#portobello dublin

[panoramicireland]

Swans in Dublin's Grand Canal at Portobello. The area is undergoing a redevelopment with the building of a hotel on the site of the buildings behind the tree here.

Swans are not always on this stretch of water, but are more often than not.

[stairnaheireann]

#OTD in 1896 – Birth of stage and film actor, Arthur Shields (younger brother of Barry Fitzgerald), in Portobello, Co Dublin.

While Sean Connolly claimed the unfortunate title of being the first rebel fatality, others were luckier and escaped from Easter Week, 1916 with their lives. For Arthur Shields, his role in the Rising was to become merely an interesting titbit in what was a fascinating career as an actor at home and in the US. Arthur was born into a poor family in Portobello, Dublin in 1896. As one of eight…

[artisthomes]

George Bernard Shaw's birthplace in Portobello, Dublin, Ireland

[images12345]

Want Best service for Day Trips in Portobello? Then visit Premier Chauffeur Drive. Visit them for more information.

[streetsofdublin]

PORTOBELLO ROAD AT IT BEST

The harbour was originally larger in size and also served as a water reservoir until 1863. Portobello House, originally the Grand Canal Hotel, opened in 1807. The building was later used as an asylum for the blind and then as a nursing home where

LEADS TO PORTOBELLO HARBOUR Portobello Harbour was opened in 1801, becoming an important terminus for barges travelling along the Grand Canal. The harbour was originally larger in size and also served as a water reservoir until 1863. Portobello House, originally the Grand Canal Hotel, opened in 1807. The building was later used as an asylum for the blind and then as a nursing home where artist…

[hannahssimblr]

Chapter One (Part 2)

Back at the house, Shane’s mother Caroline is pulling rocket out of the vegetable patch. She complains all the time about having planted it without realising how invasive it is and how it would choke and overcrowd her shallots. Beside her is a growing pile of herbs, some of which she will offer to me before I go home, and I’ll take it knowing that my parents don’t know how to cook with things like rocket. 

“Well,” She says to me with the sun in her eyes. “How did you get on?”

“Horrible.” I say. “I thought I’d be sick.”

“Great to get back into the swing of things again.” She says. “Sure you’ll be flying up and down those fields again in no time.”

“I hope so.” Down the garden Claire is lying serenely in the sun next to a flourishing bed of summer flowers. When I go over to her she squints up at me and says “You’re a bit sweaty.” 

“Yes I know.” I say, and I lie down beside her with my arms and legs spread eagle and close my eyes against the warmth of the sun. 

“This is why I don’t do things like running.” She says. “I can’t stand the feeling of exertion.”

“I can’t imagine you sweating.”

“‘Cause I don’t do that.”

Shane is toeing a football around the grass nearby with Rosie snapping at his feet. I can’t fathom how he has the energy. “If I’d it my way you’d be out of bed at six, running up and down the park with me.” He tells her. 

“I’d never do a thing like that in my life.”

“Evie will though, won’t you?”

I sigh. “I suppose.” We have a plan in place to get me fit again once we go back to college in a few weeks, and now that Shane is moving to Portobello it means he’ll only be a five minute cycle from our apartment. When it’s time for our run he can just come and get me. The thought is ominous, but not half as ominous as the thought of heading back to Dublin after the summer, even if I won’t be in the NCAD building much this year.

There isn’t much that stands out from second year. It passed me by in a haze, and all that I really did was work and study, eat and sleep. I chose to specialise in illustration, just like I said I would, and I enjoyed it, but it really just became my life, and once again I fell into the role of the quiet girl in the back of the classroom, never all that willing to participate in pub nights with the others. I went home and drew all evening instead, sometimes hanging out with Jaz and Serena when they were over, but apart from that it was quiet. I didn’t want any new people in my life.

Marnie specialised in graphic design, Dean in painting, and we never spoke except for the time that she said something to me in the canteen about liking my hair. I didn’t say anything back to her and then she never tried to talk to me again. They don’t talk to each other anymore either, but I don’t care about what happened. I saw Dean in the hallways once or twice, and out in the yard with some girl who I almost felt like warning about him, but then chose not to risk getting tangled up in his rotten web again. I hope that she will be smarter than I was. I decided to take an optional extra year and do an internship, but they did not, and so next May they will graduate without me and I’ll never have to see them again. 

