Definitely a good thing in a small and very pretty package, this intimate town-house hotel, above the ever-popular and spectacular Balzac restaurant and 50 yards from Trinity College, is one of the classiest recent arrivals on the Dublin scene. Each suite is individually decorated with an Asian theme—lots of wood, simple color schemes, and velvet bedspreads imported from Paris add to the luxury. Balzac is a vast and soigné brasserie; even more eye-catching is Samsara, a Moroccan-themed bar that is a fantasia of tin chandeliers, multihued stained glass, and oh-so-sexy ambience. There is even a little luxury spa with Eastern treatments. For the price, there are few better spots in town. Pros: great luxury for the price; choice of three quality restaurants; spa oasis in the city. Cons: small hotel fills up quickly; no parking; one could overdose on the Asian theme.
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