9HOTEL Sablon: Belgium's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
9HOTEL Sablon: Belgium's Hidden Gem – Seriously, You NEED to See This! (And Maybe I'll See You There?)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans (and maybe some Belgian chocolate) about 9HOTEL Sablon. Forget the stuffy, predictable hotels – this place is a breath of fresh, slightly chilly Brussels air. And honestly? I'm still dreaming about it.
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First things first: Accessibility. I'm not personally in a wheelchair, but I do appreciate a hotel that isn't a nightmare for anyone with mobility issues. 9HOTEL Sablon gets a gold star for this. They've got facilities for disabled guests, and the elevator is actually functional (a victory in itself, trust me). They even have rooms designed with accessibility in mind, which is a massive win. See, this is already beating other hotel, and really sets a good precedent for the things to come.
Now, the real fun begins. Let's dive into the glorious world of… Relaxation!
Forget the tired, generic spa experiences. The Spa at 9HOTEL Sablon is legit. I mean, proper. They have a Sauna, a Steamroom, and a Pool with a view. (Yes, a freakin' pool with a view! In BELGIUM!) I spent, like, three hours in that sauna. Okay, maybe four. Don't judge me! It was the most wonderfully, gloriously unproductive afternoon of my life. And the massage? Oh. My. Goodness. I practically purred. Seriously, I think the masseuse thought I was a particularly large, well-groomed cat. They also offer Body scrub and Body wrap options that I'd love to try next time. And I WILL be going back.
The Fitness Center? Yeah, they have one. I walked past it. Twice. (Let's just say my idea of "fitness" involves a brisk walk to the minibar.) But it was there, with gym/fitness equipment, so, you know, if that's your thing… go for it!
Cleanliness and Safety: Look, in today's world, this is HUGE. 9HOTEL Sablon takes this seriously. They use Anti-viral cleaning products, there's Daily disinfection in common areas, and staff are trained in safety protocol. They even have Professional-grade sanitizing services, which, as someone who’s currently in recovery I can say I appreciate. Rooms are sanitized between stays. They have a First aid kit and a Doctor/nurse on call just in case, and there are Hand sanitizers everywhere, which I personally find reassuring and helpful as I frequently have no idea where the nearest soap is. And the rooms have smoke alarms to give the warning. They even have a Safe dining setup. I mean, they're covering all the bases.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure!
Alright, let's talk about eating. Because, hello, you're in Belgium. Prepare to loosen your belt.
The restaurants at 9HOTEL Sablon are fantastic. They serve International cuisine, with options for Asian breakfast and dining along with Western breakfast favorites. They offer a Breakfast [buffet] that is something else. Seriously, I'm not exaggerating. Picture this: mountains of fresh croissants, a rainbow of fruit, perfectly cooked eggs, and endless coffee. The Coffee/tea in restaurant is excellent, and they also have a Coffee shop for any additional urges. The Bar is cozy and perfect for a pre-dinner aperitif or a nightcap. They also serve [Happy hour] and have a Poolside bar. The Room service [24-hour] is a lifesaver after a long day of exploring. I may or may not have ordered a Belgian waffle at 2 am. No regrets!
Important note to keep in mind: In today's world, you can use Cashless payment service, which is a win.
Services and Conveniences:
This is where 9HOTEL Sablon really shines. The Concierge is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable, and the Doorman is always there to greet you with a smile. They offer Daily housekeeping, Dry cleaning, and Laundry service, which is essential for a long trip. The Luggage storage is a lifesaver if you arrive before check-in. There is also Air conditioning in public area.
For the Kids:
While I don't have kids myself, I noticed this place is also crazy-family friendly with Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, and a Babysitting service.
Getting Around: The Car park [free of charge] is a huge plus if you're driving. They have a Taxi service, and Airport transfer options.
Available in All Rooms:
This is also what you are looking for when choosing a hotel. They offer Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
The Rooms Themselves - My Personal Utopia.
