Category : Dublin
Posted in Amsterdam, Cologne, Dublin, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, London, Netherlands, Rome, The UK on 04. Jan, 2011
Although it would be nice to travel for leisure all of the time, sometimes there is work to be done. Luckily, in Europe, it is easy to enjoy the best of both worlds. Forgo the ordinary lecture halls and boring conference rooms in favor of one of these one-of-a-kind conference centres. Each beautifully fuses the state-of-the-art technology you need with the Old World romance and charm of ancient Europe.
Beurs van Berlage – Amsterdam
Dating back to 1903, this stunning structure was originally home to a stock exchange. Today, the magnificent Italian Renaissance-style compound (created after the concept of the “palazzo pubblico”) houses impressive halls and rooms for special events. It is an important monument in the city centre, and it enjoys a very convenient location. Beurs van Berlage is a 3-minute walk from Central Station and is a stone’s throw from the best hotels in Amsterdam.
Central Hall Westminster – London
London knows no shortage of conference halls. However, the Central Hall Westminster—easily identified by its historic Edwardian façade—may be the most beautiful. The building overlooks world-famous Westminster Abbey and beneath its domed ceiling, you will find ample and versatile space for meetings and celebrations. Most notably, the hall hosted the Inaugural General Assembly of the United Nations in 1946. The building itself dates back to 1912 and it is surrounded by some of the finest London hotels.
London's Central Hall Westminster
Dublin Castle – Dublin
True to its name, Dublin Castle is an impressive and regal event venue. Each of its five distinctly different sections has its own architectural character and style. Together, the units comprise one of the most interesting and beautiful conference centres in Europe. It was originally built to host Ireland’s Presidencies of the European Union, and it still remains a popular choice for meetings and celebrations. Along with elegant atmosphere and modern technology, Dublin Castle boasts a great location near many hotels in Dublin.
Complesso Monumentale Santo Spirito in Saxia – Rome
The Complesso Monumentale Santo Spirito in Saxia manages to seamlessly blend 15th-century architecture with modern facilities. The spacious complex consists of two large halls with incredible frescoes, two cloisters, four meeting rooms and various break-out paces. These options are perfectly positioned in the heart of the Eternal City, surrounded by its most famous piazzas and palaces. Of course, there are many fantastic Rome hotels nearby. Popular choices include the Hotel Villa Pinciana and the Grand Hotel De La Minerve.
Kongress Palais Kassel – Kassel
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and historical conference centres in Europe, the Kongress Palais Kassel hosts events large and small. Its Old World elegance, forward-thinking innovation and efficient, friendly staff make it an excellent choice. What’s more, the centre’s location in the heart of Germany (near the InterCity train station in Bad Wilhelmshöhe) place it conveniently close to many fantastic hotels in Kassel and beyond. Lastly, the Kongress Palais Kassel has a coveted Green Globe Certificate—so you can rest assured that your event will be eco-friendly as well.
the main entryway to the Kongress Palais Kassel
Gürzenich Köln – Cologne
Widely known as the city for media and communications, Cologne is a popular place to hold business events. It is always on the cutting-edge of technology; however, the city retains its historic and romantic charm. An excellent example of this fusion of old and new is the Gürzenich Köln in the vibrant city centre. Its Gothic façade dates back to 1447. Meanwhile, contemporary upgrades may be found throughout. From concerts and cabarets to exhibitions and lectures, this dynamic venue has hosted it all. Nearby hotels in Cologne include the Cologne Marriott Hotel and the Barcelo Cologne City Center.
HOFBURG Vienna – Vienna
An amazingly large and glamorous venue, the HOFBURG Vienna is actually housed within the former imperial palace. It stands in the heart of the historical centre (minutes from many wonderful hotels in Vienna) and covers over 17,000 square metres in functional workspace. Although they have been updated to offer the latest technology, the grand halls and staterooms of the palace have not lost their original charm. The result is a whimsical yet efficient atmosphere sure to enhance any celebration or conference.
