Privilege Guest House

The location and friendly, helpful staff are big reasons I'd stay here again when I return to Antwerp. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the price is budget friendly, and for my two month research stay the weekly cleaning was an AMAZING job. I'm a PhD student from another country, and accommodation in Antwerp through AirBnB or hotels is very expensive. Privilege Corp housing was quite affordable, just a few minutes' walk from the centre. The building is just north of Central Station, about a five minute walk to everything, and the street is quiet enough to rest easily. At first I had trouble reaching anyone about check-in, but a tenant who works there quickly sorted that out. I was shown around the building and facilities, and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Most don't speak English, so if that's your only language you may want to practice another before arriving. They do understand and speak a little Spanish. I wasn't expecting anything fancy for a budget stay. The inside looked institutional, and while unpacking I realized the building had been a hospital, and my room was a hospital room. I even had to verify that. Sleeping in an old hospital made me a little uncomfortable at first, but it was affordable and the rooms and halls were SUPER clean. During the first two weeks, I sometimes heard strange noises when it was normally quiet, and on a few occasions it sounded like someone dragging furniture across the floor above me. I also had a severe fever and lots of fever dreams around that time. By the third week, I decided I wouldn't let any phantoms disturb my stay, if they were there. Then it hit me that this could be a fun place for adventurous people who want to sleep in an old “possibly haunted” hospital. That's when I decided on five stars. The stay has become an adventure and part of my journey here. Five stars for the friendly and helpful staff, great location, clean and comfortable rooms, and budget friendly price. I'll definitely stay again when I return, but next time I'll bring a rosary. Cheers, and thanks for the accommodation!