Tomorrowland boosts hotel bookings in Mechelen

Hotels in and around Mechelen, Belgium, are reporting a substantial increase in bookings coinciding with the commencement of the Tomorrowland dance festival in Boom. For the past decade, festival-goers have accounted for over 50 percent of hotel guests during late July, bringing a unique global energy to the city.

Kristina Loriers, president of the Hotel Association Mechelen and manager of a hotel at brewery Het Anker, noted that approximately 60 percent of Mechelen's hotel occupancy during this period is comprised of festival attendees. "In Mechelen, you can count on 60 percent of the occupancy of Mechelen hotels being festival-goers," she stated. While July and August are generally slower months for the hospitality sector, these two weekends of Tomorrowland significantly compensate for the lull.

“

In Mechelen, you can count on 60 percent of the occupancy of Mechelen hotels being festival-goers.

Ivo Van Itterbeeck, from Hotel Elisabeth in Mechelen, has also observed a rise in bookings. He explained that with the growth of international hotel chains in Mechelen, his hotel has increasingly focused on the leisure market. "Most people are now staying here for leisure activities, not for business," he said. Hotel Elisabeth is fully booked for the upcoming two weekends.

“

Most people are now staying here for leisure activities, not for business.

Van Itterbeeck highlighted a notable increase in festival guests at Hotel Elisabeth, with current occupancy at 100 percent. He mentioned that events like Maanrock or Rock Werchter also drive significant interest. Loriers confirmed that her hotel is also well-booked, though some last-minute availability might still exist.

Both hoteliers commented on the distinctive "Tomorrowland atmosphere" brought by the international guests. Loriers described them as "very special guests" who bring an "exuberant" and "cheerful" vibe. Van Itterbeeck noted a particularly high number of South American visitors this year, alongside returning annual guests. "People are elated. They really bring a fun atmosphere with them here in the courtyard, the clothes they wear are cheerful. You can easily pick out the Tomorrowland people without any effort," he laughed.

“

People are elated. They really bring a fun atmosphere with them here in the courtyard, the clothes they wear are cheerful. You can easily pick out the Tomorrowland people without any effort.