Centre Culturel de Rencontre Abbaye de Neumünster – Luxembourg
Neumünster Abbey has led an interesting life. It was originally built to be a place for reflection; however, it was soon after transformed into a prison. Today, the site is home to the historic yet state-of-the- art Centre Cultural de Rencontre Abbaye de Neumünster. As part of the Modal Heritage Site by UNESCO, it is an important feature of Luxembourg’s urban landscape. Book a room at one of the many hotels in Luxembourg (like the Hotel Carlton or Hotel Parc Bellevue) to ensure convenience.
the famous Centre Culturel de Rencontre Abbaye de Neumünster
Le Palais Beaumont – Pau
Belle Epoque architecture meets top-of-the-line technology at Le Palais Beaumont in Pau. The sprawling compound dates back to 1899, and it was restored as a conference venue in 1999. The historical complex comprises high-tech conference facilities, two gourmet restaurants and even a casino. There are a total of 22 meeting halls surrounded by acres of pleasant countryside. An hour away, you will find Biarritz and the Spanish border. Closer to home, many hotels in Pau await to accommodate your stay.
Pieterskerk Leiden – Leiden
Set within the historical city centre of Leiden, the Pieterskerk Leiden perfectly blends into the urban landscape. The beautiful Gothic church dates back to 1121, making it one of the oldest conference venues around. Today the structure plays host to parties, receptions, exhibitions and other events with ease and style. Gatherings of up to 1,200 guests ma be accommodated; however, the large conference centre still manages to retain an intimate atmosphere. A recent renovation (completed in 2009) left the Pieterskerk Leiden even better than ever before. One thing that remained unchanged, however, is its great location near the best attractions and hotels in Leiden. Consider the De Doelen or the Golden Tulip Leiden Centre.
The birthplace of Guinness and many other famous brands, Ireland is a dream destination for beer lovers. Even if you’re not especially fond of the frothy brew—you’ve got to admit, no trip to Dublin would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s authentic Irish pubs. So book a room at one of the best hotels in Dublin (like the Hotel St George or the Best Western Ashling Hotel) and head to one of these local hot spots to sample the drink of choice.
Kehoe’s
Despite stiff competition from bigger and newer bars, Kehoe’s has remained a popular choice among Dubliners. The quirky décor, casual atmosphere and refreshing brews keep the cozy pub packed night after night. Kehoe’s has remained an institution in Dublin, even years after the owner (John Kehoe, who lived upstairs) passed away. Find it on South Anne Street, just off Grafton. The crowd mainly consists of college students and the hip and trendy, and is considerably larger on weekends.
Stag’s Head
A bit harder to find and “off the beaten path,” Stag’s Head is the place to go to experience the local flavor. Although it is not as famous or trendy as newer bars in Dublin, it is well known for having some of the best pub food in the city. It is also beloved for its old-fashioned décor: Dark wood paneling, ornate Victorian mirrors and (of course) the requisite stag’s head on the wall seem left by an era gone by—and they were! The pub dates all the way back to 1770. It continues to draw a sizable after-work crowd.
Davy Byrne’s
If you’ve ever taken the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl, then you have been to Davy Byrne’s. The quintessential authentic Irish pub, the bar is famous for its mention in Joyce’s “Ulysses” (as the site of Leopold Bloom’s gorgonzola sandwich and glass of wine.) In keeping with its high-brow heritage, Davy Byrne’s tends to attract an older and more upscale crowd. Its décor, however, is definitely traditional. Gothic-style lamps, antique wood and low lighting dominate the interior of this central pub.
The Duke
As soon as you reach The Duke, you will undoubtedly notice its sign—the sign that proclaims that the pub has been “changing the world forever.” In actuality, the bar has been around since 1492. Since then, it has kept its friendly, laidback atmosphere. The Duke tends to be more relaxed and peaceful than other pubs; however, that does not mean that it is not as busy as the rest! Repeat customers cozy up on plush couches beneath peach-colored ceilings to have their fill of tasty beer and live Irish music.
Long Hall
Known for its especially good selection of beers on tap, the Long Hall is at once casual and surprisingly elegant. The friendly, down-to-earth service provides a contrast to the décor (complete with vaulted ceilings, soaring arches, stained glass windows, chandeliers and the signature long bar) and the result is quintessentially Irish. Pull up a stool at the bar or a coveted seat on a couch, and spend a few hours admiring the Long Hall’s Victorian charm and lively atmosphere.
Ireland’s contributions to the world of music go far beyond U2, Van Morrison and the bagpipe. So it’s no surprise that any given month on the Emerald Isle yields rich rewards for those seeking diverse music festivals. Take October for example. Some of the world’s best jazz, rock and opera is served up over the next month, in addition to some amazing traditional Gallic music.
