The Titanic Hotel - A Historic Hotel in the Heart of Belfast

The Titanic Hotel Belfast is located in the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, builders of the Titanic, and provides the perfect destination for anyone travelling to the Titanic Quarter on business or for pleasure. 

The hotel's location really is exceptional, located just 10 metres from the Titanic Exhibition, 50 metres away from the HMS Caroline and 5 minutes walk from the exciting SSE Arena and W5. The location of the Titanic Hotel was a real drawing point for us as it was close enough to walk to Belfast City Centre, yet far enough away to relax and not have to worry about the hustle and bustle of the city. 

On arrival, we were greeted with the sheer beauty of the exceptionally historic building, almost like a museum than a hotel. It’s certainly a very aesthetically pleasing hotel with a clean open reception and open bar/ restaurant area.

Check in was a breeze, with the very kind lobby staff offering to show us to our room, on arrival to the room we were welcomed by a lovely array of macaroons, which really was the icing on the cake.

The room itself was very spacious and had a real historic feel to it, from the high ceilings to the old light fixtures and notable mirrors. Both the room and the hotel are very dark, although we like the relaxing dim lighting it may be an issue for some.

In the room were two large TV’s playing enjoyable documentaries and related videos of the Titanic, which was a lovely touch. Also, provided was all the important amenities; hair dryer, ironing board, air conditioning, complimentary bottled water, tea/coffee facilities, refrigerator on request, safe, bespoke bathrobes and slippers & very good WiFi.

The bathroom was very spacious for a city hotel with both a shower and a bath and two large couple sinks (although this differs from room to room), even the simplest of rooms have everything you need. In the bathroom, you'll also find a handful of Paul Costelloe toiletries, which we ended up taking for travelling (sorry Titanic Hotel).

The Titanic doesn’t just have amazing rooms though, it also offers some of the best food options we have seen in any hotel. We had both dinner and two days of breakfast and I couldn’t fault it. The Breakfast was plentiful with a wide variety of options ranging from cereals, pastries, yoghourts and a wide range of traditional Irish breakfast options, we recommended the Irish fry.

After you’ve tickled your taste buds with the plentiful breakfast options and have explored the tremendous titanic quarter, the Titanic’s Wolff Grill or the drawing office dinner will certainly make your trip that little bit more special. We aren’t what you would call ‘fine dining’ type of people but the Titanic really changed our opinion on ‘fine dining’ with large portions & flavours that we can’t really put into words how incredible they are. If you want something a bit more casual the Drawing-office lunch or dinner menu is prepared by the same kitchen so you will still be in for a treat.

Rating
Overall the Titanic Hotel is an excellent hotel experience with a brilliant location to the Titanic Quarter, set in history and with some incredible top class food options. It really could be a brilliant city getaway or if your coming to Belfast to visit the culture and history this hotel is perfect. Staff were extremely intentive and went above and beyond to get us extra amenities and when we left the room we arrived with the bed pre-made and chocolates on the pillows. Although not exactly a budget Hotel, keep an eye their website and social media as they run packages with breakfast/stay/dinner and for the perfect price this hotel could be the perfect getaway.

Rating:
Price: £120-180 a night
Address: 8 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT
More Info: Click Here

Understanding our rating class.
We rate our Travel Accommodation ranging from First class being the best and Last class being the worst.

Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane - A Dreamy Dublin Detox
The Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane is located in the bustling business district in Dublin 2, just a stone throw away from the beautiful Samuel Beckett Bridge and a number of bars, restaurants and attractions.

This four-star hotel is just 1 minute from the famous Bord Gais Energy and a 5-minute walk to close-by public transport. Although situated in Dublin's busy business district, the hotel has that relaxing vibe that's a real breath of fresh air.

As soon as we arrived we were given a warm welcome and a perfect explanation of the many facilities the hotel offers on-site ranging from the state of the art leisure centre, swimming pool, sauna & jacuzzi, restaurant & bar and breakfast area.

Although large the hotel is labelled and signposted well to keep you on the right track of the many different floors and areas and staff were friendly with any questions or queries we had and even offered to order taxis or guide us to the local transport to get back to the airport. 

The room itself was extremely spacious, especially for what you would except for a city centre located hotel, boasting a comfortable super king-sized bed and spacious seating area, there was more than enough room for all your luggage and then some.

