LUXEMBOURG THE SECOND RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD
LUXEMBOURG THE SECOND RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD
Luxembourg, also known as Grand Duchy, is a European country encompassed by France, Belgium, and Germany. Many years ago, I thought Luxembourg was a state in another country. However, as my travel knowledge grew, I realised it is a quiet, independent country and one of the world’s major financial and business centers and tax havens. Luxembourg is one of the smallest and the second-richest countries in the world. According to its GDP per capita, it is the second richest, if not the richest country in the world. It is also another one of the more expensive countries I have visited during my travels. However, compared to Switzerland, it is an average of 15% cheaper. Luxembourg is also the name of the country’s capital and is one of the safest, most peaceful, and cleanest countries/cities worldwide. Additionally, Luxembourg has some of the smoothest roads I have ever seen. Even in rural areas, they maintain the roads with proper signage and reflectors. Please continue reading to find out what’s it like to travel to Luxembourg the second richest country in the world.
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I spent 8 beautiful days in Luxembourg but unfortunately, I accidentally deleted 95% of the album, which included photos and videos. Not only this country but 2 others, including Amsterdam. Most of the pictures I recovered were re-sent to me from friends who I shared them with while in the country.
ARRIVAL AT LUXEMBOURG AIRPORT
Entry into Luxembourg-Findel International Airport was smooth and straightforward because the airport is small and has only two terminals which was quite comforting. Please note the airport opens at 4 am and closes at midnight daily, and they only allow those with boarding passes to stay inside. Currently, there seems to be some expansion work occurring at the airport.
My interaction with T.S.A. Officers was quite brief, with no mention of hotel bookings or return tickets, just a quick entry stamp and go. The luggage pick-up section was quite small and well organised according to airline arrivals. It was an easy exit and then (free) transport to the city.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO THE CITY
From the Findel International Airport to the city, there are three options: taxis (the most expensive), Smart Shuttle Lux (door2gate shared service and cheaper than taxis) bus (6, 16, and 28). The bus is free for all travellers and takes 10 – 15 minutes to the city. There are no Uber, Lyft, or Bolt.
ABOUT THE CITY OF LUXEMBOURG
The city of Luxembourg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its history and old quarters. Are you into hiking, love history or castles? Then Luxembourg is the place for you. Comprising 5,000 km of trails and some fifty castles (some now hotels) there is something for everyone to enjoy in Luxembourg.
Some people might find the city somewhat dull because it is not a city with much nightlife. However, I like these laid-back cities. Besides, more than half of the workers in Luxembourg commute daily out of the city to nearby cities/countries (because of free transport). So for this reason, the city is a bit empty on evenings and weekends when they all commute back to their homes in nearby countries/cities. If you are visiting, wear comfy shoes (preferably sneakers) to explore the city because, besides the cobblestones roads, it is a bit of an up-and-down walk to explore it.
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INFO. YOU MUST KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT LUXEMBOURG
Below are some additional information and tips you might find valuable before your visit.
- The languages spoken – Luxembourgish, German, French, and English
- Official currency – Euro
- In Luxembourg, all public transport is free to both locals and visitors.
- Forest covers a third of the country and a fifth of the city.
- Luxembourg is one of the safest and smallest countries in the world
- Nearly half of the residents in Luxembourg are foreign workers.
- Luxembourg does not have direct access to the sea. However, between Schengen and Remich there’s an artificial private beach that costs 4 euros to use during the summer.
- Stores close early in the day and Sundays, so get what you need before these times.
- When driving in Luxembourg, you must turn on your car headlights (dipped) during the day.
- It produces award-winning wines.
- Luxembourg and Amsterdam flags look almost the same, except the shade of blue and red are a bit lighter.
- Free WIFI throughout the city.
- Gay marriages are legal (Xavier Bettel became the first openly gay Prime Minister in the world to get married to his same-sex partner).
- Possession and use of marijuana are legal (it is the first country in the European Union to legalize cannabis.
- Forest covers one-third of the country and a fifth of the city area.
- It has the highest minimum wage in the European Union.
WHERE AND HOW WAS THE NAME SCHENGEN VISA DERIVED?!
The Schengen name is not just a European visa. Schengen is a small town in Luxembourg. It is the only spot in Europe where three countries form a triangle border; Germany, France, and Luxembourg. It was here the idea of a borderless European Union was born, and it is where they signed the Treaty of the Schengen in 1985 and 1990. So, this is how the name of the Schengen visa came about because of the location in Schengen, Luxembourg. In June 1985, it was signed among Belgium, France, West Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
To get to this area, is a bit of a drive from the city but worth the visit. Not only do you get to see this historical area, but the village has many vineyards and yellow rapeseeds plantation that goes to the Moselle River that separates Germany from Luxembourg). It is a beautiful and scenic area and one I will highly recommend.
