Hotel Bookings
Finding somewhere good to stay can make or break a trip. Over the years I’ve stayed in everything from budget hostels to boutique hotels, and I’ve learned that price doesn’t always predict quality - location, reviews, and flexibility on cancellation matter just as much.
I’ve also worked in the hospitality, tourism and travel industry for nearly two decades now, so I know how to find the best hotels! Here I’ll share some of the places I’ve actually stayed and would genuinely recommend, along with how I search when I’m planning a trip. And, if you need help finding somewhere to stay, I offer a free hotel finding service, which you can learn about below!
Places I’ve Stayed and Would Book Again
I’ll be building this list out over time. Every place listed here is somewhere I’ve personally stayed - no paid inclusions, no guesswork.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Durham - a full service, 200+ room hotel that’s perfect for a Durham stay. The hotel’s Jozef’s Riverside Bar & Restaurant serves great food all day, and the Pace Health Club is open to residents as well. Parking is limited, and a bit pricey, but worth it - even better though if you’re arriving by train into Durham!
Hotel Bologna, Prague - I was amazed at what this hotel offered for the price. We were never more than 10 minutes from things like Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, and plenty of bars and restaurants. The breakfast also offered something for everyone, and the rooms are air conditioned - perfect for the summer!
Comfort Hotel Bergen Airport, Norway - honestly, if I’m flying in or out of somewhere on my own, I like to chill out and relax the night before. This airport hotel in Norway’s second city is a budget, no-frills option that is literally a five minute walk from arrivals.
Scandic Bergen Airport, Norway - more upmarket than the Comfort Hotel, the Scandic is one of Norway’s largest conference hotels, so if you’re staying here, you’ll be mixing with plenty of business travellers. Breakfast is busy but one of the best in Norway, and although it’s a bit further of a walk to the airport, it’s not far at all.
Clarion Hotel Trondheim, Norway - with a fabulous location by the Trondheim Fjord, the Clarion is one of the best reviewed hotels in the area. Trondheim is made up of islands, and this hotel is situated on Brattøra, which mixes city and fjord life very well!
Thon Hotel Stavanger, Norway - in the heart of Norway’s oil city, the Thon Hotel Stavanger is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a city centre stay.
Hotel Bahamas, Kos, Greece - a family run hotel, just a short walk from Kos’s old town, beach bars, and ancient ruins. It’s a small hotel, which means there’s always plenty of space around the pool.
The Ellison Hotel, Castlebar, Ireland - well located for exploring The Wild Atlantic Way, The Ellison is a welcoming hotel that offers an amazing breakfast, lunch and dinner in the hotel’s Siar Restaurant.
Maldron Hotel, Dublin Airport - I usually stay at the Premier Inn, but lately the prices have been through the roof. The Maldron is a great alternative - a short walk from the airport terminal, with a great bar and restaurant to relax and unwind before or after your flight.
The Stratford, London - next to Westfield Stratford shopping centre and not far from West Ham stadium, this full service aparthotel is perfect for those who are looking for a relaxing, upmarket stay.
Maldron Hotel, Galway, Ireland - Maldron are one of Ireland’s biggest and most popular hotel chains, and it’s easy to see why. The hotels offer modern rooms with all the conveniences expected, as well as well-regarded bars and restaurants. A short taxi/bus ride from Galway City Centre, I’d recommend the Maldron if you’re visiting this area of Ireland.
Moxy Hotel, Bergen, Norway - Moxy hotels are Marriott’s hip new brand, focused on young people who enjoy a more social feel to their hotels. This hotel is just outside of the city centre, on the Bergen Light Rail (Bybanen) route, so you’re never more than a few minutes away from the city’s major attractions.
How I Search for Hotels
For most trips, Expedia (affiliate link) is my first stop. It’s good for comparing hotels, checking what’s included, and bundling with flights if needed.
From there, I make sure to shop around, focusing on my essentials - location, a good breakfast, free wifi - rather than just focusing on price. Sometimes, booking the cheapest means you’re paying more in the long run.
Got a Destination in Mind?
If you’re trying to decide where to stay somewhere specific, feel free to get in touch. I’m happy to share what I know from personal experience as part of my hotel finding service - which I offer free of charge at no extra cost to you. Fill in the contact form below and I’ll get back to you with a few recommendations shortly!