Hotel Amigo

The Hotel Amigo has received the distinction of third best hotel in Europe by the prestigious US magazine, Travel and Leisure. Its parent company, The Rocco Forte Collection was included several times in the August 2008 issue of Travel + Leisure on the “World’s Best Awards” list. 

The Travel + Leisure “World’s Best Awards” are based on an annual poll by readers.  The Amigo Hotel award was also supported by Maria Shollenbarger, European Editor for Travel & Leisure who, after a recent visit to the Amigo, said that “it was the best service” she had ever experienced in Belgium and Holland.

Jacques Vitu, General Manager of the Hotel Amigo commented: “This award is a tribute to my team which day after day ensures the most consistent and attentive service. We are delighted and grateful to our clients as well as to Travel & Leisure. We thank them for their loyalty and trust.”

For further information, please contact:
Delphine de Kinder,
Hotel Amigo
Tel: + 322 5474703
ddekinder@roccofortecollection.com
www.roccofortecollection.com

Notes for the Editors

Travel + Leisure
Circulation: 987,513
Profile: Founded in 1971 and designed for the sophisticated, well-traveled person who has a strong interest in leisure activities. Editorial offers suggestions and resources concerning all aspects of travel, including airlines, hotels, spas and resorts, dining, shopping and entertainment.

Hotel Amigo – Rocco Forte Collection

History of Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo

The original building predates 1522 when it was bought by the city council from a wealthy merchant family and turned into a prison.  The Spanish rulers at the time mistook the Flemish for prison to mean "friend" and translated this into their own language as "Amigo".  The irony of this misunderstanding seems to have pleased the people of Brussels and the name has been retained.  The building was re-build as a hotel by the Blaton family in 1957 for the Universal Exhibition in 1958.

Following the purchase of the Hotel by Sir Rocco Forte in 2000, it has undergone a complete refurbishment followed by the stylish eye of Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Collection’s Director of Design.  Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo has been restored to its former glory, with fresh modern interiors whilst retaining its character and charm, making it the best luxury hotel in the city. 

The architecture and welcoming atmosphere of the Amigo, together with its privileged position right in the heart of Brussels, places it firmly in the great tradition of the “hotel industry”, where the great of this world, notables, stars, businessmen and informed tourists have been hosted. Just one step from the famous “Grand-Place” and Lace Museum, not to mention Brussels oldest citizen “Manneken Pis”, the red brick façade of the hotel built in Spanish Renaissance style, fits perfectly into the architectural past and present of its surroundings.

Historic artefacts displayed on the premises include canvases from famous artists such as Courtens, Dansaert and Wagemans together with paintings by the Dutch and Italian schools. Flemish wall tapestries from the 18th century and the authentic paving stones in the lobby, which were originally used in the surrounding streets, help create the special charm and character of this place.

On January 11th 2000, the hotel was acquired by Sir Rocco Forte to form part of his exclusive chain of luxury hotels in various parts of Europe. This selection of hotels under the name of Rocco Forte Collection International represents attention to detail, quality and service in delivery. Following the takeover by Sir Rocco Forte the hotel can cater for the requirements of modern business travellers.

Mr. JACQUES VITU - General Manager of the Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo

Mr. Jacques Vitu joined the Rocco Forte Collection Group as General Manager of the Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo in 2007.

He was previously with Rezidor Hotel Group, managing both the Hotel Balmoral and the Hotel Le Palace of Spa. He had joined then from Budapest where he was General Manager at the Andrassy Hotel. He also held senior managerial positions with the Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand.

Jacques Vitu has had experience across Europe and has also operated in  the Caribbean.

A first class destination

The vibrant city of Brussels is easily explored on foot and has something to offer everyone.  Art aficionados will delight in the many galleries housing a wealth of collections from traditional to art nouveau and over 80 museums are at your disposal in the city.

Those who love to go shopping will not be disappointed. Luxury international brands and boutiques can be found on Avenue Louise and Avenue de la Toison d'Or.  High-street bargains are plentiful on Rue Neuve and Rue Antoine Dansaert is the place to find avant-garde fashions from up and coming Belgian designers. The near-by Sablon area is a must for antique lovers with numerous shops and weekend flea markets.

The Grand-Place with its stunning contrasting architecture is lined with cafés and bars, making it a perfect place to enjoy one of over 450 varieties of Belgian beer.  Brussels is also famous for its tapestries and lace and many similar shops can be found in the area surrounding the Grand-Place.

Brussels is home to 1800 restaurants and boasts a lively nightlife which continues into the early hours of the morning.  There is of course no shortage of chocolate in Brussels, with many wonderful chocolatiers such as Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus and Wittamer to tempt even the strongest wills!