BELGIUM: The Cycling Towpaths of the Country

Did you know about Belgium’s Cycling Towpaths?

There are 1,200km of safe tracks throughout the country to cycle, away from the traffic, with the entire family.

Enjoy a safe, quiet, flat route along the waterways, amongst the sweet scent of nature, listening to the sound of birdsong and bicycle bells rather than hearing the sound of traffic and car horns whilst inhaling exhaust fumes!

The Flemish and Walloon regional governments are actively improving the towpaths (and many abandoned railways) for cycling. Where the towpath has been turned into a modern highway, separate lanes or paths are being built for cyclists. (In the Walloon area this is known as Réseau Autonome de Voies Lentes [RAVeL] - Autonomous Network of Slow Ways.)

Get out amongst nature in Wallonia or Flanders

More about the RAVeL Network

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Gibraltar: GCSE and A Level Results

GCSEs

Across Westside and Bayside Schools the GCSE pass rate was 74.3% for grades 4 - 9, which is above the UK average of 67.4%. The Department of Education believes it is essential to report on the full range of pass rates 9 -1 (and A*-G) rather than focusing solely on the traditional A* - C (or 9-4) benchmark. By this metric the pass rate is 99.3% across all grades above a U. The pass rate for top grades (between 7 - 9) was 23.9% across both schools and 22.7 including Gibraltar College. Click to open GCSE results here

A Levels

This year marks a rather special milestone for the Department of Education in that it is the first year that the young people receiving their Level 3 / A Level results have completed their entire educational journey in a coeducational setting. The Department is pleased to report a notable overall pass rate of 89% across the three Government institutions within the Consortium of Bayside and Westside Schools and Gibraltar College. 

Click here to view A Level results listed by school and subject. 

Minister for Education, Professor John Cortes, reflected on this milestone day and the many  pathways now open to young people: "Results day is both a conclusion and a beginning - the closing  chapter of our students’ school journey and the first steps into the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether  they accept a scholarship, take time to defer, or pursue another pathway, their time in our exceptional  schools, guided by dedicated and inspiring teachers, has helped shape their character and aspirations.  Seeing young people grow in confidence, skills, and ambition year after year is one of the most rewarding  aspects of working in education. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each student as they embark on  the next stage of their journey, with every best wish for the future."

Information provided by Gibraltar HIVE

BELGIUM: The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Have you visited Luxembourg yet?

This beautiful, landlocked country is definitely worth a visit whilst you are in Belgium. With all public transport being FREE, the gorgeous architecture and all the history of this Grand Duchy country there is so much to see and do.

BELGIUM: Euro Space Centre, Transinne

If you have a budding astronaut, the Euro Space Centre is a Must-Do!

• Dress up and strike a pose
• Test the vital skills needed to be a successful astronaut applicant with interactive tests for precision, accuracy, communication, vision and more
• Walk on the Moon and Mars
• Drop into the void to experience the sensation of a free fall
• Feel the effects of Centrifugal Force on your body, like the astronauts experience at take-off
• Visit the Planetarium and take in a film on the theme of Mars and the Sun System
• Relive the big moments of the conquest of Space
• Experience the 5D Space Show in the dynamic cinema
• And fly over the Red Planet in your own spaceship.

Stop for refreshments in the Voyager Cafe before heading out to Cosmic Valley to walk the alleys of the galaxy and learn more about the means of communication set up to keep in touch with your teammates back on Earth.

For some exclusive activities including fixing a satellite, riding the multi-axis chairs and the weightlessness wall, extend your trip over 2 days and 1 night with full board. 

A thoroughly enjoyable day out!

For more information visit: https://www.eurospacecenter.be/en/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Naples: Stress, Anxiety, Depression, For Men only

 

Stress/ Anxiety / Depression - its not only for women.

Andysmanclub is there for men only - an opportunity to share your issues and talk to someone.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

Gibraltar: National Celebrations Programme

Gibraltar's Department of Culture has just released their programme of events for National Celebrations. Commencing with the opening of the Gibraltar Fair on 23rd August and culminating in National Day on 10th September. 

