You have to love the full name of this country, it is the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, because it is ruled by a Grand Duke, of course and the only one of its kind on the planet.
Languages spoken here are German, French and Luxembourgish. English is understood, particularly in the capital, the namesake of the country.
Many Frenchmen, Germans and Belgians pop over to stock up on tipple, presumably because of tax reasons. This gives Luxembourg the artificial title of biggest boozers per capita.
Never drink on an empty stomach. Try some ‘Cochon de lait en gelée’ or jellied sucking pig. The cuisine is specific to the country but influenced by other countries. Eating kosher, then try the trout. The pastries are delicious but watch out, they pack a punch as they are often flavoured with alcohol. You don’t have to tip, but it is good form to round up a Euro or two.
Scenically, the country has much to offer. Walk through the dense forests, hike alongside babbling brooks or climb the rocky outcrops. Rolling valleys and hilltop castles, this is a landscape straight out of a fairytale.
Take a boat ride down the Moselle River and sample the fruits of the vine, conveniently bottled and matured for your pleasure. This river passes Schengen as it leaves Luxembourg. It is here that the agreement of the same name was signed. If you have ever needed a Shengen visa at least now you know why.
There are of course a number of museums and galleries across the country, but war buffs must visit Clervaux where the “Battle of the Bulge” is remembered.
