BELGIUM: Tutankhamun; the Immersive Experience, Brussels Expo, on now until October 2026

The Tutankhamun Immersive exhibition explores the Valley of the Kings in Luxor where many Egyptian Pharoahs are buried, including Tutankhamun who lived from 1342 BC to 1323 BC.

Your visit includes display galleries with narrative panels, reconstitutes funerary objects and virtual reality experiences of the Valley of the Kings, the camp and Tutankhamun's tomb.

WHEN: from Saturday 23rd May to Sunday 11th October 2026 
WHERE: Terminal 1 Brussels Expo, Place de Belgique 1, Laeken

MORE INFORMATION: HERE

'Treasures of Tutankhamun' exhibition is also on at the Digital and Interactive Venue (DIVE) in Antwerp.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Library After Hours for families, teens and adults Last Friday of the Month 18:00-19:30

Here is the updated schedule for the Library After Hours Sessions.

WHO: Open to Teens, Adults & Families, to attend unaccompanied, children must be aged 13+
WHEN: Last Friday of the Month May through August, 18:00-19:30
WHERE: SHAPE International Library

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: SHAPE International Library Summer Reading Challenge, Monday 29th June to Monday 31st August 2026

Plant a seed and Read this Summer. The Summer Reading Challenge is here! 

WHAT: Summer Reading Challenge, includes graphic novels and audiobooks!

WHEN: Monday 29th June through to Monday 31st August 2026

WHO: All ages, Babies through to Adults

WHERE: SHAPE International Library and Chievres Library

HOW MUCH: Free

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Summer Library Activities

Libraries inspire wonder and stories inspire imagination. Check out the Summer Library activities...

No registration required for any of these activities, just turn up and join in!

WHEN: Activity dependent
WHERE: SHAPE International Library

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Sit and Stitch, Mondays September to June, 10:00-11:30

Are you a knitter, sew-er or a crocheter? 

Come along to this crafty session for some chat, crafting and companions! Please note this is not a class.

WHEN: Mondays September to June, 10:00-11:30
WHERE: SHAPE International Library


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Adult Tabletop Gamer Evening, Thursday 4th June 18:00 onwards

Are you an adult gamer seeking like-minded people?

Don't miss this table tip gamers evening at the Library!

WHEN: Thursday 4th June 2026, 18:00 onwards
WHERE: SHAPE International Library


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Little Lumeçon, Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June 2026

Especially for kids of a height of 1 to 1.6 metres the Little Lumeçon is on the weekend following the Doudou.

This event allows 3560 children to participate, across the different coloured zones (according to height) in the Grand Place. Safety remains the top priority throughout.

You will need to collect a free t-shirt coloured specifically to your child's height for them to be able to participate. Name tags are also distributed. If children are taking part they will need long hair tied back, no jewellery and ideally closed toe shoes for their safety.

The agenda for the weekend can be found below:

SHAPE: Newcomers Briefs 2026 dates

Arrived at SHAPE since November 2025? Don't miss the upcoming 2026 Newcomer's Briefs held by SHAPE Base Support Group.

As you may have worked out so far, life at SHAPE is unique. With 32 NATO member nations and additional partner and military cooperation nations represented at SHAPE, we are a truly diverse community. The Newcomers Brief will help you and your family to acclimate to your new community.

This year these Introductory Meetings will be held in the Alliance Auditorium (Cinema) on the following dates:

• Thursday 30th July
• Thursday 27th August
• Thursday 24th September
• Thursday 22nd October

Find out all about life on SHAPE, Morale & Welfare Facilities, Med Centre Provision and more. These also include a Guided Tour into Mons and can be undertaken on the same day or at a subsequent session, but a seat will need to reserved in advance.

Book your place HERE.

Welcome to SHAPE!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Recruit for Spouses: Free support for military spouses and partners

New RFS opportunities for military spouses and partners  

Recruit for Spouses has released its latest upcoming events, career programmes and support available throughout May and June.

If you’re looking for employment, training, or support with your next step, there are a range of opportunities to explore.  

To register your interest, sign in to the RFS Portal:   

https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in  

Or email: info@recruitforspouses.co.uk  

BELGIUM: CHAT HV First Session - Potty Training, Monday 8th June 10:00-11:00

The first CHAT HV Session has been announced!

WHAT: Potty Training
WHEN: Monday 8th June 2026, 10:00-11:00
WHERE: SHAPE House

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

NAPLES: Travel by Train - Italia Rail

 

Travel Italy by Train

Book your train tickets in minutes.

No booking Fees 24/7

English speaking support.

