Dublin hotel that combines quirky and cool with a comfortable stay

Dublin - the city so cool it blends incredible old and untouchable new with that unique charm which attracts millions from across the globe every year.

- writes Nancy Fielder.

My first visit to this most beloved of cities left me in a whirl of excitement. So much to do, see, eat and drink but so little time.

We had decided to take the ferry across the seas so we could make our way easily around but the truth is, we needed much longer than a weekend to truly be able to explore.

Our two-night trip left us feeling that we'd seen the most famous attractions but that there is much more to explore beneath the surface that most tourists get to experience.

We stayed in the Radisson Blu Dublin and it offered an ideal base for everything we wanted to do.

The hotel reception screams hip. The artworks are vibrant and colourful, although might not be to everyone's taste. The decor throughout the entire building is edgy and fun - this is comfortable with the most modern twist.

Our room was stylish and sleek. The colour schemes are not what you expect in a standard hotel but the bold shades make a winning statement.

There is parking underneath the hotel which is something of a rarity in big cities and, perhaps most importantly, it isn't overly expensive. But there is plenty to see within Dublin by foot and, if you're happy to get your daily steps in, you really don't need a car.

Just a couple of minutes walk from the hotel is Dublin Castle. It has lovely gardens which are a delight to wander around as well as plenty of exhibitions in the area for art or history lovers.