Other information / Autre information

English

ATM

Cash machines are available throughout the whole city centre of Brussels. Just across the street from the conference venue, the Radisson Blu Royal, there is an ATM. American Express, Master Card, Diners Club and Visa are accepted cards.

Climate

The climate in Brussels is a temperate, maritime climate with almost no extremes. The average temperature in summer is ± 16°Celsius (± 60° Fahrenheit). The average winter temperature is ± 3°Celsius (± 37° Fahrenheit).

Communication / Phones

The international dialling code for Brussels is +32. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). No city/area codes are required. There is a very good Wi-Fi connection in hotels, restaurants, cafés and public places.

Currency

The official currency is Euro, which is divided into 100 cents. Exchange rates:  1 USD ~ 0,8475 EUR, 1 Euro ~ 1,18 USD. The most popular Euro exchange rate is the USD to EUR rate. The currency code for Euros is EUR, and the currency symbol is €.

Duty free

Travellers to Belgium over 17 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 l grain alcohol with alcohol level over 22% or 2 l grain alcohol with alcohol level with maximum 22%; sparkling wine,  4 l wine, 16 l beer. Travellers are able to import presents or other goods up to a total value of EUR 430.

Language

There are 3 official languages spoken in Belgium: Dutch, French and German with English as the 4th unofficial language.

Local customs

Brussels is a very cosmopolitan city. The inhabitants are used to encountering people from many different cultures, and are open-minded and friendly. Travellers should keep in mind a few customs and practices common in Brussels: One stands on the right-hand side of the escalator; kissing and public displays of affection are permitted in public; dogs are allowed into most restaurants; cars may cut pedestrians’ way in front of crosswalks, so exercise caution when crossing.

Safety information

Brussels is a safe city for tourists. There is petty crime such as pickpocketing at airports, train stations and crowded streets around the central square and Manneken Pis. Some neighbourhoods should be avoided by tourists especially at night. Never leave valuables in your car.

Tipping

It is customary to include a small tip in larger hotels and restaurants. In case of an extraordinary service one can give an additional amount of 5 to 10 percent of the invoiced amount.

Travel Health

Medical treatment in Belgium is excellent. There are no particular precautions to take before travelling into Belgium. Tap water can be drunk.

Visa & Passport

Please carefully check the following website for the requirements you have to fulfil to enter Belgium and apply accordingly.

https://belgium.visahq.com/

All visitors must either hold a return or onward ticket and all documents for next destination. Passports must be valid for more than six months on entry. Further requirements are: an application form and two current photographs, proof of the purpose of your stay, confirmed lodging, and sufficient funds to cover the costs of your stay.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.