“Are you excited for your internship thingy?” Claire asks me, somehow following my train of thoughts to the same point, and I tell her that I am. “I’m scared too though.” I admit. “I feel like I wouldn’t know how to act in a real work place with professionals.”

“You’ll be grand. You worked in that café before.” 

“Yeah but a café is very different from a screen printing studio, I think probably anybody can pour an americano and put a bun on a plate. The people at the studio are going to be actual paid artists who design things and sell them.”

“But you are an actual artist.”

“Not yet.” I shift up to lean back on my elbows and watch Caroline busy at the beds still, the soft buzz of the honeybees in her hives fill the air with a pleasant, comfortable sort of ambience. “When I get paid for something I’ve done, I think then I can say that I am.”

“Hm.” She says. “Well then you can say it after you’ve painted that window later on this week.”

“Oh yeah.” I say, remembering the promise I made to my former manager to do some typography on the front window of the café. It’s the kind of thing I haven’t done before, but the idea of it feels so exciting that I feel I’d probably do it for no money at all, but the fifty euro he’s offering sounds enticing too.

“Here, what’s the name of that printing place you’re going to work?” Shane wants to know, and I tell him. “Mezzotint.”

He nods. “I think I know one of the lads that works there.”

“Really?” This incredibly culchie man and the amount of alternative social circles he seems to have a finger in never ceases to surprise me. Since when is he randomly hanging out with screenprinters?

“Yeah.” He says, kicking the football into the back wall of the long garden with a thwack. “Simon something. He’s hung out with me and my friends a few times now. Nice lad.”

“Is he a single lad?” Claire asks for my benefit, and I lightly thump her on the arm. She’s only teasing. She knows I’m firmly settled into being entirely romantically unavailable again. Safe limbo, married to myself, never looking at any boys. 

“Wouldn’t say so.” Shane says. “I think he’s going out with one of the girls.”

“Oh no.” I say sarcastically, and take my phone out of my bum bag to check the time. “Anyway, I think it’s time I head off.”

“Aw, stay.” Claire says, but I show her that it’s almost five and she understands immediately. Kelly works with her dad, the head chef at a local hotel, every weekday until five. She’ll be home in about ten minutes and I don’t want to be anywhere near this garden when she is.

“Don’t forget the rocket.” Caroline tells me, and I don’t. I grab a generous handful from her and let myself out over the stile ladder. 

“Same time tomorrow.” Shane yells after me. 

“Ugh!” I yell back, and take off over the fields that lead me back towards town. 

Beginning // Prev // Next

[abbasdisawala]

This is a photo of a mural in Dublin’s Portobello neighborhood, featuring a quote from James Joyce’s “Finnegan’s Wake” in a playful and modern font. The quote, “They lived and laughed and loved and left,” is written in bright colors on a black background, arranged diagonally to create a sense of movement. The mural is on the side of a building, with a street lamp in the top right corner. The hand-lettered mural encapsulates a nostalgic sense of change and recollection, and is a colorful tribute to James Joyce in Dublin’s Portobello neighborhood. The mural was created by an Irish artist Garreth Joyce.

[midnightsmisery]

have you ever heard of SOMETHING TO SOMEONE by Dermot Kennedy, well, it describes KILEAN RYAN to a tee! the thirty year old, and PERSONAL SECURITY TO THE IRISH MOB was spotted browsing through the stalls at portobello road market last sunday, do you know them? would you say HE is more aggressive or more OBEDIENT instead? anyway, they remind me of the smell of warm beer, the feeling of a freshly lit cigarette after a long day and the roar of the crowd on game day in the pub

Introduction

FULL NAME: Kilean Declan Ryan

NICKNAME(S): Ryan, Kils

AGE: Thirty

GENDER & PRONOUNS: Cis Male / He/Him

DATE OF BIRTH: August 1st 1992

ZODIAC SIGN: Leo

OCCUPATION: Security for the Irish Mob

SEXUALITY: Straight

Biography

Growing up Kilean's life was far from glamourous. He was raised by a single father, after his mum had passed away during childbirth. While he didn't think is father resented him, he knew he held him responsible. He was harder on Kilean than he was his older brother, and while it took some time, eventually he got used to it. It seemed like the price to pay for being the reason his father and brother lost someone they loved so much. From a young age, he took responsibility for what he did... even if it wasn't his fault.

