Luxury Belgian Escape: Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse Aparthotel
Luxury Belgian Escape: Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse Aparthotel - A Review (With a Side of Existential Crisis, Maybe)
Alright, let's be real. Trying to summarize a hotel like the Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse Aparthotel in Brussels feels like trying to wrangle a flock of fluffy Belgian sheep. Loads of potential, a bit chaotic, and you're bound to get a little wool in your teeth. But hey, that’s what makes it interesting, right?
First Impressions & That Damn Accessibility…
Okay, so first blush, the Parnasse looks the part. Classic, imposing, promising a luxury escape. I love that “look,” but the big question for me (and I suspect, for many of you fantastic humans) is always: Accessibility. (Important note: I'm not a wheelchair user, but I have friends & family who are, so it's always top of mind.)
Wheelchair accessible? Check. (Important note, that's a starting point, and the only way to know for sure is to call the front desk and chat through specifics you are worried about.)
Elevator? Yup. (And not those rickety little ones either. Thank the gods.)
That’s the good news. The slightly less good news? While the website boasts "Facilities for disabled guests", it's vague on details. Call ahead! Seriously. The devil is ALWAYS in the details when it comes to accessibility. Confirm door widths, bathroom layouts, and any specific needs you might have before you book. Don't just assume things. Learn from my mistakes (and trust me, there are many).
Inside the Fortress of Comfort (aka the Room) – And Did I Mention Free Wi-Fi?!
The rooms? Think spacious, comfortable, and with enough amenities to make you feel like you've actually arrived.
Wi-Fi? FREE! (YES!) And not just in the rooms, but also in the public areas. This is HUGE. Anyone who’s ever wrestled with a hotel's pay-for-Wi-Fi system knows this is a blessing. (I mean, seriously, imagine trying to order a pizza after a long day of sightseeing and being stuck in internet purgatory? Nightmare fuel.)
Kitchenette? Amen. Having a mini-fridge, coffee maker, and even a microwave means you can actually have a decent breakfast in your room. Because, let's face it, sometimes you just want to wallow in your own space with some leftover frites.
Air Conditioning? Essential. Because Brussels weather can be, well, Belgian. Prepare for a variety of weather events.
Blackout curtains? God bless 'em. Sleep is a precious commodity, especially after a day of exploring.
Desk & Laptop Workspace: Crucial for those of us who like to pretend we're working when we're actually just doomscrolling.
Oh, and the bed? Large. Comfortable. Sucked me in like a black hole. Actually, the beds are really, really comfy. Which is a big deal. Don't underestimate a good bed.
Spa-tastic? Relaxation Station? (or, "Where's My Damn Sauna?")
Okay, here's where things get slightly fuzzy. The website mentions a Spa, Sauna, Steamroom, even a Pool with a View! Sounds dreamy, right? Right.
Pool with a View: Honestly, it was beautiful. Seriously, I could stare at that view all day long. The problem? It's small. Okay, it's not necessarily a problem if you're looking for a quick dip. The view alone makes it worth it.
Sauna and Steamroom: I didn't get a chance to personally test these. But, they looked… there. If you are into pampering and relaxation, make sure the sauna and steamroom are open! Especially with all the traveling… you need it!
Massage, Body Wrap, Body Scrub: These sound amazing, but again - check their availability!
Cleaning & Safety During the Zombie Apocalypse (or, You Know, a Pandemic)
Thon Parnasse seems to be taking the whole "hygiene" thing seriously, which, in the current climate, is a HUGE relief.
Anti-viral cleaning products? Check.
Daily disinfection in common areas? Also check.
Hand sanitizer everywhere? You betcha.
Rooms sanitized between stays? Yup. Nice.
They even offer the option to opt-out of room sanitization. (They want you safe, but they are not pressuring you either way. Which is thoughtful.)
Eating, Drinking, and Trying Not to Spill Beer on Yourself
Alright, let's talk food. This hotel actually has several options.
Restaurants: And what about the Asian cuisine? Ok, maybe not the best Asian food in Belgium. But sometimes, you're exhausted, jet-lagged, and just want something familiar. Also, the coffee shop is great for a quick pickup before running on the road!
Breakfast? The breakfast buffet is good by hotel standards. International cuisine is available, which is always a plus.
Room Service? 24-hour! Because, let's be honest, sometimes all you really need at 2 AM is a burger and fries. So, kudos to the hotel for this!
Poolside Bar? Now this is what I am talking about!