Okay, back to those rooms. Forget the generic hotel room vibe. These rooms are stylish, comfortable, and… dare I say it… sexy? I stayed in a Non-smoking room that had a Sofa, Seating area, and Desk. The Bed was extra long and the Blackout curtains were a lifesaver after those late nights exploring Brussels. They offer In-room safe boxes so you can place all that valuable stuff inside the Desk. The Shower had amazing water pressure (a crucial detail, people!). And the little touches, like the Bathrobes and Slippers and the Complimentary tea/Coffee maker, make all the difference.
Internet Access:
Let’s be real, the Free Wi-Fi is a necessity. They offer Wi-Fi in all rooms, and the Internet Access – Wireless is fast and reliable. You can also use Internet access – LAN, which is great for video calls or work.
Things To Do (Besides Eating and Spa-ing):
The location of 9HOTEL Sablon is PERFECT. You're right in the heart of the Sablon district, known for its antique shops, chocolate boutiques, and art galleries. Explore the Grand Place, the Manneken Pis, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. Basically, you're in the middle of everything. They have a Terrace to relax in, and some Meeting/banquet facilities if you are in a business travel.
My Quirky Observations and Ramblings (Because Honesty is the Best Policy):
- The hotel does have a Shrine for some reason. I didn't quite understand it, but hey, to each their own, right?
- I managed to spill coffee on the rug, but the Daily housekeeping crew fixed it immediately. Crisis averted!
- I might have spent a little too long in the Sauna, but the Breakfast [buffet] afterwards made up for it.
- The staff all spoke impeccable English, which was a HUGE relief considering my French is… well, let's just say it's a work in progress. Which is also very helpful if you are traveling on business that involves translation services.
My Emotional Reaction: I FREAKING LOVED IT!
Seriously, I can't rave enough about 9HOTEL Sablon. It's stylish, comfortable, well-located, and the staff are amazing. It's the perfect base for exploring Brussels, or for simply hiding away and indulging in some serious relaxation.
My Opinionated Conclusion (And Why YOU Should Book NOW!):
If you're looking for a hotel in Brussels that's more than just a place to sleep, 9HOTEL Sablon is the answer. It's a hidden gem, a haven of relaxation, and a place you'll never want to leave. Don't hesitate. Book it. You won't regret it.
Here is your BOOKING OFFER:
Tired of boring hotels? Craving a real escape? Book your stay at 9HOTEL Sablon NOW and get:
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your polished travel brochure. This is the raw, unvarnished truth (well, my truth) about a whirlwind trip to Brussels and, specifically, the 9HOTEL SABLON. Let's see if I even survive this.
Brussel Sprouts & Existential Dread: A 9HOTEL SABLON Odyssey (aka, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Waffles)
(Day 1: Arrival & Sablon Serendipity – Or, the Day My Suitcase Vowed Revenge)
Morning (ish): Brussels Airport. Honestly, airports are the purest distillation of anxiety. The queues, the smells (that peculiar blend of jet fuel and desperation), the sheer number of people crammed into one space… shudders. My suitcase, which I swear is plotting a rebellion, nearly didn't make it. Arriving. It, and I am the happiest I have ever been arriving.
Afternoon: 9HOTEL SABLON. Okay, first impression: cute. Like, the kind of cute that makes you think, "Oh, this could be a slightly better love story than the one I'm currently living." The lobby had this weird, charmingly mismatched vibe – a velvet armchair next to a minimalist lamp… it was odd but in a good way. The receptionist, bless her heart, seemed used to tourists looking like they've just wrestled a bear (which, let's be honest, I probably did after trying to find a charging port at the airport). We are met with a warm welcome, and the promise of a good night's sleep.
First Fail: I needed to immediately find something to eat. Jet lag is a monster. Headed out, armed with a phone and a desperate need for a decent meal. Found a little friterie the size of a broom closet. Ordered frites with… well, everything. The sauce selection was overwhelming, and I, in my sleep-deprived state, probably ended up with a combination that would make seasoned Belgian locals weep.