Note for your calendars; 10th September is a local Bank Holiday.

The Fair will operate for nine days  with a different programme of Family Entertainment each day. Sensory adaptations from 7pm to 8.45pm each day, with the entertainment programme commencing at 9pm. Detailed programme of events during Gibraltar Fair:

Information provided by Gibraltar HIVE

BELGIUM: Yorkshire Trench and Dug-Out, a little piece of authentic war history

 

If you are a fan of history, then don’t miss this little gem. The Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out are right there on an industrial estate just north of Ypres. Dating back to 1917, this preserved dug out and trench was accidentally discovered by a farmer in the early 1990’s. 

This is the perfect opportunity to visit an authentic World War One trench and see the footprint of the 1915 shallow trench and shelter at the site. It’s a fabulous way to visualise how these trenches fit into a larger trench system and what life may have been like in the trenches. 

As this is located on an Industrial Estate there are no parking or entry charges to visit the site. It’s a definite must see for those visiting the area.

More information here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: The National Memorial of Fort Breendonk

Have you visited Fort Breendonk yet?

It is one of the best-preserved testimonials of the Second World War Nazi atrocities. Learn about the sinister history of SS-Auffanglager Breendonk through a series of testimonial, picture and film footage and remember the men and women who suffered and sacrificed their lives for our liberty.

If you are a Museum Pass holder you can visit Fort Breendonk for FREE.

• Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History
• Command Bunker Kemmel
• Bastogne Barracks
• Trench of Death

are also covered under the Museum Pass.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Naples: Marriage Problems - This guide will help for separation or divorce

 

www.gov.uk/government/publications/separation-and-divorce-guide-for-military-personnel-spouses-and-partners

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

Brussels: Five Parks on the Outskirts of the Capital

With the arrival of Spring and the (hopefully) warmer weather, here are five gorgeous parks that are well worth a visit, each with an associated walk…

• Gaasbeek Museum Garden Park - unparalleled world-class gardens
• The Coloma Rose Garden - a kaleidoscope of colour and scent 
• Meuse Botanic Garden - home to the biggest flower on the planet
• The Huizingen Rock Garden - Expo 58’s natural splendour unleashed
• Tervuren’s Warande Park - Centuries of elegant heritage

For more information, read this.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Naples : Improve your Italian by listening to podcasts

                                        

Extracted from thelocal.it Photo by freestocks on Unsplash

Listening to podcasts is a great way to immerse yourself in a new language. For everyone from beginners to advanced learners, here's a list of audio shows that will help improve your Italian.

Below you can find an updated list of the best podcasts to listen to when learning Italian. Enjoy!

Naples: Fancy a Hike?

                                

Find below some ideas of walking trails now that the sun is shining and that it is not too hot or too busy yet!

https://www.sorrentoinsider.com/en/e/mount-faito-sorrento-italy 

https://www.parconazionaledelvesuvio.it/en/visit-the-park/the-paths/the-tirone-reserve/

Sentiero dei limoni - Routes for Walking and Hiking | Komoot

https://hikingcampania.com/walks/

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

BELGIUM: 112 App for Emergency Services, Belgium-wide

Did you know there’s an app for contacting the emergency services in Belgium? 

 

Once you’ve registered, the 112 app can be used if you need emergency assistance from fire-fighters, an ambulance or the police in Belgium and is free to use. 
 
Advantages of using the app compared to calling 112:
 

• 3 in1: You can quickly and easily select which emergency service you need.

• Location: The emergency call centres can track your location much more accurately.

• Additional Info: The emergency services will refer to any additional information you’ve saved on your profile to tailor the response to you. For example, they will see immediately if you are deaf, have a heart condition or are allergic to certain medications.

• Alarm: If you have fallen or are unconscious and the emergency services are struggling to find you, the emergency call centre can sound an alarm via your phone to help alert the team to your location.

