A day in Brussels
We headed for a road trip to Brussels which was quicker than I thought. Four hours by Eurolines bus from Paris to Brussels was not really that long. Things were quiet when we got to the city and shops were closed which made us wonder if it was a holiday that day. After lunch, we took a short walk to the historical centre and there we found people, lots of them..... all around the small packed place.
Like any other tourists, we were out there in search for the famous little boy: the Mannekin Pis. After getting lost in several tiny streets, I asked impatiently, "where is he?!!" (the boy who got famous for pissing). My companion said "let's follow the tourists, we're sure to find it". (Funny, he said it in such a way like we were never one of them.
Finally, we saw him. And all I managed to say was: "what.... that's it????" It wasn't like I was expecting something humongous for a small boy's statue, but at least not that small.
And then it was time for us to have a taste of Belgian Beer. I'm telling you their beer was pretty good. And it's interesting how people can take their beers seriously. But I agree, when in Belgium, it's another imperative thing to try. And don't forget to sample the finest Belgian chocolates. I brought some home from the airport, which Im sure was more expesive than the usual price.
We concluded the day with a bit of shopping. There were lots of good things to buy but most shops were already closed.
Overall, Brussels is a nice place to be at but we never stayed long enough to find out other insteresting spots.
The 3-star hotel is big (the 2nd largest hotel in Brussels according to their website, not surprising at all!) with spacious lobby area and hallways. The red-colored room was appealing to me and in comparison larger than other European hotels . The amenities are modernly-equipped and the facilities are of standard. The service was nice and warm, except that there were not too many staff around.
Talk about the downside. Some unnoticeable parts of the hotel were falling apart with some cracks visible and wallpapers coming off. And although the general sorrounding was fine, it wasn't so clean for most parts (like dark rug areas), which I guess was reflective of how many people had come and gone. At least the beds were made and the linens were new and clean, that was the most important.
Right outside the hotel are several other cafes and retaurants serving traditional belgian fare with optional belgian beer of course.
The hotel offer special rates depending on the time of stay so it is recommended to check their website for specifics. I remembered paying less than Euros100 per night.
Still recommendable for business and leisure.
