Travel guide – antwerp
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Overview
Antwerp has shrugged off its reputation as a purely industrial port city and is now known for its energetic nightlife with an active cultural scene. It has a dense concentration of things to see. Among the beautifully preserved Gothic and Baroque architecture are many churches, museums and galleries. The work of the local sculptor, Peter Paul Reubens, surfaces all over the city, most notably at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. At the centre of the city is the Grote Markt with the baroque Brabo Fountain in the middle. There are countless shopping opportunities and trendy bars and nightclubs around the city for the fashion-conscious and young at heart.
Climate
Belgium has temperate weather, warm in summer (May to September) and cool to cold in winter, with snow very likely.
Health
No vaccinations are required. Medical facilities and care in Belgium are excellent but expensive so travellers are advised to take out medical insurance. UK citizens receive emergency medical care for a reduced cost, but should have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), to qualify. Increased cases of hantavirus (caused by rodents) have been reported in Luxembourg province, Liège, Namur and Hainaut provinces.
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