• Chat: if you are unable to speak or to hear the emergency call centre can activate an instant message functionality. 

• Internet free: the app is not reliant on a WiFi or data connection.

 
The 112 app is available for download on both Android and Apple devices, including our official Osprey iPhones. 
 
More information here: Mobile application | 112

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Bois de Badour, Hainaut

Feeling like a Walk in the Woods? Want to run somewhere different?

Bois de Badour is a mixed forest with several shallow ponds and dotted with traces of the past, like the old gatekeeper’s house and the bridge overhanging  the old railway line, but the main landmark is the Octagonal Building at the edge of the wood, called the Ronde Maison.

There are 3 marked trails to explore that venture through some of the woodland; a 5km, a 10km & a 20km route. But do take care as some of the trails are private; they are the princely family's property!

The Bois de Badour is known for its ‘good mushrooms' spots, in September-October. 

The wood is located northwest of Mons. Access at Chemin du Long Boule or Chemin Du Prince. However, the most beautiful access point is near the Ronde Maison at “Montauban” via rue du Canard, 7050 Erbisoeul.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Mons Mural Walk, have you done it yet?

  

Have you see the fantastic wall murals around Mons? There are 97 of them spread across the city and surrounding districts for you to find but following a 10k walking route you can take in 49 of these beautiful paintings in the city centre itself. 

If you are yet to see them all, you can pick up a map from the Tourist Office in Grand Place and set off on your mission. Which one will be your favourite?

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Naples: In case of Emergency - what you need to know?

                                           

Extract from thelocal.it (Photo by Vincenzo PINTO / AFP)

Whether you live in Italy or are just visiting, knowing who to call in the case of an emergency is crucial to keeping you and those around you safe.

You can report anything on 112, the single European emergency number, whose operators will direct you to the relevant services.

BELGIUM: Hidden Belgium

Fancy a bit of Hidden Belgium?

Then look no further. 

Why not check out the oldest cemetery in Belgium? Or the strangest building in Ghent? Or even get yourself a tour of the Antwerp Sewers? 

If you are interested in discovering these hidden gems and more, cast your eyes here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Explore the Castles of Wallonia

Did you know that there are 1,500 castles in Wallonia? All open to the public with a story to share. With interior and gardens to explore they are beautiful places to spend a warm or wet summers day!

• At Chateau de Seneffe you will find one of the largest silversmith collections in the country
• Chateau de Modave inspired the one in Versailles
• Bouillon Castle is famous for its birds of prey demonstrations
• Fairytale castle Chateau de Veves invites the little ones to dress up as knights and princesses as they explore the castle
• You will find an escape room at Chateau de Chimay
• Bioul Castle boasts its own Vineyard

Plan your castle tour of Belgium and find out more information here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Wallonia’s Living Legends, pick your itinerary and head off by car, bike or on foot…

  

If you are a fan of heritage and legends, you will want to visit these incredible castles and fortresses of South Wallonia.

Each with a unique air of romance, history, fairytale, sports, knight to be and more, there are 13 roadbooks planning visits that can be undertaken by car, bike or on foot.

Pick the itinerary for you here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Naples -The Do's and Dont's of Driving in Italy

                                     

From the northern lakes and mountains down to the sun-baked towns and resorts of the south, there are plenty of ways to explore Italy’s dolce vita from the comfort of your own car.

But if you’re planning a road trip to Italy, it’s essential you’re fully prepared ahead of time as driving there has many differences to the UK.

To make your trip to the Continent as safe and effortless as possible, we’ve put together a guide to everything you need to know before you go, from required documents to rules of the road.

BELGIUM: Canal du Centre, Houdeng-Goegnies

 you are looking for a way to spend a relaxing couple of hours in the sunshine, look no further and head down to Houdeng-Goegnies to hire an electric boat. 

Wind your way down the Canal du Centre with the sun on your face, the breeze in your hair and the sound of water and wildlife in your ears. From 45 Euros you can hire an electric boat for an hour on the water spotting the wildlife and enjoying the peace of the canal.