When he was ten, his Dad had gotten a factory job in Park Royal. A neighbourhood near Nottinghill that was known to be the epicenter of industry and hard working jobs. When they left Ireland he thought this would be the start of a new beginning. But only three years after their big mom, the Guinness production plant shut down in Park Royal and moved to Dublin. While the irony of it all, had made the almost teen chuckle... their situation grew less funny with each passing day. Alcoholism consumed their small flat and it became clear that with the plant closed down, their father had no interest in trying again. He'd given up on that dream, and everything else that went along with it. Kilean and his older brother, knew it was their time to step up.

It wasn't long until a Kilean came across a local group of Irishmen in the area. In his mind, the Irish stood by one another and the naive boy thought they might have some work for him. Or even his father. He went into their businesses feeling like he was making big moves for his family. Ones that might finally make his father proud of him. Kilean had no idea that the pup he'd walked into was a front for a man name Bugsy O'Shea. Head of the Irish Mob in that part of London. Infamous to many, but not the thirty teen year old boy.

Bugsy promised to take Kilean under his wing, in exchange for a few odd jobs and cleaning up the bar on weekends. Like many con man and manipulators, he lulled the boy into a false sense of confidence by being the father figure he'd needed for so long. Throughout his teens, Bugsy didn't ask for much. The boy would work in the bar and run simple errand, until he turned eight teen and became an asset to the team.

It was around this time that he'd met a young girl named Poe. She was delicate like a flower, and he was so afraid to break her. She made him want to be a better man, and earn her love and affection. With her he felt like he could walk on water and when she kissed him, he swore he could see the stars. Their relationship was quick to build and before he knew it he was down on one knee, promising the world to his young love.

They would have a few good years together before Kilean's boss started making more and more requests. Ones that started to make him uneasy... and slowly exposed what kind of people he'd found himself working for. Debt collection, beatings, repossession for collateral and eventually torture. If he refused to do the job, Bugsy would tut tut tut, and shake his head slowly before asking him what his sweet Poe would think if she knew what he really did for work. Twisting the knife in his side until he couldn't deny Bugsy anymore. When that threat grew old, it turned to threats of Poe's safety. Scaring the living hell out of Kilean.

Not knowing how else to protect her, the Irishman did the only thing he knew would keep her safe. He left. He took a job protecting Bugsy's assets in Belfast and kept his distance from his ex wife in hopes the mob would leave her alone. The further he distanced himself, the better off she'd be. Or so he hoped.

Relationships

Poe Crane: DEATH OF ME - I would love you if I could but my unsteady heart's not ready and you would only get what’s left of me. I don't wanna walk away but it's not fair to let you stay // Poe is still the love of Kilean's life. He would do anything for her but he knows it's not safe to be in her life. He can't be the reason one more person he knows loses their life. No matter what it takes, he will keep her out of harms way. Even if it means she has to hate him to let him go.

[oftatteredwings]

⸻  AARON TVEIT. HE/HIM / have you ever heard of LOSE YOURSELF by eminem, well, it describes NIALL KELLEY to a tee! the 37 year old, and TENNIS COACH/EX PRO was spotted browsing through the stalls at portobello road market last sunday, do you know them? would you say  HE is more bitter or more RESOURCEFUL instead? anyway, they remind me of pristine white trainers, early morning runs, an abundance of empty energy drinks cans on the counter, backwards baseball caps and shorts in the middle of winter, maybe you’ll bump into them soon!

time in notting hill ; 9 years

tw: cancer, death, depression, injury

ABOUT.

Name: Niall Kelley Age: Thirty-seven DoB: 28th October 1985 Occupation: Tennis Coach/Ex Pro Romantic/sexual orientation: Heteroromantic/bisexual Birthplace: Dublin, Ireland Current Location: Notting Hill, London, UK Time in Notting Hill: 9 years

Niall is proper rags to riches story, he grew up in a mobile home park on the outskirts of Dublin and ended up in Notting Hill with all he ever could have dreamed of.

