Viviane and her family have been absolutely fantastic!
Whilst Brussels experienced a lockdown, following the tragic events of Paris - Viviane first messaged us to suggest the possibility of cancellation and a refund if the situation hadn't improved; a wonderful honesty that we appreciated, which isn't often seen in some hosts. But the lockdown was lifted and we were set to keep to our plan of spending Christmas in her lovely and comfortable apartment.
In plenty of time before our departure, Viviane and her family messaged us with thorough, eloquent and helpful guidance and instructions on how to reach the apartment, listing a variety of options how to do so.
Once we arrived, we were greeted by Viviane and her family - they had put up a small Christmas tree for us, left some food and drinks in the fridge and freezer in case we were hungry after our travels. Along with a welcome basket with some Christmas Belgium beers and waffles.
We had everything we needed in the apartment - toiletries, cups, pots, pans, plates, glasses, coffee, tea, seasonings for cooking; it genuinely felt like a home away from home.
The bed was extremely comfortable.
There was a wonderful supermarket just around the corner, which had everything we needed at a moment's notice.
We were right by the Belgica metro line, which took us to the city centre (buy a weekly ticket or carry a LOT of coins for that by the way).
Information and points-of-interest were given to us so we could make the most of Brussels and its surrounding towns and cities - all of which were an easy hour or so train ride away; Bruges, Antwerp etc.
There are even some board games, books and CDs for quiet nights in, as well as a box of toys if you're bringing your kids.
Viviane and her family have thought of everything.
Not only that, she even text us from time to time to check in on us and to ensure that we're enjoying ourselves. Since we fancied watching a few Christmas DVDs, they even offered to buy a DVD player for us - that was certainly going beyond the call of duty as a host!
Plus, when it came to departure day, they asked the pharmacists downstairs to look after our luggage whilst we killed time until it we due to go to the airport.
A 500 word-limited review wouldn't justify the amazing time we had in Brussels, mostly because of Viviane, her family and her apartment.
We can't recommend her enough and we'll have fond Christmas memories of our time there, for which we're extremely grateful for!

Thank you again!

--Adam and Kate.