Culture Shock in Belgium
With such a rich and diverse cultural history, Belgium encompasses not only its own culture, but also that of other countries in its love of the arts. Because of this many expats will feel that they are part of something bigger and not just foreigners in an unfamiliar land. With the charm of its Gothic cathedrals, gabled guildhouses, town halls and rich museums, Belgium has inspired many artists and writers.
The language difference is the most immediate difficulty for expats with Dutch (Flemish) being the most spoken language and French being widely spoken in the south of the country. Brussels is bilingual with French and English being widely spoken. If locating to smaller cities such as Ghent or Antwerp it would be wise to learn a few Dutch phrases.
Belgians are best described as ‘bon vivant’, reserved and cautious and it is said that you will only hear a true Belgian speak whilst eating.
Belgians are famed for their gastronomy and beer and expats who choose to live here might want to prepare themselves (and their waistlines) for this gastronomic delight of a country that specialises in waffles, chocolates, pralines and french fries.
The language difference is the most immediate difficulty for expats with Dutch (Flemish) being the most spoken language and French being widely spoken in the south of the country. Brussels is bilingual with French and English being widely spoken. If locating to smaller cities such as Ghent or Antwerp it would be wise to learn a few Dutch phrases.
Belgians are best described as ‘bon vivant’, reserved and cautious and it is said that you will only hear a true Belgian speak whilst eating.
Belgians are famed for their gastronomy and beer and expats who choose to live here might want to prepare themselves (and their waistlines) for this gastronomic delight of a country that specialises in waffles, chocolates, pralines and french fries.
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