Brussels Welcome Hotel

Travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience will appreciate the Brussels Welcome Hotel, with a history that dates back to the 19th century. In 1986 the historic house was converted into a restaurant, and then in 1988 owners Michel and Sophie opened six hotel rooms. Over the years more rooms were opened. The original hotel designs have been preserved. From the outside, the three-story hotel blends in with the cobblestone streets. The red-trimmed lobby door frame leads into a narrow foyer, with red carpeting, which continues up the main staircase.

Safari hats line the stairwell that descends to the visitor bathrooms, where there are a suit of armor, vending machine, elevator, and Internet corner with a standing workstation and mounted flat-screen PC. Murals on the wall feature signs pointing to Japan, Tibet, China, and Thailand. There are also real airline seats and other quirky interior designs. Hallways, though, are narrow, which is customary of older building in Brussels. This family-run hotel has a welcoming, quirky atmosphere and a particularly helpful staff.

The hotel is located in the narrow historic streets of Brussels. Historic sites are a short walk from the hotel. Sainte Catherine church, dating back to 1854, is a two-minute walk from the hotel. The famous fish market is four minutes on foot. The area is also filled with restaurants, bars, and shopping. A metro station is conveniently located across the street. Brussels’ central square, Grand Place, is seven minutes by subway. Brussels Airport is 25 minutes by cab. WIELS is a 25-minute subway ride away.

The hotel offers Suites, Standard, Deluxe, and Family Rooms. Interior designs -- inspired by the four corners of the world -- are unconventional and fun. The Istanbul room features intricate woodwork, antiques, and a hookah. The Silk Road has a mural map, bodhisattva statues, and neon lighting. Features include flat-screen TVs, kettles, safes, and minibars. Rooms, though, are small and some (Family and Standard) don’t have air-conditioning. Family Rooms can fit five people with a bedroom and two bathrooms. Suites are luxurious and some have Sainte Catherine church views. Bathrooms are modern -- some have whirlpool tubs -- but some showerheads show signs of calcium build-up. 

Walking into the hotel’s breakfast room is like stepping back into time. Antique wood paneling -- with mirrors -- lines the walls and lovely crown moulding decorates the ceiling. A bar area has been converted into a breakfast buffet. Red chairs and booths add a nice pop of modernity. The hotel also offers a parking lot that is monitored by security cameras. The underground parking lot is available for a fee. Wi-Fi is free, though some guests have noted the signal weakens the farther you go from the lobby.