Belgium - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture (2)

I was grateful to learn that the Belgians expect you to shake their hands firmly and look them in the eye. But I want to make one minor point. It's wise, as the guide says, not to bring up the tormented question of languages in Belgium, given its history. However, do not let that scare you off from speaking French in Flanders, if you know it and find Vlaams too hard. I constantly heard customers and patrons asking questions in French and waiters sometimes even asking them if they understood French. Obviously, English is used with Japanese tourists and others not likely to speak French, but French is not taboo. And I often fell back on it when my Vlaams ran out.

This guide focuses on Belgian customs and attitudes more than where the attractions are. Belgium, having such a split personality, makes this guide uniquely useful. For me, interacting with the people and the culture is a major part of the experience of travel so this is a nice primer. This is an accessory guide and should not be your main one.

This book has good content, but it is a bit boring. Sometimes the culture smart series are fun to read. While all the information in this text was true and relevant and useful, it was not as engaging as books in the series on other countries.

Gives a good overview of all aspects of Belgium & complexities of the people. Would have liked more insight for activities of tourists.

A great guide to the culture and customs of Belgium. I would not visit any other country without reading the appropriate book for that nation even though I lived and traveled in Europe for 5 years previously

Has info I need That will help me for my move. Do wish it was available on Audio

This small book is just filled with important information to help understand the history, customs, and culture of Belgium. I am very satisfied, and glad that I bought it!

My daughter is going to Belgium and said that after reading, that it was very helpful knowledge before she travels. She feels more confident.

A helpful cultural guide. Would be great to have an update version published.

Useful and readable if you want a quick reference guide. Handy as a reassuring starting point for approaching the culture.

Great book with all the essentials.I use the book in Intercultural sessions with expats and they love it.The rest of the series is equally good.

Bought this in kindle book form. I enjoyed it, finished in 2 days, the language she uses is rather funny. My Belgain boyfriend couldn't help but smile when she talks about some Belgian ironic facts. Personally found it 90% accurate, there are some topics that are rather subjective (the book is since 2005). Is useful for ppl who want to get to know more about Belgium and why it is the way it is now, pre and post travel, or just generally curious.

A very general and broad guide. Very informative as well.