Decorated with the modern Clayton style and cleaned to perfection it was a perfect base for us when we just wanted to relax after a long day in Dublin. Especially with the full Sky TV package to sit down and watch your favourite shows, which was a really nice touch that we haven’t seen in many hotels.

The amenities were plentiful with not only tea & coffee making facilities but a full Nespresso machine for those coffee lovers that fused well with the complimentary Irish chocolates that were awaiting us on arrival.

Leading on from the sizeable bedroom was the bright bathroom with a complete list of toiletries to pamper yourself if you didn’t feel like using the award-winning spa and leisure facilities complete with soft bathrobes & slippers.

The Clayton Hotel doesn't just have amazing rooms though, the food is brilliant as well. The hotel offers a variety of dining options; the vertigo bar, Stir restaurant and breakfast area. The complimentary breakfast was a great start to the day and defiantly is needed after working up a sweat in the Club Vitae gym and pool.

All hotel guests have access to the fully equipped gym with over 50 pieces of fitness equipment or can enjoy one of a selection of fitness classes. 

If relaxation is your thing escape in the 22 metre heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna or get a professional massage or beauty treatment.

Rating
Overall the Clayton Cardiff lane really is a perfect hotel whether you're a family of four or on a business trip, it truly is an affordable option with amenities and facilities that would be in a completely different price bracket. The leisure facilities are some of the best we have seen never mind in a hotel. But for us it was the little things that the hotel and staff had made that made this a perfect hotel; the small box of chocolates, full sky package, complimentary bottles of water, professional coffee facilities and friendly staff makes this a first-class hotel in our eyes.

Rating: 
Price: £80-120 a night
Address: Cardiff Lane, Sir John Rogersons Quay, Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 YT21, Ireland
More Info: Click Here

Understanding our rating class.
We rate our Travel Accommodation ranging from First class being the best and Last class being the worst.

The Manor House Country Hotel, Fermanagh's Charming Country Retreat 
Located in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands, close to the Enniskillen town centre but just far enough away to enjoy the tranquillity of the Lower Lough Erne shores. The hotel itself is quite large with just under 80 rooms yet still feels like a family run homely resort.

As soon as you enter the welcoming gates of the Manor House country hotel you really get a sense of relaxation. Driving past the large green gardens and getting a glimpse of the sun reflecting off the calm Lakeland's. On check in we were greeted by the front desk and even received a friendly call to the room when I clumsily forgot my drone bag at reception.

The hotel has a fairytale feel to it with a charming country house ambience, from the classic fireplaces to the vintage chandeliers, you almost feel like your in a medieval castle. 

The room itself was extremely spacious with a large living area that alone was bigger than my apartment's living room, it actually took much difficulty even getting a picture of the whole room as it was so enormous.  The living area came kitted out with a large TV, fridge, tea & coffee facilities, large table to work on, comfortable sofas and off course an incredible view of the Lakeland.

Leading on from the living area was the cosy bedroom with a sizeable bed that has more than enough room for three people never mind a couple. Looking out from the bed you have a large balcony that has some of the most scenic views we have seen from a hotel, we even managed to take off a drone from the balcony it was that large.

This balcony is way too tempting not to take the drone off from @ManorFermanagh #manorhouse #FridayFeeling #travel pic.twitter.com/jWtiYxWLOP

— Beatthetravelagent (@Beattravelagent) May 5, 2017

Yet the bedroom or living room wasn't even the best part of this hotel room, in the bathroom, you have two large sinks, a shower and the pièce de résistance the jacuzzi bathtub with a monitor to relax while watching some late night television.

The manor House doesn't just have amazing rooms though, the food is incredible as well. The hotel offers a variety of dining options; their AA Rosette Belleek Restaurant, Cellar Door Bar & Bistro & Watergate Bar. We especially loved the true Irish breakfast that was served up every morning with a smile that starts your day off perfectly.

After you have tickled your taste buds, the Manor country house offers numerous in-house facilities for all your needs, including a complete leisure centre with a large swimming pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, Sauna, fitness suite and Outdoor Hot Tub. Also on offer is a 9 Hole, Par 3 golf course, tennis court, pitch and putt and an option for a luxurious cruise around the Lakelands on the Lady of the Lake Cruiser.

