Talk about first impressions. When I walked into the Zoom Hotel I knew I’d found something special. ZOOM is truly unique, in the best kind of way. It’s obvious the design team went above and beyond to think about the hotel concept and how to make sure guests have an enjoyable stay.

I felt welcomed to Zoom Hotel; and a brew from the onsite “Beer House” was a nice way to settle in. With a focus on photography, the hotel has an industrial meets boutique/design hotel feel. It’s so easy to say that this hotel is very cool.

My room was very comfortable. I loved having a water boiler to make tea and a coffee maker too. The high quality teas were a nice touch. Since the Zoom Hotel is all about photography, the rooms serve as a photo exhibit, with various displays throughout the hotel. Rooms feature a “pillow menu” with a few different options, so that you can pick the perfect pillow. I used the speaker to play music via Bluetooth, which was a nice bonus.

I enjoyed the desk and working space in my room, in addition to the couch to catch up on some reading. The room was spacious for an urban hotel. Keep in mind that the hotel is not in the center of Brussels, but it’s not too far — just a 25-minute walk to the Grand Palace or a quick taxi or tram ride. Although this hotel has a rather edgy feel I was encouraged to see the range of guests.

I found the team to be very helpful, from the friendly morning crew to the receptionist who helped me print out my travel documents for the next part of my trip. The breakfast buffet was lovely, with a nice variety of fresh options.

 
As soon as I walked into Made in Louise I felt at home. The hotel is located on a quiet street not far from a main shopping district. My room was so comfortable and as the room description stated, was totally charming. The simple and chic style of the room was really relaxing.

Although not the largest room, it was very comfortable with plenty of space. I loved the sitting chair and the desk space too. In a way, Made in Louise felt like a bit of a retreat from the city bustle. It made for a great place to recharge after the day’s activities. That being said, the hotel isn’t in the heart of the city so that’s important to note. But it is close to wonderful shopping options. A 30-minute walk, a quick tram ride or a taxi will take you into the heart of Brussels. With renovations completed in the last few years, it’s obvious the team has taken great care to restore the building.

While I enjoyed the breakfast buffet in the well-lit and comfortable dining room I noticed the range of guests. From families, tourists, to those on business, Made in Louise caters to a variety of guests. They even have a pool table and an outdoor chess game. The hotel really feels like a comfortable home, with different sitting areas and a great variety of books on the shelves to peruse. I happily read and used a Rick Steves’ Brussels book for sightseeing trips during my visit. The “Made in Bar & Market” has nice options from snacks to beer for purchase.

I found it difficult to leave Made In Louise, which is always a good sign of any hotel stay!

 
When it comes to city trips, Hotel Les Nuits makes for the perfect home base. Step outside from this boutique hotel and you’re in a great area of the famous shopping and fashion city of Antwerp.

The personal touches and personality of Hotel Les Nuits are welcoming and noticeable upon arrival. At first glance of the hotel information card in my room, I had to smile when I read “We don’t like mini-bars. We are happy to bring it to your room, 24/7.” This was the first hotel that I saw a complementary toothbrush and accompanying toothpaste right in the room, little things like that were nice and made the stay more comfortable.

The hotel hallways were a little too dark on rainy days, but the boutique style of Hotel Les Nuits shines through with style. My room wasn’t as colorful or as interesting as I would have liked, but it was very comfortable. It was quite spacious for an urban hotel with ample space to relax and work. The comfortable bathtub and cozy robes made for the perfect combination to warm up on a cold Belgian evening.

The onsite Les Jours restaurant makes for a nice spot to relax with a drink, and to enjoy lunch or dinner. The morning breakfast buffet offered up a nice selection of morning options to start the day. When the Belgian sun is shining, you can’t beat eating on the hotel’s outdoor patio.

When you’re looking for a boutique hotel in Antwerp, check into Hotel Les Nuits.

 
The Dominican Hotel in Brussels lives and breathes the history of its location. In the 15th century, the spot was home to a Dominican Abbey, and in the 1800s, famous French painter Jacques-Louis David lived there. Currently, past meets present in the façade, which integrates portions of the front of David’s house, and with abbey-inspired features throughout the interior. High ceilings greet guests as they enter the lobby, along with stone floors, a stunning courtyard, and a unique circular floral pattern worked into the design.

Secure elevators operated only by room keycards are an oasis, floating up to the sounds of chanting monks and ancient music. The serenity continues over the threshold into the rooms themselves. Sleek lines and sultry curves in the furniture are mirrored by a plush bed and, in the bathroom, a rainshower shower head. Dark wood and subtle lighting make it easy for you to relax among the history of place.

The finery continues into the restaurant, where delicious meals with a a unique flair are served in a low-lit tranquil dining room. Try the risotto with asparagus and pistachio. It’s creamy, nutty, and to die for. In the gym, a boxing room sits off to one side, and although in small quarters, a sauna and exercise equipment are available for use. Make sure to come at off-peak hours so the machines won’t be full.