Brussels is well suited to both casual and business travellers, with abundant and excellent con- nections by air, rail and road. The increasing political significance of Brussels in its role as the heart of Europe has led to greater com- petition between airlines, with many operators offering a variety of discounted fares. The Euro- star and Thalys high-speed trains link the city with London, Paris, Netherlands and Germany, and compare favourably with flying in terms of time. British travellers can use the Channel Tunnel to bring their car with them.

About Charleroi International Airport

Brussels South-Charleroi Airport has become a second hub, since Ryanair has been operating scheduled flights from various European destinations, including the UK. This is now under review due to a dispute over discounted landing fees. The airport is 55 km (34 miles) from the centre of Brussels and can be reached by train or coach

Airport services and facilities

Brussels National Airport has been extensively renovated over the past decade, with a new concourse for intra-EU travel recently completed. Brussels airport features bag- gage reclaim, customs, car-hire booths, tourist information and ground transport on the lower level. The departure lounge has check-in facilities, ticket and insurance counters and restaurants, bars and shops, before and after the security checkpoints. In addition, there are special lounges for business.