Worth the trip …
The Hoxton, Dublin
The USP of Hoxton hotels has aways been its “open house” concept. Since launching in 2006, empty carparks and old buildings with interesting stories have been turned into popular hotels. Hotly anticipated is the opening of The Hoxton, Dublin in November. Formerly the Central Hotel on Dublin’s Exchequer Street, the restored Victorian building will include 129 Snug, Cosy, Roomy and Biggy rooms. There’s also an inviting lobby with bar and Viking-era ruins, an all-day Peruvian-inspired restaurant, Cantina Valentina, in addition to Dollars, described as “a sandwich spot by day and natural wine bar by night”. Local residents will be pleased to hear the popular Library Bar will remain in name and spirit, though it has been reimagined to serve up pub grub and pints by the fire. In the basement, Groundwork is The Hoxton’s first (ever) nightlife venue. Book ahead using the code GRAND before November 20 (for stays until February 20) for 20 per cent off rooms, €30 towards food and drink, plus two pints of Guinness on the house. @thehoxtonhotel
Moxy, Belfast City
Affordable, fun and stylish has always been the ethos of Moxy Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, and the newly opened Moxy Belfast City is a reflection of the brand’s experiential essence. Located on Clarence Street, close to Victoria Square Shopping Centre and the Ulster Hall as well as the bars, restaurants and nightlife of the city’s Cathedral Quarter, is the 100th property for the group. There are some 179 smart bedrooms – guests check in at Bar Moxy and receive a complimentary drink on arrival, while the lively communal spaces offer a grab-and-go concept where guests and visitors can pick up something to eat or “plug and play” at communal tables. @moxybelfastcity
Ruby Stella Hotel & Bar, London
“Lean luxury” is the philosophy behind the Ruby hotel group, founded in 2013, which now comprises 20 hotels across Europe. The latest opening (hot on the heels of Ruby Dublin) is Ruby Stella, a Dickens-inspired escape in the bustling heart of Clerkenwell. In fact, one of Dickens’ earliest works The Pickwick Papers is said to have its roots in the area. The interior reflects the vibrant characters and contrasts of Dickensian London. Ruby Stella transports guests to this era, where the juxtaposition of luxury and rustic materials mirrors the contrasts Dickens so famously explored. In a playful nod to Dickens’ legacy, whimsical representations of London’s urban foxes – complete with monocles and quills – can be found. Ruby Stella’s interior also pays tribute to the local bookbinding heritage, while a standout feature of Ruby Stella is its Courtyard Terrace. @rubyhotels
SEE MORE: Kitty Coles’ Favourite Hotels In London
Andaz Lisbon
Meaning “personal style” in Hindi, Andaz is a luxury hotel by Hyatt with meaningful design and barrier-free service. There are now 29 properties in 16 countries, the latest in the historic Baixa district, close to landmarks such as the Rua Augusta Arch and the historic Praça do Comércio. Many of the rooms overlook São Jorge Castle, Praça do Comércio and Tagus River. A rooftop restaurant and terrace serves modern Lusitanian cuisine inspired by Portugal’s maritime legacy. Andaz Lounge, inspired by Lisbon’s kiosks, offers Portuguese street food and artisan coffee. The interior design was created by Studio Urquiola with artworks, installations, and a modern reinterpretation of azulejos tiles and mosaic calçada pavements all evoking the city’s heritage. Music also plays a central role at Andaz Lisbon; guests can expect the soulful sounds of Fado to contemporary jazz, in an eclectic line-up of entertainment. @andazlisbon
Off Grid, Girona
Co-founded by Gerard Greene, Yotel is a hotel chain known for tech-enabled spaces. After years of urban hospitality, Greene has relocated to the hills above Girona to restore a Catalan farmhouse to build smaller and more sustainably. The result is the idyllic Off Grid Girona with ten bedrooms and an adjoining four-bedroom barn. More open home than hotel, it encourages connection through shared spaces and communal dining. The interior design has a focus on natural materials with upcycled furnishings sitting alongside modern fixtures such as monsoon showers, local stone basins and hand-cut La Bisbal tiles. Meals prepared by the resident chef are served family-style at the communal table by the pool. Local wine, small-batch coffee and craft beer are stocked in honesty bars throughout the house. As for activities, experiences include hot air ballooning and vineyard visits. Besalú, Banyoles, and Girona are within easy reach too. @offgridgirona