[Italia Rail](https://www.italiarail.com)

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

SHAPE: Community Clean-Up, Tuesday 9 June 09:00-12:00

The 2026 SHAPE Community Clean Up is fast approaching and we absolutely need your help to make it a success. If you can access the SHAPE campus, you can attend: Young, old, military, civilian, those who live here, those who don’t. All are welcome.

WHERE: Meet at the athletics track on camp at 0900 hrs and look for the IMP 

WHEN: Tuesday 9 June 2026, From 0900 hrs to 1200 hrs
WHAT TO BRING: Suitable clothing for the weather, a smile and the will to tidy up your community. 

Any/all equipment will be provided. Sign-Up details below...

If you can’t attend on this date or time but still want to get involved, please contact OR-6 Zachary KATTNER at the IMP desk for further information.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Keeping Cool HISO Style!

TOP TIPS IN THE HEAT WITH YOUR HISO:

Struggling to sleep in this heat? Fill a hot water bottle with cold water and take it to bed with you. If there is time, store it in the freezer for a proper chilled nights sleep! #Mumlife

You can also store your sunscreen and after sun in the fridge to keep you cool on application!

 

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Upcoming Events, don't miss out!

DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES FOR JUNE...

Information provided SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: NAAFI - Chautari - Opening Times

Changes to Chautari Opening Times

Please be informed that as of 25 May 2026, Chautari’s opening hours will change. Instead of opening at 1700hrs, it will open at 1600hrs from Monday to Friday.

This change will allow customers the ability to purchase food and soft beverages earlier in the afternoon – especially with the change to the warm season. Food is served daily from 12.30 - 14.00 & 17.30 - 22.00

Delivery service is available daily from 18.00 – 21.30. For delivery service, please call +673 8379457.

Chautari Menu

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BELGIUM: Recruit for Spouses Coaching and Mentoring Programme

RFS Coaching & Mentoring Programme

Feeling stuck, unsure what’s next, or ready for a change? The RFS Coaching & Mentoring Programme connects you with an experienced coach or mentor who will support you to:

• Gain clarity on your goals and direction
• Build confidence in your decisions
• Overcome barriers and take practical steps forward
• Stay accountable and motivated

You’ll receive up to 6 free 1:1 sessions, tailored entirely to you.

Sometimes progress starts with a single conversation.

Sign up: RFS Portal

To register your interest in any of the RFS Opportunities, sign in to the RFS Portal on https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in 

 
Or email: info@recruitforspouses.co.uk  


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: 9th Edition Good Beer Guide Belgium available now

If ToBE has whet your appetite for Belgian Beer, you are seeking a Fathers Day Present for the dad that has everything or you just fancy embracing the Belgian Culture, the 9th edition of the Good Beer Guide Belgium has now been published.

More here

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUSSELS: Best Rooftops Bars in Brussels

For a sky high sun-downer in Brussels, check out the Rooftop Bars across the city.

• Rooftop 58
• The Beerlab
• Casa Alta
• Albert
• Soko Rooftop
• Bazar Rooftop
• Beursschouwburg
• The Eight Rooftop
• Secret Rooftop
• Akai
• The Hoxton Brussels
• Perché Rooftop
• The Roof

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Recruit for Spouses June events, including Wellbeing Programme

Recruit for Spouses latest upcoming events, career programmes and support available in June.

The RFS Wellbeing Programme is due to start in early-June:

Are you feeling a bit lost between postings? Struggling with the ups and downs of military life?
You don’t have to navigate it alone. The RFS Wellbeing Programme brings military spouses together in a safe, supportive space where you can:

• Share experiences with others who understand
• Learn practical tools to manage stress and uncertainty
• Feel more grounded and in control again

STARTS: 8th June
WHEN: Mondays, 09:30–11:30 (UK time)
WHERE: Online
SIGN UP: RFS Portal

To register your interest in any of the RFS Opportunities, sign in to the RFS Portal on https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in  

Or email: info@recruitforspouses.co.uk  

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: BFB Families Survival Day - Wednesday 03rd June 2026, 0900 - 1900 hrs

Please click the image to enlarge.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Armed Forces Week 2026: Share your messages of support!

Share your messages of support for our Armed Forces! This Armed Forces Week, we're looking for messages of thanks from friends and family of our Armed Forces. Email your message to MODComms-DDC@mod.gov.uk

Service Cotswold Centre

The Services Cotswold Centre (SCC) is a tri-Service facility, managed by Headquarters Army Welfare Service (AWS) and funded by Headquarters Regional Command on behalf of the MOD.

It provides short-term transit accommodation for Service Personnel (SP), family members and MOD civil servants. The key role of SCC is to accommodate varying numbers of vulnerable Service families, often with diverse and complex welfare needs.

