Radisson RED Brussels

Previously a fairly typical Radisson Blu, this hotel was the first of Radisson's new Red brand to open worldwide. The new lifestyle concept is targeted at millennials with a focus on technology, connectivity, art, and design. The Radisson Red Brussels is housed in a 2006-built nondescript concrete building, though the hotel's interiors are far from dull. The ultra-contemporary design features large open spaces with a white hexagon wall that complements bright red hexagonal seating in the lobby. Art is all around, with comic strips and drawings made in partnership with Belgian artists. Big letters over the elevators say "Sleep." Another sign encourages guests to take a selfie and enter a contest on social media. Guests check in at small desks, or they can use the hotel's app to do it themselves. Events spaces also are on this level, and everything is designed to be interactive and social. The overall ambiance is relaxed, friendly, and youthful. Because of its location next to the European Commission, this hotel is particularly convenient for corporate guests, but families, couples and small groups of friends also pass through the hotel.

This hotel is located in Ixelles, a municipality east of Brussels within the European Quarter, which is home to European Parliament (a three-minute walk from the hotel). A curious note: The parliament building is known to locals as "caprice des dieux" or "whim of the gods" because its architecture is the same shape as a local cheese. There are several cafes, bars, and restaurants within walking distance, and the Brussels Luxembourg Railway Station can be reached in four minutes on foot. The Museum of Natural Sciences is a five-minute walk away. The Berlaymont, which is the headquarters of the European Commission, is a 15-minute walk. It's a bit too far (25 minutes on foot) to easily walk to the Grand Place and Mont des Arts district, but travelers can take a 12-minute train ride from nearby Trone Metro Station to get there. Shoppers can get to the elegant stores of Avenue Louise in 15 minutes by train, and the famed Manneken Pis statue is about a 15-minute drive. Brussels Airport is about 15 minutes way by car or 45 minutes by train.

The hotel offers Studios and Studio Suites, all with ultra-modern, colorful decor targeting young adults. Radisson's Red brand aims to banish boring beige, which it has done with bold oversized red-and-black comic book-inspired imagery against a white backdrop, paying tribute -- in part -- to famous Belgian artist Rene Magritte. Floors and drapery are gray, and beds are covered in white linens while red or white seating and light wood veneer furniture add a clean look to everything. At 42 to 55 inches, the flat-screen TVs are also oversized. Other amenities include air-conditioning, mini-fridges, music players, safes, free bottled water, and tables with benches and mismatched chairs. High-tech features include multiple USB plugs and wireless streaming technology so guests can easily connect their mobile devices to watch videos or play music. Modern bathrooms, which have frosted-glass doors, are distinguished by white tile with red trim and mosaic images. They come with walk-in showers or shower/tub combos, design mirrors, and toiletries in large eco-friendly bottles. Views of the city face Luxembourg Square, Idalie Street, or Godecharles Street. As part of the hotel's eco-friendly practices, rooms are paperless. All information is featured on the TV, through the hotel app, or on the wall.

There are a number of handy features on-site, helping to make this a standout pick in the area. The OUI Bar and KTCHN is open all day, serving international and Belgian fare. Breakfast is available any time, though isn't included in room rates. The restaurant's industrial-chic space is funky and fun, with a black-and-white tile floor, bright red booths and chairs, plus bright yellow chairs, shiny white tables, and galvanized and movie-set lighting fixtures. A pool table entertains diners while they wait, and snacks and shots are free on Wednesday night, with a DJ for entertainment. The bar offers craft beers, signature cocktails, lemonades, and smoothies, and there's also a soft-serve ice cream machine. 

The small windowless fitness center has modern cardio and weight-training equipment, free weights, exercise balls, and a little sauna. The fitness equipment is eco-friendly: When guests exercise, the power generated is used in part to supply the hotel.

Events spaces are -- like much of the hotel -- a departure from the standard meeting rooms found elsewhere. Attendees can write on the wipe-off magnetic walls and even play games such as table tennis -- they feel designed for start-up company workers. The three rooms can accommodate from 12 to 75 people. The Van Rouge food truck also is available for private events. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and there is limited paid parking. Dogs are also allowed for a fee -- so check ahead.