Hilton Garden Inn Brussels Airport

“Be aware of airport transfer cost and very limited TV offering. Sparse”

This is positioned as an airport hotel so these are observations in that context. I assume most people will be here one night before/after a flight. This is part of an office complex and I was here on a Saturday other facilities nearby were closed. Firstly, as a warning, transport to and from thi… more

This is positioned as an airport hotel so these are observations in that context. I assume most people will be here one night before/after a flight. This is part of an office complex and I was here on a Saturday other facilities nearby were closed. Firstly, as a warning, transport to and from this 'airport hotel' for an overnight stay added c€50 to the cost for me. The advertised shuttle has very limited hours - I knew I would need a taxi for my 6am flight, but not my 4pm arrival. It's no distance but the airport apply charges - the taxi meter started at €15 at the airport. This is a brand new hotel - down to the new carpet smell and clean. At first I was allocated a standard room which was pretty small and with no real light/views. That may have been unlucky given it's a big 'wraparound hotel' with various aspects. Fortunately as a Hilton Diamond I was upgraded to a good sized suite with plenty of light, but basic furnishings and no amenities other than the basics. The biggest downside for me. Once in my room after a 15 hour flight, the €25 taxi ride and nothing in the surrounding area I just wanted to relax in the room and watch TV... ...the TV only provided a basic set of local channels. I lived in Brussels well before streaming and even then a full international lineup was the norm. In most hotels a few international and kids channels are provided at least; many have smart TVs and Brussels houses the EU and NATO - it's inconceivable the TV system here in a brand new airport hotel only provides local channels. I checked with reception this wasn't "user error". I stay at a lot of Hiltons and this is not the norm for them either. The good thing is I've had time to write this while watching Netflix on my phone! Note for the hotel if they read this - the channel lineup changed (listed BBC 1 and 2 at one point), some channels 'failed to start' and there was an 'unknown variable' error on screen!. There is something not right with the system. I'm sure it's not just the cost of providing a decent selection for your guests. I've rated service higher than I probably would due to Ali on reception who is a saving grace for the hotel - professional, honest and with good customer skills. There was little other evidence of service to rate as most facilities were shut. I always believe in listening and questioning before writing reviews. It was Saturday so none of the management team were available to 'discuss my feedback' so this is as I experienced the hotel ;-) For context I am Hilton Diamond and similar with multiple chains - I travel a lot and like to share my experiences for other travellers. This was the end of a two week trip around Japan before the final flight home and sadly ended the trip on a low note.

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