Stay in a classic-style hotel! Spend a night at a century-old post office

Text by: Little Traveler

Revitalizing architecture in Hong Kong seems to have become little more than a slogan—many realize that just as conservation is being mentioned, historical relics are being torn down around the corner. If the government learned to consider drawing inspiration from foreign approaches, perhaps more memories could still be preserved. Recently, a hot topic has been the hotel located in the heart of the old city center of Ghent, Belgium, named 1898 The Post.

This building, constructed in 1898 with a strong Gothic style, was originally a post office, designed by the world-renowned architect of the time, Louis Cloquet. The post office operated continuously and even served as the main venue for the World Expo in 1913 until it officially closed in 2001.

After 16 years of closure, this building has finally been reopened, transformed into a heritage hotel. It offers 38 guest rooms, divided into six series based on different room types: Stamp, Envelope, Postcard, Letter Paper, and Mail Coach, all preserving elements of the post office. In addition, the interiors are thoughtfully decorated with vintage wooden furniture and metallic furnishings, creating a richly classical ambiance.

Not only are the room designs stylish, but the public spaces such as the lobby are also full of charm. There’s a spiral staircase reminiscent of a castle, as well as a hundred stone Baroque statues embedded within the walls. Guests can also enjoy panoramic views of the city and the river from the tower top, offering a particularly poetic experience. Spending a night in a century-old building and feeling the traces of history is definitely worth the price of over a thousand dollars for one night.

Address: Graslei 16, 9000 Gent
Phone: +32 9 391 53 79
Website:www.zannierhotels.com/1898thepost/en/