Located in northern Europe, Belgium borders France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.  One of the least integrated countries in Europe, Belgium has three official languages: Flemmish, French and German.  Mainly, Flemish (or Dutch) speakers reside in the north, the French speakers live in the south (Wallonia), and the few German speakers to the east.  The language divide is accompanied by a cultural divide, and although politicians have been able to bridge the gap in the past by forming coalitions, this has proven more difficult in recent years.

In 2007 after the June elections, Belgium’s political leaders failed to form a national government, leaving the country without one for months.  In July of 2008, the Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme offered his resignation to the king, revealing the complications of both a language and geographical gap between the Flemish and French-speaking areas of Belgium. 

Despite Belgium’s turbulent political environment as of late, the country still maintains wonderful culture and history for backpackers to enjoy.  With Brussels as the headquarters of the European Union, along with other international associations, and beautiful cosmopolitan cities like Antwerp attracting business and vibrant nightlife, Belgium provides an array of attractions and cultural experiences for backpackers.

 Map courtesy of: http://www.appliedlanguage.com/country_guides/Belgium.shtml