Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Guinness Storehouse




For a glimpse into what's on offer at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, read this Guest Post from our Marketing Intern on her recent visit to the Guinness Storehouse:

Ahh Guinness, the black stuff, the drink of the Irish. Ok maybe not the drink of all Irish but it sure is popular and certainly a symbol of Ireland to outsiders such as myself. Being Ireland’s number one tourist destination it is nearly impossible to visit Dublin without paying a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. I was lucky enough to do so over Paddy's weekend.

For anyone expecting to simply walk around reading signs and looking at photos you will certainly be in for a treat. Upon entering the factory there is immediately plenty to see, touch, smell and do. For one thing, you realize you are standing inside the world’s largest pint glass which rises up through the seven round floors of the factory. Then you will come to the giant pit of barley, one of the four main ingredients in Guinness (barley, water, hops, yeast) which you can dip your hand into and feel the small grains running through your fingers. Take a photo by the glowing waterfall which brings in fresh water from the Wicklow Mountains and then view the original contract and thank Arthur Guinness for signing the 9,000 year lease on the brewery! As you continue up the seven story building you take a look at real hops, watch entertaining and interactive videos about the old and modern brewing processes and see the intricate machinery that is used. Take in the Guinness print advertisements throughout the years and even sit in a large (and quite relaxing) television room to watch various Guinness TV advertisements. Enjoy the Guinness taste experience and even learn to pour your own pint from a Guinness Ambassador! If you’re feeling a bit hungry during your tour you have plenty of options whether it’s a café snack or a sit down meal at Brewers Dining Hall or Arthur’s Bar. Experience the magic of cooking with Guinness and you will even walk away with a few recipes for home. Finally on the 7th floor enjoy a pint (included with entry ticket) in the Gravity Bar which offers 360 degree views of Dublin and the rolling green hills surrounding it. On your way out remember to stop by the extensive gift shop for some exclusive Guinness gear to make your friends at home jealous.

All in all the Guinness Storehouse is a fantastic place, deserving of a full day’s time and a must see on your Dublin “to do list.”

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Easter Mid-Term Break in Dublin



Bring the family to Sandymount Hotel this Easter mid-term break and take advantage of our fantastic special offer. Stay in one of our stylish family rooms and enjoy a full Irish breakfast in our Cordyline Restaurant, overlooking our gardens,from just €99 for a family of four*. You'll be out of the hustle and bustle in exclusive Dublin 4, yet just minutes from Dublin city centre and all it has to offer!

Call us on +353 1 614 2000 or email info@sandymounthotel.ie for more details.

*Offer valid for up to 2 adults and 2 children aged 12 or under. Subject to Availability. Terms & Conditions Apply.

Monday, March 12, 2012

St Patrick's Festival 2012



Dublin is the place to be this weekend from March 16th-19th where residents and visitors alike will come together to celebrate St. Patrick’s Festival. Once a one day celebration, the festival is now four straight days of fun and excitement that are sure to keep the city bustling, especially with the expected audience of one million people. The parade and city-wide treasure hunt are inspired by science, mainly the "How? What? & Why?" of it all. For those who may not take to the world of science immediately, have no fear, festivities for all ages, nationalities and interests are a guarantee!

Be prepared for the city to look its very best with the "Green The City" initiative in which various businesses and city buildings will light up green and fly the Irish flag. Throughout the parade, pageant companies will act out children’s science questions in a remarkable and entertaining way. Experience the Irish culture activities sponsored by the "I Love My City" initiative on the 16th and 17th including traditional Irish dancing. The "Festival Big Day Out" will take place on Sunday March 18th with a day of free fun perfect for families. On Monday the 19th take part in the "'Discovering Science' Treasure Hunt" throughout the city in which popular buildings of Dublin are connected to science. Most of all, remember that St. Patrick’s Festival is a national holiday to be celebrated and enjoyed by all! And keep in mind that most of it is free!

Spend some time with us at Sandymount Hotel on the 17th when we'll be celebrating St Patrick's Day with live music, Ireland v England on our big screens in our Tritonville Bar & Terrace and reception lounge, delicious traditional Irish food, and €4 pints of Guinness.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Ireland v Scotland at Aviva Stadium



Ireland will be playing Scotland tomorrow in their last home match of this year's RBS 6 Nations. 98FM will be facepainting and giving out goodies at Sandymount Hotel again and we'll have all our usual ingredients for a great atmosphere including music, a fast pour bar and pig on a spit in our front grounds, the days matches on our big screens in our Tritonville Bar & Terrace and reception lounge, and a range of delicious food indoors for hungry fans pre and post-match.

Here's a preview of tomorrow's match from our guest rugby bloggers Oisin Loughran and Neil Murphy:

Ireland are due to welcome Scotland to the Aviva Stadium on Saturday for their fourth game in this year’s Six Nations Tournament. Ireland has been less than impressive this season without the leadership of legendary captain Brian O’ Driscoll. Vice-Captain Paul O’ Connell is also set to miss the remainder of the season.

With almost no hope of Ireland winning the tournament, and the triple crown already decided, I think Declan Kidney should start allowing his youth players some much needed experience in international rugby. Simon Zebo, Peter O’ Mahoney and Dominic Ryan all deserve a chance to prove themselves at a higher level. Also Ian Madigan deserves a mention. As the out half with the most tries in Europe this season, he must surely be applying pressure to the 35 year old O’ Gara. He has been a fine player for his country but it is time to look to the future.

Scotland have been losing bravely this season and last. They have very few players that seem to be able to inspire confidence in their fellow teammates. However, David Denton is one to look out for. He has tremendous strength and he is more than capable of carrying the ball. He picked up man of the match in the opening game of the season against England. He has also been inspirational for Edinburgh this year in both the RABODirect and the Heineken cup.

Although neither team inspire me with confidence I would still place my money on Ireland to win by 10. Ireland will be lacking serious guidance on the pitch but their home advantage should see off the threat of Scotland.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Mother's Day in Dublin




Looking for somewhere to treat your mum this Mother's Day? Come along to Sandymount Hotel and enjoy a delicious 3 course lunch in our Cordyline Restaurant for just €22 per person with children's menu just €12. Our restaurant overlooks and opens out onto our private gardens - ideal if the weather is good! We'll also have live music on during the day to keep you entertained.

Call us on 01 614 2000 or email us at info@sandymounthotel.ie for more details.