BELGIUM: Booking Nursery, Childminders and School Places when posted back to the U.K.

 Are you moving back to the U.K.? Don’t forget to apply for Nursery and Childminders as soon as you receive your A.O. as they do get booked up very quickly.

You can also apply for School Places in advance for in-year School Moves as a Military Family with the Armed Forces Covenant, and you can still apply through the main admissions process for Year 1 and Year 7 with your permanent U.K. or Unit Address.

The dates of application for Year 1 and Year 7 are:

Main admissions rounds	Application deadline	Offer dates
Applying for a primary school place	15th January	16th April
Applying for secondary school place	31st October	1st March

Please be aware that there are some nuances in different counties of the U.K. and if a school is administered on an Infants, Juniors or Middle School system, so do check the local area County Council page to which you are posting when applying for school places.

The AFF Education Specialists are always happy to offer advice, contact educationsupport@aff.org.uk

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Check Out the Ninglinspo Trail in the Ardennes

Like Hiking? You won’t want to miss this amazing trail…

The enchanting Ninglinspo trail in the Belgian Ardennes is a breathtaking 6 km hike through waterfalls, natural pools, and lush forest. It is simply perfect for adventurous families, nature lovers, and photographers alike.

This trail is suitable for children aged 6 and up. It is a 2.5 - 3 hour walk and maybe peppered with frequent ascents and descents, but every step is worth taking. You will find an exhilarating trail of climbing rocks, crossing streams, and splashing in the refreshing river. Be sure to expect wet feet & muddy clothes and do dress & pack accordingly!

On your hike, you will discover:

• Wooden footbridges and stone crossings over the babbling stream
• Mini-waterfalls and carved rock pools with poetic names like Bath of Diana, Bath of the Otter, and Bath of the Water Nymphs
• Cables embedded in the rocks for added safety on steeper sections
• A panoramic viewpoint at Drouet, offering sweeping vistas of the forested valley
• A walk through history and myth

Find out more here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Brussels: Have you visited the Museum of Playing Cards yet?

Fancy a different day out?

How about a visit to the Museum of Playing Cards in Turnhout? Belgium really does have a museum for everything!

Check out the authentic printing machines and stream-driven presses and if you time your visit well you could even pick yourself up a freshly pressed demo print. Learn about how Cards were used for propaganda, see some rare card decks and witness the gruesome consequences of cards in the media.

There is also a Room of the Future with interactive games, quizzes & screens complete with a selfie booth and interactive workshops with creative play for kids too.  There really is something for everyone.

Want to find out more? https://www.discoveringbelgium.com/museum-of-the-playing-card/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Abbaye Notre-Dame du Vivier awaits you

The Abbaye Notre-Dame du Vivier was founded in the early 12th Century, consecrated in 1103 and affiliated with the Cistercian Order in 1236. 

Discover this hidden medieval gem in Gelbressee and enjoy a guided tour through the site lasting from 90 minutes to 2.5 hours. As well as the architectural beauty of the Abbaye itself, the gardens are a place of tranquil and serenity to also be enjoyed.

If you want to make a weekend of it, there are three charming self-catering guesthouses on site, offering the chance to experience monastic peace overnight.

For family-friendly adventures, wind your way around the forest trail walks, participate in some themed activities or have a magical dining experience in the tree-tops (suitable for age 6+)!

For more information, see https://www.discoveringbelgium.com/abbaye-notre-dame-du-vivier/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Brussels: The Roller Parade, on until Friday 12th September 2025

Brussels’ summer roller parade started on Friday evening, and will also roll into other cities around the country, including Hasselt, Leuven, Antwerp, Charleroi and Namur.

The free parades, accompanied by music, are for rollerblades, bikes, longboards, skateboard and even electric bikes. 

Beginner and advanced riders welcome from age 10. Don't forget safety gear and water! 

Check the website for updates in case of bad weather. 

