You get a sense of grandeur when you arrive at the Conrad in Brussels, if the Mercedes, Porsches, Maseratis et al at the entrance are anything to go by. The foyeur area is huge, very classical design, which is exactly what I like.
The front desk service was fast and efficient, while the concierge's recommendation for a restaurant near by proved later to be very good.
When I got to my room, however, I had to ring immediately to the front desk because it was a smoking room. Waited in the room and within 2 minutes, two members of staff where there to help me with the move to another non-smoking room. Very fast service, while both were very apologetic about the mistake- apparently they had confused me with another guest who always requests a smoking room! They even made up for it with a small box of Belgian chocolates - now that's going the extra mile for the customer!
The room was huge, facing the outer part of the hotel at the back, very tranquil. It had a massive bed (probably larger than king size), while the decor was very classical and tasteful. The bathroom was virtually all marble with a very large, classical bath-tub (huge!), double wash basin, stand alone shower, lots of room and also plenty of towels. Also, in the room there was a large sofa and classic Louise XV style chair, together with coffee table, very large TV and for those of us who have to do some work (I unfortunately had to!), a large desk with all the computer and internet connections you can hope to mention.
By the way, don't be put off by the long, carpetted corridors, which are a bit bland, the rooms are very good.
I had time to go down to the swimming pool, which is in the basement area. Wonderful - a full 17 metre pool which is truly outstanding for any hotel.
The bed that night was ideal - slept like a log until the next morning. Had breakfast in the Wiltcher Restaurant, on the ground floor. The selection was great and very extensive - I even had double helpings, it was that good!
So to sum up, an excellent hotel, extremely good service, very tranquil, comfortable rooms, great breakfast and fast check-in/check-out. Add to that the fact that is very well located plus it has an excellent swimming pool/gym, what more can you ask for?
