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Tips for a Day Out of Brussels
In a country that blends French and Flemish influences, a day out of its capital reveals an interesting fusion the two. The vicinity of Brussels is diverse and much more peaceful than the busy city. From the capital, a rather low-rise European city, resembling a friendly turn-of-the-century traditional settlement, major roads lead far into the countryside. Just pick one and follow it until the buildings and cars become scarce. If you plan a day out of Brussels, simply follow the guidelines listed below.
International Identification
Always carry some kind of a personal ID with you. The Belgian police are particularly strict when it comes to travellers from the United States or Eastern Europe. Remember to take your passport with you if you're not from the EU, and if you're travelling in your own car, a valid international driving licence and the identification papers plus insurance of your vehicle. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit on their proper places. If you take any prescription medication, you should have your receipts and the prescription itself, sealed and signed by a certified doctor.
Getting Around
Undoubtedly, the best way to get to any place in Belgium is by train. The local train system is fast user-friendly. In fact, trains for locations in the immediate vicinity of Brussels might depart every 15 to 20 minutes, while cities located further might require a half-an-hour wait. Student discounts, group ticketing, etc. apply when presenting a proper picture ID. Travelling by train is made even easier with the ticket machines found almost everywhere at the train stations. You avoid waiting in a line and you can purchase your ticket even five minutes before departure. As the countryside is particularly attractive, getting around by bike is also a popular choice. The traffic is surprisingly low, and biking on designated trails is fun. Cycling routes are almost everywhere. Travelling in Belgium is relatively safe, as the roads are well signposted and the road conditions are surprisingly good.
Plan Ahead
Planning your trip to the smallest detail is a time-saver. Thus, find a recent map of the Brussels vicinity with all the roads and places to visit listed, then prepare a plan of your journey and write down the number of hours you intend to spend on each location. If riding a bike, take into account fatigue and the nature of the terrain, as uphill pedalling could be very time-consuming. Once you have drawn a relatively accurate outline of your journey, double-check the working schedules of the museums and places you intend to visit.