In an age where almost every corner of the world is accessible, the poor staycation feels a little left out.

Imagine your night in the city, cheering on your side at the Aviva Station, singing your socks off at the 3 Arena or Bord Gais Theatre, celebrating the office Christmas party or indulging in lots of Christmas shopping. No matter what you're up to, you'll need to plan ahead - where to get ready, where to go for some pre-drinks, getting a taxi (or Nite Link!) home, getting home with all those shopping bags - little bit hectic, right?

Take a step back and imagine what your day could really be like - a genuine family welcome before you relax in front of a cosy fire, enjoying cocktails or bubbly on tap and delicious food. Sounding good? Well, allow us to introduce you to Sandymount Hotel - Dublin’s oldest and largest family run hotel that has loads to offer. Back in 1955 the hotel began its journey as a humble four-bedroom B&B and is now a 190-bedroom, award winning 4-star hotel. With loads to offer guests, whatever your reason for staying, we're not surprised this little gem remains as popular today as it did 63 years ago. Its central location makes it a great base for friends, couples and families looking to explore the city.  

There's always something happening in Dublin and given its central location - did we mention it's a 2-minute walk from the Aviva stadium? - you're never too far from all the happenings of the city be it a gig, comedy show, sporting event or the trendiest shops and Christmas markets. Not only that, they also offer free parking so why not drive straight from the office, take the load off and your ride home will be waiting outside the next morning. Happy days! Seriously, you've no excuse not to get out during your staycation.

That's the sleeping and location arrangements sorted, now for the best part - food. The Line Out Bar at the hotel is a well-known hotspot, has a delish menu, including the amazing ‘Line Out Burger’ and Tiger Prawn Quinoa salad to a heart-warming Guinness casserole and much more. Don't know about you, but we're drooling here. This year, Sandymount Hotel has introduced their epic Winter BBQ menu complete with a marquee and outdoor heating to keep you toasty while enjoying amazing food and taking in the great atmosphere. Genius work lads! Not only has the greats of the sporting world visited here whilst playing at the Aviva Stadium, it’s a very popular haunt on match-days with marquees and outdoor heating, extra bars and BBQ’s. If you're not lucky enough to have tickets to a game, fear not! The hotel pops up extra screens, so you can still enjoy the buzz of being beside the stadium.  

Whitty's restaurant serves an unreal full Irish breakfast each morning. Winning! It also has its own private bar for those special occasions, parties or winter BBQ's. If sports, burgers or big screens aren't your thing, the hotel is famed for its city slicker Afternoon Tea (€25pp), with petite pastries and mini sambos (nom). Push the boat out with a glass of bubbly or simply enjoy it with a cup of tea in the Herbert Suite, Sun Lounge or at the hotel’s private library.

It wouldn't be Christmas without a great shopping weekend and Sandymount Hotel has designed a shopper's paradise package for €130 for 2 people sharing - seriously, this is great. Enjoy a bottle of bubbly on arrival - eh, yes - head off for some retail therapy around Grafton Street, Henry Street or even better, the Sandymount Village boutiques right on the doorstep. Pop back to the hotel, feet up, cosy fire aaaannnd relax. Perfection!  

Super central with plenty of options, Sandymount Hotel is perfect for a romantic city break, a night out with mates or a family get together. Check out their latest offers