Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final International Competition Guide | USET Foundation
The United States Equestrian Team Foundation

FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final

Venue Address

The Azelhof Equestrian Centre
Aarschotsesteenweg 201
2500 Lier, Belgium

Competition Schedule

The full schedule can be found HERE.

Accessibility

We were unable to verify accessibility at this venue.

Venue

Azelhof Equestrian is a well-known center for equestrian sports, particularly show jumping and dressage. It hosts numerous national and international competitions. The venue features multiple arenas, including indoor and outdoor spaces, permanent stables with automatic watering, and a restaurant.  

Tickets

No tickets are required for the event.

Hospitality

There is no hospitality offered, however there is a restaurant on site. There are some tables around the ring, but they are not reserved.

Parking

There is a large, free parking lot at the venue.

Water & Food

While tap water is considered safe to drink in Belgium, it is best practice to utilize bottled water instead. Stay away from raw foods and un-bottled drinks, unless in a reputable restaurant as a precaution.

Transport

Public Transport: There is public transportation in Lier which utilizes both buses and trains.

Taxi: Taxis use meters calculated by distance and time.

Rental Vehicles: For automatic vehicles, it is recommended to book a rental car with a large rental agency.

Ride-Sharing: There are apps that can be utilized to request a vehicle such as Uber and Lyft. The advised and safest method of travel is by taxi or car arranged by a hotel.

Weather

Average weather for September:

  • High Temperature: 64°F
  • Low Temperature: 52°F
  • Rainfall: 2”
  • Humidity: 73%

Suggested Clothing

Belgium’s weather in September can be quite unpredictable, often experiencing all four seasons in a single day. Therefore, layering is key to dressing comfortably and adapting to the fluctuating temperatures and potential rain. 

 

Visas

Due to start in October 2025, U.S. citizens and non-E.U. nationals will need to complete The Entry/Exit System (EES) for all short-term stays to European countries. Registration and biometric data collection will be completed at a border control kiosk at the arrival airport. More information about EES can be found HERE.

It is the traveling individual’s responsibility to check any visa requirements.

When traveling abroad, U.S. citizens may enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Visit www.travel.state.gov for more information.

Airport

  • Brussels Airport (BRU) – 24 mi / 39 km from the competition venue
  • Antwerp International Airport (ANR) – 14 mi / 23 km from the competition venue

Vaccinations

In accordance with the CDC and USOPC recommendations, you may want to consider getting the seasonal flu vaccine. Please note it takes approximately two (2) weeks to maximize immunity.

About Lier

Lier is a city in the Antwerp province of Belgium, located southeast of Antwerp, near the Nete river. It’s known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Zimmer Tower and the Grote Markt (main square). Lier is often called the “gate of the campaign.” Lier boasts a rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly in its historic city center. The city also features the St. Gummarus’ Church, De Fortuin House, and a 4.2 kilometer (2.6 mile) green corridor called the “city walk.”

Places to See

There are many things to see and do in the region like visit historic cities, retreats, art and culture. For a guide, click , CLICK HERE

Accommodations

For more hotel options, CLICK HERE.

HOTELSWEBSITEDISTANCE FROM VENUE
Zimmerhof Hotel Website 5.2 mi / 8.5 km
Hotel Florent Website 5.2 mi / 8.5 km
B-INN Lier Website 4.7 mi / 7.7 km

Hospital

NAMEADDRESSWEBSITE
Heilig Hartziekenhuis Mechelsestraat 24 2500 Lier, Belgium Website

Incident Management Guidelines

Security

In general, Lier, Belgium is a safe area for its residents and visitors. However, security perception changes greatly by district. If you have any doubts or need to report an incident, you can rely on the Police who are constantly patrolling the streets.

Responsible care should be exercised when traveling throughout Lier. There is a normal level of crime, but it varies by district. In the higher-income areas frequented by tourists, petty theft is the most common concern. Travelers should keep valuables out of sight and be aware of their surroundings.

Avoid isolated areas when on foot, especially after dark. It is recommended to only use a trusted taxi or an app-based taxi service. Do not hail a taxi on the street.

Security is the responsibility of everybody. Good security is the application of common sense. The key to good security is vigilance. Be aware of what is happening around you and always pay attention to anything that appears unusual or out of place. This includes people who appear nervous about their surroundings.

ATMs and Credit Cards

Major credit cards are widely accepted. Use of debit cards is widespread, although many stores impose a minimum per debit card purchase, and service charges may apply. Smaller establishments may accept cash only. You’ll find ATMs widely available in Lier if you need to withdraw euros.

It is best to use ATMs inside banks instead of ATMs that are more accessible to passers-by and all banks advise customers to cover ATM keypads with their hands when entering codes.

When making credit card transactions, travelers should expect the vendor to use a credit card reader in their presence.