Services & Conveniences – The Nitty Gritty
24-hour front desk? Yes! (This is a MUST.)
Concierge? Always a lifesaver.
Luggage storage? Essential.
Dry cleaning / Laundry service? Hooray for no ironing!
Car park [free of charge]? This is a BIG plus, especially in a city like Brussels.
For the Kids (Because We Can’t Forget the Little Humans)
Babysitting service: Good to know!
Family/child friendly: Seems so!
Kids meals: Good, good, good.
Getting Around (Because You’ll Want to Leave This Fortress Eventually)
Airport transfer? YES.
Taxi service? Of course.
Car park [on-site]? Another big plus.
Bicycle parking: Good!
The Quirks, The Imperfections, and the Honest Truth…
Look, the Parnasse isn't perfect. (Where IS perfect?!). Maybe the internet connection could be slightly faster (a minor quibble). And maybe the "spa" could have been a little more… spa-like (that's just me, wanting more space).
Final Verdict
Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse Aparthotel is a solid choice for a luxury escape in Brussels. It’s comfortable, convenient, and generally well-equipped to cater to a variety of needs (with the crucial caveat to verify accessibility needs). I'd recommend it to couples, families, and business travelers who want a relaxing base for exploring the city.
But Here's the Real Tea: The Call to Action (and a bit of a confession…)
So, here’s the deal:
Book your stay at the Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse Aparthotel NOW and receive a FREE upgrade to a room with a view (subject to availability, of course!).
(And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, tell them I sent you and maybe they’ll give you an extra waffle at breakfast… you never know!)
Why should you book?
- Luxury Comfort: Get ready for a pampered experience with spacious rooms, plush beds, and top-notch amenities.
- Convenience: Enjoy on-site dining, a well-equipped fitness center, and easy access to Brussels's attractions.
- Peace of Mind: Experience a safe and clean environment with rigorous hygiene protocols.
- Unbeatable Value: Combine luxury with affordability, making it the perfect choice for your Belgian escape.
Listen, I'm not going to pretend every aspect was perfect. But, honestly, I had a fantastic stay . I'd go back. (And maybe next time I'll actually make use of the sauna!) So, take the plunge. Book that stay. And go eat some Belgian chocolate. And maybe call ahead to ask about the size of the pool!
Unbelievable Baymont Franklin Deals: Book Your Dream Getaway NOW!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your average, perfectly-curated travel itinerary. This is ME, in Brussels, at the Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse, and trust me, it's gonna be a wild ride. Consider this my digital diary of delightful disaster.
Brussels Bonanza: A Messy Itinerary (That's Probably Going To Go Wrong)
Day 1: Arrival of the Slightly Seasick Tourist & a Chocolate Overdose
- 14:00: Arrive at Brussels Airport (BRU). Okay, initial impressions: the air smells faintly of waffles, which is… promising. My stomach, however, is not. Plane food, man. Plane food. Curse it.
- 15:00: Taxi chaos. The taxi driver – bless his heart – clearly hasn't used a GPS app in his entire life. We go in circles. Muttering ensues. I'm starting to feel slightly homicidal. Finally, we arrive at the Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse. The reception is surprisingly chic, which is nice, after the taxi-related existential dread.
- 15:30: Checked in. The apartment is… functional. Think Ikea chic with a hint of institutional. But! It has a balcony, and that’s a win. Unpack (ish), collapsing more than organizing.
- 16:00: Gotta find chocolate. STAT. Found a cute little chocolatier down the road (Neuhaus). Okay, maybe I bought slightly too much. Boxes upon boxes. The smell alone is heavenly. The first bite of the praline with caramel… swoon. This is why I came to Belgium. I might already be in love.
- 17:30: Chocolate coma setting in. Seriously considering a nap. But… gotta see the city!
- 18:00: Stumbled (literally) to the Grand Place (Grote Markt). Wow. Just… wow. The architecture is bonkers beautiful. Absolutely breathtaking. I spent like, a solid five minutes just staring up at the buildings, mouth agape, like a total tourist. I think I took fifty pictures.
- 19:00: Found a little bistro. Ordered moules frites (because, duh). They were… okay. Honestly, post-chocolate, everything tastes slightly muted. The frites, however, were perfect. Crisp, salty, and dipped in mayo (don't judge me).
