... which is run by three state-owned train companies. Especially in Belgium, a country marked - especially recently - by territory and power wars based solely on linguistic preferences, one must be careful to assume that any language will be readily available.

The EC supports your desire to receive prompt service, which is outlined in the link I forwarded on (you're welcome). I agree completely that you have a right to that, in line with the EC's recommendations.

However, to assume that any international European interaction (and many times even a national one) is not an issue of language belies a severe misunderstanding of this continent. Language and culture issues are what prevent the EU from being as powerful a union of states as the US federal government, for better or for worse.

Certainly you're right that the international language of business is assumed to be English. But 23 the languages of the EU have equal legal standing, and on-the-ground experiences with them will yield varying results. As visitors to the EU, we should be cognizant of these differences, even when dealing with international-scope business entities.

Peace.