Who knew that Brussels could be a couture-minded mecca for trendy fashionistas? Apparently 2006 has been dubbed The Year of Fashion and Design in Brussels, and the city's buzzing with exhibitions and fashion shows, including a mobile extravaganza where models tour the city in a tram, with each tram stop serving as a catwalk for a different show. The city is a self-professed "favorite haunt of original and talented designers, who, by being based there, not only enjoy the recognition of their peers, but also find in this exuberant and surrealist capital a fantastic environment in which to live and to experiment." Brussels views itself as "setting the pace in terms of fashion and design." Rock on.

Starting on May 17, the luxurious Conrad Brussels is offering a "Mode Design" package for visitors to discover the history and meaning of design in Brussels. The elegant hotel is easily one of the city's finest, with an excellent health club, fine dining, and the largest and most sophisticated bedrooms in the city. The package is available until December 31, 2006, and includes: accommodations in a Classic room, breakfast daily, and an exclusive free gift for fashion lovers. Starting at EUR 235 per room per night. What a steal.

Conrad Brussels, Five Star Alliance