As a youngster he was a ball of energy, something his parents sought to rectify as soon as possible… and that was how, in the end, he found an interest in tennis.

He spent the good majority of his childhood and teen years in Ireland, aside from when he left to attend a tennis academy in Sweden anyway, and then after that he was just constantly back and forth.

He was naturally talented and thrived when he attended the academy —- competitions became a part of his daily life as he worked his way up, gradually becoming more recognised in his sport.

At sixteen, however, he lost interest, his girlfriend and his popularity in school became the only things he was bothered about.

Thankfully it didn’t last and following a year of going completely off the rails, he threw himself back into his training ten-fold. Tennis became his life.

By twenty-one he was one of the highest ranked players in the world, falling in comfortably at number fourteen.

At twenty-five Niall was named number one in the world. It only lasted for a year, but he was in and out of the top five for the next six years or so.

His life away from the court was fairly quiet, he’d go on retreats, get lost in the mountains of Europe, go out of his way to relax and forget about the game.

In the end that was where he met his wife.

They were married within six months and with a son on the way within the next three.

Both Samantha and Zachary gave him something else to focus on, the relationship he had with his family already strained, something that seemed to happen a lot with both Niall and his siblings.

Sam breached that gap for him, smoothed things over, and for a couple of years they were almost like a proper family.

But it wasn’t to last, soon things took a turn and Sam was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Niall’s game faltered, though he did his best to focus, knowing that they would need the money to keep up with her treatment.

Twice things seemed to be looking up, twice they were met with bad news, the Kelleys slowly losing faith.

Finally Sam was signed up for a new medical trail, they had hope for the first time in years… hope that was snatched away again within months.

Sam passed away peacefully in the autumn of 2017, surrounded by family and a confused little boy who wondered where his mummy had gone.

Niall went back to competing shortly after, but soon found he was no longer up to the intense competition, he’d lost his sparkle and a string of hamstring and hip injuries soon put paid to his career.

His last official competition was the 2019 US Open.

Since then he’s turned to coaching in his new found home of Notting Hill, it keeps him busy, keeps him playing the sport he loves, even if it’s not entirely ideal.

The last seven years have made Niall bitter and angry, something he does his best to hide when around strangers, although some days it does break through.

To most he’s still the charismatic young tennis player who would swagger onto the court, no one really knows the pain he constantly feels inside.

WANTED CONNECTIONS.

- exes from his younger years; pre-25, college years, the last 4 years or so. - friends; just those he can call on whenever. - frenemies; - fwb; about all he manage these days. - students; anyone he coaches since turning to teaching four years ago. - old fans; fans of his from his tennis pro days. - fellow parents; his son is nine. - in-laws; anyone who was related to his late wife.

[shinycleaning]

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A clean home is more than just good for looks. It also helps create a healthier environment. Dust, dirt, and allergens can make you sick, especially if you have allergies or asthma. Regular cleaning removes these harmful particles, helping you breathe easier and feel more comfortable in your own space.

A clean home also makes you feel happy and relaxed. When everything is tidy and organized, it’s easier to focus on the things that matter to you. Plus, when guests come over, you’ll feel proud of the space you’ve created.

Get in Touch with Shiny Cleaning Today

If you’re looking for a reliable and friendly cleaning service in Dublin, look no further than Shiny Cleaning. Our team is ready to make your home sparkle, so you can enjoy your free time without worrying about cleaning.

For more information or to book a cleaning, feel free to contact us:

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Email: shinycleaning.ie@gmail.com

Website: shinycleaning.ie

Address: 18 McMahon St, Portobello, Dublin, D08 XH1R, Ireland

Let us take care of the cleaning, so you can take care of yourself and your family. Reach out today, and we’ll make your home shine!

[livesanskrit]

Send from Sansgreet Android App. Sanskrit greetings app from team @livesanskrit .

