Brussels is globally recognised as the Capital of Europe, the centre of EU institutions such as the European Parliament, the Commission, and the European Council, as well as home to the NATO HQ and many other notable organisations. Therefore, not many expect it to be as green, peaceful and relaxing as it is, beyond its concrete and glass-made state-of-the-art office buildings of the European Quarter.
As a Les Clefs d’Or Concierge, I enjoy discovering and living firsthand all that the city has to offer. This not only means visiting museums and savouring new restaurants, but also exploring the many green spaces and hidden corners that this city hides from mainstream tourist crowds, which ultimately allows me to provide our guests with a different and unique kind of experience, for those looking to unwind and recharge their batteries after a long, hectic day at work.
I am astonished and constantly amazed by the number of architectural gems concealed in the many green parks of Brussels and the surrounding region. There are many examples, such as the near-by Bois de la Cambre, home to the Art Deco jewel of Villa Empain; Tervuren Park, site of the magnificent Africa Museum and once the hunting reserve of the Dukes of Brabant; the French-inspired Chateau de la Hulpe, located in the heart of the Domaine regional Solvay; and finally, Tenbosch Park, which neighbours many typical Art Nouveau Maisons de Maitre and is the arboretum with the rarest species in the Brussels region.
One practice that I have recently discovered is forest bathing with a group guided by a local green guide, which is inspired by the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-yoku. Its approach combines walking, breathing, and meditating while being immersed in a natural environment. my knowledge of the region while discovering many hidden treasures. It has also helped me create and tailor green escapes to those looking for a scenic and pensive moment to reconnect with nature.
I try to highlight the deep connection existing between city life and nature in Brussels. Staying at Hotel Amigo means being right at the heart of the old city centre, right next to the famous Grand Place, but never too far from a quiet forest path or a hidden architectural gem, which may turn a guest’s stay into meaningful memories and experiences.
Gianluca Fragassi is a member of Les Clefs d’Or Belgium. This article has been published in its original form.
Europe Hotel Architecture Nature Belgium Brussels Hotel Amigo Brussels NATO European Parliament Parks Castles
Born and raised in Rome, I developed an interest in foreign languages at an early age, which led me to choose a bachelor's degree in translation and interpreting. During my studies, I opened a family-run bed & breakfast, which taught me the importance of human relationships and motivated me to always do my best to make my guests' stay unforgettable. Happy, but eager to deepen my knowledge of the sector, I obtained a master's degree in Tourism Management and began traveling and working abroad to definitively cut ties with the family business.
I became a concierge almost by chance, but as I remember saying during my interview, I think I have always possessed some of the qualities required to be a good one, ever since my early days managing my bed and breakfast in Rome. I have always tried to make my guests' stay unique and authentic, recommending my favourite places, which I carefully selected for each one of them.
Today, as a Les Clefs d'Or concierge at Hotel Amigo, I enjoy my work more and more and try to give back what my travels have once given me: the feeling of being understood and welcomed.
Hotel Amigo is a historic and elegant hotel located in the center of Brussels, right next to the magnificent Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The building has strong ties to the city’s past, having served as Brussels’ prison from the 14th to the 18th century. Since its opening for the World Expo in 1958, it is considered the hotel of the stars and it represents warm Belgian hospitality all over the world. It blends heritage with modern comfort and provides the highest standards of service.
The hotel features 180 comfortable rooms and suites, a cozy lobby, and the brand-new Bar Magritte, a popular spot for guests and locals to gather for classy cocktails and jazz sessions. Its central location is ideal for exploring Brussels on foot, whether you want to visit famous sights, quieter neighborhoods, or parks outside the historic center.
Staying at Hotel Amigo allows you to explore the city effortlessly, backed by the largest concierge team in Belgium, focused on providing memorable, customized experiences to its valued guests. Whether visitors are here for pleasure or work, Hotel Amigo offers a feeling of warmth, privacy, and genuine atmosphere that embodies the essence of Brussels.
enquiries.amigo@roccofortehotels.com
+32 2 547 47 47
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