I did the count for the Belgian taxman: on avareg I have been less than half of the time in Belgium since 2007; a big chunk of those foreign days I’ve spend for work in Brasil.
Landed in Belgium yesterday for 10 days.
Each time I land it becomes the differences of both countries become more obvious; it’s the small things that make such big differences. I decided to keep a list these days, keep checking it, work in progress.
Belgium, the good (+) and the bad (-)
+ The parking spaces are huge; i mean HUGE.
+ Driving is so safe, so safe. I can nearly drive while sleeping.
- The foreigners are so… foreign.
- Banking is medieval. Seriously, driving to ING Kouter to be able to deposit money (not even talking what it takes to deposit foreign currency)
- Robbery on every corner. Everyone (rightfully) terrified of pickpockets; it starts in Zaventem.
+ Belgian supermarkets are cheap; I mean CHEAP.
+ Vegeteables are so fresh and good looking.
+ Delhaize. I miss Delhaize so much in Brasil !!
- Grey. Grey, always grey.
- Service in restaurants are horrible; rude, slow, nobody attending me. I miss my Brasilian waiters and waitresses so much.
- Everyone is so unfriendly. Smile people, smile and make me smile. It’s your duty.
- I miss the Brazilian humble “Tudo bem, graca a deus”