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ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF LUXEMBOURG AND SECURITY
Luxembourgish people might seem unfriendly and standoffish, but they are not. They will let you in once they know you a bit better. I have met some outgoing people in this city. Besides, with so many foreign workers in the stores and service industry, it is rare to interact with many Luxembourgers. I remember the border security at the airport was super sweet and chatty and even let me pass through with my bottled water just as I was about to dump it. I will admit they don’t smile or talk much and may appear unfriendly, but once they trust you enough to let you in. They are friendly and kind.
From my observation, the citizens appear to care for their own because I saw no homeless persons or beggars. Added to this, the security in this city is super relaxed. I saw hardly any police officers except one time patrolling in their jeeps. The country is super-safe. On the streets and everywhere else, I have met someone who told me they don’t lock their doors day or night. I have left my handbag on the table in restaurants to use the washrooms on several occasions.
While Sightseeing, I have left my purse on the walls or the side of the road to take photos. I cannot report any crimes, petty or otherwise.
HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Luxembourg is super-expensive, which includes meals, accommodation, and private transportation such as taxis and Uber. There is no cheap accommodation in Luxembourg. Not even during the low travel season.
In Luxembourg, the public transport system comprises buses, trains, and trams. All are free to residents and visitors alike as long as they use the service within the country.
Like everything else, meals are also very expensive in Luxembourg. In a previous article; (What you should know before visiting Switzerland) I gave an example of what is supposed to be a cheap meal of a (burger, fries, and a drink) in Mac Donald which costs 13.00 CHF (over 14.00 euros) in Luxembourg the same meal is for 12.00 euros. In comparison with other European countries I visited after, the price for the exact meal cost between 4.60 euros to 6.00 euros.
THE LUXEMBOURG FOODS YOU MUST PARTAKE OF
Luxembourg cuisines are a fusion of many different European traditions and influences present in the count. Added to this, Luxembourg does not have sea access, so most of their seafood is freshwater than the sea. As a result, trout and crayfish dishes are popular in many restaurants. This makes their meals a unique and delicious medley of cultures and tastes worth enjoying should partake of when visiting Luxembourg. I found their traditional food hard to find in most restaurants.
- F’rell Am Reisleck (fried trout covered with Riesling wine, shallots, crème fraiche and spices).
- Bouneschlupp (green bean soups with potatoes and onions).
- Huesenziwwi (marinated pieces of hare cooked in wine and onions cooked in hare blood and sometimes carrots, mushroom, bay leaf, thyme, and sour cream.
- Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked, salted pork which they cook with vegetables over low heat for a few hours. They then serve it with a creamy sauce made from broad beans and potatoes.
- Gromperekichelcher (fritters made by grating potatoes with onions, parsley, and spices and then fried).
- Friture de la Moselle (small fresh-water fish, lightly seasoned, dipped first in lemon juice, and then eggs. They then flour it and fried it, then served it with lemon wedges.
- Paschteit or Bouchee a la Reine (large pastry cases filled with chicken, mushroom, and a creamy sauce)
- Questschentaart (plum tart).
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MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR ALL TRAVELLERS
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MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN LUXEMBOURG
- Old Town/Old Quarter (UNESCO Heritage Site and commercial activities and pedestrian area with any jewelry, chocolate, and luxury shop).
- Grand Ducal Palace (the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg).
- Notre-Dame Cathedral (late gothic architecture and the only cathedral in the city of Luxembourg).
- Bock Casemates (capable of sheltering thousands of defenders, because of its fortifications and cannon-loopholes, with underground passages hewn in solid rocks, it is a definite must-see).
- Viaden Castle (a medieval 19th-century castle extremely picturesque castle).
- National Museum of History and Art (in the fish market area, super beautiful building).
- Bourscheid Castle (best viewed at nights when it is lit up truly a memorable experience).
- Parc Merveilleux (beautiful fairy tale amusement center located six miles from the city in the town of Bettembourg).
- Ride the Pfaffenthal Lift (it is in the heart of the city, it gives a good view of the city and is free. The glass floor adds additional thrill.
WOULD I RETURN TO LUXEMBOURG IF GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY?
Would I return to Luxembourg if given the opportunity? Definitely, in a heartbeat. I am truly impressed by Luxembourg. I really love Luxembourg. It is one of those laid-back countries that has just enough for me. The only drawback is how expensive it is, but given the opportunity and the finance, I would live in Luxembourg without thinking twice.
SUMMARY
Visiting Luxembourg, the second richest country in the world, is more of a novelty and a treat than anything else. Those with the finances to stay on an extended trip, should do so. It is worth it. The beautiful, safe, peaceful, laid-back lifestyle for those who crave this also comes with a expensive price tag. For the budget traveller, it will be tough on your budget, even in the low travel season.
I would suggest a stay maximum of five days if you can afford it. Furthermore, I would recommend you meticulously research and book months in advance. Choose to stay at a B&B, hostel, or Couchsurfing (to save on accommodation) and travel during the off-season. I have given sufficient information about Luxembourg the second richest country in the world. Decide if you will add it to your bucket list for future travels.
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