On the outskirts of Columbus, Ohio lies the very green-and very Irish-suburb of Dublin. This hidden gem is full of Irish beer, Irish food, beautiful naturally made waterfalls and a relatively new Marriott hotel.
Pulling up to the AC Hotel Dublin, the first thing I noticed was the sleek European-influenced design. From top to bottom, the exterior is encompassed by large reflective windows and bright lights are strung from the entrance doors, leading to The Exchange Events Center that sits adjacent to the hotel.
I found myself immediately falling in love with the chic and sophisticated beauty the place had to offer.
Walking inside proved to be nothing short of what you'd expect from a Marriott. The stylish plush sofas and lobby seating-along with the contemporary art and decor-give you that "sit back and take off your shoes" at-home kind of comfort.
During happy hour, the open-plan bar inside the lobby turns into one of the busiest bars in the city-making you want to take a seat and partake in some good old-fashioned fun, while maybe sipping on a handcrafted Smoked Manhattan or a Signature Gintonic.
The staff really set the place apart from other hotels. From check in to check out they were welcoming, engaging and helpful. Every morning after I made my way down to the lobby I was asked if there was anything I needed or if I'd like to join them for breakfast. I can't recall a single time that I walked by an employee without eye-contact being made and a genuine smile given.
When checking in, I was given a room on the fifth floor and was told that I'd need to use my room key to operate the elevators-which gives you that heightened sense of security you crave and appreciate while being away from home.
Upon entering my room, the first thing I noticed was the floor to ceiling window overlooking the Scioto River and Historic Downtown Dublin. After a long day of work or exploring the bustling city, pulling up a chair and looking down below was the calm and relaxing sweet escape I needed.
The bathroom was another pleasant surprise. With large crystal-clear sliding glass doors and a rainfall showerhead, it was easy to mistake taking a shower for a luxurious and indulgent spa experience.
For dinner the day I arrived I took the glass elevator, located in the lobby and accessible from outside as well, all the way up to the top floor. As soon as I stepped out I was greeted by a hostess and was welcomed to Vaso, the hotel's rooftop restaurant and bar.
Vaso offers a unique Spanish-style tapas menu with craft beers, signature cocktails and boutique-style wines. Whether you're in the mood for an elegant peaceful dinner or relaxing by the fire with a drink in hand, you will not be disappointed.
You can choose to sit on the outdoor patio, complete with private cabanas, firepits and lantern-style tiki torches, or dine indoors-I opted for indoor seating as it had just rained earlier that evening.
Never being a big fan of Spanish-inspired cuisine, I went out on a limb and tried their Tabla de charcuteria (assorted Spanish meats, cheeses and crostinis) and their Filete de cerdo con verduras (pork loin). As the cherry on top of a delicious meal, I enjoyed a Frozen Sangria-normally only available on the outdoor patio, but they made an exception.
After exploring the quaint little city that is Dublin, exhaustion eventually took hold of me. The bed was soft enough to sink into and I felt like I was lounging on cloud number nine. If you're like most people who can't get a restful night of sleep at a hotel, you'll be surprised to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
The AC Hotel Dublin is perfect for those wanting to be in an up-and-coming urban, walkable neighborhood. Located in Bridge Park-a new expansion with the goal of complimenting Historic Dublin-you're never too far from fine-dining, coffee and sweets shops and family-fun.
Final Thoughts: The AC Hotel Dublin is everything you could want in a hotel-a friendly staff, quiet guestrooms, and being on the outskirts of the big city you're away from all of the hustle-and-bustle.
Key Amenities: Fitness center (which includes cardiovascular equipment and free weights), meeting event space and free wi-fi throughout.
Loyalty Program: Marriott Rewards-rack up points for hotel stays, airline travels and more. Redeem your points for room upgrades, new technology and the vacation of your dreams.
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