Belgium is a sovereign state in Western Europe bordered by France, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and the North Sea. Straddling the cultural boundary between Germanic and Latin Europe, Belgium is home to two main linguistic groups: the Dutch-speaking, mostly Flemish community, which constitutes about 59% of the population, and the French-speaking, mostly Walloon population, which comprises 41% of all Belgians. Additionally, there is a small group of German-speakers who live in the East Cantons located around the High Fens area, and bordering Germany.
It is a small, densely populated country which covers an area of 30,528 square kilometres (11,787 sq mi) and has a population of about 11 million people.
Time difference UTC+1 daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October.
Natural HazardsFlooding is a threat along rivers and in areas of reclaimed coastal land, protected from the sea by concrete dikes.
FinesFines usually begin at 11 kilometres per hour (6.8 mph) above speed limit. When caught, the offender can choose to settle and pay the fine or dispute the offence before a court. If the offender is travelling 40 kilometres per hour (25 mph) or more above the speed limit, the offender's driving license will immediately be revoked for at least two weeks. The offender is required to go to court, and cannot settle beforehand.
Additional InformationThe official language of Belarus is Belarusian, but Russian is also spoken.
In Belgium you must be 18 years or older to drive a car, whether it is hired or temporarily imported, the same rule applies for those driving a motorbike.
FuelIn Belgium Unleaded petrol (95 and 98 octane), diesel and LPG are all available. Petrol in a can is permitted, but forbidden aboard ferries. Credit cards are accepted at filling stations but check with your card issuer for usage in Belgium before travel.
Speed LimitsSpeed limits in Belgium are as follows, unless otherwise indicated: Built-up areas: 50 Km/h (30 Km/h in school areas) National Roads: between 70 Km/h and 90 Km/h. Motorways: 120 Km/h.
Drinking & DrivingBelgium has strict drink driving laws, only allowing 0.5 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood - stricter than the UK where the limit is 0.8.
Seat BeltsAll passengers in the front of the vehicle must be wearing seat belts at all times. But for your safety, if provided we would recommend using a seat belt.
Passengers/ChildrenAny child under 12 years must not travel in the front of the car as a passenger, and must be sitting in a suitable car seat fitted to their size.