It's the first Android app for sending @sanskrit greetings. Download app from https://livesanskrit.com/sansgreet

George Bernard Shaw (26 July 1856 – 2 November 1950), known at his insistence simply as Bernard Shaw, was an Irish playwright, critic, polemicist and political activist. His influence on Western theatre, culture and politics extended from the 1880s to his death and beyond. He wrote more than sixty plays, including major works such as Man and Superman (1902), Pygmalion (1912) and Saint Joan (1923). With a range incorporating both contemporary satire and historical allegory, Shaw became the leading dramatist of his generation, and in 1925 was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

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[panoramicireland]

Leafy autumn with leaf drop along the Grand Canal in Dublin.

It's one of my favourite parts of Dublin, in all a very photogenic city.

[stairnaheireann]

#OTD in 1896 – Birth of stage and film actor, Arthur Shields (younger brother of Barry Fitzgerald), in Portobello, Co Dublin.

While Sean Connolly claimed the unfortunate title of being the first rebel fatality, others were luckier and escaped from Easter Week, 1916 with their lives. For Arthur Shields, his role in the Rising was to become merely an interesting titbit in what was a fascinating career as an actor at home and in the US. Arthur was born into a poor family in Portobello, Dublin in 1896. As one of eight…

[wallandkeogh]

WALL & KEOGH

We set ourselves up as Loose Leaf Tea Suppliers for the island of Ireland, with that laser focus on premium best grade Loose leaf Tea. We firmly believe in constant learning, we religiously visit the Tea gardens that supply us and see first hand what we are purchasing. From that very first excited trip to the sweeping mountains of Darjeeling to the latest Visits to beautiful and modern Taiwan. We learn something new about the process every year we go. Quality with consistency is our passion - Using only the finest loose leaf teas, and are constantly evolving and improving our selection. We're always eager to work with Stockists that have an honest Passion for quality Tea, so If you would like to become a stockist do let us know, or if you would like W&K Stocked near to you let your local store know.

Address: 45 Richmond St S, Portobello, Dublin, D02 XD93, Ireland

Website URL: https://www.wallandkeogh.com/

[udo0stories]

Posted: 3/1/2024 | March 1st, 2024 Dublin is a literary, gloomy city. Because there are so many writers and poets living there, it is an excellent city for history buffs and book lovers. There are castles, classic pubs, and lots of live music venues to be found here. Dublin's relatively small size makes it simple to visit all the attractions, events, and walking tours. On foot, you can go almost anywhere. Consequently, unless it is far from the center, do not worry too much about a hotel's location when considering one. Additionally, the city's tram system facilitates easy transportation. Here is my selection of Dublin's top hotels: 1. Hotel Harcourt This three-star hotel is situated in the heart of the city and is housed in a collection of old Georgian townhouses from the eighteenth century, one of which was once owned by renowned author George Bernard Shaw. There is a restaurant and beer garden on site, as well as a bar with live music every weekend. The rooms are not large, but they have lots of natural light, wooden accents, and lovely color pops that make the room feel brighter. Each room has a desk, flatscreen TV, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds. The bathrooms are rather small, but they have excellent water pressure, which is a huge plus in my opinion. There is also breakfast included. 2. Clarence Hotel Located in the boisterous Temple Bar area, this hotel was bought by Bono and the Edge from U2 in 1992. It was completely renovated a few years later and is considered one of the coolest places to stay in the city (though it’s no longer owned by the duo). A boutique four-star property, the hotel has an arty, quirky design that features lots of colorful art and wallpaper. The rooms were designed by Irish artisans and feature stylish custom furnishings like white oak floors, colorful and plush headboards, and unique artwork on the walls. The bathrooms have powerful rainfall shower heads as well as limestone flooring and tiled walls. In-room amenities include the standard offerings (flatscreen TV, desk, minibar, coffee/tea maker, desks). Downstairs, there’s a luxurious cocktail bar and a fantastic restaurant serving elevated Irish fare, including daily breakfast and a bottomless brunch on Sundays.   3. Maldron Hotel, Kevin Street Situated on the edge of the Portobello neighborhood, the Maldron is a comfortable place to stay with a view of St. Patrick's Cathedral. It’s a sleek four-star hotel with a simple, minimalist design. The rooms are large with lots of natural light, and the beds are large and comfortable. You also get flat-screen TVs, coffee and tea makers, desks, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are spacious, with showers that have good water pressure. I loved the breakfast buffet, which had tons of variety and lots of fresh fruit. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be centrally located. 4. The Dean This is a hip and funky boutique hotel. The rooms aren’t huge, but they’re bright and uniquely designed, with colorful furnishings and artwork on the walls. All rooms include a flatscreen smart TV (with streaming services), minibar, Nespresso machines, desk, and free Wi-Fi. The white-tiled bathrooms come with powerful rainfall showers, Bluetooth speakers, and Lux Bath products. I also love the chill rooftop bar and restaurant’s view of the city. There’s also a sauna and a heated outdoor pool. Overall, you really get a lot of value here, considering the amenities and central location.   5. The Alex Just south of the Docklands, this is a comfortable and stylish four-star hotel. The rooms here are sleek, with rich, deep colors and elegant design touches (like artwork and wooden desks). The beds are large and comfortable, and rooms also boast large smart TVs, desks, and fast Wi-Fi. While the standard rooms don’t have a coffee/tea maker, there is a café on-site where you can grab a drink. I especially liked the rainfall showers, as they had great pressure. The staff here really go out of their way to help and keep things clean (the property is always spotless).