The SCC accommodation consists of 60 self-contained chalet style homes and a 37 bed residential unit and is located in Neston, near Corsham Wiltshire.

The SCC is used for:Emergency accommodation for military families, spouses and civil partners who have been evacuated from assignments
Meeting a welfare need such as supporting injured personnel, their carers and/or immediate family members
Responding to family disruption such as marital breakdown
Provision of accommodation between assignments – both before taking up a post or repatriation back to the UK
Accommodation for discharging married personnel
Short Breaks
Contact Housing
Transit accommodation – both duty and welfare

The centre has recently changed its telephone number to TEL: 0331 1432730

FIND OUT MORE: Services Cotswold Centre - GOV.UK

EMAIL: RC-AWS-SCC-Bookings@mod.gov.uk

Army HQ: Family Welfare Matters Edition 03 now available

To read online with accessible links, please go to Welfare Matters May 2026

For those with access to MODnet, both this edition and the full internal Welfare Matters newsletter is uploaded onto our SharePoint site under the Welfare Latest News section. The link to access is: Welfare

Little Troopers Family Reconnection Weekend July 2026

 Family Reconnection Weekend – July 2026
Applications are now open!
We’re heading to Cuffley Activity Centre in Hertfordshire for a woodland weekend full of activities, connection and time together as a military family. Families will also have the chance to connect with others from the military community who truly understand military life.
Register your interest now, open to families with children in Year 4 and above.
We can’t wait to welcome lots of you to our second Family Reconnection Weekend of 2026!
Applications https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XH8RVPF...

BELGIUM: CHAT HV Programme at SHAPE House, Coming Soon

SSAFA's CHAT HV program is coming soon to SHAPE House. 

This program gives military families access to informal parental support whilst also giving them the opportunity to build friendships and support networks. SSAFA recognise that parenting can be a lonely experience and for some in remote military locations this can be exacerbated by local practices. This program aims to break this barriers down.

Although Florence the Health Visitor will be in attendance, any discussions will be parent-led with the opportunity to have some Health Visitor support if needed.

These sessions are open to anyone across the UK military network. 

More information to follow!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

NAPLES: Sassi "Stones" of Matera

 

Matera is one of the most unusual cities in southern Italy, built into cliffs with thousands of cave dwellings known as sassi. What makes Matera stand out is how people lived in these Matera cave homes for centuries, often in poor conditions until they were abandoned in mid 20th century. In recent decades, restoration has turned Matera into a UNESCO World Heritage site and a destination for travellers who want something very different from the coastal towns of Puglia.

The city is divided into two main sassi districts: Sassi Barisano and Sasso Caveosa. Both are worth visiting, and you can cover them in one long day of walking. Sasso Barisano has more hotels, restaurants, and shops, so it feels more developed. Sasso Caveoso is rougher with many caves still looking untouched, which gives you a stronger impression of how people once lived here. Walking between the two districts involves steep climbs and uneven stone paths, so wearing sturdy shoes is essential.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: The Path of the Gods - A Must do whilst living in Lago Patria

 

The Path of the Gods, he Sentiero degli Dei, between Bomerano and Positano on the Amalfi Coast is a high level path that traverses the cliff face above the coast with continuous views of the Gulf of Salerno, the Faraglioni rock of Capri visible offshore, and the terraced villages of the coast below.

The path is one of the most celebrated walks in Italy. The path is approximately 8 Kilometres one way and is best walked east to west with the sun behind you in the afternoon.
Those who walk the Sentiero degli Dei in May or October when the path is less crowded and the light is at its best describe it as the finest coastal walking experience available in Italy and say the views rival anything available on any coastal path in Europe.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE.

BRUNEI: Visa Application Guide - Leave to Enter & Indefinite Leave to Enter - Procedures and Requirements

Please click the images to enlarge.

Slide 1 - Leave to Enter – Procedures and requirements. Link.

Slide 2 - Indefinite Leave to Enter – Procedures and requirements. Link.

PoC – WO2 Bhishma Jabegu, RAWO 2RGR
Email: Bhishma.Jabegu402@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: Do you have a visa or consular issue? Please follow the correct procedure....

CONSULAR AND VISA ISSUES

All consular and visa applications relating to SPs’ service in Brunei are processed through the Garrison RAO Dept, with the RAWO as the Garrison lead. All applications, and any issues arising from them, must be processed through the RAO Dept to ensure that the CoC can manage applications on their behalf.