WHEN: Friday Evenings from 20 June to 12 September, at 20:00
WHERE: Place Poelaert
MORE INFORMATION: https://rollerbikeparade.be/en/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Brussels: Bozar Restaurant cited in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants

 

The two-Michelin star Bozar Restaurant in Brussels has been awarded the great accolade of being named one of the 50 best restaurants in the world!

With artisan-led menus, offering Belgian fare this culinary jewel is well worth a visit if your pockets are deep:

• The seven course menu is priced at 245 Euros
• The five course Horta menu is priced at 195 Euros and
• The three course lunch menu is priced at 115 Euros.

Find out more at: https://bozarrestaurant.be/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Château de Freÿr

The Château de Freÿr in Wallonia has a rich, architectural history and enchanting gardens, so makes for a perfect day out. 

Although the Château dates back to 1378, its current format started to take shape in 1571 after the destruction of the original Castle Keep.

You will find a blend of renaissance and baroque styles throughout the building and when exploring the Château interior, keep your eyes peeled for the award winning Children’s Coach.

In the gardens you can visit Europe’s largest potted Orange trees that date back to the early 18th Century and incredibly, they still live in their original wooden cases! There is also a labyrinth to explore in the beautiful grounds of this stunning Castle.

Château de Freÿr is located in 5540 Hastière and is family friendly place to visit with interactive tours, special events tailored for children, enchanting gardens and captivating stories of the history of this grand old Château.

Find out more at: https://www.discoveringbelgium.com/chateau-de-freyr/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Been Extended? Read On……

If you have been extended in your current role or promoted/transferred to a new role, please do visit the NSE to start the ball rolling on renewing your SHAPE and Protocol I.D.s

Just a gentle reminder that you will also need to inform DIO and Healix, renew your SOFA card and re-register any vehicles you may have. 

The NSE can signpost you as needed and SHAPE2Day (ArrivingLeaving: SHAPE ID/Extension) is also a very helpful starting point.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Annual Events by Season

I am pleased to introduce these new Annual Seasonal Events Posters.

Available in hard and soft copy.

Just pop into the Community Office or email RC-Pers-HIVE-SHAPE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk to get your copy.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Top Ten Castles

Love a bit of History? Are you are Castle fan? Looking for something to do in your downtime? 

With over 3000 Castles in the country, Belgium is the most Castle dense country per square kilometre in the world. Around 400 of these are open to the public so there are certainly plenty to choose from. 

This article presents one Castle per province for Belgium; a beautiful mix of medieval fortress, enchanting estates and classy castles. Something to really get your teeth into this Summer. Enjoy…https://www.discoveringbelgium.com/10-top-castles-in-belgium/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

Brussels: Seven second-hand gems and one vintage treat for luck!

In the spirit of re-use recycle and repurpose, did you know that Brussels has eight gems for vintage finds or clothing by the kilo?

Whether you want to release your inner designer or simply refresh your wardrobe, there’s sure to be something perfect in the capital for you. Check them out here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

SHAPE: Base Support Group Newcomers Orientation Briefings, running until October 2025

Don’t miss the BSG Newcomers Briefs; they are different to the British ones and very informative.

Do get your name down for one of them this Summer, they are brilliant sessions and include a Guided Tour of Mons.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Open-Air Swimming Locations

If you are looking for somewhere to cool off, there are a number of open-air swimming options in Belgium.

If you’re in the North of Belgium: https://www.outdoorswimming.be/

See the Map

And for those in the South of the country: https://environnement.wallonie.be/home/loisirs/baignade.html

See the Map

Please do take care and lather up in sunscreen, but enjoy these various options.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: The Urban Trail Series 2025.

 If you are wanting to explore the country in a novel way, why not sign up to an Urban Trail.  These are held four times a year in Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp and Mechelen and are a fabulous way to see the City and take a peek at some otherwise unseen locations too.

Pop on your trainers and walk, jog or run (or a combination of all three!) your way around the 7km or 12km route. This is not a timed event and can be taken at your own pace.

