Belgium, a compact yet culturally rich kingdom in Western Europe, offers a fascinating blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication. The country is divided into three distinct regions - Flanders with its Dutch-speaking cities like Antwerp and Ghent, French-speaking Wallonia with its rolling hills, and the bilingual capital Brussels at its heart. Belgium's historical significance is evident in its exceptionally well-preserved medieval cities, UNESCO-listed belfries, and pivotal World War sites. As the home of EU institutions, NATO headquarters, and a thriving art scene that produced masters like Rubens and Magritte, Belgium punches far above its weight in global influence. The country's culinary reputation for chocolates, beers, and waffles is matched only by its architectural wonders spanning Romanesque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau styles.

**Brussels:** The cosmopolitan capital with EU institutions, Grand Place, and iconic Atomium. Best for business travelers and culture seekers. **Bruges:** Picture-perfect medieval city with canals, chocolate shops, and the Markt square. Ideal for romantic getaways. **Ghent:** Vibrant university town with stunning Gravensteen castle and lively arts scene. **Antwerp:** Fashion capital with diamond district, Rubens' house, and avant-garde culture. **Wallonia:** Rolling Ardennes countryside with castles, caves, and outdoor activities. Great for nature lovers.

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers (18-23°C) and cool winters (1-6°C). Rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year, with slightly drier periods in April-May and September-October. The shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while summer brings festivals and outdoor events.

Belgium follows Schengen visa policies. Many nationals including US, Canada, UK, and EU can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Customs allowances follow EU standards (800 cigarettes, 10L spirits, €430 personal goods). Strict controls on drugs and protected cultural goods.

**Brussels Airport (BRU)** is the main international hub with worldwide connections. **Charleroi (CRL)** serves budget airlines. High-speed Thalys trains connect to Paris (1h22m), Amsterdam (1h53m), and London (2h) via Eurostar. Extensive rail and road networks from neighboring countries.

**Trains:** Efficient network operated by SNCB connecting all major cities. **Trams/Buses:** Comprehensive urban systems in cities (STIB in Brussels, De Lijn in Flanders). **Bikes:** Excellent cycling infrastructure with bike-sharing schemes (Villo in Brussels). **Taxis:** Expensive but available; Uber operates in major cities.

Renting requires valid license (EU format or International Permit). Minimum age typically 21. Automatic transmissions limited. Right-hand driving. Excellent highways (some tolls). Parking challenging in cities - use park-and-ride facilities. Strict drink-driving laws (0.05% BAC).

Free WiFi widely available in hotels, cafes and public spaces. Prepaid SIMs (Proximus, Base, Orange) available from €15 with EU-wide data. 4G coverage excellent. Most public places have English speakers.

**Brussels:** Range from luxury (Hotel Amigo) to business chains. **Bruges:** Charming boutique hotels in historic buildings. **Budget:** Hostels and budget chains (Ibis) widely available. **Unique stays:** Converted monasteries, castle hotels in Wallonia.

**Currency:** Euro (€). **ATMs:** Widely available with no fees for EU cards. **Cards:** Accepted everywhere, including contactless. **Tipping:** Service included, but rounding up or 5-10% for good service is customary.

**Emergency:** 112 (all services). **Police:** 101. **US Embassy Brussels:** +32 2 811 4000. **Tourist Info:** 070 22 20 45.

**Belgian Coast:** 65km of sandy beaches from De Panne to Knokke. **Popular resorts:** Ostend (lively), De Haan (family-friendly). Water sports available. Beach clubs in summer. Cooler than Mediterranean (17-22°C in summer).

Limited diving opportunities. Some wreck diving off coast (mostly advanced). Freshwater diving in flooded quarries (like Nemo 33 in Brussels - training pool). Best to visit neighboring Netherlands for better diving.

**Brussels:** Luxury brands around Avenue Louise, chocolates at Mary, Galeries Royales. **Antwerp:** Fashion designers in 't Zuid. **Bruges:** Lace and chocolate shops. **Sales:** January and July. VAT refund (12-21%) for non-EU residents.

**Must-try:** Moules-frites, carbonnade flamande, waffles (Brussels/Liège styles). **Beer:** Over 1,500 varieties including Trappist beers. **Chocolate:** Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini. **Fine dining:** Multiple Michelin-starred options. **Markets:** Excellent food markets in all major cities.