1898 The Post — Restaurant in Ghent

Staying at The Post is akin one of those "bucket list" experiences! Might be my favorite boutique hotels in Europe. Without doubt, a most perfect place in Ghent for a romantic, memorable getaway.

From the setting of the hotel, right inside of a vibrant Neo-Gothic old post office building in the bustling heart of Ghent... To the warm ambiance created by the authentic, unique furnishings and art pieces used to adorn every corner of the building.

Entering this hotel, prepare to feel all your senses spoiled by all of these thoughtful details! The building is like a most well curated museum, a cabinet of curiosities I didn't want to leave and actually came back to enjoy more much sooner than anticipated!

The rooms I stayed in at the 1st and 2nd level were absolutely amazing. I do have a preference towards the bi level "postcard"? because of the extra special direct view over the Korenmarkt. The quality double insulated windows make sure one can enjoy a restful sleep without any extra noise coming in from the busy central square. Cozy and clean, upfitted with quality materials such as marble, brass, silky sheets and the fluffiest towels! Guerlain bath products as well as excellent water pressure makes it a almost like a spa experience here.

Couldn't leave without mentioning the best stocked mini bar indeed! Everything one might need to enjoy a tea or a cocktail served in superior fashion. Cudos to the housekeeping crew I know it must not be easy to prepare these rooms full of so many nice "extra" additions on a daily basis. Going to indulge at the bar.. prepare to be surprised by the most beautiful setting again, great service and memorable signature cocktails.. All while savoring the calm luxury music, the fragrance which follows you through the building... It's pure comfort on a superior level!

The value of this hotel is beyond exceptional and you will most likely plan your next stay after a few hours here. Special mention to Ines and Samir. You know how much I appreciate everything you do! Indeed, every staff member whom I interacted with, from the front desk, to the bartenders, buffet attendees and housekeeping crew... you have made these few days here even more special!

Thank you 1898 The Post for the calm luxury, elegant and refined hospitality! Very, very well done indeed!

PS. The main entrance is to the left of the building, on the busy riverside. A secluded pathway through the courtyard. Not completely accessible if you have a lot of luggage. A few steps are present at all the access points I discovered...

Magical from start to finish!!

Okay, so I can barely put into words the magic of this hotel. On a purely physical level, the aesthetic is BEAUTIFUL and cool and subtle and sophisticated and refined - and so special that my stay there became THE highlight of my week in Belgium. But what propelled it to the stars and beyond was the kindness and warmth of the staff. When I checked in, I was exhausted from a long day of travel, but Julie the front desk manager, greeted me with the loveliest most welcoming smile and immediately made me feel at home, safe, and cared for. She and her just as kind and gracious colleague named Paula showed me to my room - a cozy little enclave whose shelves were filled with wonderful curiosities, obviously all chosen with care. The bed itself was comfy and the design of everything was to die for - a crazily gorgeous view from the window, little winding stairs leading to a second floor space/balcony with the shower and vanity. Later Julie gave me the best recommendation for dinner and offered to call ahead to the restaurant to make a reservation. When I returned she asked if I had enjoyed my meal and told me the history of the building, even showing me one of its amazing architectural details which I will leave for you to discover. Sadly, the hotel was sold out for my second night in Ghent, but in the morning they held onto my baggage while I ran around town exploring. Another colleague of Julie’s recommended the best little place not far from the hotel for coffee (you won’t find a better more centrally located hotel close to everything you’ll want to see in Ghent by the way). Each time I returned I was hoping a room had opened up but there’s a reason this hotel is often fully booked! Also must mention Francis who kindly helped me with my luggage on the way out and gave me directions to my next hotel - won’t mention its name because even though it was “fine” you really can’t find a better nor more special hotel in Ghent or maybe even in all of Belgium than the Post. And this is coming from someone who is insanely picky about hotels, someone who is usually disappointed even by most 5 star well reviewed properties. I want to add that this is also a great hotel for people traveling solo, as the warmth and kindness shown by people like Julie makes you appreciate all that is good in humanity. The kind of genuine care she displayed and also her enthusiasm for me to have the best experience in her hometown will LONG be remembered. Thank you so much Julie and...

1898 The Post, Gent: Captivating Charm but Room for Improvement

Nestled in the heart of Gent, 1898 The Post beckons with its intriguing charm and historic allure, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the city's rich narrative. However, our recent experience revealed several areas where this establishment could significantly refine the guest experience.

Be prepared: arriving at the hotel can be quite the adventure, especially if you encounter inclement weather. The challenging entrance, only accessible from the canal side, leaves guests to navigate cobbled streets with luggage in tow as the hotel entrance is quite hidden. Unfortunately, there is no concierge to assist, and upon finally locating the tiny reception area — hidden down a corridor between the hotel bar and restrooms — the welcome is disappointing, particularly for older guests who may need assistance in navigating the steps at the main entrance before the elevator.

Additionally, guests should brace themselves for considerable noise from the vibrant nightlife outside (subject to room location). The inadequately sealing windows allow bustling street sounds to permeate the room, notably with a public bathroom situated across the street (ear plugs are provided as a "cheap solution"). This lack of sound insulation detracts from the tranquility typically expected in a luxury setting.

Another surprising oversight was the exclusion of breakfast in the room rate, a standard offering in hotels of this caliber. To avoid any unexpected surprises, I recommend securing breakfast at the time of booking. The Cobbler Bar, while a picturesque and lively gathering spot, can become overwhelmed with local patrons, resulting in extensive wait times and a constrained menu if not timed well. This can leave hotel guests feeling somewhat sidelined in favor of the local ambiance.

While the hotel exudes charm with its storied architecture and central location, it ultimately falls short of the high standards set by other historic venues. For example, our stay at the Conservatorium in Amsterdam exemplified excellence from arrival to departure, setting a benchmark for luxury hotels steeped in history.

In summary, while 1898 The Post presents a visually captivating setting, there remains significant potential for enhancing the guest experience. With thoughtful adjustments, this hotel could more fully meet the expectations of discerning travelers seeking both comfort and sophistication with the charm...