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About a ten to 15-minute walk south of Grande Place, the Hotel Galia has been holding court for more than 70 years. Situated in a pretty 4-story building off the vibrant square "Place Jeu de Balle," it enjoys a location directly in front of the famous Brussels Flea Market (open daily from 7 a.m.-2 p.m.). The same family has owned and operated the hotel since 1992. Every detail is a cheapo delight.
The Galia offers 20 decently-priced rooms, all decorated in the spirit of Brussels' favorite art form, "les bandes desinees" (comic strips). All come outfitted with the same basic, white duvets and red curtains. Walls are painted in blues, reds, and light yellows, and—you guessed it—are accented with lots of colorful, framed comic strips. Fun accoutrements like blue wooden coat racks and red sinks in the bathrooms make this place sparkle with originality.
One room is devoted entirely to Asterix while another, we were happy to find, is Smurf-themed! Four rooms pay homage to Tin Tin and boast adorable prints, all signed by Hérges himself (something on which the owner, Nicholas, prides himself). Downstairs, the breakfast room and coffee bar were recently renovated. Here, amid casual diners and a friendly barista, guests can sit in comfy chairs at antique tables while sipping cafés or soda, or can peruse comic books and art magazines.
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