Hi, that an odd co-incidence, we (an almost retired couple), are going to Brussels for a couple of nights shortly, & even staying at Taptoe. Then onto Ghent & Brugges. Found your article very interesting. I was a tour manager, working in Europe.

You did miss the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert though. The name doesn’t sound like much but it’s a very impressive piece of architecture.

https://www.google.be/search?q=galeries+st+hubert&tbm=isch

Brussels, just like Belgium is the equivalent of someone hiding a big carton of jam jars allover your house. At first glance you will see nothing. But while doing what you do every day you will stumble on them and be delighted, then need to go the extra mile to force the lids open and enjoy the sweet gooey stuff inside.
There’s art nouveau allover the place in Brussels but you need some kind of booklet with a tour inside. The Victor Horta museum and Stoclet palace are really worth some of your time.
You should however take your time and find these places by yourself it will give you a special feeling inside when over time you do. Then drag your friends around to “come look what I found” .

Do it, We spent 10 days wandering around Belgium, Holland, and Germany at Christmas. The markets are amazing.

So glad you found it helpful Sarah! The Atomium is definitely a unique structure and worth a visit if you can fit it in. Hope you enjoy your time there :-D