The Spencer Hotel Dublin IFSC

The Spencer Hotel's signature style has been inspired by 1930's ocean liners, giving the decor a stylishly subtle nautical edge. The bright, open lobby has high floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light, along with bespoke designer furnishings by McDonald Design, including high quality leather couches, timber accents, and soft velvets. Low-level music creates a sophisticated ambience, while an orange-topped billiards tables adds a casual element. Public area are busy, but not overcrowded, with a mix of business travelers, families, and couples exploring the city. There is a lovely garden area just off the lobby, with indoor/outdoor seating, large red parasols, and heaters for the winter. The on-site cocktail bar is similarly-decorated, offering a chic vibe and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for early evening drinks. Live music on select nights only adds to the low-key social vibe.

The Spencer Hotel is situated on a quiet road, overlooking the River Liffey. Although not directly central, the hotel is within easy walking distance to many of Dublin's cultural attractions. Alternatively, guests can use the Luas, the light rail system running throughout the city -- there's a stop a block from the hotel. There are a handful of shops and cafes in the immediate area -- in fact, the Docklands is one of the city's up-and-coming districts. However, busy O' Connell Street is around a 10-minute walk, with many more shops, pubs, bars, and restaurants. It is a short cab ride to Temple Bar, a nightlife hotspot, and a 20-minute walk to Grafton Street and Trinity College. The 3Arena is a 15-minute walk from the hotel, while the Bord Gais Energy Theater is a 10-minute walk. The location is convenient for business travelers, as the hotel is part of the IFSC (International Financial Services Center). It's also a short four-minute walk to the Convention Center Dublin. Dublin Airport is around a 20- to 30-minute drive from the hotel, while O'Connell Street train station is a 10- to 15-minute walk. 

All 169 rooms here are modern and cozy. Decor is simple, with a neutral color scheme done in sharp silvery gray and taupe. Large windows brighten up the space. Double or king beds are dressed in soft Egyptian white linens, with fluffy blankets thrown over them. The upholstered headboards and plush slate-gray carpets only add to the polished, soft look. Furniture is minimal, with sleek dark wood work desks, built-in wardrobes, standing lamps, and suedette armchairs. Each room has a furnished balcony, some with picturesque river views. Modern amenities include 42-inch flat-screen TVs, free W-Fi, air-conditioning, kettles and Nespresso machines, older iPod docks, and free bottled water. Unfortunately, there are no minibars, which is a bit surprising for a four-pearl hotel. Bathrooms are modern, but tiny, with gray Italian slate tiles, rainfall shower/tub combos, and free toiletries from The White Company. 

The hotel's gym is a big selling point, featuring a large, heated indoor pool and a modern fitness center with up-to-date cardio machines and free weights. There's also a full-service spa with a steam room, sauna, and a hot tub, offering a variety of treatments. The chic East Restaurant serves Asian fusion cuisine, taking inspiration from Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Japan. The Zen Garden lunch bistro serves a variety of European dishes. A generous breakfast buffet is served daily, offering hot and cold options, as well as a pancake machine. The Spencer Cocktail Bar is a nice spot for early evening cocktails, with an extensive contemporary menu and live music on the weekends. The hotel also has a large business center featuring eight bright meeting rooms with modern technology. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, room service, in-room massages, and free parking. Guests have a free Wi-Fi allowance of 100MB.