Calling all would-be Turing Scheme or Erasmus+ students! Are you considering Belgium as your destination country or perhaps it isn’t on your radar yet? With world-class universities, especially Top 100 Ghent University and the University of Antwerp, you’d be well advised to put Belgium on your shortlist. We’ve compiled a list of fascinating facts about Belgium to pique your interest a little more! Don’t forget, you can always discuss your school, college or university’s placement needs with our team at TravelEdventures, click here to get in touch.
1. Belgium is Called The Heart of Europe
This is because it is right in the centre of Western Europe and it’s the home of the EU (European Union), situated in the capital, Brussels, as well as NATO. So, it’s well-regarded as a central hub for international politics and diplomacy.
2. There’s Lots of Language Choice!
For language students, Belgium is the ideal choice because it has three official languages, Dutch, French and German (you’ll also find that most people speak good English). There are three regions of Belgium, the Dutch Speaking Flanders area, Wallonia, which is French-speaking and a small German-speaking community in the East of the country. When you visit Brussels, the capital city, you’ll find Dutch and French most widely spoken. Belgium’s language diversity makes it a real melting pot of tradition and culture.
3. It’s the Chocolate Centre!
If you’ve never eaten a Belgian chocolate, then you’ve missed out! Belgian chocolate is arguably the finest in the world and Belgium is home to more than 2,000 chocolatiers, you’ll see a chocolate shop on almost every street corner and its renowned for luxury chocolate brands such as Godiva and Leonidas. So if you love chocolate, you can’t fail to visit Belgium and if you’re on a placement out there – just make sure you counter the effects of chocolate by balancing it with plenty of exercise! Did you know that the praline (a famous chocolate recipe) was first invented in 1912 by Belgian Jean Neuhaus? Try one and visit the chocolate museum too
4. A Chocolate Lovers Paradise
Belgium is synonymous with high-quality chocolate, and its reputation is well-deserved. The country is home to more than 2,000 chocolatiers, ranging from small, artisanal shops to large, renowned companies like Godiva and Leonidas. Belgian chocolate is celebrated for its smooth texture and rich flavor, a result of meticulous craftsmanship and the use of high-quality ingredients. The praline, a filled chocolate treat, was invented in Belgium in 1912 by Jean Neuhaus, further cementing the country's legacy in the world of confectionery. Visitors to Belgium can indulge in a wide variety of chocolates and even visit Chocolate Nation in Antwerp, a museum dedicated to the sweet treat.
5. And Don’t Forget Beer
Every student loves a beer (well, most do!) and Belgium’s beer culture is legendary, it’s even recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Did you know, Belgium boasts over 1,500 different beers (and many are brewed by Trappist monks!). Belgian beers are served in special glasses, designed to enhance flavour and aroma. You should definitely go to one of Belgium’s beer festivals, like the Belgian Beer Weekend, which is held in early September, just in time for a new semester to begin!
Talk to Us About an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme in Belgium!
Our friendly, helpful team are only an email away so let us organise your school, college or university’s Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme trip to Belgium.
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