The Berkeley Guides:
Berkeley Guide to Europe:
Belgium:
Flanders
Flanders is flat. Its monotonous topography has proven useful, however, as a convenient thoroughfare for invading armies (we won't name names) en route to France. Fortunately, the Flemish are not as boring as their region's geography. In fact, the Flemish are friendly, and most enjoy speaking English with travelers (though, as always, you should ask first). Actually, most Flemish can chat with you in English, French, Flemish, or German, but French would be their last choice--a strong separatist movement has developed here, perhaps as a result of the region's recent economic success. Historically, Flanders has been the poorer part of Belgium, but since World War II its industrial base has helped it surpass Wallonie in wealth and population. And as far as sightseeing goes, this area contains the nation's most interesting sights, especially in the towns of Brugge and Antwerp.
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