Flanders, Belgium
Belgium's main mobile providers Proximus, Orange, and Telenet. Purchase prepaid SIM cards at mobile phone shops, convenience stores, or larger supermarkets. Passport registration required.
Wi-Fi widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and many public spaces. Look for "Free WiFi Gent" in some areas.
Official language in Ghent is Dutch (Flemish dialect). English widely spoken, especially by younger generations and in tourist-facing businesses. French also commonly understood.
Attempting a few basic phrases in Dutch shows appreciation.
English is widely spoken, but a few Dutch phrases enhance interactions. Digital translation tools prove very helpful.
Familiarize yourself with typical operating hours for various businesses.
Shops generally open 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM (Mon-Sat). Supermarkets open earlier and close later.
Lunch service 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Dinner starts around 6:00 PM. Kitchens close 9:30 PM - 10:00 PM. Many restaurants have a closing day.
Typically open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Many museums closed on Mondays. Check individual websites for precise hours and last entry.
Banks generally open 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM/5:00 PM (Mon-Fri). Limited/no weekend hours.
Belgium observes several public holidays. Banks, post offices, and many shops close. Public transport may run on a reduced schedule.
Check specific opening hours for museums and restaurants, especially on Mondays or public holidays, aiding smoother visits.
Show respect for Ghent's culture and its people.
Handshake for formal introductions. Single cheek kiss for friends. Generally casual attire, smart-casual for dining. Modest dress at religious sites.
Generally allowed in public spaces and most attractions unless signs indicate otherwise. Be respectful of privacy when photographing people.
Service often included, tipping gesture of appreciation. Avoid political/regional discussions. Be mindful of personal space, punctuality. Avoid overly loud behavior.
Belgium a progressive country. LGBTQ+ rights well-established. Ghent a welcoming city. Public displays of affection generally accepted.
A polite demeanor and respect for local customs enhance your interactions with residents.
Ghent continues to adapt its infrastructure for travelers with accessibility needs.
Ghent's historic center, with its cobblestones and narrow sidewalks, presents challenges. Many main thoroughfares, public buildings, and newer developments are accessible.
Major museums typically feature ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms. Gravensteen and the Belfry feature lifts for significant ascent portions.
Specialized services may be limited. Contact the Ghent Tourist Office in advance for specific needs.
The Ghent Tourist Office information on accessible routes and attractions. Websites like Access-Able Travel Source offer general guidance.
While historic areas pose challenges, much of Ghent is adapting for accessibility. Advance communication with venues aids smoother visits.
