Belgium

Belgium is a small nation in north-western Europe covering 30,000 sq. kms and with a population of 10.1 million. Upper Belgium contains some forested regions and fertile and intensely cultivated areas. Lower Belgium is dissected by canals and irrigation ducts traversing reclaimed land. Half of the total land area is meadow or pasture.

The climate is cool temperate with maritime influences. The winters are mild and the summers cool, with higher temperatures inland. The winds are west and southwest and usually wet. Temperatures vary between 2°C in January to 17°C in July.