Have you ever travelled solo? Although at first it is a daunting concept, once you’ve taken your first trip alone, you’ll realise a freedom you’ve never felt before. You can truly do exactly what you want, when you want to do it and don’t have to wait for or rely on anyone else. Here are our top tips to make your solo trip to Belgium and its gorgeous second city, Antwerp, go as smoothly as possible.
Local tips:
Belgium is a vibrant, multicultural country with warm and friendly locals. You can travel to Belgium with little to none of the local language and still manage. Their native language is Flemish, but a lot of the residents also speak Dutch, French and English.
The local currency is Euros, as with most of Europe. Try to avoid changing money in airports when you arrive, it usually works our more expensive. Research some prepaid, fee-free exchange cards like Revolut, see which one is the best value.
Do some research about places you want to visit before you arrive so you’re not wandering aimlessly. Although Belgium/Antwerp are quite safe places, like any city, you’ll need to keep your wits about you. Download an app like Spotted by Locals for an insider insight into what to do.
Getting around:
Getting to and from Belgium can be costly, especially if you travel in high season. If you’re not there for any special occasion, try to travel in off-peak times. Using price comparison websites for flights, like Skyscanner, can give you a good idea of the cheapest time to travel.
Getting from place to place in Belgium is quite easy and relatively cheap. Rail services by Thalys, Eurostar, TGV®, ICE and InterCity form an extensive rail network in the heart of Europe, linking Belgium to its neighbouring countries. Buy tickets in advance from SNCB for the best value.
Belgium has a thriving bike culture and depending on the city you’re in, it can be the easiest way to get around. Antwerp, for example, has a bike rental scheme in place called Velo, which you can sign up to for a week and ride all day for free.
Packing:
The warmest months are May to September, but you are just as likely to get a rainy day in July as you are in November. Make sure to pack rainproof comfortable footwear, and light layers to keep you warm.
The plug sockets are like most of Europe, a two-pin circular plug or a multiway adaptor should suffice. Try to get an adaptor with a voltage converter too as your home appliances may differ. Try to ensure your devices are fully charged and always on if travelling alone.
Make sure to pack your camera as there is so much beauty in Belgium you won’t want to miss a moment. Some of the most popular attractions across the country include:
- Manneken Pis Statue
- Brussels Grand Palace
- The gorgeous city of Bruges
- A boat trip in Ghent
- Rubenhuis – former home and studio of Rubens
- A beach day in Ostend
Accommodation:
It’s important when travelling alone, to find a safe place in a safe area that specialises in solo travellers’ accommodation. PREMIER SUITES Plus Antwerp and all of the PREMIER SUITES peroperties have a lone traveller policy to ensure every effort is made to protect our solo guests and respect their privacy and safety.
Accommodation in Belgium can be hit and miss, so make sure you stay in a trusted and reliable property with a good reputation. PREMIER SUITES across Belgium and Europe offer the highest level of safety, cleanliness and quality in each of our properties so you are sure you are staying with the best.
Dining solo is another daunting task, more so than commuting or sightseeing. If you don’t fancy a ‘table for one’ situation, you can save time and money by making use of PREMIER SUITES Plus Antwerp fully equipped kitchen and dining area within your suite. It’s also useful to cater to special dietary requirements and allergies.
If you’re looking for all of the luxury of a hotel stay with more space and better amenities, consider PREMIER SUITES Plus Antwerp for your accommodation in Belgium. Contact our reservations team to learn more or make a booking for your solo travellers’ accommodation.
