Belgium Hotel Tips by Paul2001 Top 5 Page for this destination

The Hotel Ascona: Rather Characterless but Good Hotel in Gent

This was one of those hotels I stayed in purposely for the fact that it was near the train station. I did alot of this in Belgium because I rushed through some towns really fast. The Ascona was a rather featureless sort of place that I thought might have been a bit overpriced. The staff was friendly enough and the room was huge. As for the building, it was a big cement block.

Unique Qualities: The room was large by European standards. It was also very bright. I did not spend alot on hotel rooms on this trip so the minibar was a surprise. If you like Belgium beer that this will prove to be a added plus.

Address: Voskenslaan 105, 9000 Gent

Comparison: about average

Directions: 500m south of the train station.

Phone: +32 9 221 27 56

Price: US$80-120

Theme: Hotel

Website: http://www.ascona.be

The Hotel Terminus: Passable Budget Hotel in Antwerp

Here is a hotel I booked primarily for the location. I knew I would need quick access to the Central Station (a very impressive building), so I decided upon the Hotel Terminus, which is virtually across the street. To be honest I do not think all that much of the place. My problem was with the room which, a single, was kind of small and smelled because of problem with the plumbing. But then again I did not stay in Antwerp to hang out in my hotel room.

Unique Qualities: The hotel is best for its location. Most of the major attractions in Antwerp are within walking distances. There are also all kinds of bars and restaurants that will cater to all budgets in the vicinity.

Address: Franklin Rooseveltplaats 9

Comparison: about average

Directions: Across from the Central Train Station

Phone: +32 3 231.47.95

Price: US$80-120

Theme: Hotel

Website: http://www.hotelterminus.be

George V Hotel: Friendly Mid-priced Hotel in Central Brussels

I really enjoyed my time at the George V Hotel as the management was very friendly and helpful. The rooms where on the small side but quite clean and quite with cable TV. The hotel is also well located, being near the Grand Place, which was only about 15 minutes away by foot. There are also many good restaurants and bars in the neighborhood towards the north of the hotel.
On the downside is that the immediate neighborhood itself at first appeared to be a little threatening, in particular towards the south. However I encountered no problems. In fact this neighborhood is supposedly turning the corner and becoming rather trendy. Urban redevelopment takes place in Europe too. Finally a helpful tip if you want to do your own laundry, there is a very good laundromat just around the corner from the hotel.

Unique Qualities: Its friendly staff and great location.

Address: 23 Rue d'Kint

Comparison: about average

Directions: Just a couple of blocks west of the Grand Place, in the Fish Market area. The nearest Metro stop is Brouse.

Phone: 02/513-50-93

Price: US$40-80

Theme: Hotel

Website: http://www.george5.com