If you are concerned about a language barrier when you travel, not to worry! Here, many of the locals speak fluent English in addition to French and Dutch (Flemish), so communication is not a problem. Don’t expect that all restaurants will have English on their menus, however. Many of them just have Flemish and French. Bring a menu translator if you need to, or don’t be afraid to ask if you’re not sure what something is. Menus are always posted outside of the restaurant or cafe, so you can see what they offer before going in.
Of course, you cannot resist buying Belgian chocolates while you are there. There are many chocolate shops, each offering unique flavors and chocolate designs. They also have very beautiful window displays, particularly around holidays. Lace and tapestries are also widely available and Belgium is also well known for its beer. There are countless shops that sell these items all over Brugge, but not as many in Ghent.
Just a word of caution: the streets are clogged with pedestrian, bicycle, and horse and buggy traffic, making driving through town difficult. Ghent also has a tram system, so tourists must take care when crossing tram lines. Both cities are pretty compact, and everything can be seen better on foot anyway. Just bring sturdy shoes for walking on cobblestones.
The weather is also frequently wet and windy, so be sure to pack an umbrella or a raincoat, even in summer.
A trip to Brugge and Ghent is a must if your European vacation includes Belgium. Take a few days to visit these two cities. Their impressive architecture, beautiful art, and gastronomic pleasures rival those of any of the European capitals. Just bring a French dictionary and a sense of adventure and don’t leave without a box of truffles and without a taste of the world famous Belgian waffle!