Practical Matters
Ghent
Before You Go
When You Are There
*Time
*Arriving
*Customs
*Money
*National Holidays
*Tourist Offices
*Opening Hours
*Public Transportation
*Driving
*Car Rental
*Taxis
*Personal Safety
*Telephones
*Post
*Tips/Gratuities
*Electricity
*Health
*Clothing Sizes
*Concessions
Language
Offices to Serve You Abroad
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HEALTH
Health insurance
Within the EU there are agreements about the payment of medical costs for visitors from other member states but not all risks
are covered. For example, you will need extra insurance to cover dental treatment. Ask your travel insurer what cover you
need for Belgium. Credit cards may provide some insurance cover. Non-EU visitors need full medical cover.
Dentist
Make sure that your medical insurance covers dental treatment.
Protection from the sun
The early sun (May, June) can be treacherous and a sun cream will protect you from being chapped by the wind. Asthma patients
should stay indoors in good weather because of the high ozone concentration. Midges are a summer problem in Ghent and you
can buy slow-burning tablets in the supermarkets against these little pests.
Medicines
If you take medicines regularly take them with you and a doctor's note to avoid problems at Customs. You can phone 0900-10500
to find out which pharmacist is on duty. Most medicines are not obtainable without a prior visit to the doctor.
Safe drinking water
Although tap water is generally safe and drunk by most locals, some areas have rust in the mains and there is a lot of lime
in the water. Mineral water is cheap and easily obtainable. If you ask for a glass of water in a café or restaurant, you will
be served mineral water and expected to pay for it.
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