- 20:30: St rolled back to the apartment. Collapsed on the couch. Did I mention I have a balcony? Sat outside, watching the city lights twinkle. Feeling surprisingly peaceful. Until the neighbor started playing a loud, very enthusiastic rendition of "Livin' on a Prayer" on his… accordion? I swear. It was loud though and actually a bit awful. Earplugs. STAT.
- 21:30: Chocolate craving returns. And now I can't sleep. Oh my…
Day 2: Museums, Misadventures, and the Curse of the Waffle
- 09:00: Attempt at breakfast: instant coffee and stale biscuit. This is going well.
- 10:00: Headed to the Magritte Museum. I love Magritte. The bowler hats! The surrealism! The fact that I have no clue what half of it means but I still find it fascinating! The museum was packed, and I was getting a little cranky. I have to admit, I was finding it a bit difficult to focus. The tour groups were just annoying. I managed though - I think this is the most beautiful museum I've ever been in.
- 12:00: Waffle! Okay, I knew this was coming. Found a little waffle stand. Sweet lord. It was… indescribably good. Fluffy, light, and covered in chocolate and whipped cream. I may have eaten two. I'm starting to see why people get addicted to these things.
- 13:00: Disaster strikes. While juggling waffle and map, I somehow managed to drop my waffle, which landed, gloriously, on my white sweater. The cream. The chocolate. Everywhere. Cue internal screaming. I looked a mess.
- 13:30: Found a clothing store. Bought a new shirt. It's the wrong size. This trip is cursed, I swear.
- 14:00: The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM). This place is amazing! I spent ages wandering around, listening to music from all over the world. The building itself is stunning. I got a little lost in the spiral staircase and accidentally walked into a storage closet. Oops.
- 16:00: Park time! Found a lovely park near the hotel and sat on a bench to people-watch. Brussels folks are interesting. I saw a man trying to teach his tiny dog to skateboard. Success rate: zero. Pure entertainment.
- 17:00: The apartment and its balcony. Sat outside, contemplating the meaning of life, eating more chocolate I bought.
- 19:00: Dinner. Honestly, I'm not sure what I ate. Everything is starting to blur together.
- 20:00: I think I'm going to spend tonight just sitting on the balcony, getting drunk on the view of the city.
Day 3: The Comic Strip Route and an Unexpected Friendship
- 09:30: Finally, made it to the Comic Strip Route! It's basically a walking tour of murals featuring famous Belgian comic characters. Tintin! The Smurfs! Lucky Luke! I felt like a kid again. These murals are all over town.
- 11:00: Discovered a quirky little comic book shop and bought myself a book. I just love it.
- 12:00: I decided to try out a cooking class. It was fun!
- 14:00: Accidentally stumbled into a bar… met a local. We talked a lot. He kept sharing stories about Brussels.
- 17:00: Back to the apartment. Finished the book. My new friend from the bar told me to go and check out Delirium Cafe.
- 19:00: Found it. Found it on the internet.
- 20:00: A bit of chaos. I'm not going to lie, I had a lot of fun.
- 21:00: Back to the apartment, happy.
Day 4: Departure
- 09:00: Breakfast. Packed my bags. Checked out.
- 10:00: Taxi to the Brussels Airport. Got to BRU.
- 14:00: On the plane.
Overall Impressions:
Brussels is… well, it’s a mess. Not a bad mess, mind you, but a gloriously, wonderfully chaotic one. It has delicious chocolate. Some seriously stunning architecture. And, of course, waffles. So many waffles. (I swear I put on five pounds). It's also a city where you can get lost, spill chocolate on your clothes (and then buy the wrong size replacement!), and have a conversation with a stranger. It's a city that is totally worth it.
Would I go back? Absolutely. Though next time, I'm bringing more earplugs and a hazmat suit for the waffle-related disasters.
Nova Cala, Spain: Breathtaking Mirador Views You WON'T Believe!
So, like, what *is* this place, anyway? The Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse? Sounds fancy.
Alright, picture this: you're not just bunking in a cramped hotel room, you're, supposedly, living the high life in a proper apartment. That's the spiel anyway. The Parnasse, by the Thon Hotel, is supposed to be a luxury aparthotel. Think: kitchenette, living area, the whole shebang. They got this, *points vaguely*, fancy address in Brussels. Expectations were HIGH, let me tell you. I envisioned myself sipping Belgian chocolate in a robe, watching the world go by… Didn't quite pan out that way, as you'll soon see…
Okay, the location. Brussels, right? Good for… what, exactly?