Rating
Overall The Manor House country hotel really is a Northern Irish gem, it truly is a perfect relaxing retreat where you can arrive and not have to leave the comfort of the resort. The food is incredible even in the bar and the facilities are top class. When taking the price into account it really is a first class hotel even for the upgraded suites including breakfast it beats the price of many hotels yet has so much more to offer. The only issue we had was the internet which was slightly slow for our needs but for just scrolling social media or checking your emails it would do the job for most.

Rating: 
Price: £80-120 a night
Address: John Wesley Rd, Enniskillen BT94 1NY
More Info: Click Here

Understanding our rating class.
We rate our Travel Accommodation ranging from First class being the best and Last class being the worst.

You've probably heard that Guinness tastes better in Dublin (fresh from the factory), but what you may not know is that Dublin is a perfect destination for the whole family. No, we're not suggesting you let the kiddies drink a pint. Instead, take them to the Dublin Zoo, to feed the ducks in Stephen's Green or on a picnic in Phoenix Park. Scholars enjoy walking in the literary footsteps of such writers as Yeats and Joyce, while discerning shoppers have their pick of designer boutiques.
Best Time to Visit
Dublin is delightful year round with many Irish festivals year round, especially St Patrick's day in March, Although the weather is best in summer.
Dublin Transportation
Getting around the Dublin area is easy. Jump on the coastal train, the DART, to discover the beautiful towns and villages dotted along the coast, or use the extensive public bus network or the Luas tram system to get you out to the suburbs too as well as bicycle hire throughout the city! If you are here for a few days then the best value across bus and rail options is the Leap Visitor Card.
Dublin Weather
December to February are the coldest months, with an average low of 45°F (7°C) and July is the hottest month, with an average high of 66 °F (19 °C).

Know Before Visiting
Although Dublin is an amazing city, don’t spend all your time there, Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and to really see Ireland you need to leave the City, go see the spectacular scenery of the Irish coasts.

Language
Mainly English, although you might hear a bit of Irish.
Electric
Type G (three-prong plug)

Currency
Euro (€)
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Things to do
Guinness Storehouse
What better place to begin your Dublin adventure than the city's number one attraction, the Guinness Storehouse. Located in the heart of the St James’s Gate Brewery and home to the black stuff since 1759, this massive seven-storey building, a former Guinness fermentation plant, has been remodelled into the shape of a giant pint of Guinness. A visit will teach you everything you ever wanted to know about this world famous beer. The highlight for many visitors is the Gravity Bar where they receive a complimentary pint of Guinness and a chance to relax and enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree views across Dublin City.

(Photography by Steven Pratt- Instagram)
Opening Times: Daily 09:30-17:00 (Sep-Jun) 09:30-19:00 (Jul-Aug)
Admission Fees: Yes
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: St James's Gate, Ushers, Dublin 8, Ireland
Website: Click Here
Dublin Zoo
See many rare and exotic animals living and roaming in a wide variety of natural habitats at Dublin Zoo. Wander through the African Savannah and gaze at the giraffes, zebras, scimitar oryx and ostrich, then head to the Kaziranga Forest to see the magnificent herd of Asian elephants that call this beautiful place home.

Opening Times: Daily 09:30-4:30 (Mar-sep closes at 18:00)
Admission Fees: Yes
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, Ireland
Website: Click Here

Trinity College Library
Dublin’s Trinity College Library isn’t only the biggest library in Ireland but one of the most eye catching in the world. With over 5 million printed volumes reflecting more than 400 years of academic development. The most famous of its manuscripts, the Book of Kells and the Book of Durrow written around the year 800 AD and is one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world. It's 680 pages of vellum contain the Latin texts of the Four Gospels.

Opening Times: Mon-Sat 09:30-17:00 (May-Sep) and 12:00-16:30 (Oct-Apr)
Admission Fees: Yes (for the book of tells and tours)
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: College Street, Dublin 2
Website: Click Here

Temple Bar
Located on the south bank of the River Liffey in central Dublin, Unlike other parts of Dublin's city centre, it is promoted as Dublin's cultural quarter and has a lively nightlife that is popular with tourists. Popular venues include The Palace Bar, The Temple Bar Pub, Oliver St. John Gogarty's and The Auld Dubliner (fine boys bar).

