Luxembourg, one of the most prosperous countries in Western Europe, thrives on its banking and steel industries, which provide a stable economy. Strong financial ties with European nations, coupled with favorable banking laws and minimal taxation have helped the country's development. The cosmopolitan attitude exists due to the tiny territory acquiring its population through immigration. As host to the European Parliament until 1989, Luxembourg continues to remain mainstream on EU issues of monetary union, social policies, and immigration.
Luxembourg's geography allows for a healthy agricultural sector, producing mainly crops. The hilly, forested Ardennes covers one third of the country, while the vineyards of the Moselle valley lie in the southeast. One of the main attractions for visitors is the capital city of Luxembourg-Ville which overlooks the Alzette and Petrusse valleys. Split into two districts, the old center with fortress towers and cobblestone streets, and the modern downtown on the plateau du Krichberg, Luxembourg-Ville is known as a world heritage site, as declared by UNESCO in 1994. The weather is warm from May to September, though the Ardennes region is often cold, wet and snowy in winter.
Despite its small size, Luxembourg has its own language. It is influenced by its neighboring countries, France, Germany and Belgium. The official language is Letzeburgesch, a German-Moselle-Frankish dialect. French and German are commonly spoken, particularly in business. Many people also speak English, particularly in cities such as the capital. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, with small Protestant, Anglican and Jewish minorities.
Transportation is well developed, consisting of the national railway company (CFL), which is integrated with the bus system. Though there is no subway service, city buses provide single-journey trips, along with regional buses and trains that connect cities and neighboring countries. The road system is extensive. Driving is on the right hand side of the road. No direct flights are offered from the U.S. to Luxembourg International Airport; however most major European cities have air service to Luxembourg though carriers such as Luxair, Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, SAS and SWISS. Bus services are available to and from the airport. Luxembourg has an excellent communications infrastructure, with an advanced telephone system.
Though Luxembourg does not have a high crime rate, petty crime in the form of theft and pickpocketing is common, particularly on trains, at train stations, and in tourist destinations.
Luxembourg is moderately priced compared to the rest of Europe; however there is a 15 percent tax on all purchases, except for hotel stays and at restaurants that are taxed at a 3 percent rate.
.
Intelligence Officers at iJET are currently monitoring local conditions in Liechtenstein to provide a level of information that surpasses any available from other public sources, including the U.S. State Department. Free from political constraints or concerns, our data provides unfiltered information vital for every traveler.
Travelers to Luxembourg or those considering travel to Luxembourg are advised to purchase an Intelligence Brief for the most timely and concise information available on the country.
For only $7.50 you will receive the most complete intelligence available to the general public. Each Intelligence Brief contains data on 12 areas of concern for travelers (including Local weather, Security and Health advisories, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Cultural and Business information, Transportation updates, Communications/Technology, the Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language) plus an overview map and real-time updates from the world's leading private intelligence gathering organization.
To purchase and immediately download the latest Intelligence Brief for the country -- Click Here