My husband, our 9 year old daughter and I took part in the Brussels 12km route this weekend and passed through the Museum of Illusions, three nightclubs (before 11am), Brussels Parliamentary Building, Wolf (which cemented a decision on our lunch that day) and the Jardin de Hospice, to name a few locations. It was an incredible experience.

Registrations are now open for Ghent Urban Trail, which is to be held in October 2025. You can register in advance on line or if you are a last minute decision maker, you can still register until 08:00 on site on the day of the event!

To find out more about the Urban Trail Series, check out https://urbantrailseries.be/fr/

To Register for the Ghent Urban Trail, go to https://genturbantrail.be/fr/inscrire/

Maybe see you on the course next time!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Top 10 Kids Farms to visit whilst here in Belgium

Love a Farm? You will be spoilt for choice with this lovely range.

Here’s 10 Farms offering hands-on experiences to enrich your visit, that’s one for each Province! If these ten aren’t enough, there is a link within the article to 66 Farms in Belgium that kids will love!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Your Market Guide Throughout Belgium

Do you love a wander around a Market to while away the hours?

There are regular Markets throughout the country offering fresh, food, fruit, vegetables, clothing, vintage treasures, local crafts, plants and flowers.

Request your copy of the HIVE’s Guide to Markets throughout Belgium; either pop into the Office or drop me an email on RC-Pers-HIVE-SHAPE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Explore Flanders; full of many jewels of the Belgian Crown

If you are looking for somewhere to explore in Belgium, how about the Flanders region?

With art and architecture, World War 1 sites and history, sports and outdoor activities, amusements parks and nature parks a plenty, there is something for everyone in the family.

Find out more here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Talbot House, a little piece of history in Poperinge

Talbot House was (and arguably still is) home from home for the British soldiers during the First World War. It was a bit of heaven, just behind hell.

Offering a canteen, surreal green garden, concert hall, library, billiards and of course a Chapel, it welcomed some half a million soldiers. The house rules were simple yet specific, everyone was admitted and treated equal. It reminded them what they were fighting for and gave them the hope and courage to return once more to the frontline where so many of them lie still today. 

Today, it’s been kept as it was. Revd. Tubby Clayton, who was it’s instigator and driving force (hurricane force) insisted that it would be used for the same purposes today. 

We are always very keen to welcome serving soldiers in the Club. Besides a ‘museum’ and a guest house, it very much is still a military club which thrives when it gets its old customers in for a cuppa. 
 

If you have not yet visited, do add it to your list of places to visit! It’s gone onto ours!

Photo Credit: Simon Louagie.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Gibraltar: Local Charity Event: GibSams Sunrise of Hope 13/09/2025

Art / Craft Competition

Looking for something a purposeful to do with the children during the hottest part of the day? GibSams have a fun art competition, which they've organised as part of a big event; Sunrise of Hope Charity Walk.

🌞 Paint a pebble or make a poster - or both! 🌞 Entries must be submitted by 03/09/2025 - details are given on the promotional poster. 

Charity Sunrise Walk, 13th September

Mark your calendars for an inspiring start to your weekend—on Saturday 13 September, GibSams proudly presents Sunrise of Hope, a heartfelt community event to support mental wellbeing and solidarity across Gibraltar. This gathering will be a powerful way to begin the day together—at sunrise—with connection, reflection, and shared purpose.

What to Expect:

Gibraltar: Finance Centre Careers Fair 08/09/2025

The Gibraltar Ministry for Justice, Trade and Industry has organised a Finance Centre Careers Fair. Open to all students- no registration needed. 

Event Details:

• Aurora Ballroom, Sunborn Hotel
• Monday 8th September 2025
• 9:30am – 12:30pm
  

The Careers Fair will bring together leading firms from across the industry, offering insights into a range of career opportunities and the chance to network with professionals and recruiters.

The image shows the Finance Centre Careers Fair schedule.

It will be an exciting day of panel discussions, opportunities to engage with top professionals, stands from associations, group breakout sessions and more.

Information provided by Gibraltar HIVE