Belgium: Traveling In The Snow
When planning to travel in the snow in Belgium, there are a number of safety concerns that you need to be aware of, especially when elderly members of the family and children are going along too. The idea of Belgium vacationing in the snow during late December and January, making snow balls and pitching it at one another and that crisp breezy air is enough to get your spirit soaring and looking forward to fun. Below are some snow travel dos and don'ts that should be considered.
Belgium snow travel dos:
Buy equipment earlier, at least three or four months earlier. This will help you save a lot as prices of equipment go up considerably in season. Also, ensure that equipment is tried out for the fit. Don't eliminate the idea of renting equipment when going on a ski vacation. Indulge in comparison-shopping for ski swaps and used equipment in Belgium.
Look into Belgium snow vacation packages for accommodation and travel and ski equipment, so that you really get to see snow and aren't left high and dry. There are special Belgium combination-packages offered and put together by travel agents once you specify your budget and preferences. Take into consideration cancelled tickets and equipment.
Pack well: In the snow you will need your woolies, especially the children. Don't forget boots, mufflers, ear-bands and neck warmers and goggles. Also throw in lotions and creams and lip protecting gel.
In case you are traveling to Belgium with family members who have certain health conditions like asthma that get aggravated in extreme weather conditions, take the prescribed medication along and ensure that the hotel ahs the doctor-on-call facility.
Snow travel don'ts:
Pack the essentials first, like medication before anything else. Ensure that your money and valuables are with you all the time. Also keep copies of the itinerary and telephone numbers with all members of the family, at all times. Do not forget to carry along enough cold cream. Chills can spoil the vacation for the children specially. Mittens and helmets for the outdoors are a must for children when in Belgium during winter.
Avoid depending on local transport for travel to and from the airport. If it is snowing heavily or there is a delay of some sort, pre-planning transport with the hotel authorities makes more sense.
Tips while traveling in the snow:
Nature's splendor is seen in the snow washed surrounding and you can never get a better backdrop for photographs. Do not forget the camera and lots of film and extra batteries. The camcorder will be your best friend on this Belgian holiday. The snow and weather conditions will provide ample of opportunity to wear double and triple layers of clothing. So instead of carrying heavy woollies, carry clothing that can be worn consistently, with a new order of appearance every day on your fancy Belgian holiday.
Rent the snow equipment online from a resource near the hotel or provided by the hotel in advance. There is always scope to change sizes for the right fit and this saves you the trouble of carrying your own stuff unless you're a pro looking for adventure.
