We are proud to present this next issue in our series focusing on the people, culture and communities that make up our diverse Waterstone Collection. Throughout the series we will continue to introduce you to people who are passionate ambassadors for their local cultures and communities.
In this edition we focus on the General Manager and the Director of Sales and Marketing of The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin, Fergal O'Connell and Bronagh Kelleher.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel truly punches above its weight and is widely known as the friendliest 5 star hotel in Dublin. Fergal and Bronagh are extremely well known and respected by the luxury travel community because they continually 'wow' visiting guests, making travel advisors shine. There is no surprise that these exceedingly professional hoteliers will be some of the first back to update and show their support to the US market.
Below, Fergal and Bronagh share their tips on how best to enjoy a trip to their beloved Dublin.
A message from Fergal O'Connell and Bronagh Kelleher
"We have dearly missed our travel advisor friends and we cannot wait to welcome you and your clients back to The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin here in the heart of the city. We have undertaken many refurbishments during the quiet of the past year and we so look forward to sharing them with you. The city itself also has many new attractions, bars and restaurants, but the traditional Irish hospitality you all know and love certainly remains true.”
— Fergal O'Connell General Manager, The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin
Ireland and Dublin are open and buzzing and we can’t wait to welcome you again! The coming months are an especially cozy and magical time to visit as there is so much going on and there are no crowds.
Here are just a few of our favourite things to do around Dublin:
Dublin would not be Dublin without live music and it is wonderful to hear tunes drifting out of the many venues around town once more. From pubs such as O’Donoghue's to legendary venues such as Vicar Street, we are lucky to have a great choice of entertainment every night of the week. The last weekend in January, Tradfest will take place, pulling together an enviable range of artists performing in iconic locations. Highlights include The Dublin Legends and Ralph McTell at the National Stadium or Fairport Convention at St Patrick’s Cathedral, which is traditionally known for its world class classical concerts held throughout the year.
The city’s thriving theatre scene has returned as well with a growing number of productions. At the moment, the ‘hot’ ticket is Faith Healer at the Abbey Theatre where you can see Aiden Gillen from Game of Thrones in an intimate and moving performance.
Lovers of art and culture are also spoiled for choice with all galleries now open. At the National Gallery, the Jack B Yeats exhibition is a must see. Follow in the footsteps of HRH Kate and William by visiting the Museum of Literature in Ireland, a fascinating space dedicated to legendary Irish authors such as James Joyce. As the museum only opened in September of 2019, it will be a new attraction for most visitors.
Dublin provides the perfect balance between traditional and cutting edge and this is nowhere more evident than in the vast culinary scene. We are proud that Andy McFadden, head chef at our very own Glovers Alley restaurant located in the Fitzwilliam Hotel, has been recognized as the best chef in Ireland for his unique and exciting dishes. Chef Andy has come out of the pandemic energized, using the finest local produce to create new dishes that are fast becoming legendary.
Chapter One has long been one of Dublin’s leading restaurants with Ross Lewis at the reigns. This month will see an exciting new era as he welcomes 2-star Michelin Chef, Mickael Viljanen to join him from the Glass House. We’re all very excited to see what the collaboration brings.
Kehoes or McDaids are the perfect pubs to savor a pint of Guinness, watch the world go by or join the locals for some ‘craic’ – the choice is yours. These traditional pubs are largely unchanged inside but all have the addition of outside terraces which, while strange for Dublin, seem to be very popular.
We have only just scratched the surface of all there is to do in Dublin, but for more ideas we invite you to look at our blog. Of course our excellent concierge, Marcin, is always available to help plan your clients’ visit and will work with you to understand their taste to deliver the perfect recommendations.
