Location: Europe
Local Time: GMT+1
From 31 Oct 11 to 24 Mar 12 GMT +1
From 25 Mar 12 to 28 Oct 12 GMT +2
From 29 Oct 12 to 30 Mar 13 GMT +1
From 31 Mar 13 to 27 Oct 13 GMT +2
Capital City: Brussels
Population: 10.82 million
Area: 32,820357,021 square km, 12,672 square miles.
Language(s): French, Dutch, German
Dialling Code: 32
Emergency: Police: 101. Fire & Ambulance: 100
TV Standard: PAL
Driving: Driving is on the right. National licence required. Minimum driving age is 18
Electricity: 220V AC 50Hz
Currency: Euro (EUR 1 = 100 Cents)
Notes: EUR: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500
Coins: EUR: 1, 2. Cents: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50
Credit Cards/Travellers Cheques: Credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted
Opening Hours
Bank: 0900-1200 & 1300-1600 Mon-Fri
Office: 0830-1730 Mon-Fri
Shops: 1000-1800 Mon-Sat
Public Holidays
2012
Note: *Observed by the respective communities. When holidays fall on a Sunday, the next working day is sometimes used in lieu.
Business/Social Hints: Smoking is usually prohibited in public places. Request permission before smoking in offices, cars and restaurants. On social occasions, eg invitation to restaurants, be punctual and dress as for business meetings unless otherwise indicated. Minimum drinking age: Persons between the ages of 16-18 are allowed to purchase alcholic drinks (less than 21% volume)
Tipping: Service charges are usually included in bills, tips are not necessary. Tips for taxis are included in meter fare
