Built with business guests in mind, this high-rise hotel has been a surprise hit with tourists. Smack in the middle of the International Financial Services Centre, the Clarion, with its office-block-like exterior, is indistinguishable from many of the financial institutions that surround it. The public spaces, however, are bright and cheery, if a little uninspired. The bedrooms—big by Dublin standards—are all straight lines and contemporary light-oak furnishings. Shades of blue and taupe do create a calm environment (the hotel claims its environment is guided by Eastern philosophy, no less), but for true serenity try to get a room at the front with great views out over the Liffey. Because the hotel mainly caters to business travelers, weekend bargains are a definite possibility—make sure you ask. Pros: weekend bargains available; room to swing a couple of cats in big rooms; area super-quiet at night. Cons: room design pretty functional; business clientele; area super-quiet (aka dead) at night.
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