In addition to your luggage, comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure, there's something else you want to make sure you bring on your trip to Belgium: travel medical insurance. It can go a long way in alleviating financial strain if your trip encounters a few speedbumps.
Belgium Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Illnesses and accidents can arrive unannounced, and they can become more problematic when they occur in another country. Medical care during an international trip can be costly. This is why is pays to have travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Belgium?
Some travelers require a Schengen visa to enter Belgium. If this is the case for you, then it is required that you have compliant health insurance that meets all Schengen requirements. This includes a minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage, as well as coverage for repatriation of remains and emergency medical evacuation.
If you are exempt from these requirements, you should still strongly consider getting insurance. It has the potential to save you a significant amount of money should you require medical care in Belgium.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Belgium?
Mishaps and illnesses can happen at any time. And while Belgium has excellent hospitals and healthcare facilities, their services will not come cheap for international travelers. If you were to get sick or suffer an injury in Belgium without insurance, you would be responsible for paying a bill that may be greater than your entire trip budget out of your own pocket. To avoid unnecessary financial strain, be a prepared traveler and get travel medical insurance.
Things to Do for Travelers in Belgium
Belgium is known for many things, including famous Belgian chocolates and beer. However, this incredible destination goes far beyond its famous exports. With medieval and historical buildings to explore, it's ideal for the history buff. Vast forests and quiet waterways beckon to nature lovers. Impressive cities delight with attractions for the whole family. Whatever you're interested in, you're likely to find it in Belgium.
From stunning landscapes to majestic castles, historical battlefields, and gastronomic adventures, Belgium has so much to offer to visitors. It also has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the form of museums, townhouses, and basilicas. Read on to know more about some of the must-visit sites in the country.
Waterloo
The site for one of the most decisive and notable battles in history, Waterloo is the place where Napoleon suffered the defeat which led to his ultimate undoing. The battlefield is covered with lush green vegetation today. Climb to the artificial hilltop to get a magnificent view of the adjoining countryside.
Grand Place, Brussels
Belgium's capital city is home to the impressive Grand Place, a location encircled by exquisitely decorated guildhalls and medieval town halls. The buildings speak volumes about the Gothic architecture that was perfected by medieval Belgian architects. Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tourists flock to all year long.
Ghent's Gravensteen
This massive moated fortress in Ghent used to be the dwelling place of the counts of Flanders. Inspired heavily by the Crusade-era castles of Syria, the robust walls of the fortress seem to rise right from the waters of the River Lieve. Check out the wonderful architecture on the walls inside the fortress before climbing to the rooftop to get a panoramic view of the charming old town of Ghent.
Meuse Valley
Take a trip to rural Belgium to get a feel for the country life. Enjoy some boating on the Meuse River while you admire the densely forested countryside. You can also view rocky hills, limestone cliffs, and ruins of medieval fortresses.
Ardennes Forest
Spread over more than 11,000 square kilometers, Ardennes Forest is an ideal place to indulge in some hiking and trekking activities. You are sure to build up an appetite after a day of outdoor activities, so afterwards you can feast on venison, smoked ham, and other local treats. And don't forget to wash it down with some excellent Belgian Trappist beer.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Belgium
Belgium is considered quite safe for visitors. However, it always pays to take a few safety tips into account.
Securing Valuables
Pickpockets have been known to frequent crowded areas like Grand Palace, as well as rail stations. It's best to keep your wallet in your front pocket, or wear your purse across your body to help protect your valuables.
Public Demonstrations
In Belgian cities, particularly near embassies and European Union institutions, public demonstrations have been known to take place. It's hard to predict the nature of these demonstrations, so tourists are advised to go elsewhere and avoid the crowds.
Train Safety
Luggage theft can occur during travel, particularly on international trains. Keep your carryon baggage close to you at all times to prevent an inconvenience.
Before You Travel to Belgium - Do This
- Maintain several copies of your passport and travel documents. Keep them separate from your cash and credit cards.
- Drink responsibly. Trappist beer in Belgium is extremely popular. However, keep in mind that its alcohol content may be more than double what you're used to.
- Don't forget travel medical insurance, even if it's not obligatory for you to have. It can give you financial peace of mind throughout your trip.