Safety List

  • Make a copy of your passport or real ID and travel documents and leave the original in a safe place.
  • Always travel in groups.
  • Do not overtly wear expensive jewelry.
  • Keep your phone hidden.
  • Do not carry excessive amounts of cash or credit cards if you do not need them.
  • If you are in a vehicle in standstill traffic with the windows rolled down, keep phones and other possessions low and away from windows and be mindful of people walking through the traffic.
  • Do not approach unattended bags, cases or packages – report them.
  • Do not accept packages from anyone, the contents of which are unclear.
  • Do not advertise where you are staying.
  • If you are out in the evening and you become aware of increased police activity, leave the area immediately.
  • If you see an incident involving the police, do not get involved. Do not play the good Samaritan.

Local Business Hours

Office hours: are Monday through Friday from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Banks: are typically open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Some branches are open Saturday mornings.

Shops: typically open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Travelers Checks

While traveler’s checks were once a popular way to carry money abroad, they are largely outdated and not recommended for use in Lier or other parts of Belgium.  

Currency & Exchange

The euro (€) is the official currency of Belgium. If you need to exchange currency while in Lier, here are some options available in the city: 

Ria Money Transfer Agents
Goudwisselkantoor Lier
Amir Enterprises

Currency & Exchange (continued)

Important considerations for exchanging currency:

  • Avoid Airport Exchange Counters: These locations typically offer the least favorable exchange rates and highest fees due to their convenience factor.
  • Compare Rates: Check current exchange rates online and compare the rates offered by different exchange providers to ensure you get the best deal.
  • Beware of “Zero Fee” Services: Offers of “no commission” or “zero fees” can be misleading as the cost is often built into unfavorable exchange rates.
  • Consider Using ATMs: Using a debit card to withdraw local currency from an ATM can offer better rates than exchanging cash, especially if your bank has partnerships with local banks in Belgium. Remember to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being flagged for suspicious activity.
  • Pay in Local Currency: When using a credit or debit card for purchases, choose to be charged in Euros to avoid unfavorable conversion fees that may be applied if you choose to pay in your home currency.

Utilize No Foreign Transaction Fee Cards: Consider using a travel debit or credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees when making purchases.

Tipping

Tipping in Belgium is not mandatory as a service charge is typically included in the bill, especially in restaurants. However, leaving a small tip, such as rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra euros, is a common and appreciated way to acknowledge good service. 

  • Restaurants: A service charge (10-15%) is usually included in the bill, so tipping is not required. If you received exceptional service, you can leave a few extra euros, or round up to the nearest convenient amount. Some people may round up to the nearest euro or higher for larger amounts. 
  • Bars and Cafes: Tipping is less common in bars and cafes. You can round up to the nearest euro or leave a small tip, especially if you are paying with cash. 
  • Taxis: Drivers are happy if you round up, but it isn’t required as service is typically included. 
  • Hotel staff/Porters: Tip based on the hotel’s status, from zero to $20. 
  • Bathroom attendants: Tip around €0.50. 

STEP

When traveling abroad, U.S. citizens may enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Visit travel.state.gov for more information.

ABOUT THE SERVICE Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.

BENEFITS
  • Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
  • Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
  • Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.
Time to complete: 20 minutes

Consulate

Should you need to contact the U.S. consulate, the nearest one is the the nearest one is the U.S. Embassy in Brussels.

U.S. Embassy Brussels
Regentlaan 27 Boulevard du Régent
B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
Phone: (32-2) 811-4000

 

Language

Although the official languages of Belgium are French, Dutch, and German, English is spoken by approximately 55% of the population.

 

Communications (phone, WiFi, and internet)

Cell phone coverage in Lier, Belgium is generally very good, with 4G available nearly everywhere and even 5G in many areas. Contact your phone provider for more information on Sim Cards and International Data Plans.

Electrical

Power in Belgium operates on a 230-volt current and a 50 hertz frequency. Electricity will be supplied through a Type C (rounded two-prong) or Type E (rounded two-prong with one earth clip).

Universal Power Adapters can easily be purchased before travel.

Food

Belgian cuisine is a mix of hearty Flemish fare and refined French techniques, resulting in a diverse range of dishes. It’s known for its rich stews, fresh seafood, delicious waffles, and world-famous chocolates and beers. Regional variations exist, with influences from neighboring France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Some examples of typical dishes:

  • Moules-frites: Mussels cooked with fries, a classic Belgian combination
  • Frites: Belgian fries, often considered the best in the world, typically served with a variety of sauces
  • Carbonnade Flamande: A rich beef stew braised in beer
  • Waterzooi: A creamy stew, traditionally made with chicken or fish 
  • Stoemp: Mashed potatoes with vegetables, often served with sausage or bacon 
  • Waffles: Brussels waffles and Liège waffles are both popular, often topped with fresh fruit, chocolate, or whipped cream
  • Belgian Chocolate: Renowned for its quality and variety, from pralines to truffles
  • Speculoos: Spiced short crust biscuits

Local Restaurants

RESTAURANTWEBSITEDISTANCE FROM VENUE
Salto! Website 5.2 mi / 8.5 km
Numerus Clausus Website 4.7 mi / 7.6 km
Nethe & Drinke Website 5 mi / 8.1 km
Het Looks Bistro Website 4.2 mi / 6.9 km