FAQs

Question

Do I need to learn French to come to your wedding?

Answer

Nope! Ghent is actually in the Dutch part of Belgium! If you know some French, that's fantastic and you will be able to converse with locals easily, but the good news is most everyone speaks English.

Question

We want to do some more traveling in Europe before/after the wedding. What do you recommend?

Answer

Europe. We recommend Europe. All of it--as much as you can see, do it. Just a train ride away is The Netherlands (which is incredible). The beach at The Hague, the small town of Delft, and Castle de Haar were all must-sees. Paris is obviously on the list, too, but if you're worried about a language barrier, just a short flight or train ride away England/Scotland/Wales/Ireland away. Also, flights from Belgium to other parts of Europe make places like Italy, Prague, Germany, or Croatia easily accessible!

Question

Helpful apps to download before your trip

Answer

Google Translate: Not only will this app help you if you need to ask for a bathroom, but there is a "Google Lens" option on the app so you can point your camera and translate menus, museum descriptions, and plaques! Google Maps and Waze: These apps help you get from here to there. Google Maps is great if you're on foot with features that help the app orient itself to where you are (even if you don't know where you are), and Waze is a must if you plan to rent a car (see further down for more information about renting a car). Bolt: This is Belgium's Uber. (No guarantees that it will work in other countries.) TrainLine: Trains and train routes in and out of Brussels and around Europe. Your one-stop-shop to plan your route and buy tickets. Flixbus: This bus line can get you ANYWHERE! Stops are conveniently located and prices are very reasonable if you have time bus from point A to B. Booking.com: This app makes it so easy to find hotels (even at the last-minute!). No matter where you're going, this app can help you find a place to stay. Dott or Lime: HIGHLY recommend downloading these bike- / scooter-share apps. These allow you to use e-bikes and e-scooters in most of Western Europe (unfortunately, not the UK). It is THE way to see Paris as it is quick and very affordable.

Question

Anything we should pack in particular?

Answer

If you are planning to spend some additional time in Europe, we highly recommend the following items: Comfortable walking shoes (trust us, you’re going to be walking A LOT in whatever country you choose to explore) At least one plug adapter so you can charge your phone (if you are bringing additional electric items, you might want to investigate power converters as the plugs here deliver 220 volts) A rain coat A sweater, sweatshirt or light jacket (almost October in Europe can get a little chilly)

Question

Should we rent a car?

Answer

Great question and the answer is: most likely no. While it does help you get from point A to point B a little more expeditiously, the public transportation in Belgium and around Europe is fantastic. If you are traveling to Ghent from Paris or Amsterdam, for example, you will be able to get a train directly to Brussels. From Brussels city (or its airport), you can easily get a train to Ghent—about a 30 minute ride. You then have the option to get a bus to the hotel or we can meet you at the station and get you to the hotel. In Ghent, the best ways to get around are on foot or an e-bike. Check out the Dott and Lime apps for more information about e-bikes.

Question

Can we extend our stay at the hotel?

Answer

Yep! You sure can (and we don't blame you--this hotel is GORGEOUS!) As soon as you know you'd like to extend your stay, we recommend you call to get your room reserved for additional days.

Question

Ummm... what if I want to buy souvenirs (or clothes ;) and run out of space in my suitcase?

Answer

We're so glad you asked! We have access to a US Post Office on base and would be happy to mail your items home for you. (We'll just need to meet up to get those items from you before your flight home.)