Westin Dublin
We barely made it to Dublin. On our final approach, the captain came on to say that the Dublin airport was experiencing extreme winds and that almost all of the flights that morning had been diverted. Not withstanding the fact that the flight attendants had expressions of sheer terror, we did manage to land safely in a windy, chilly Dublin.
Dublin was experiencing colder than normal temperatures for November, which made the welcome to the Westin Dublin all that more memorable. The Westin Dublin is located in the old Allied Irish Bank building and occupies a whole city block directly opposite Trinity College.
As you walk into the hotel, you instantly feel like you are home. Beautiful hardwood floors and soft music are the first things that strike the senses before your eyes are drawn to the roaring fire next to the reception desk. The effect is that of walking into a well appointed country manor.
The rooms were spacious and you could see the Westin imprint throughout. My only complaint is that while it was freezing outside, the vents in the room blasted hot air constantly and could not be adjusted. The hotel staff tried to help, but could not change the fact that the room was essentially a giant hair dryer.
What truly made the Westin Dublin stand apart was its absolutely superb location. Located on Westmoreland Street, the hotel is practically adjacent to Trinity and is just steps from the Temple Bar/Dame Street area and an easy walk to the fashionable Grafton St. district.
If you can get a good deal, I heartily recommend making the Westin your home base for exploring the ancient city of Dublin.
How to get there: The best and cheapest option to get to the Westin from the airport is on the Aircoach, which is included for free with your Dublin Pass. The Trinity College stop is just steps away from the hotel entrance.
