Dublin Hotels

Dublin is one of the best cities in the United Kingdom, yet it seems as though it is one that doesn't get as much attention as it deserves. A lot of British tourists don't picture such a close country as much of a holiday destination. In addition to this, lots of us feel that temperatures need to be hitting the high 20s in order for the location to be worth a visit. A dim and dismal picture of the UK is often painted, making it seem like a country where it's always raining. But, we know how much nice weather we've been getting over the past couple of years, so we need to get over this morbid and incorrect illusion! Every year stay dublin gets very decent temperatures - you just need to ensure that you book at the right time of year.

Top tips:

1. When do you get best value? There are no real no-no times visit. But key sporting (rugby, Irish football and soccer fixtures) and festival dates are best avoided. Every summer there are 3-4 key concert dates that suck out accommodation. Check out Ticketmaster to avoid these dates. If you are flexible travel in the off-season - in the winter or spring. But if these options are not practical for you, give yourself some time in advance to avail of the best prices

Saturday is the busiest day and is priced accordingly. It can be 50% cheaper or more to stay a Sunday or Monday.

2. Where Should You Stay? You can stay around the airport or on the outskirts to avail of low prices but in truth if it is a short stay you are wasting valuable time getting there back and forth. Also are you really going to hike it back in the evening? Add in your bus and taxi fares and it all mounts up. In the city centre there are some 50-70 hotels that are central. The best locations are in and around St Stephens Green and O'Connell Street and these locations put you in a good position to visit the major day attractions, the walking tours, theatre and nightlife. While Temple Bar is on everyone's list of places to visit as a place to stay it is busy, noisy and expensive.

3. How Many are in your group? Look at the number in your group: Naturally if you are travelling on your own in most cases you shoulder the whole room cost - it is more expensive than sharing a twin or double. (Something to bear in mind). At the other end of the scale if you are a group of 3 or more it is going to be tricky. Quad rooms are far and few between but a serviced apartment might be more appropriate and there some of these on general hotel websites. If it is a large group seeking hotel accommodation, plan well in advance. For best prices and those on a really tight budget you may need to consider a hotel further out. Above all prepare well in advance for groups.

4. For How Long Should you Stay? You need at least 2 days to see the main sights. Stay over 3 or 4 days and get a discount: The price of hotel accommodation per day usually comes down the longer you stay as many hotels now offer discounts for 2 or more nights.

5. What Rate should you go for? Opt for the B&B rate: Many people look at the main price of a hotel room and think they will save money on the breakfast somewhere else. It rarely saves money unless you really do not eat breakfast. Generally hotel breakfasts in Dublin hotels will cover a hot breakfast which includes a hearty cooked breakfast that will keep you going until late afternoon. It is usually priced at a discount and cheaper than the comparative offering in a local cafe.

6. Can I get more? Ask an Upgrade: It is always worth seeking a room with a view or an upgrade even on a hotel booking website on their comments box. Hotels often have to upgrade people as they have so many room types. If you ask you stand a better chance than the person who does not and it improves your experience at the hotel. The reverse is true each hotel has is smallest, least desirable room if you state you are seeking an above average room you may avoid the box room or the room with the window view of the fire escape!

7. Where do I go for choice? Use a General Hotel Website: Do a Google search for 'Dublin hotels' and start there. It is worthwhile using a general hotel web site that has large stock because they generally get discounted rates and have a huge range to look at. If they have a map it's even better. But look for a site that does not make extra charges such as 'credit card charges', 'administration charges' and 'sales tax' and one that will take a deposit to minimize your initial outlay. A local website that has a telephone number is a good bet - you can get good local experience and advise at the other end of a phone line.