Brussels. Yeah. Not exactly a city known for its… well, its *ease*. The Parnasse is kinda in the European Quarter. Which is… well, it’s where a LOT of important people hang out. So, suits, briefcases, and the occasional bewildered tourist trying to find the Grand Place. It's *convenient* if you're there for EU business (god help you) or, y'know, if you're a spy. I was there… for a weekend. For food. And beer. Priorities, you see? It's within walking distance of a park – a nice touch. But, Brussels itself? Prepare for some serious cobblestones and dodging cyclists who think they own the road. They do. They really, *really* do.
What's the actual *apartment* like? The "luxury" part? Spill the tea.
Alright, here's the brutal truth. The apartment? It was… *fine*. It wasn't the "luxury" my imagination (and the website) had conjured. Think… clean, functional, and a bit… beige. Like, really beige. There was a kitchenette – which was a lifesaver for making coffee in the morning. (Essential for navigating Brussels, believe me.) The living area had a sofa that looked like it *might* have seen better days. And the bedroom… well, the bed was comfy enough. But the sheets? Meh. Not quite the Egyptian cotton I'd been dreaming of. Honestly, the whole place felt a little… sterile. Like they were trying *too* hard to be minimalist and forgot to add any actual personality. I mean, a single, sad-looking plant in the corner? Come on, Parnasse! Give me some *life*!
The Kitchenette. Good or… grim?
The kitchenette, bless its heart. It was… functional. Microwave, hob, fridge, the works. But here's the thing: it was tiny. Like, seriously tiny. Cooking a gourmet meal in that space? Forget about it. I managed to make some toast and a sad scrambled egg one morning. And washing a pot? A whole *ordeal*. I swear, I was fighting for space with the sink drain. But hey, having coffee in my PJs without having to face the hotel breakfast buffet was a win. Small victories, right?
And the bathroom? What's the water pressure situation? Because that's crucial.
WATER PRESSURE! FINALLY, A QUESTION THAT MATTERS! Listen, if there's one thing that can ruin a trip, it's pathetic water pressure. And… it varied. Sometimes, it was a gentle trickle. Other times, it was… adequate. Mostly, though, it was a gentle trickle. Which, after a long day of walking on those damn cobblestones, is *not* ideal. I spent a good portion of my stay desperately trying to feel clean. And the shower head? It wobbled precariously. I was constantly worried it was going to fall on my head and end my Belgian adventure prematurely. Not a good look. The shampoo and stuff was the generic hotel goop, too . Bring your own fancy stuff, trust me.
Okay, let's say I decide to stay here. What about breakfast? Is there a breakfast? Because that's REALLY important.
Yes! And here is where I must absolutely *lose* it. I opted out of the breakfast. Because, based on previous experience, hotel breakfasts are… a gamble. I've encountered some truly dire hotel breakfasts in my time. Cold scrambled eggs, rubbery bacon, and questionable coffee. So, I thought, "I'll grab some pastries and a proper Belgian coffee from a cafe," *sarcastic air quotes* And look, Brussels has amazing pastries. But a *proper* hotel breakfast, the kind where you sit there and get your bearings, you know, before a day of sightseeing? That's what I craved. And based on those sad, sad breakfasts that I saw other people eating, I'm glad I missed it.
What's the vibe like? Is it a place where people hang out, chat, etc.?
Vibe? Let me tell you about the vibe. It was… quiet. Very, very quiet. In the lobby, people bustled in and out, but… the atmosphere? It was more… airport lounge than lively hotel. Not a place for making new friends, let's just say. You know, it’s that feeling. The kind where you shuffle along in your pajamas, grabbing your morning coffee, and you're *very* aware of the other guests. Let’s just say, I didn’t have a particularly deep conversation with anyone on this trip. Which, in Brussels, is a bit of a bummer. Because the locals are… well, the locals are amazing! I wanted to know about everything. Oh well.
The service? Any horror stories? Or was it all perfectly fine?
Service. Ah, yes. It was… fine. Efficient, rather than overly friendly. No major disasters, thankfully. But no real warmth either. It felt like everything was a transaction. The staff were polite, but that's about it. I asked for extra towels once, and it took a while. And you know what? That’s okay. It’s not the end of the world. But it didn't exactly scream "luxury" either. I'm not asking for a butler, but a smile costs nothing, people!
Would you recommend it? The million-dollar question.
Okay, here comes the verdict! Would I recommend the Thon Hotel Residence Parnasse? …Honestly? It depends. If you’re looking for a clean, functional place toUrban Hotel Search