Applications from BFB are processed by either the High Commission in Kuala Lumpur or direct through the Home Office. The British High Commission in Brunei do not process any visa or consular applications and are not able to assist SP with them. SP must not email the BHC in Brunei direct but should direct any issues to the RAWO, who will then engage with outside agencies to expedite applications or resolve issues where necessary.

Please email all enquiries through to 2RGR RAWO: 

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE. 

BELGIUM: DIO European Support Group Families Newsletter

Please find below the May Edition of the DIO Families Newsletter.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Make-a-Wish Entertainment Schedule

Make-a-Wish is only weeks away!! This is a fantastic, fun, family event raising money for an amazing charity that grants wishes to seriously ill children.

With food, drink, music and more this is one of the annual events not to be missed. Whether you are walking, running or cheering on everyone is welcome to join the festivities.

Friday 5th June Schedule....

Saturday 6th June Schedule...

See you on the track!


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Army HIVE Says Thank You and Farewell to Longest Serving Overseas HISO

This week marks our longest-ever serving Overseas HISO - Jo Ratabuli - leaving Episkopi HIVE for pastures new. Over her 14 years in post, Jo has been absolutely central in supporting her customers in Epi and wider across BFC, unit moves to and from Cyprus, our Non-UK Nationals, and so much more – her knowledge, warmth and exceptional customer service will no doubt be remembered by many customers and colleagues from across the last decade and a half. Suffice to say, Jo will be a much-missed member of the Army HIVE team, not only from her current BFC colleagues (Karen-Grace, Donna, Emma, James, Jen and Katie) but the rest of the Army HIVE team too!

Our Cyprus Area Manager, Karen-Grace, penned the attached poem and it perfectly captures Jo’s achievements, the differences she has made over her 14 years in service, and the sentiments of her team.

From us all in Army HIVE, Jo, Vinaka vakalevu (thank you very much), Moce mada (until we meet again), and may your next chapter be filled with joy, peace, laughter, and the same warmth you gave so freely to others.

BFBS Marks 15 Years Since Op TELIC Ended With Commemorative Anniversary Campaign

The Forgotten Conflict: BFBS Gives Voice to the Veterans of Op TELIC

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) today begins a dedicated week of programming to mark 15 years since the end of Operation TELIC (Op TELIC), codename for the involvement of the UK Armed Forces deployed to Iraq between March 2003 and May 2011.

Daily commemorations this week will run across BFBS Radio, BFBS TV, and digital platforms, exclusively bringing together multiple contributors including veterans, serving personnel and BFBS staff as key voices in the special broadcasts forming a comprehensive tribute to the Op TELIC anniversary, and to honour the lived experiences of the UK Armed Forces personnel who served.

Give Us Time: Summer 2026 Welfare Update

 

Click poster to enlarge.

To find out more please visit www.giveustime.org.uk

MONS: Mons-Nimy-Maisieres Roadworks Update

Mons-Nimy-Maisieres Roadworks update...

The N6 roadworks project between Mons, Nimy, and Maisières is entering a new phase, which will primarily affect the Violette intersection (photo below) and the section between this intersection and the E42/E19-A7 interchange. These works will continue until the end of June.

"To minimize the impact on traffic, the operations requiring closures at the Violette intersection will be concentrated over two weekends and carried out mainly at night. Between these two weekends, the intersection will be fully accessible (all traffic will be able to move) but with a maximum speed limit of 30 km/h (due to traffic on the sub-base)," explains SOFICO.

Pentecost Weekend:

• From Saturday, May 23 at 9:30 p.m. until Sunday, May 24 at 8:30 a.m. traffic will be prohibited on the N6, on one half of the Violette intersection, on the Casteau side.
• From Saturday, June 6 at 10:00 p.m. until Sunday, June 7 at 3:00 p.m. the Violette intersection will be completely closed, except for the bypass connecting the N6 from Casteau to the N56 towards Jurbise.
• Diversion will be in place via the E42-E19/A7 and interchanges #23 “Nimy” and #24 “Mons”.

After Pentecost Weekend:

• From Tuesday, May 26 to Friday, May 29, in the direction towards Mons: the N6 will be closed from the junction with exit 23bis "Ath" on the E42-E19/A7 coming from Brussels (inclusive) to the Violette intersection (not included), in the direction of Mons only.
• From Monday, June 1 to Friday, June 5, in the direction towards Casteau: the N6 will be closed from the Violette intersection (not included) to the junction with exit 23 "Nimy" on the E42-E19/A7 coming from Brussels (inclusive), in the direction of Casteau only.

Updates on the final phases of the project will be added on this Blog once announced.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: NAAFI - Quiz Night - Friday 5 June 2026, 1930 hrs @ Patio Bar

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.