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Travel Tips
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Traveling to Belgium
Editor’s note: Global business, and subsequently, global business travel, continues to expand rapidly. In response, CWT Traveler will provide to readers each month insights and tips on traveling from North America to other countries around the world. This month’s installment focuses on Belgium.
Good to know:
- Most Belgians take a one-month vacation annually.
- Belgium is six hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
- Conversing with Belgians while you have your hand in your pocket is considered rude.
- When gifts are given, it is considered polite to open the gift immediately in front of the gift giver.
- Conservative dress is the norm in Belgium. Clothes should be clean and pressed.
In business:
- When scheduling a business meeting, always phone or e-mail at least one week in advance.
- It is important to use high-quality graphics during business presentations, Belgians value visuals.
- Be punctual. Always arrive on time or earlier for a business meeting.
- The first business meeting is usually a social one. Some Belgians like to get to know a person before they decide whether they want to conduct business with them.
- Exchanging business cards is a standard practice in Belgium. It is good to have business cards translated on the reverse side; present the side of the card with the language of your colleague facing him or her.
Sources: travel.state.gov, “Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands: The Bestselling Guide to Doing Business in More Than 60 Countries,” by Terri Morrison and Wayne A. Conaway. Published by Adams Media of Avon, Massachusetts.
How to avoid travel scams
Be alert. Keep belongings close. Read the fine print. Ask questions. Avoiding travel scams can save business travelers time and money; and can also keep traveling a stress-free experience. Below are a couple of common travel scams to watch for during business or leisure travel, and tips on avoiding them.
Airport security area theft—Travelers should try to have their belongings pass through the metal detector simultaneously with themselves. Keep a close eye on MP3 players and laptops during the security check, as these items may be appealing to potential thieves. Always have luggage and personal items in close proximity if selected for a secondary screening.
Taxi scams—Some cab drivers may attempt to take advantage of visitors who appear to have no idea where they are going. Scams usually involve taking a much longer route than necessary to the destination or even “forgetting” to turn on the meter. When travelling, it is advised to use certified hotel or airport taxis, or the employer’s preferred ground transportation provider, if applicable. If this is not possible, try to have the route mapped out prior to the taxi ride or question the driver if he/she seems to be driving out of the way.
Source: ForbesTraveler.com, www.msnbc.msn.com
