Not even big enough on most maps of Europe to contain the letters of its name, Lilliputian Luxembourg makes up in snazz what it lacks in size. It has a wealth of verdant landscapes crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with the sort of rural hamlets that most people associate with fairy tales.
Its charms are myriad and its people are justifiably proud of their heritage. The nation's motto is inscribed everywhere throughout Luxembourg City, the capital - Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sin - 'We want to remain what we are'. After a visit, you're sure to hope they do.
A respected member of the European Union, a role model of international finance and a benchmark in comparisons of quality of life, Luxembourg enjoys a prosperity that nations many times larger aspire toward and envy.
The north of the country lures outdoors enthusiasts with sylvan settings promising fabulous skiing and hiking. The Moselle Valley, just east of Luxembourg City, is one of Europe's most idyllic wine-producing regions. And the capital is no more than an hour's drive from anywhere else in the country, so you can truly get a sense of the lay of the land without spending eons running around.
Full country name: Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (Luxemburg, Letzeburg)
Area: 2,586 sq km
Population: 454,000
Capital City: Luxembourg
People: 70% nationals (Celtic stock, with French and German), 30% resident foreigners (mostly Belgian, French, German, Italian and Portuguese)
Language: English, Luxembourgish; Letzeburgesch, French, German
Religion: 97% Roman Catholic
Government: constitutional monarchy
Head of State: Grand Duke Henri
Head of Government: Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker
GDP: US$21.94 billion
GDP per capita: US$48,900
Annual Growth: 3%
Inflation: 1.5%
Major Industries: Banking, Insurance sectors, Agriculture, Iron and steel, plastic and rubber, chemicals, mechanical and electrical equipment, tourism
Major Trading Partners: EU (esp. Belgium, France, Germany, UK, Netherlands)
Member of EU: Yes
Introduction of Luxembourg
