Monday, August 11, 2008

THE DYLAN HOTEL - DUBLIN, IRELAND (review)

The Dylan is a rather eccentric property with a design that echoes somewhat of an old-fashioned charm, while fusing it with a decidedly modern approach.  With its youthful, friendly and helpful staff, The Dylan feels more like a luxurious private mansion than a hotel.  The five-star boutique hotel manages to feel very discreet, yet welcoming and personable.

The hotel is all about personality and subtle little touches such as the incredibly delicious brownies that await you on arrival, and the special goodies that you can find after the nightly turn-down. In addition to the traditional minty chocolate left on your pillow, you can expect to find complimentary bottles of VOSS water and a unique aromatherapy "sleep well" spray.

The rooms are not exceedingly large, but comfortable, made to feel even larger due to the placement of mirrors across one wall. Some rooms come with terraces, which is a nice thing to have, although there is no real view to enjoy. The amenities in the room are very well thought out though, including a flat screen TV, very large bottles of fine shampoos, conditioners and bath salts, heated towel rack, vanity kits, slippers, wi-fi, an overpriced mini-bar (sadly, a staple in nearly all hotels), and an ipod with Bose speakers. The ipod, thoughtfully, comes loaded with some music and Dublin city audio guides, so you can take it with you on walks around the city.  Unfortunately though, with all these great amenities, one very important thing was overlooked: the bed.  The bed & pillows are on the harder side, and not as cozy as expected - although some people swear that sleeping on a hard bed is the better choice for your back.

On sleepless nights, the hotel also has a library for guests to borrow books and a plush bar. In the morning, they can awake to some delicious treats served in the hotel's breakfast room - buffet or a la carte, the breakfast there is well worth having.

Located in an affluent suburb, The Dylan's surroundings are without a shortage of nice pubs and restaurants, but it is definitely a bit removed from the more "happening" parts of the city and the major tourist attractions.  However, they are all within a short bus or taxi ride and a 15 minute walk to Grafton St and St. Stephens Green.

Chic, charming, elegant and bursting with personality, The Dylan is sure to host a memorable stay. Definitely one of the more unique hotels - a special place.

Visit online at:
www.dylan.ie

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