The Merrion, Dublin

The well appointed rooms overlooking the beautiful gardens make this an oasis in the middle of the bustle of an international city. With a five-star restaurant just off the lobby, a quaint residents bar with comfortable high-back leather chairs overlooking the busy government area, and one of the finest afternoon teas I've ever experienced, this is where you really want to stay.

Loved the location. The Spa was dreadful. (a) The pool was extremely cold and too unpleasant to swim in; (b) The ceiling and walls in the pool area were unclean and the paint work was stained; (c) The tiles in the seating area of the steam room were also stained from continued used and they looked like they needed to be bleached clean. The bathroom in the bedroom was extremely dated. The shower in particular was in need of serious maintenance. The doors of the shower did not even seal and there was brown staining on the area where the shower tray meets the doors and tiles. The entire appearance was in stark contrast to the quality of the room. Check out staff v. rude and you have to pay �20 for parking!! DO NOT STAY HERE!!

I can't say enough about such a wonderful establishment. From the time I stepped out of the taxi, till the time I left, I felt completely spoiled. The staff was very accommodating, even with my friend Mr. Huffman and I arriving a bit before check-in time, we were taken care of. Located close to many of the things we wanted to see (St Stephens green, Guinness brewery, etc) we didn't feel the need to rent a car. We walked to most places and even found a great pub, Toner's, around the corner that we frequented more than once. Probably the best amenity for me was the onsite gym. Being a runner, I recommend you include a photo of the gym for those interested in a workout before tooling around town. Also, the rooms were perfectly spacious, clean and I just loved the tub, perfect for a soak after a douse of cool weather. Our vacation was just what we wanted, and I can't say enough positive about our experiences at your property.

From the moment of check until we left a great place to stay with very friendly and helpful staff. The ground floor parlor rooms make you feel like you are visiting a long lost wealthy aunt. The garden is a beautiful place to relax for a refreshment or just stroll about and get away from it all. The James Joyce sundial statue in the rear is a must see. The room was large with a historic feel but fully modern amenities. Great location, quite but nearby to the popular attractions. Only downside, we stayed during and unusually hot spell for Dublin in June and the room which faced the street woudl get quite warm. The AC could not quite cool us down the the typical American chill-me-to-the-bone level. Other than that loved the Merrion, the staff, and the location. Will look to stay again on future visits.