Hard Working Class Heroes, October 7-9
Considered Ireland’s best festival dedicated to up and coming Irish bands, the Hard Working Class Heroes (or HWCH for short) has taken place in Dublin since 2003. It’s no surprise that this city of so many great bars and pubs would offer a festival highlighting so many great bar and pub bands. The festival takes place in a number of venues, including record stores, bookshops and coffee shops, as well as Trinity College and such fun places as Mooz Milkshake Bar. Many of the venues offer free music, which just adds to the excitement of the opportunity to see fresh new talent playing to appreciative audiences in intimate spaces. The festival draws a lot of fans, so be sure to book a room in a Dublin hotel early.
Scoil Cheoil na Botha, October 15-17
The tiny village of Scotstown in County Monaghan is about as far as you can get from Dublin, and the Scoil Cheoil na Botha Music Festival is about as far as you can get from the music of Hard Working Class Heroes. Sit back and let the professionals guide you through the enchanting world of traditional Irish music. You’ll hear fiddles, banjo, flute, pipes, piano accordions, concertinas and even the uilleann. In addition to the concerts, there will be workshops where you can see musicians hone their craft, up close and personal. Perhaps you can even learn to play a thing or two on your own. Given the village’s small size, the nearest accommodations can be found just minutes away in Monaghan. Or if you want to experience five-star luxury while you experience the rich history of a restored country estate with its own 1,000 acre grounds, you can pay a visit to the Lodge at Castle Leslie Estate Hotel.
Wexford Opera Festival, October 16-30
World-class opera can be heard at the magnificent Wexford Opera House, and there’s no better time to experience it than at the 59th annual Wexford Opera Festival. 2009 was so successful that the festival has been expanded to 15 days. Enjoy the popular ShortWorks one-hour opera productions at the lovely Whites Hotel. Enjoy the main repertoire of Virginia, The Golden Ticket and Hubicka. Daytime concerts recitals and lectures compliment the nightly performances, showing why Frommer’s Travel Guide rated the 2009 festival as the third most popular destination for opera lovers. Wexford boasts a number of fine hotels that make it easy to enjoy the festivities.
Sligo Live Sessions, October 21-25
Described as both “Ireland’s Premier Autumn Music Festival” and “Intimate Music in a Natural Environment,” the Sligo Live Sessions Festival offers a fusion of many different musical styles. This years guests range from the Stranglers to Mary Chapin Carpenter. Out of the nearly 100 events, over 80% of them are free. Venues range from cafes to clubs to larger spaces. While you’re not listening to the live music, there are also street markets and family fun to keep you occupied, not to mention a lot of great food. The bayside city of Sligo also makes a great homebase for visiting Ireland’s beautiful western coast, with many Sligo hotels from which to choose.
Cork Jazz Festival, October 22-25
And coming last only on the calendar is the Cork Jazz Festival. Regarded as one of the top three Jazz festivals on the planet, the event draws over 40,000 visitors to Cork to hear over 1,000 musicians do their thing in a variety of clubs, pubs and concert halls throughout the city. The Guinness Music Trail makes a wonderful sidebar to the main event, with many more concerts, 90% of which are free. This year features a meet and greet with the legendary Charlie Haden, and something a little bit special; the festival’s first ever Jazz Camp. Here you can enjoy free workshops and master classes, the perfect chance to learn about the music you’ll be hearing from the inside out. But if you want to stay inside and not be left out in the cold, be sure to book your Cork hotel early.
Posted in Barcelona, Belgium, Brussels, Dublin, France, Frankfurt, Germany, Ireland, Italy, London, Madrid, Milan, Munich, Paris, Spain, The UK on 23. Sep, 2010
If you thought that high-end outlet malls were only to be found in the USA, then think again. Less than an hour from nine European cities are the nine shopping venues belonging to Chic Outlet Shopping, known collectively as “The Villages.” Each one is a destination in itself, an open-air shopping Mecca hosting between 50 and 140 European luxury brand outlet boutiques, from Abro to Zoo York. The shops range from European to international, with each also featuring shops representative of the host country. Each is easy to reach from its host city via a shuttle. The store directories and shuttle information can be found on the website for each village.
LONDON (Bicester Village)
Bicester Village offers over 130 outlet stores, all set in the village of Bicester in the heart of the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside. The Village has its own Italian and French restaurants, and also provides the perfect excuse to explore all the attractions of Oxfordshire. London itself is only 60 minutes away, and the shops at the village provide you with up to 60% discounts on the recommended retail price. You can either make Bicester Village a daytrip from your London hotel or stay closer to the action in a Bicester hotel.
