Arrival/Check-In: My colleague and I were flying back to New York (JFK) on Brussels Airlines in business class and had access to its new lounge, The Loft, at Brussels Airport. We cleared security, always a fun experience, and headed to the lounge on the next level, where the reception staff welcomed us with a smile and a warm greeting.
Facilities: The lounge is large by any standards at 13,347 square feet, boasting eight different “hubs,” each with its own function. It has a capacity for 300 people at one time and, that being said, it was still very quiet. The floors, which look like bleached oak, are actually sound-absorbing ceramic tiles, while the ceiling is also designed with the same noise reduction function. The décor, in light earth tones, includes a lot of glass and natural light.
A great deal of thought went into the design of this lounge, such as installing 180 outlets throughout the facility. Every table and desk has an attached outlet, as do the high-backed seats and the lounge chairs in the relaxing area, so no one needs to prowl the premises looking for the odd outlet.
There are seven coffee/hot drink machines throughout the lounge. The food station is in the center, and the serving tables are separated to enhance the traffic flow through the area. Warm food is available as are cold meats, cheeses, salads, fruits, pastry and — since it is Belgium — chocolate, especially chocolate mousse.
Passengers have use of four shower/changing rooms plus a room with four nap boxes for those travelers with long layovers eager to get some shut-eye. There is also a meeting room with all the electronic equipment needed for a business meeting. A business center features two Skype modular units similar to phone booths where you can sit and Skype.
Brussels Airlines’ Miles and More members and Senators and HON Circle Card holders can access a private sitting area with its own coffee/hot beverage machine.
Services/Amenities: Brussels Airlines teamed up with Microsoft and Designit to create a unique digital experience while visiting the lounge. This means guests can borrow a Surface Pro 3 during their stay and access the lounge’s app, Connected Lounge, by which they can book a shower room, check availability of nap boxes, book a meeting and check flight status.
The lounge showcases Belgian products from Bulo furniture to the four Belgian beers (Stella Artois, Leffe Blond, Leffe Brune and Hoegaarden) on offer.
The Experience: A passenger, knowing we had not been in the lounge before, told us, “This is the best lounge in Europe.” And by the time we were leaving, we wholeheartedly agreed with him. It is the best lounge in Europe — and elsewhere as well. It is well worth a visit.
GT CHECKLIST
[checklist]
[item check=yes]Workstations[/item]
[item check=yes]Showers[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary WiFi[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary food offerings, extensive menu including hot food/soups and hot beverages[/item]
[item check=yes]Complete complimentary bar with wine, beer and liquor[/item]
[item check=yes]Meeting spaces/group seating[/item]
[item check=yes]In-lounge rest rooms[/item]
[item check=yes]Comfortable, overstuffed chairs[/item]
[item check=yes]Dining tables and chairs[/item]
[item check=yes]Available reading materials[/item]
[item check=yes]Separate entertainment areas with televisions[/item]
[item check=yes]Concierge services[/item]
[item check=yes]Separate family-friendly room[/item]
[item check=yes]Ample, easy-access power outlets[/item]
[/checklist]
Read This Next

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedGlobal City Guidebook 2025
Jul 12, 2025Expanded Cell Service Coming to More NYC Subway Trains
New Yorkers will be thrilled to learn more cell service will soon be available on parts of select trains in New York City. MTA officials announced the expanded service will come to the 4 and 5 train tunnels from Bowling Green in Manhattan to Borough Hall in Brooklyn.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Cruises
Jul 12, 2025Windstar Debuts Exclusive Air + Hotel Cruise Offer
Have your Polynesian dreams come true with Windstar Cruises’ new Air + Hotel offer. Receive complimentary economy airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tahiti (PPT) on select 2025/2026 Air + Hotel cruise packages, a value of up to $1,500 per person.
Global City Guidebook 2025
Jul 11, 2025Step Lively in Fashionable Sneakers Designed for City Walking
Morgen Trainers, Black-Gum Colombian craftsmanship meets European-inspired style in Beckett Simonon’s Morgen Trainers. Handmade in Bogotá with full-grain Italian leather exterior and ultra-soft Vachetta leather lining (feel free to go sockless), these low-profile sneakers feature sturdy, vulcanized rubber soles and plush internal padding to withstand all-day city walking. The black-gum colorway feels timeless, but with five additional combinations to choose from, it’s easy to add some of your own personality while maintaining a neutral look that travels well with a variety of outfits. With slow fashion roots and lasting construction, they’re built to go the distance. $270.
Sponsored Content
Three New Routes from TAP Air Portugal as Airline Celebrates 80 Years
TAP Air Portugal offers three new routes to Portugal: from Boston (BOS) to Porto (OPO), Los Angeles (LAX) to Lisbon (LIS) and San Francisco (SFO) to Terceira (TER) in the Azores.
Airlines
Jul 11, 2025Cathay Pacific Launches World’s Best Economy Class Sale
Cathay Pacific celebrates its recent recognition as a Top 3 World’s Best Airline and World’s Best Economy Class in 2025’s Skytrax World Airline Awards with a one-of-a-kind deal.
Park Hyatt Johannesburg Opens
Daily
Jul 11, 2025How to Spend a Summer in Cyprus
Daily
Jul 10, 2025The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago Celebrates 50 Years
Daily
Jul 10, 2025Global City Guidebook: British Virgin Islands
July 2025
Jul 10, 2025Daily
Jul 10, 2025The Oberoi Group Introduces Elements by Oberoi
The Oberoi Group recently reaffirmed its commitment to building a future anchored in sustainability by introducing Elements by Oberoi, a holistic environmental and social responsibility framework.
Sponsored Content
Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November
Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.
Daily
Jul 9, 20255 Fabulous Hotel Breakfasts Around the World
These fabulous hotels around the world prove breakfast really is the most important meal of the day.
ShareThis