This march I visited London and Brussels via Jet Airways Toronto-Brussels, then via Eurostar Brussels-London. Jet Airways had fantastic inflight entertainment for all ages and variety of movies/music/music videos/games/etc. The meals were very good in economy class, and the seats were very comfortable. In the end this 8 hour flight did not seem tiring at all.
I must caution potential travellers on two things, first: to allow extra time for check in. This is a very important precautionary measure as passports are checked when in line for check-in. Also I would suggest to always check-in online, as there is an express check-in for these passengers, which has a baggage drop off. Second: to always carry local currency change for public washrooms, which average about 50cents.
Eurostar provided a very comfortable ride in economy class, though I do not see the added value of first class for the extra fare.
In Brussels I stayed first at the Holiday Inn Brussels airport, which features a complimentary airport shuttle, and complementary baggage storage. I thought it was a very nice property, with great bedrooms.
Additionally in Brussels I stayed at the Park Inn Brussels Midi train Station, which — as you can assume correctly – is right across the street from the train statin. The location was very convenient and it had a very chic lobby.
Brussels was a very interesting historical city, with lovely old buildings, a very vibrant central square, and a bustling market with great quaint restaurants.
In London I visited the Fairmont “The Savoy,” which is an excellent hotel for corporate travellers. Centrally located with excellent food and bars; excellent service; and gorgeous rooms, this location is great for any traveler.
I was also able to look at the Chancery court: a Modern hotel, the strand palace: right across the street from the Fairmont and at the time undergoing renovations in preparation for the Olympics, and The Threadneedles hotel: which is well located to the London Stock Exchange.
The food in the city is great, with a wide array of choice, and the sites are even better.
I would recommend a visit to either of these cities for anyone.