Gent Warnings and Dangers

Summer 2003 was really hot, sticky hot with this heatwave devastating Europe.

While visiting Belgium, now is the time for locals, who use to nag about Belgian rainy weather, to pray for some rain. :)

My advices: bring some bottle of water while walking through the city. In addition, don't go under the sun if you are too sensitive unless you have your strong SPF cream. Sunglasses are useful to avoid this bright light hindering you.

If you drive, don't leave neither the pets, neither the kids, neither your mother-in-law in your car while having your shopping spree. And bring some extra bottles of water. These are the times when the three categories above mentioned (yes, the older mother-in-law, too) are especially vulnerable. Take care of them.

Yes - this is a train coming from Antwerp - first class seats - airconditioned in the summer - and a special equipment on the roof of the train used in winter time ! A special heating system with chimney exhaust pipes!
PS - dear Vt members - this is only a joke between citizens of Antwerp (shadow city) and proud people like me living in Ghent - the place to be whenever visiting Belgium

This is not really a warning or danger, but an observation and only one persons experience. The one thing that I found strange about Ghent, is the atmosphere on the buses and the trains. Though most adults are very friendly, some of the students from the University are very aloof. They sometimes won't give you room, their attitude is imposing, and it became a little disconcerting over time. Most will not crack a smile or befriend you in any way. I mentioned this to a friend who lives in Ghent, and he told me that the professors at the University lecture negatively about the USA and Americans in general, and that's why the students are standoffish. The feeling is similar to the warm welcome you receive on the Paris Metro.

Though the park at daylight is somewhat quiet despite the number of culture, sport centers, casino around, it is another story in the evening.

The park is renowned for "hosting" male prostitutes for gay sex in the area. Also, the ara is known for cruising. It is a spot where gays meet each other, not necessarily for prostitution.

The trouble would come from some harrassements from them or troublemakers involved in the business.... Nonetheless, an insider told me that the trouble rather comes from gay bashers.

I would just avoid going there at night..

Pay attention when you walk, the quays don't have any rope nor fence to prevent you from falling in water.

Locals use to gather on the quays (Graslei and Koreneli) to have some fun with drinks and music. They are used to it. But what about you? Who would like a nice encountering with the rescue services that would pull you out from water?...

Special warning for springbreakers and parents with small kids :)

November the 8th - some close Vt-members sitting at the table nr 23 - in the Dulle Griet
Gonnie made her choice out of more than 250 beers - a "Gentsche Tripple"
BTW - look at the symbol of Ghent "The Strop"
she is wearing - thx folks for being my guest

2 more images

In the meantime - a "must" when i guide guests in my beloved city.
The store of the Fallen Angel-located in the Jan Breydelstraat,
Caro-Irisbe - family Tompt and Ralph - we had a great time and always welcome folks for a next "Téte-à-téte"

In fact - on this picture TWO "Dulle grieten" - Danielle and Gonnie - we had a great time in this famous café - drinking a good glass of belgian beer ! A good laugh while Tom was excited by drinking a KWAK-We eating cheese with mostard from the factory Tierentijn Danielle bought