The beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and Grand Ducal Palace are two of the most stunning buildings in Luxembourg, while the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers are representative of the serenity that attracts many visitors to the country.
Around 120,000 British nationals visit Luxembourg every year, which can be accessed from the United Kingdom by airplane, train or car.
Not too far from London
Luxembourg is only 298.17 miles from London, with a flight taking just over an hour regardless of which airline you use.
Driving from London will require around seven hours travel time, while a train trip will take a lesser time of roughly four hours.
If you are unsure as to how best adapt your medication schedule, regardless of your travel choice, it is best to discuss a plan with your diabetes specialist
Time zone
Luxembourg is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean time, which should not greatly impact your diabetes management.
If you have any doubts regarding your medication, however, you should consult a member of your diabetes team.
Climate
The average climate in Luxembourg is very similar to that of the UK.
However, if you are travelling in the summer, be wary that warm weather can result in enhanced insulin absorption.
Subsequently, insulin takers should vigilantly monitor blood sugar levels, especially before periods of physical activity.
Currency
The currency in Luxembourg is the Euro. The majority of hotels, larger shops and restaurants will accept payment from major credit or debit cards, while it is advised to secure currency before arriving in Luxembourg to obtain the best exchange rates.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Luxembourg, however, the opportunity should be taken to ensure existing vaccinations such as your yearly flu jab and those against polio and tetanus are also up to date..
Be sure to consider all the supplies you need when travelling to Luxembourg. This also includes urine ketone strips and spare batteries for insulin pumps or blood glucose meters.
UK Global Health Insurance Card
Apply for a GHIC (UK Global Health Insurance Card) – you can apply online at https://overseas-healthcare.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/get-healthcare-cover-travelling-abroad/start and you can receive free cover in some European countries.
Insulin
You should note which syringes are available in Luxembourg, with U-100 syringes the most commonly used.
The vast majority of insulin in the UK is U-100 insulin. If you need to take a different strength of insulin, say in an emergency, it’s important that you use the correct device and syringes for that insulin.
For example, you would use a U-40 syringe for U-40 insulin. You will need to work with a doctor getting the right dose if you’re using a different form of insulin.
Access to medication
Medication is available in Luxembourg, but payment is required from a pharmacy. However, possessing a GHIC card allows you to receive treatment at a lesser cost and this money can be recouped when you get back into the UK.
Blood and urine testing kits are available from many pharmacies in Luxembourg.
The emergency services telephone number to be called in Luxembourg is 112.
It is advisable to contact the manufacturing company of your medication prior to leaving the UK to find out what is available in Luxembourg if your medication gets lost, stolen or damaged. It is also worth checking to see what different names your medication may be listed as.
Diabetes associations
It is important to note the diabetes associations in the country you are travelling to in case of an emergency.
There is one diabetic association in Luxembourg, Association Luxembourgeoise du Diabete, which has been a member of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) since 1982.
The address is:
- Association Luxembourgeoise du Diabete, 143 rue de Mühlenbach, LU-2168 Luxembourg,
Telephone: +352-485361
Email: [email protected]
Questions
- How is blood glucose measured in Luxembourg? Blood glucose levels are measured in mg/dl in Luxembourg.
- What language is spoken in Luxembourg? German and French are the two main written languages and are widely used. Lëtzebuergesch is used for spoken communication.
- Will I need an international driving license when driving in Luxembourg? Only for renting a vehicle
- If I want to hire a vehicle during my visit, will I face any form of discrimination? No
- What sugar free drinks are available in Luxembourg? Coca cola light, Fanta light
