Tyrone Courier - Features - Hotels in Ireland and Beyond

Features

Hotels in Ireland and Beyond

Tuesday, 2 November 2010

There comes a time in the year when you need to venture away for a few days; whether a quiet domestic retreat or somewhere further afield. With a range of travel possibilities, the number of destinations is almost limitless. The world is your oyster as you seek the experience of another culture, whatever your budget. Even if you wish to stay within Ireland, there are dozens of holidays waiting to be had around the country. For example, why not venture to Dublin with your mates and stay one of the many hotels there for the weekend, or go to the coast for a few days and have fun with the kids on the beach?

The key to having a fantastic holiday is to check in to a good quality hotel. Whichever area you are visiting, there are likely to be numerous accommodation options with a wide range of price tags. It's sensible to go for something reasonably priced where you know you will be safe, warm and clean, and reading Internet reviews is always a good idea as this way, you know there won't be any nasty surprises. Of course, if money isn't an issue you may want a more lavish experience in a four or five-star hotel. Your room is likely to be beautifully decorated in more upmarket hotels and the interior design will be wonderful. This said, it's recommended you do a little research into food quality, as even at the best hotels sometimes fall a little short in serving up a memorable meal. For individual travellers on a smaller budget, hostels are also available at bargain prices.

Dublin is a brilliant tourist spot, with a variety of activities, wild nightlife and a number of lovely bars and restaurants. Some interesting places to visit are the National Archaeological Museum of Ireland, which is full of fascinating history, and Dublin Castle, the former seat of British rule in Ireland. As an old Viking settling, there are a number of related centres across Dublin including the traveller's favourite, Viking World. The Viking Splash tour is a great experience for the younger audience. Some popular places to eat include the Patrick Guilbaud restaurant, which serves upmarket lavish meals, and Roly's Bistro, which is incredibly tasty and reasonably priced. Whether you are looking to splurge or save, there are suitable Dublin hotels in which to spend your stay. The Radisson SAS Hotel offers double rooms at a rate of around 150 Euros a night. Or, you could try the Days Hotel at Dublin Airport, which is great value and perfect if you are looking for cheap flights to Dublin. Remember to book your accommodation well in advance of your holiday to ensure a room will be vacant.

Another fantastic city to visit is Belfast, situated in the heart of Northern Ireland. There are plenty of myths and tales that make the city alluring, particularly how CS Lewis found inspiration for The Chronicles of Narnia here. Thanks to social media, you are able to get recommendations that extend beyond what the official tourism websites say and personalised advice on the best restaurants and must-see sightseeing venues. Many people have fallen in love with Belfast, and cheap flights are incredibly easy to obtain through the budget airlines that operate to and from the city.

We've all heard about the culture and the history of different places, but what is there for the people who love stunning scenery and idyllic landscapes? The natural beauty of Belfast's surroundings is impressive, and there is so much to enjoy. For example, if you have always had a penchant for the world of film, a sense of realism can be attached to the film Titanic, a movie that enjoyed success in box offices internationally. With tours that explore the company that made this doomed ship from the granddaughter of one of the passengers on the ship in 1912, the realistic and insightful experience that awaits you will open your eyes to the tragedy and the background behind this real-life story.

Of course, even though city breaks can be a fantastic thing to consider, the real beauty of Ireland comes when you visit some of the more isolated villages, with mountainous terrain and breathtaking views. For those who love cycling or hiking, there are plenty of routes to consider and a well-earned Guinness waiting for you in local pubs afterwards. Next to a roaring log fire, the uniqueness of such a holiday makes it incomparable to others you have been on before.

If you wish to travel further afield, why not take the whole family to the capital city of Rome. Located in the centre of Italy, it is home to the Vatican City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; ideal for any budding historian or anyone looking for some interesting culture. Be sure to see many of the ancient cathedrals and ruins as often it is the smaller, less well-known ones people fall in love with. There is much beautiful architecture to be seen within the city. Rome is also a shopping haven with hundreds of trendy boutiques and dozens of shopping centres littering the capital. The perfect location for a romantic break, there are plenty of cosy hotels and intimate restaurants that serve incredible food.

To conclude, there are a few quick tips that will make your holiday a great success, whatever and wherever it may be. Firstly, book your travel and accommodation well in advance, as this gives you a rough idea of overall cost and ensures the essentials are organised. Secondly, take out that all-important travel insurance; it isn't that expensive for the peace of mind it gives, and you wouldn't want to be without it if an incident did occur. Finally, do some research and plan at least three activities to do while away (remember to list all the sights you want to see, so you don't miss out!) Embrace the culture of your chosen location and you are guaranteed to have a fabulous time.