I was heading out on an epic, “once-in-a-lifetime” journey that involved a beautiful historic train, an iconic hotel, and 4 glorious days in Venice, Italy. So, when I took off to Brussels, I wasn’t even thinking of it as a destination. It was just the city where I had to catch the train. I had a day and a half “to kill” and did zero prep-work to plan my time. Boy did I do myself a disservice!
Despite the incredible experiences I had on this trip, I think back to my day in Brussels most fondly and I hope I get an opportunity to redeem myself and do the city justice with a proper itinerary next time!
Parc Royale in Brussels
First of all, Brussels is incredibly accessible and easy to get to from the east coast! We flew overnight on a direct US Airways flight from Philadelphia – nice and easy! The drive from the airport to the hotel was a highlight for me. I immediately fell in love with the historic architecture in the residential neighborhoods. Next time, I’ll plan for a leisurely driving tour en route so I can take in more of the city. Also, I learned that Brussels is only a 2 hour train ride from Paris and the two cities pair together very well. I may consider this for my next European Itinerary and skip the nightmare that is the Charles de Gaulle airport!
We stayed at the charming Hotel Amigo, a Rocco Forte Hotel and a member of Virtuoso. My clients receive the following amenities with their reservation:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests or Continental Breakfast in room
- 85 EUR Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
My room was the Tin Tin Suite with decor inspired by the popular Belgian cartoon. This large suite has a separate sleeping and living space and 1.5 bathrooms with a formal entryway and bonus dressing room. The layout along with the playful decor makes this suite perfect for families! I also really enjoyed the top floor views of the intricate City Hall.
The Tin Tin Suite at Hotel Amigo
The hotel is housed in a building more than 500 years old that has served as a hotel for much of its life, but also did a turn as a prison. The current lobby floor is paved with cobblestones dating from 620 that were salvaged from the nearby city streets when the hotel was restored. The Hotel Amigo is a perfect blend of historic and modern elements with the characteristic Rocco Forte eclectic flair.
In Brussels, Beer is the Answer!
Shopping for chocolate at the Galerie Royales Saint-Hubert
Step outside the hotel and you are in the heart of Brussels’ with the Grand Place, Galerie Royales Saint-Hubert, and so much more right at your finger tips. Since I hadn’t done any homework before arriving, I left the agenda completely up to my husband, Josh. Naturally, we spent quite a bit of time tasting Belgian beers, but I also found time to do some chocolate shopping! I would absolutely work in more formal beer and chocolate tasting tours next time. Both of these industries have such interesting histories in Belgium and I want to know more!
We were there in mid-May; the sun was warm, but the spring air was still crisp. It was perfect weather for walking, exploring the many flea markets, enjoying a meal at an outdoor bistro, or maybe having a picnic in the Parc Royale.
Enjoying the Bar Amigo. Yes, there is more to drink in Brussels than beer!