Evening: I am happy to be in bed. After a shower and a good night's sleep, I am certain that I will be able to face the rest of Brussels once again.
(Day 2: Chocolate, Cathedrals, and a Deep Dive into My Own Insignificance)
Morning: Okay, the breakfast at the hotel. Not the most exciting spread (mostly pastries, which I devoured, naturally). I'm still not sure if the coffee was actual coffee or some sort of caffeinated swamp water, but it did the trick.
Mid-Morning: Grand Place. Holy moly. The architecture is breathtaking, a total sensory overload. I spent a good hour just wandering around, mouth agape. Then I went inside and bought a waffle.
Afternoon: Chocolate! God, Belgian chocolate is something else. Went to a shop in the Sablon district, bought more chocolate than I could carry, and then felt immensely guilty about the impending sugar crash. I'd highly recommend just giving in to the temptation. It's a moral imperative, really.
Emotional Whirlwind: One of the highlights that should have been was the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. I've always been fascinated by the way these huge buildings can make you feel so small. I'm talking, like, "dust mote in the cosmos" small. This one was a real beauty. The stained glass, the sheer scale… wow. I actually did cry.
Evening: Dinner at some bistro near Sablon, I don't remember the name. Brussels is filled with little spots, and by now I was basically operating on autopilot – wandering around until hunger hit and collapsing into the nearest chair. Food was good, but more importantly, there was good wine.
(Day 3: Brussels Unleashed & Waffle Redemption)
Morning: I am not sure what I had for breakfast. I am not sure if I had any sleep.
Mid-Morning: Woke up and had an epiphany. The waffles. I needed to find the perfect waffle. The quest was on. Apparently, waffle-hunting is a serious business. Wandering the cobblestone streets.
- The Waffle Experience: After searching, I found a waffle stand that made the most perfect waffle I have ever seen. It was crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, warm… This waffle was more than just a snack; it was spiritual.
Afternoon: This time I decided to hit up the comic book museum. I am not into comic books, but it was a good thing I could see the Tin Tin exhibition.
Late Afternoon/Evening: This day felt like a massive jumble. Exhausted, I returned to the hotel, sank into the bed, and just… exhaled.
(Day 4: Departure - Farewell, Frites & Existential Dread (Continued))
Morning: Pack, pack, pack. Suitcase still seems to be holding a grudge, but I manage to close it. One final, rushed breakfast. I'm surprisingly sad to leave. Brussels, with all its quirks and challenges, has somehow wormed its way into my heart.
Departure: Airport once again, more chaos, more anxiety. This time, my suitcase wins. I'm sure it'll be waiting for me when I get home, ready to unleash its fury.
Final Thoughts: 9HOTEL SABLON: A decent place to base yourself. It's not perfect, but that's part of its charm. Brussels: messy, beautiful, overwhelming, and totally worth it. My takeaway: Never underestimate the power of a good waffle. And maybe pack that extra pair of socks. Just in case.
9HOTEL Sablon: Think You Know Brussels? Think Again! (And I Might've Left My Underpants)
Okay, spill… What’s the deal with this “9HOTEL Sablon” everyone's raving about? Is it *really* that special?
Alright, buckle up, because I'm about to gush. Or maybe slightly whine. The 9HOTEL Sablon? Special? Dude, it's… *different*. Like, imagine a Wes Anderson movie crammed into a Belgian chocolate box. It's modern, quirky, perfectly placed (literally steps from the Sablon square, hello, divine chocolate shops!), and has a vibe that hits you like a warm waffle, dusted with powdered sugar and existential dread. (Okay, maybe that's just me.) But seriously, yeah, it's special. It's not your typical hotel prison. It's an *experience*.
Location, location, location! What’s the Sablon neighborhood *actually* like? Is it touristy hell?