The hotel also has a fitness center and a few excellent in-house eateries. The buffet breakfast (which can be included in your stay) has a ton of options too.   6. The Spencer Hotel This four-star hotel overlooks the river and boasts an array of upscale amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, a cocktail bar, and a cozy restaurant. The breakfast is great too, with lots of variety (including vegetarian and vegan options). If you happen to be traveling by car, they have a secure parking lot on-site (which isn’t common in Dublin). Rooms here are spacious and minimally designed in a soft, pastel color palette. They have lots of natural light too, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms are also large, with a shower/tub combo and complimentary Rituals bath products. Rooms also have a mini-fridge and a coffee/tea maker. It’s a classy property that offers excellent value for your money. 7. The Hendrick Smithfield This fun and quirky three-star hotel is covered in artwork by local artists. The rooms aren’t huge, but they make good use of the space and have all the standard amenities, including flatscreen TVs, coffee and tea makers, desks, and Wi-Fi. Some rooms even have bunk beds, which makes it a nice choice for traveling families. The bathrooms are well lit, and the showers have good pressure. There’s a bar on-site if you get thirsty, with over a dozen beers on tap. The Hendrick is a solid midrange option in Smithfield, a less-touristed and hip area of the city with great pubs and cool coffee shops.   I always love visiting Dublin. Brimming with cozy pubs, world-class whiskey, and home to an impressive literary history, Dublin is a city with character and one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. Stay at one of the hotels above to supercharge your visit.  Posted: 3/1/2024 | March 1st, 2024 Dublin is a literary, gloomy city. Because there are so many writers and poets living there, it is an excellent city for history buffs and book lovers. There are castles, classic pubs, and lots of live music venues to be found here. Dublin's relatively small size makes it simple to visit all the attractions, events, and walking tours. On foot, you can go almost anywhere. Consequently, unless it is far from the center, do not worry too much about a hotel's location when considering one. Additionally, the city's tram system facilitates easy transportation. Here is my selection of Dublin's top hotels: 1. Hotel Harcourt This three-star hotel is situated in the heart of the city and is housed in a collection of old Georgian townhouses from the eighteenth century, one of which was once owned by renowned author George Bernard Shaw. There is a restaurant and beer garden on site, as well as a bar with live music every weekend. The rooms are not large, but they have lots of natural light, wooden accents, and lovely color pops that make the room feel brighter. Each room has a desk, flatscreen TV, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds. The bathrooms are rather small, but they have excellent water pressure, which is a huge plus in my opinion. There is also breakfast included. 2. Clarence Hotel Located in the boisterous Temple Bar area, this hotel was bought by Bono and the Edge from U2 in 1992. It was completely renovated a few years later and is considered one of the coolest places to stay in the city (though it’s no longer owned by the duo). A boutique four-star property, the hotel has an arty, quirky design that features lots of colorful art and wallpaper. The rooms were designed by Irish artisans and feature stylish custom furnishings like white oak floors, colorful and plush headboards, and unique artwork on the walls. The bathrooms have powerful rainfall shower heads as well as limestone flooring and tiled walls. In-room amenities include the standard offerings (flatscreen TV, desk, minibar, coffee/tea maker, desks). Downstairs, there’s a luxurious cocktail bar and a fantastic restaurant serving elevated Irish fare, including daily breakfast and a bottomless brunch on Sundays.

