Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Cork

The Good:

• Clean, modern rooms
• Friendly staff

The Bad:

• Internet connection was poor in our room (main floor)
• Location is a 10 minute drive from the city
• If you plan to use the pool, make sure to bring your own swim cap, as they require them and will have to buy one from them if you don’t have your own

Verdict:

For us, it was a perfect base to visit Blarney Castle. We wouldn’t consider it a budget-travel friendly accommodation, and we were lucky to use our Carlson Club points for free nights again. Rates posted online (as of Nov 2014) are around $155/night.