Belgium's 11,849 Square Miles Illustrate Vast US Distances Between Dallas and Houston

A recent tweet by user "Robin" has drawn attention to the significant geographical scale of the United States, suggesting that many Europeans do not fully comprehend its vastness. The tweet specifically highlights that "The entire country of Belgium fits between Dallas and Houston," a comparison that underscores the expansive distances within the U.S.

Belgium, a federal state in Western Europe, covers an area of approximately 11,849 square miles (30,689 square kilometers). It is bordered by the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, and is known for its dense population and relatively compact size compared to many other nations. This makes it a common reference point for illustrating smaller geographical scales.

The distance between Dallas and Houston, two major metropolitan centers in Texas, spans approximately 225 miles (362 kilometers) by air. This linear measurement provides a tangible context for "Robin's" assertion, demonstrating how a European nation, roughly the size of Maryland, could indeed be conceptually placed within the expanse separating these two Texan cities.

"It's true. As a European, I can confirm most other Europeans don't grasp the US's scale. The entire country of Belgium fits between Dallas and Houston," Robin stated in the tweet.

This observation resonates with a common perception gap, where the sheer size of American states and the distances between its major cities often surprise those accustomed to the more compact geography of European countries. The comparison serves as a vivid illustration of the continental scale that defines much of the United States. Such geographical analogies help bridge understanding of the vastness that influences everything from infrastructure to regional cultures within the U.S.