My Week In

The Merrion - 5 Star Old World Charm — An effortlessly gracious hotel that just happens to be only 10 years old. The is a luxurious stay with stunning rooms, bar and restaurant area, a wonderful fireplace and other little nooks to discover for your own private relaxing area.

This Georgian building is situated in a perfect location to explore. Opposite are the Government Buildings where's the order and calm unlike the Temple Bar area where is can get a little rowdy.

Four tall, sober Georgian town houses, one of which was the birthplace of Wellington, have been opened up to create a series of welcoming drawing rooms complete with antique furniture and oriental rugs plus an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century Irish art. Don't miss the inviting and decadent spa, 'Tethre'.

There are formal gardens for dining in the summer months and fireplaces for winter.

The restaurant has two-Michelin stars by mini celebrity chef, Patrick Guilbaud. You can expect attentive service and careful attention to detail. If you are looking for a truly decadent and indulgent stay consider this one.

Discounts now from 15% or more with more than one night.
www.merrionhotel.com
Upper Merrion Street (00353 1 603 0600;

Farringtons — A pub with accommodation situated in the very lively Temple Bar (In Celtic, Temple Bar means a long walk).

This pub was named after a character in James Joyce's 'The Dubliners'. It is over 120 years old but they have made some improvements to ensure your comfort. So expect Wifi, comfortable bed and modern bathrooms.

Very important : Pub opening Hours: Mon - Thurs 10:30 - 23:30, Fri & Sat 10:30 - 2:30, Sun 12:30 - 23:00, so if you're a light sleeper, perhaps a pub style accommodation may not be for you.

Rooms: Comfortable and modern, equipped with all everything to make your stay enjoyable, flat screen TVs, DVD, internet access and the price. Rooms with Power shower and Jacuzzi baths. From as little as 75 euros for a double.

As well as the pub there is also the possibility of lights meals at the bar while you listen to some Irish music.
29 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Bentley’s (formerly Brownes) but still 5 Star — This is the type of stay for those who want to combine a gastronomic restaurant experience with their stay. This is one of Dublin's finest luxury boutique hotels. Its location is unbeatable, walk to Brown Thomas (Ireland's Harvey Nichols) and other wonderful cafes, pubs and restaurants for casual eating as you won't want to miss any of the meals at the hotel.

Rooms: Only 11 bedrooms, on a quiet stretch of St Stephen’s Green. Recently reopened in November 2008 after a major refurbishment. All individually designed with quality fabrics and linen completed with elegant antiques. All are equipped with TVs, Bose CD and internet access.

The Restaurant: An elegant, Paris brasserie-style style, upstairs you will find the new Bentley's Oyster Bar.

Location: Walk to the busy Temple Bar and nearby attractions such as the Irish Parliament – the Dail, along with the National Art Gallery. Trinity College is situated behind the hotel and is a great place to stop and admire the famous Books of Kells.

Expect to pay 175 euros for a deluxe room and less for a superior. We would be happy to provide quotations and let you know what extras we can provide.
www.bentleysdublin.com
22 St Stephen’s Green 638 3939

The Morgan — If you are like me, sometimes I'm nervous when I see hotel websites, do they really look like that? The Morgan is an ultra trendy hotel in the heart of the popular Temple Bar. It is not the refined and polished part of Dublin but it is certainly active and fun. The pictures are true to their word.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable. Lots of creams, beige and white. Tranquil and calm. The foyer is inviting for a private drink or the large bar area is very busy on weekends.

Standard rooms from 140 euros. Apartment from 400 euros.
Breakfast is in the dining area which is comfortable and doubles as the main dining area at night. Food is reasonably priced. The place is quite popular with the younger crowd on the weekends.

If you are looking for lots of space the Apartments have their own kitchenette and lounge area with white leather seating and flat screen TV. An adjoining room can double the space to provide a two-bedroom apartment.

You won't need a car as you can walk to most attractions however there is a car park opposite for those touring Ireland.

Email us your requirements and let us assist with your Dublin/Ireland itinerary.
www.themorgan.com
10 Fleet Street, Dublin 2 t: 353 643 7000

La Stampa Hotel & Spa - Delicious — Behind this Georgian façade is an exciting blend of Eastern architecture and Asian influenced decor played out in all the drawing rooms, bars and restaurants. The Spa is a major attraction and renown throughout Dublin. This is a hotel where you will certainly not be rushing out of the door, there's so much to explore and little treasures to discover.

The restaurant, 'Tiger Becs' is famous for its spicy Thai food in stylish and sexy surroundings. Its full most nights so ensure you book. Alternatively, there's Balzac for French cuisine but sourcing Irish only produce. The elegant floorboards, mirrors and 'blanquette' seating is authentic of a Parisian bistro

This hotel is perfect for honeymooners, with its low-lighting and private areas for drinks or relaxing.

Rooms: Standard bedrooms are bright and spacious, with exotic touches such as silks and velvet throws on crisp white Egyptian cotton linen. All have en-suite marble bathrooms with shower and bath. Lots of unique handcrafted furniture from around the globe.

Location: Moments from St. Stephen's Green and overlooking the Mansion House.
Rooms from €180 for a standard but let's see if we can do better.
www.lastampa.ie
35 Dawson Street