Holiday Inn Gent - Expo By Ihg

This hotel is a popular choice for business travelers attending events at the adjacent Expo center, offering convenient access and a reliable stay. Its proximity to the motorway also makes it an ideal stopover for road trippers and families on longer journeys, providing a comfortable base. While some aspects of the hotel are noted as dated, guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the excellent breakfast. For those planning a visit, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the unique "Loop" road system for easier access and to consider using the tram for convenient travel into the city center.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though some are noted as being quite dated. The gym is described as basic, with old or rudimentary equipment. Wi-Fi is generally reported as good and reliable throughout the property. Parking is ample and convenient, with many guests appreciating the availability of EV charging spots, though a fee is typically charged, and access via "The Loop" can be confusing. Rooms include a mini-fridge and kettle, which are appreciated amenities. The TV system, however, often has limited channels, with some guests noting a lack of English options. The elevators, including a glass-sided one, are generally functional, though one review mentioned a prolonged outage. The bar area has been relocated to the dining space, and some guests noted it is closed on Sundays. A recurring issue is the air conditioning, which many guests found to be weak, inoperative, or centrally controlled, leading to uncomfortably warm rooms. Additionally, many windows do not open, or open to an internal atrium, limiting fresh air circulation, and some rooms lack sufficient electrical outlets, particularly near beds.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed. Many guests found their rooms to be generally clean and well-maintained upon arrival. However, a significant number of reviews mention that the rooms are tired, dated, and in need of renovation, with observations of peeling wallpaper, dirty carpets, and mold in bathrooms. Despite the dated decor, the beds are frequently praised for being comfortable and providing a good night's sleep, though some found sofa beds less so. Noise levels can vary, with some guests experiencing disturbances from other patrons or events at the nearby Expo, while others reported quiet stays. The bathrooms are often described as old, with issues such as rust, poor shower pressure, high bathtubs, and unhygienic shower curtains. Furthermore, the lack of conveniently located electrical outlets in rooms, especially near the bed, is a common complaint.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives high praise from guests, often described as very nice, excellent, and extensive, with a wide variety of choices. However, some guests noted that the breakfast can be expensive, and there were occasional issues with items running out or the coffee quality. The restaurant food is generally considered good and tasty, though the menu can be limited, and some guests found it to be overpriced. A common complaint across dining areas is the presence of flies, particularly in the breakfast atrium. The bar is available for drinks, but the restaurant and bar sometimes have limited hours or are closed on certain days, such as Sundays, which can be inconvenient given the hotel's location. Room service is offered, but some guests experienced delays or found the options limited.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant advantage for guests attending events at the Flanders Expo center, which is directly adjacent. Its proximity to the motorway also makes it a convenient stopover for travelers. A major highlight is the easy accessibility to the tram, with a stop just a short walk away, providing frequent and convenient transport directly into the Ghent city center and the main train station. However, many guests note that the hotel is situated in an industrial park and is quite far from the city center, making it less ideal for tourists primarily focused on sightseeing within Ghent itself. Navigating the surrounding road network, often referred to as "The Loop," can be tricky and confusing for drivers, with some describing it as a maze of roadworks.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, with guests frequently describing them as very friendly, welcoming, helpful, and attentive. The check-in and check-out processes are generally reported as quick and smooth. Guests appreciate the staff's responsiveness to requests, such as providing extension cords for medical devices or addressing room issues promptly. Housekeeping is generally seen as efficient, with rooms being made up daily. However, some guests noted issues with specific requests not being fully met, such as the provision of travel cots or the recognition of loyalty program status. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing excellent service is a standout feature, often compensating for the hotel's more dated aspects.

Additional Information
Guests frequently comment on the hotel's overall age and the pressing need for renovation, noting that many areas and rooms appear dated. Some guests, particularly those with loyalty program memberships, expressed disappointment that their IHG Rewards status was not recognized or that welcome bonuses were not offered. There have been isolated reports of a smoking smell in certain rooms or hallways. While the hotel aims to be accessible, some guests found that the actual room and bathroom configurations were not fully suitable for wheelchair users, despite being designated as such. A unique policy allows guests to decline daily room cleaning in exchange for a small voucher, though some reported having to request this voucher. The hotel is often used for coach trips and large groups, which can sometimes impact dining availability. Many reviews suggest that the hotel offers poor value for money given its dated condition and the prices charged, especially during peak event times.