DUBLIN (Kildare Village)
Just an hour from Dublin, in the heart of County Kildare you’ll find many horse farms and horse-racing venues. You’ll also find Kildare Village, home to more than 55 luxury boutiques. Kildare Village specializes in providing you with a broad selection of the collections of the previous season in famous international names in both fashion and homeware. Discounts here also reach up to 60% of the retailers’ recommended price. The charming village of Kildare offers one hotel, and nearby villages like Newbridge offer other accommodations. Or you can always stay in the vibrant capital city of Dublin itself.
PARIS (La Vallée Village)
It should come as no surprise that the fashion capital of the planet for the last several centuries would play host to a luxury outlet mall. La Vallée Village is just 35 minutes from the City of Light. And if you need something to calm the kids down while you shop, you can promise them a trip to Disneyland Paris, which is just five minutes away in the neighboring city of Marne-la-Vallée. In the meantime, you can lose yourself among the 90 luxury outlet boutiques where you’ll find low prices on Paris’s finest. There are many Paris hotels, as well as closer hotels in the town of Bailly-Romainvilliers, which plays host to La Vallée Village, and neighboring towns like Magny-le-Hongre and Serris.
MADRID (Las Rozas Village)
Set right between the Spanish capital Madrid and the amazing El Escorial, the residence and final resting place of many Spanish kings and queens, Las Rozas Village offers up to 60% reductions in over 100 luxury outlet boutique shops. Many Spanish brands are represented, along with international stores. The Village is located in the Madrid suburb of Las Rozas de Madrid, which boasts some fine hotels. But if you’d rather enjoy the excitement of the capital city that never sleeps, many Madrid hotels are only 30 minutes away.
BARCELONA (La Roca Village)
Located in the heart of Catalonia, La Roca Village provides not only international designer brand outlet boutiques and not only their Spanish counterparts, but also the unique opportunity to buy from authentic Catalan designer shops. The stores at La Roca Village offer discounts of up to 60%, and the location is also excellent. Only 40 minutes from Barcelona’s vibrant city centre, La Roca Village puts you on the road to the beautiful Costa Brava, so you’d better be sure to buy a swim suit while you’re there. La Roca Village is located in the town of Granollers, which offers a selection of hotels. Or maybe you’d rather spend the night in a hotel or apartment in Barcelona itself.
MILAN (Fidenza Village)
Residents of Milan might take exception to the designation of Paris as the fashion capital of the world. And after a day in Fidenza Village, you might end up agreeing with them. While the shops of Milan itself are notoriously expensive, Fidenza Village offer up to 70% reductions in more than 100 luxury outlet boutiques. The world’s leading Italian and international fashion brands are available, and Fidenza Village is an hour away from both Milan and the exciting university city of Bologna. Milan offers a wide range of hotels that are convenient to the Village shuttle. Or you can stay in the Hotel Astoria or Hotel Fidenza in the town of Fidenza itself.
BRUSSELS (Maasmechelen Village)
Though known more for its chocolates and its beautifully preserved medieval core than for its fashion, the city of Brussels is just an hour’s drive (or shuttle ride) from the 95 luxury outlet boutiques of Maasmechelen Village. Here you can save from 30% to 60% off the recommended retail price on the previous season’s collections from leading Belgian and international names in fashion, homeware and home décor. Set at the beautiful green intersection of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, Maasmechelen Village can be combined with many international daytrips. You can use the B&B Basil in Maasmechelen as your homebase, or stay in one of the many luxurious Brussels hotels nearby.
FRANKFURT (Wertheim Village)
One of the business capitals of Europe now offers the opportunity to shop like crazy with the 110 luxury outlets of Wertheim Village 50 minutes away. Like some of the other Chic Outlet Shopping venues, Wertheim Village offers up to 60% off on the previous season’s collections, and like the other venues, you can get access to both international and German companies. Wertheim Village is also located right at the gateway to the famous Romantic Road, making it a convenient stop on your way out of Frankfurt or on your way back in. Wertheim hotels make a great Romantic Road homebase, while Frankfurt hotels put you in the middle of the action.
MUNICH (Ingolstadt Village)
And last but certainly not least are the 100 boutiques found at Ingolstadt Village, which is located just 50 minutes north of all the beer gardens, churches and Bavarian charm of the city of Munich. This lively city also has a thriving cultural scene with more art galleries and theatres than any other city in Germany. The easiest way to enjoy the 60% discounts at Ingolstadt Village is to stay at an Ingolstadt hotel, though the shuttle from central Munich makes it possible to stay in a hotel in Munich.
