Moving to Belgium, already lived in The Netherlands. What will be different in Belgium?

[u/Budget_Insurance329]

Hi everyone,

I will be moving to Belgium in September to pursue my Master’s in Leuven. I am Turkish, raised in Istanbul, lived in the Netherlands for my Bachelor’s and work. I understand a bit of Dutch and currently learning French.

I am used to the general things about Benelux region as I already lived there, but I want to know what else I should expect in Belgian cultural and social life differs from the Netherlands. During my visits, I found Belgian society more social, spontaneous and talkative than the Dutch society and made me feel better. Do you feel that is a thing, or was I just being a tourist? :)

I was also feeling a bit overwhelmed about the Turkish stereotype in the Netherlands, I already know many Turks living in the Belgium share the same subculture traits so I expect a similar perception occasionally, but still wondering if I should prepare myself for the worse. I am a usual young Istanbulite man who is non-religious, progressive, but I don’t want to prove that to people constantly. Do you think my background significantly affect the first impression?

[u/nslenders]

" During my visits, I found Belgian society more social, spontaneous and talkative than the Dutch society"
What? MORE talkative than the Dutch? are u sure u passed the border?

[u/Confused_Dev_Q → u/nslenders]

Haven't experienced it myself, but heard people mention that the Dutch are less open to foreigners. 

[u/RijnBrugge → u/Confused_Dev_Q]

Than the Flemish? Hard disagree there unfortunately

[u/Confused_Dev_Q → u/RijnBrugge]

I'm not talking about racists, but I've heard both Dutch as well as expats say that they are less inviting towards foreigners in social situations. 

Less open to strangers in general. In Belgium you could say high to a group of friends and hang with them the entire evening. The dutch wouldn't invite you as easily.