(Photography by Steven Pratt- Instagram)
Opening Times: 24/7
Admission Fees: No
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes (but cobblestone roads)
Address: Temple Bar, Dublin 2, Ireland

National Botanic Gardens
Located on the south bank of the Tolka River, the National Botanic Gardens is a great place to have a picnic and explore the exquisite gardens.

Opening Times: 9:00-17:00
Admission Fees: No
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
Website: Click Here

The National Gallery of Ireland
Today the National Gallery of Ireland's collection includes over 2,500 paintings and some 10,000 other works in different media including watercolours, drawings, prints and sculpture. The gallery's highlights include works by Vermeer, Caravaggio, Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet.

Opening Times: Mon-Sat 09:15-17:30, Thurs 9:15-20:30 and Sun 11:00-17:30
Admission Fees: No
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: Merrion Square West, Dublin 2, Ireland
Website: Click Here

Croke Park
Gaelic football and hurling at Croke Park are an unusual and essential experience for those with even a modest interest in sport. On match days, make noise on the Hill 16 terrace cheering on the sky blues of Dublin.

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 0930-1700, Sun 1030-1700 (Jan-May and Sep-Dec); Mon-Sat 0930-1800, Sun 1030-1700 (Jun-Aug).
Admission Fees: Yes
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: Jones Road, Dublin, Dublin 3
Website: Click Here

Kilmainham Gaol
A former prison that housed the leaders of failed uprisings against the British from the 1780s to the 1920s, this museum gives a detailed insight into Ireland’s political history and includes the site of the execution of 14 members of the Easter Rising in 1916. The history of the prison itself is also explored. Access is by guided tour only.

Opening Hours: Daily 0930-1730.
Admission Fees: Yes
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: Inchicore Road, Dublin, Dublin 8
Website: Click Here

Ha'penny Bridge
The Ha'penny Bridge, known later for a time as the Penny Ha'penny Bridge, and officially the Liffey Bridge, is a wonderful pedestrian bridge separating Dublin’s city centre and a popular love lock bridge.

(Photography by Steven Pratt- Instagram)
Opening Hours: 24/7
Admission Fees: No
Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
Address: Bachelors Walk, North City, Dublin, Ireland

Public transport
Bus, train (DART) and Luas (tram) from the main transport infrastructure in Dublin, though only the bus makes its way out to the airport.
The Luas is quick and modern, but best for commuting and short city-centre hops.
Dublin Bus is far more extensive and easy to use thanks to sign upgrades and the handy Dublin Bus app.
For travel to the coast, local train services via the DART are frequent and efficient.
Most public transport options don’t run late at night, so you need to make alternative arrangements after midnight.
You can pay for a bus, Luas, DART and suburban rail services using a Leap Card, available online or at 400 Payzone outlets across the city. You load the smartcard with money and the fare is deducted each time you travel, with daily and weekly caps and savings on cash fares. A Rambler card (which you can also load onto a Leap Card) allows five or 30 days of unlimited bus travel.

Taxis
Taxis sit on almost every street corner in Dublin. Well-established companies like Eight Twenty Cabs and NRC are safe bets, while the Hailo app is a popular option. A nightlife ‘rush hour’ at around 3 am invariably leads to long, expensive rides at weekends. Tips are typically in the 10% range.
*Uber is also available in and around Belfast and is a great alternative than Taxies. Click here for your first journey free.

Driving
While driving in the city is generally safe, rush hour traffic (0830-0930 and 1645-1800) can see aggressive driving. Dublin features a somewhat confusing one-way system, based on single-direction traffic along the quays. Outside the city centre though, driving is relaxing and comfortable.
The city’s ring road, the M50, has a camera-based toll that requires online payment within 24 hours.
Street parking is limited in the city centre. The city’s main car parks, with various hourly rates, are Arnotts, Middle Abbey Street, and Brown Thomas, Clarendon Street. For street parking, kerb side pay-and-display meters are standard.

Bicycle hire
While busy times of day can be less than pleasant for nervous riders, cycling is a great way to get around. Dublin Bikes offer a city-wide bike share scheme with lots of central hubs to collect and deposit bikes.