While visiting verdant Ireland, you will undoubtedly find much to see and do in the capital city. Dublin is home to popular pubs, fascinating museums and one-of-a-kind tourist attractions like the Guinness Storehouse. However, if you manage to venture just a bit farther afoot, you may find that rural Ireland is just as delightful. Take a leisurely tour of quieter parts of the country to find the following unique distractions.
Kiss the Blarney Stone
Recommended by locals and tourists alike, the kissing of the Blarney Stone is an age-old Irish tradition. Legend has it that the act bestows “the gift of gab.” Whether or not that is true, you will surely love paying a visit to the magnificent Blarney Castle in picturesque County Cork. After kissing the famous stone, you may wish to spend a day or two in the area. If that is the case, you will find plenty of lovely hotels in Cork. Consider the Gabriel House Guesthouse or the Belvedere Lodge.
Blarney Castle
Attend a Medieval Banquet
Take your love of “Medieval Times” joust expos a step further by heading to the world-famous Bunratty Castle. Standing on the site of an ancient Viking trading camp, the striking structure dates all the way back to 970. Over the following centuries, the fortress was slowly transformed; the current incarnation was completed in 1425. Since 1960, Bunratty Castle has been open to the public—and it is now a popular tourist attraction! The castle holds lavish feasts of food and fun, complete with traditional Irish balladeers, authentic costumes and medieval reenactments. Daggers, goblets, wenches—it’s all here.
Walk With Giants
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most awe-inspiring landmark in Northern Ireland, the Giants Causeway draws crowds of travelers each year. The enchanting landscape comprises about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that were the result of a massive volcanic eruption. At least, that’s the scientific explanation. Residents prefer to tell the mythical tale of Finn McCool, who supposedly built the causeway himself as a means of reaching Scotland to battle his giant rival, Benandonner. Follow in his storybook footsteps at this historical site.
Made by giants or a volcano? You decide.
Explore the Burren
The scenic acres of spectacular Irish countryside in the northwest part of County Clare are known as the Burren. Tiny, sparsely populated villages are surrounded by miles of beautiful walking and cycling trails. Take time to discover the landscape’s striking limestone plateaus, craggy clusters of rocks, karsts, clints and grykes. Make a weekend out of it by booking a room at one of the finest hotels in Clare. The Burren Coast Hotel & Holiday Complex and the Burren Way Cottages both offer lovely views of the area.
Travel Back In Time
Another amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ireland is the Stone Age Passage Tomb of Newgrange. Pre-dating the pyramids (it was built in 3200 BC) and filled with ancient lore, the site plays an important role in Celtic mythology. The most sought-after time to visit is on the Winter Solstice, when a shaft of sunlight perfectly passes through the megalithic mound’s roof box to light the chamber for a full 17 minutes. However, entry on the Winter Solstice is only granted by an annual lottery. At other times of year, about 200,000 visitors come to tour the sacred grounds. The site is easy to reach from many Dublin hotels, like The Gresham Hotel and the Hotel St George.
The main tomb at Newgrange
If you are planning a trip to Ireland, you’ll find many family-friendly and historic sites. Its largest city and capital, Dublin, is packed with places that you’ll remember for a lifetime. We could go on forever, but here are four beautiful, historic places you should visit in Dublin:
- Trinity College and library - Here, you can view the busts of great literary figures and the Book of Kells, which is the first four books of the New Testament in Latin, always on display. The campus itself is beautifully landscaped and fills visitors with inspiration as Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett once walked the grounds as students.
- Guinness Storehouse – Perhaps one of the most popular tourist sites, this place is a Mecca for the beloved Guinness beer that is loved world wide. This property was originally built in 1908, but has been renovated so many times, the factory has a more modern feel. Be sure to head up to the roof and enjoy a cold one overlooking the beautiful landscape
- Newgrange - The best day of the year to visit this ancient site is on December 21, the shortest day of the year. This 5,000 year old passage tomb and ancient temple will actually become stricken with what appears to be a laser beam of light as the sun rises and sends light through the center of the tomb. (The guest center shows a video of this event if you don’t make it on that particular day!)
- St. Michan’s Church – This Protestant church, located in North City, is home to many revolutionary leaders’ tombs that fought in the Crusades. The oldest body buried there is over 800 years old! While the feel might be eerie to some, this beautiful old building tells stories through its architecture and the brilliant organ will take any visitor’s breath away.
