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Detailed Planning Guide

Detailed Planning Guide

Flanders, Belgium

Pre-Trip Checklist

+ Months Ahead

Confirm passport validity, research visa needs, book international flights, secure accommodation, and arrange travel insurance.

Month Ahead

Finalize your itinerary, book tours, arrange local transport, check for events, and inform your bank of your travel plans.

Week Ahead

Confirm all bookings, pack appropriately, organize documents, download offline apps, and obtain some local currency.

Required Bookings & Reservations

Major Travel & Stays

  • Flights and major train segments require advance booking.
  • Accommodation reservations are important, especially in peak season.
  • Specific B&Bs often book quickly.
  • International high-speed train tickets offer lower fares when booked early.

Tours & Attractions

  • Tickets for the In Flanders Fields Museum are recommended for booking.
  • Reserve guided battlefield tours ahead of your visit.
  • Small group or specialized tours may sell out quickly.
  • Ensure all unique experiences are secured.

Pre-Trip Research Areas

Historical Background

Read up on WWI history and the Ypres Salient for appreciation of the sites.

Local Customs

Familiarize yourself with local customs and basic Dutch phrases to aid interaction.

Itinerary Optimization

Research efficient routes and local events during your travel dates.

Home Preparation

Before You Depart

Complete these tasks to leave your home worry-free.

Tasks

  • Inform Contacts:

    Notify family or friends of your itinerary.

  • Mail & Deliveries:

    Stop mail or newspaper delivery.

  • Pet/House Sitting:

    Arrange care for pets or home if needed.

Home Security

  • Secure Your Home:

    Secure all entry points.

  • Lighting Timers:

    Use timers for lights to create a lived-in appearance.

  • Security Systems:

    Activate any installed security systems.

Departure Checklist

Souvenir Management

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure date.

Inquire about shipping services at post offices if needed.

VAT Refund Process

Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases over €50.01.

Locate "Tax Free Shopping" signs and keep all receipts.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for travel to the airport or train station.

Factor in time for VAT refunds at the airport, if applicable.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight or train details. Ensure all documents are accessible.

Additional Considerations

A few extra thoughts for a flawless trip.

Luggage & Packing

  • Pack according to airline luggage allowances.
  • Consider packing cubes from Eagle Creek for organization.
  • Layering clothing works well with variable weather.
  • An umbrella or rain jacket is a practical addition.

Digital Readiness

  • Download offline maps for navigation without data.
  • Download offline translation app language packs.
  • Charge all electronics and power banks.
  • Back up important travel photos and documents.

Important Contacts

Keep these contacts accessible for any situation.

Essential Numbers

  • Emergency Services:112
  • Local Police (non-emergency):101
  • Your Bank's Fraud Line:(Lookup)
  • Travel Insurance Hotine:(Lookup)

Financial Readiness

  • Obtain some local currency (Euros) for immediate needs upon arrival.
  • Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card freezes.
  • Carry a mix of payment methods.
  • Keep track of expenses and retain receipts.

Final Confirmation Steps

Recheck all bookings, flight times, and transport arrangements.

Ensure all necessary documents are physically and digitally accessible.