What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Kortrijk?

We asked people in Kortrijk if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"In Kortrijk, it's important to respect the local language. The city is located in the Flemish region, where Dutch is the primary language. Even if you're not fluent, making an effort to learn a few basic phrases can go a long way. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and the linguistic divide between the Flemish and Walloon regions. These topics can be quite divisive and are best avoided in casual conversation. Belgians value punctuality, so try not to be late for appointments or social gatherings. If you are running late, it's polite to call and let your host know. When dining, it's considered rude to begin eating before everyone has been served. Also, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and remember to say 'smakelijk' (bon appétit) before you start eating. Belgians are known for their love of beer, but it's considered impolite to get excessively drunk. Enjoy your beer, but do so responsibly. In Belgium, it's customary to greet with a kiss on the cheek, starting with the right. However, this is usually reserved for people who know each other well. A handshake is the standard greeting for first meetings. Avoid being overly loud or drawing attention to yourself in public places. Belgians tend to be quite reserved and value their privacy. Lastly, tipping is not mandatory in Belgium as service charge is included in the bill. However, if you received exceptional service, leaving a small tip is appreciated," commented one expat who made the move to Kortrijk, Belgium.

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