyclists, and pedestrians. So, you might wish to...
Leave the car at home – Road-work is common, as are double-parked cars, in traffic, while owners dash into the bakery to grab a baguette. In other words, driving 5 km could take you 10 minute or 30 minutes and more often than not you will arrive at your destination faster if your take public transportation or cycle. But if you do…
Embrace fluorescents - When cycling in Brussels, you want to resemble a sizeable blinking traffic cone. You might think I am kidding, but I assure you I am not, cycling in Belgium can be intimidating. Owning your space on the road, wearing proper safety gear, using a good light, and understanding traffic signs should ensure you make it home for dinner.
Umbrellas are like American Express cards - Don’t leave home without ‘em.
Carry change & cash - Always have coins as public toilets may require them for access. Additionally, it is not uncommon for businesses and vendors to only accept cash.
You’re on island time now - I have heard Belgium referred to as the Jamaica of Europe. Don’t fret if your medical bill hasn’t arrived or the plumber didn’t show; they both will… eventually. Oh, and while we are on the topic of time, it should be noted that in Belgium, 15 minutes late is on-time.
Stretchy pants – Three things to understand: Wine is cheap, clothes are not, you will eat more waffles, frites, and chocolate than you think…so bring stretchy pants.
And, last but not least a word of caution when out at the pub, do not confuse the Belgian Frites with a French Fries. This is a no-no.
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