Starting a new month with a bank holiday must surely be a good sign.
As is traditional in Belgium, a new month brings with it a number of new rules and regulations taking effect. This particular month may start with Fool's Day, but the measures coming into force are no joke. From a higher minimum wage to priority rules in childcare, you can find all the changes here.
For those in Brussels looking for a fun Easter-themed activity on this day off, the BELvue museum in the city centre has come up with a fun easter egg hunt and is asking young participants to carry out tasks, including deciphering codes, creating drawings and finding information, before getting their hands on the little chocolate treats.
Apart from that – and maybe a last Easter brunch that couldn't fit into your plans over the weekend – there does not seem to be a lot going on today, as most shops and services are remaining shut to take advantage of the long weekend today.
Any Easter holiday plans? Let @Maajtee know.
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1. What is open on Easter Monday in Belgium?
Most people in Belgium will have today off for Easter Monday, which is one of the ten official public holidays in the country. This also marks the start of the two-week Easter holidays for Dutch-speaking schools. Read more.
2. Higher minimum wages and childcare priority for working parents: What changes on 1 April?
April might start with Fool's Day laughs but the new legislation that comes into effect on 1 April is quite serious. From a new funding model for doctors to a higher minimum wage and priority rules in childcare, here is what changes in Belgium today. Read more.
3. Compromis à la belge? Belgian EU Presidency closes deals at record speed
Halfway through Belgium's Presidency of the Council of the EU, it can only be said that the country has been trying and succeeding in reaching as many agreements as possible before the European elections in early June. "So far, so good," said Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. Read more.
4. New law ensures compensation for platform workers after accident
The law introduced last year to better protect platform workers will be expanded to include compulsory insurance against accidents at work. The expense will be borne by the platform. Read more.
5. Romania and Bulgaria partially join EU Schengen zone
Romania and Bulgaria have become the 28th and 29th members of the Schengen Area, the EU’s passport-free travel zone, after waiting for 13 years, with notable exception of land borders. Read more.
6. Over 20 people injured in a tourist bus accident in Brussels
A bus accident occurred on Sunday near the Van Praet bridge, alongside Brussels’ canal. Of the 33 people on board, 22 were injured, including three severely, according to initial reports from emergency services. Read more.
7. Hidden Belgium: The Saint Remaclus Cave
It’s almost impossible to find the Saint Remaclus Cave. It lies hidden deep in the Ardennes on a forest trail near the village of Auby-sur-Semois. Read more.
