Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Hotel Adler: Good hotel

Were it not for the rudest, most agressive waiter we have ever come across, I would give the Adler five stars. This man did his best to ruin our anniversary celebration in the otherwise very good fondue restaurant of the Adler. A box of sweets from the staff after we complained, has not really wiped out the bad memory. The only other thing I was not crazy about would be the rather perverse see-through glass of the bathroom doors mentioned in earlier reviews. Finally, goose-stepping inconsiderate neighbours above us often spoilt our sleep, but for this we cannot really blame the hotel. That said, we enjoyed our stay at the Adler. Our room which was upgraded without our asking, looked out on the lovely square outside, and some fabulous Christmas decorations.

The breakfast buffet was fine although it failed the freshly squeezed orange juice test.
As previously reported, the hotel is in an excellent location and is spotlessly clean. All staff, with the one notable exception, were courteous and helpful. When we were leaving they gave us a free pass for the tram, which was a very kind and helpful gesture.

If your time in Zurich allows, go for the 72 hour pass when you arrive at the airport. It includes free travel on the great tram system, entrance to the brilliant museums, and even a fun boat ride on the Zurichsee. The city of Zurich itself is surprisingly beautiful with the church-lined river, and the magestic Alps in the distance, and it lends itself ideally to a short few days break. Don't miss the Marc Chagall stained glass windows in the Fraumunster, an experience that stays with you after your journey is over.


Wednesday, February 28, 2007

BrookLodge & Wells Spa: Relaxing stay at the BrookLodge

I don't trust reviews that say a place was perfect. I don't believe there is such a place, so I will get my gripes out of the way. The bed in our River Mews room was a bit on the small side. Also, I think that at the moment, there would be no harm in warning guests that there is a big construction job going on right besides the River Mews rooms.

We were told this is going to be a new Functions area. As it turned out, it didn't bother us all that much, but it doesn't do much for your arrival when you are greeted with the sight of a huge crane overhanging your destination!

That out of the way, I have to say that the service at BrookLodge was first class. Every person we dealt with was friendly and efficient.

We were not happy with our table in the Strawberry Tree, so they offered us a number of alternatives with a minimum of fuss. The food was lovely, although I would prefer to have the option of a la carte as opposed to the set five course dinner.

The breakfast was exceptionally good. I asked for something that was not on the menu and my request did not raise an eyebrow. The fresh treakle bread was so good we enquired about it and the manageress of the restaurant came up with a loaf for us to take away!

All in all, the folks in BrookLodge are doing a great job in providing a real getaway in the countryside only an hours drive from Dublin. They deserve to be commended for this.