What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Belgium?
We asked people in Belgium if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Belgium. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Belgians tend to dress more formally than in other countries. It is also important to be aware of the local language, as many Belgians speak both French and Dutch. It is considered impolite to speak loudly in public places, and it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when dining out. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to respect them," remarked another expat in Belgium.
Other Questions:
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- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Belgium?
If you live in Belgium, newcomers to Belgium would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.