How to Find Luxury Hotels in Belgium

Whether you are trekking through the forests of the Ardennes or basking in the glow of Antwerp's diamond center, you can stay in the lap of luxury throughout the beautiful and historic country of Belgium. In a country as culturally rich as this, finding accommodations to suit even the most refined taste is a simple task.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Visa (if staying more than 90 days)
• Computer with Internet access for making reservations

Know Your Destination

1. Experience diversity in Belgium, which is bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Roughly as large as the state of Maryland, it consists of three distinct regions: Flanders (primarily Dutch-speaking), Brussels (a bi-lingual region where both French and Dutch are spoken), and Wallonia (which is divided into two regions, one French-speaking, the other German).

2. Pack layers when traveling to Belgium. The climate is mild in the winter and cool in the summer, with some rain and clouds.

3. Find a currency exchange during your travels to change your dollars for euros, which became this country's official currency in 2002.

Organize Transportation in Belgium

4. Fly into the Brussels National Airport in Zaventum (BRU). From the airport, take the bus or rail to get to your final destination.

5. Get around Belgium using its inexpensive, modern and fast public transportation. Belgium is small so you can get to most locations within a couple of hours and between larger destinations there are rail connections, with bus transportation covering the smaller distances.

6. Bike your way through Belgium, especially the Flanders region. But be sure to lock your bike when you go on foot, bicycle theft is a common crime in Belgium.

Choose Your Lodging in Belgium

7. To book accommodations, contact the Belgian Tourist Office in the Americas at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources, below). Find fine accommodations in the world's "diamond center," Antwerp. A culturally rich city with historical buildings dating to the 16th century, Antwerp boasts many luxury hotels within its city limits. Lodging can be found in high-end hotels for around $225 a night.

8. Go to Ardennes for the rustic luxury of the outdoor lifestyle. Located in the Wallonian region of Belgium, this area features beautiful valley and forest vistas as well as fine accommodations for the discerning traveller. Deluxe rooms can be reserved for under $200 at most fine hotels in this area.

9. Stay in Brussels where the movers and shakers of the EU find luxury and old world charm. Deluxe accommodations can be found for around $200 a night, depending on the season.

Tips & Warnings

• Get adapters if you plan to use hairdryers, electric razors or other electrical appliances in your Belgium accommodations. Electricity in Belgium runs from 220 to 230V 50Hz.
• Though French, German and Dutch are among the country's official languages, English is widely spoken throughout the region.
• Keep in mind that the VAT of 21 percent added to every purchase is refundable to all non-EU tourists, provided you file your refund.
• All taxes as well as a service charge are included in your bill at most restaurants. It is customary to round up to the nearest Euro or tip an extra 10 percent for exceptional service.