The Sablon? Glorious. It's the anti-tourist trap, mostly. Ok, *some* tourists, sure, but they tend to be the classy type, the ones sniffing out the antiques and, let's be honest, the ridiculously pricey chocolates. You've got the beautiful church (Eglise Notre-Dame du Sablon – seriously, Google it, it's a stunner), the cobblestone streets, art galleries galore, and enough chocolate shops to bankrupt a king. It's got a real *buzz*, a genuine feel. One morning, I swear, I saw a tiny dog riding shotgun in a vintage convertible. Sablon is just… *charming*. It's the Brussels that dreams are made of.
The rooms… what’s the vibe? Modern minimalism? Over-the-top luxury? Spill the tea!
Okay, listen. The rooms are… cool. Think modern, but with character. Not sterile, not bland. Lots of natural light, often a funky design element or two. I remember my room had this amazing, almost theatrical, lighting. (Which, admittedly, I struggled with a bit at 3 AM trying to find the bathroom. Dark room + jetlag = not a good combination). The beds are comfy, the bathrooms clean… and there wasn’t a single hideous floral bedspread in sight. Thank God for small mercies! It's not over-the-top luxury, it's… well-designed, thoughtful, and genuinely comfortable. You'll feel like you are in an art gallery.
Breakfast: Worth getting out of bed for?
YES. Without a doubt. *Absolutely* get out of bed for breakfast. It’s a buffet, but a *good* buffet. Fresh pastries (duh, it’s Belgium!), fantastic coffee, eggs cooked to order (a lifesaver when you're battling a chocolate hangover), and all sorts of deliciousness. Honestly, I may or may not have gone back for seconds (and thirds…) of the mini-waffles. Don't judge me. Brussels is all about waffles. And chocolate. And beer. And… well, you get the idea. Breakfast is a must-do. It sets the stage for the day.
Okay, the important stuff: Is there a bar? And is it any good?
The bar… oh, the bar. Yes, there's a bar. And yes, it's good. It's stylish, it's atmospheric, and it has a fantastic cocktail menu. They know how to make a proper Negroni, which, in my book, is a sign of a good bar. (Important tip: the bartenders are friendly, so don't be afraid to chat. They know the city inside and out.) Also, the people-watching is *excellent*. Sablon is the place to be and the hotel bar is exactly the place to do so.
Service: Friendly? Efficient? Or the usual hotel nightmare?
Service was top-notch. The staff was genuinely friendly and helpful. They actually seemed to *care* about whether you were enjoying your stay. I asked for restaurant recommendations and they gave me some truly hidden gems (I’m still dreaming about that carbonade flamande). They were patient with my terrible French (which got worse after a few beers). Honestly, after a long day of travel, it was a huge relief. They made me feel like… well, a guest, not just a room number.
Okay, let's get personal... what's the *one* thing that truly blew you away?
Alright, prepare for some rambling, because this is the one thing that really got to me. It wasn't the fancy decor, it wasn't the perfect location (though that helped!), and it definitely wasn't the state of my wallet after the chocolate shopping spree. It was the *feeling* of the place. Seriously. It's hard to describe. It’s like the hotel had a soul. It was a vibe. It was relaxed, it was cool, it was… well, it was welcoming. I felt like I was staying in the home of a very stylish friend, not a generic hotel chain. It somehow managed to be both chic and approachable. It didn't take itself too seriously. And that, my friends, is a rare and wonderful thing.
Any downsides? Gotta be something…
Okay, fine, here's the (tiny) downside: The rooms, though well-designed, aren’t enormous. If you're bringing a suitcase the size of a small car, you might feel a little cramped. And… um… the elevators are a little… slow. Like, *really* slow. Especially after having a few glasses of Belgian beer. But honestly, are those even real problems? I'd happily endure slow elevators to stay there again. Oh, and… (deep breath) I *think* I left a pair of underwear in the room. Don’t ask. It's a long story.
Would you go back? Seriously, would you?
Absolutely. Without a doubt. 100%. I am already plotting my return. Underwear or not, I'm going back. It was a perfect Brussels experience. It's a hidden gem, a slice of heaven, a… (I'm running out of superlatives, but you get the point). Go. Just go. And maybe, just maybe, check under the bed for a pair of… well, never mind."
Hotel Adventure
