subject: Ireland – 5-star hotels never as cheap! [print this page] Admittedly, money is scarce in the Ireland of 2010. But for those who have a few bob and want to experience some of the wonderful scenery and heritage sights of Ireland in luxury, never was there better value to be had at the upper 5-star accommodation end of the market. In the building boom that occurred over the past 15 years or so in Ireland, one of the most over-developed sectors was hotel construction. Boosted by valuable tax-breaks to shelter investor rental income, hotels sprung up all over the country. Some of them were placed in very questionable locations and with dubious operating criteria. Rather than a solid business model driving the reason for constructing the hotel, tax breaks were the first consideration which was putting the cart before the horse. The inevitable consequence is wholesale failures across the sector and huge pressure being applied on upper end of the market with the 5-star hotels that charged 300 - 400 per room per night in the boom now offering outstanding value to those who can avail of special offers. A perfect example of the seriously good value on offer is a deal by one of Irelands most famous hotels, the stunningly beautiful Ashford Castle, in Cong, County Mayo. Ashford Castle was one of the first 5-star hotels in Ireland and has hosted the great and the good from all over the world, including American presidents and famous film stars. Between now and the end of March 2010, you can get room on a bed and breakfast basis for 3 nights for 390. That works out at 65 per person per night bed and breakfast. Absolutely outstanding value! The sister hotel of Ashford Castle is Dromoland Castle in County Clare, another beautiful 5-star hotel situated just south of Ennis. It is offering the same deal until the end of March. There are many other examples of good deals in upmarket hotels if you just look for them. It is a buyers market in the upper end of accommodation in Ireland right now. With offers like that available, now is the time to take that exclusive pampered break in Ireland that you have always promised yourself. Take full advantage if you can at all. It is an ill-wind that blows no good!
