Brussels (Brussels)

Member Name: polydeuces

Product:	Brussels
Date:	09/08/08 (26 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: -

Disadvantages: -

It seems an odd thing to review but here goes. What can you say about Brussels airport? If you are flying to Brussels you will find the runway conveniently placed under the wheels of the aircraft as it lands. On taking off the runway is conveniently flat. At night the runways have lights to aid the pilots landing. But it is hardly product differentiation is it.

The thing about Brussels airport is that it must be the biggest and busiest airport which relies on one terminal. What this means if you have to get a connection at Brussels, and particularly if you have to change airlines, be prepared for a walk that would make some polar explorers flinch. The walk is conducted through a number of terminal buildings and corridors which all look the same. It would be like a maze but thankfully it is all well sign posted. So its bad from the point of view of walking but there again after your flight you may feel like stretching your legs. By the time you get your next flight you will be ready for a sit down again.
If you have time to kill in Brussels you will find an extensive range of shops. Prices are not that good however and unless you are addicted to designer labels and wear them like a rash you will not find any bargains. There is drink and cigarettes for sale in what used to be 'Duty Free' shops but you should have bought them away from the airport if you really wanted to save money or have real choice. The food areas are often quite busy. The beer is always good, after all you are in Belgium, including Hooegaarden, Leffe and others. The food however is less appetising. The sandwiches are unappealing and the hot dishes poor value.

One thing which is good is the connections to buses and trains. You see, like many European countries, Belgium has what they call an integrated transport system. For any transport ministers reading this I shall explain what this is. This is where you have a high concentration of potential passengers and you plan and provide the provision of sufficient transport resource to accommodate the demand. Sounds simple but unfortunately beyond the wit of successive British governments. The railway station is directly under the terminal and from there you can be on the regular service right into the heart of Brussels.
On your way home checking in is easy in a huge concourse. Signs to the various departure areas are clear but again wear shoes made for walking as the walk back is as long as the walk in. As airports go it is good, much better than Frankfurt but not as good as Manchester.

Now the title of this review promised a useful tip and I am not one to let you down. Well, here it is, when you arrive at Brussels Airport you obviously arrive on the arrivals floor. If you leave the building by the exits on this floor the queues for the taxis can be huge. What I suggest you do is go down one floor and you will find yourself at the entrance to the Sheraton Hotel, if you wait for a taxi here the wait will be considerably shorter. If a lot of people are here they are probably fellow Ciaoers who have read this and at least you can then swap Ciao stories.
Enjoy your trip.

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