  3. Maldron Hotel, Kevin Street Situated on the edge of the Portobello neighborhood, the Maldron is a comfortable place to stay with a view of St. Patrick's Cathedral. It’s a sleek four-star hotel with a simple, minimalist design. The rooms are large with lots of natural light, and the beds are large and comfortable. You also get flat-screen TVs, coffee and tea makers, desks, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are spacious, with showers that have good water pressure. I loved the breakfast buffet, which had tons of variety and lots of fresh fruit. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be centrally located. 4. The Dean This is a hip and funky boutique hotel. The rooms aren’t huge, but they’re bright and uniquely designed, with colorful furnishings and artwork on the walls. All rooms include a flatscreen smart TV (with streaming services), minibar, Nespresso machines, desk, and free Wi-Fi. The white-tiled bathrooms come with powerful rainfall showers, Bluetooth speakers, and Lux Bath products. I also love the chill rooftop bar and restaurant’s view of the city. There’s also a sauna and a heated outdoor pool. Overall, you really get a lot of value here, considering the amenities and central location.   5. The Alex Just south of the Docklands, this is a comfortable and stylish four-star hotel. The rooms here are sleek, with rich, deep colors and elegant design touches (like artwork and wooden desks). The beds are large and comfortable, and rooms also boast large smart TVs, desks, and fast Wi-Fi. While the standard rooms don’t have a coffee/tea maker, there is a café on-site where you can grab a drink. I especially liked the rainfall showers, as they had great pressure. The staff here really go out of their way to help and keep things clean (the property is always spotless). The hotel also has a fitness center and a few excellent in-house eateries. The buffet breakfast (which can be included in your stay) has a ton of options too.   6. The Spencer Hotel This four-star hotel overlooks the river and boasts an array of upscale amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, a cocktail bar, and a cozy restaurant. The breakfast is great too, with lots of variety (including vegetarian and vegan options). If you happen to be traveling by car, they have a secure parking lot on-site (which isn’t common in Dublin). Rooms here are spacious and minimally designed in a soft, pastel color palette. They have lots of natural light too, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms are also large, with a shower/tub combo and complimentary Rituals bath products. Rooms also have a mini-fridge and a coffee/tea maker. It’s a classy property that offers excellent value for your money. 7. The Hendrick Smithfield This fun and quirky three-star hotel is covered in artwork by local artists. The rooms aren’t huge, but they make good use of the space and have all the standard amenities, including flatscreen TVs, coffee and tea makers, desks, and Wi-Fi. Some rooms even have bunk beds, which makes it a nice choice for traveling families. The bathrooms are well lit, and the showers have good pressure. There’s a bar on-site if you get thirsty, with over a dozen beers on tap. The Hendrick is a solid midrange option in Smithfield, a less-touristed and hip area of the city with great pubs and cool coffee shops.   I always love visiting Dublin. Brimming with cozy pubs, world-class whiskey, and home to an impressive literary history, Dublin is a city with character and one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. Stay at one of the hotels above to supercharge your visit. 

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LOCKS RESTAURANT ON THE NORTH BANK OF THE GRAND CANAL

Locks Restaurant was a former sweetshop and in revolutionary times its basement window provided a great vantage point for spying across the canal at the former British Army barracks, Portobello Barracks.

WELL WORTH A VISIT IF YOU CAN GET A BOOKING Locks Restaurant was a former sweetshop and in revolutionary times its basement window provided a great vantage point for spying across the canal at the former British Army barracks, Portobello Barracks. It opened in 1815 and became the National Army’s headquarters under General Michael Collins during the Civil War. In 1952 it was renamed Cathal Brugha…