Residence Inn by Marriott Ghent

Getting into town was a bit challenging, though bus or train would have made the distance less of an issue. What really made the trip was the team at Ghent residence inn. They were wonderful with our guest who has a disability and accommodated us in every way. Every staff member was a delight.

The staff were delightful, parking was convenient, and breakfast came with no extra charge. Since we'd paid for breakfast at the Courtyard, we exchanged it for a late checkout. We'd booked the Courtyard, but only after we arrived did the hotel tell us we'd be staying at the Residence Inn instead because of some unspecified "problem" at the Courtyard. The location is handy for the Gent football stadium, though it feels like it's in the middle of nowhere.

The missing chocolates really spoiled our impression. A gift box left on the table for a child was taken from the room, which was the most shocking part of our stay. Even the only bar of soap disappeared after a few days, and there wasn't a toilet brush in the bathroom. There was no shower gel or shampoo either. When we asked housekeeping to refill the containers, nothing happened. Reception then told us to come downstairs and pick up the toiletries ourselves, which isn't acceptable in a hotel. I honestly don't understand how this place is run. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Apparently you have to lock even food away in a safe so it won't be taken.

I spent several months at the RI - Ghent while working on a project in Ghent, and it suited me very well. The building looked and smelled new, and the rooms were in great shape, with large beds and a TV. There was a little kitchen area for reheating food and making coffee, plus a very nice shower with plenty of hot water. The staff were accommodating to the crews from the US. Downstairs, the restaurant was good for meals, and the bar made a nice place to socialize. There was also a rooftop garden area where I could get some fresh air. The picture is from the hotel website.