There are many mind blowing facts about Belgium. We share a birthday, and I’ll get back to that.
Belgium’s languages are well documented. This is a country where language use and signage is meticulous. When travelling on a train, live travel information is either given in Dutch or French or both, depending on the language area where the train is travelling. Belgium participation in the annual Eurovision song contest alternatives between French and Dutch language television broadcasters. Yet, the Belgium 2003 entry - which can second - was sung in a fictious made up language.
Belgium is one of the few countries that have become federal states. Many countries were created as federal states - the US, Australia, Australia and the Soviet Union. Following the 1993 St Michael's Agreement, Belgium became a federal country : with three regional governments and three communities. The Flemish regional government and Flemish community since unified.
Belgium politics is well know around the world. The longest periods without government. The 1990 constitutional crisis, when the monarch temporarily abdicated. The complex 2012 state reforms - including the division of Brussels-Halle-Vilvoorde (BHV), after years and years of talks. The 29 amendment to the constitutions since 1994.
Belgium has the world’s longest metre gauge tram network. Branded Kusttram runs for 67 km along the Belgian coast, serving 67 stops. On the other side of the country, is another impressive railway track. The legendary Ans–Liège Incline allows trains to descend into Liège/Luik - 6 km of gradient with 110 metre height difference. I’ve enjoyed this railway thrill many times.
I particular like Belgium. Not just for the food, the beer, the Eurovision entries and public transport. Best of all, Belgium’s declaration of independence is also my birthday. Though I am somewhat younger than Belgium.