Author: Garrett

  • Tropical Bliss: Our 8-Day ABC Islands Cruise Adventure

    Tropical Bliss: Our 8-Day ABC Islands Cruise Adventure

    This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support Reddy on the Go so we can keep sharing our travel adventures. Thank you for your support!

    Are you looking for the ultimate Caribbean getaway? This summer, my family and I embarked on an incredible cruise aboard the Carnival Celebration to the ABC Islands, and it was an experience we won’t soon forget. From the vibrant streets of Curacao to the crystal-clear waters of Aruba and the hidden gems of Bonaire, this itinerary is a must-do for any cruise lover.

    In this post, we’re breaking down our highlights from each stop and why an ABC Islands Cruise should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

    Why the ABC Islands?

    Located in the Southern Caribbean, the “ABC” islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao—are famous for sitting outside the hurricane belt, making them a fantastic year-round destination. Each island has its own distinct personality, and sailing there on a ship like the Carnival Celebration makes the journey just as fun as the destination.


    Stop 1: Willemstad, Curacao

    Our first stop was the picturesque island of Curacao. It’s a beautiful place with so much to offer. If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping, there are plenty of options within a very easy walk from the boat.

    For those wanting to get into the water, the island is surrounded by beautifully clear turquoise sea. We actually did a full separate video on our excursion here, so be sure to check that out for a deeper dive into what to do in Curacao! While we did book our excursion through Carnival, you can get the excursion here (but you will have to provide your own travel to get there).

    Curacao on ABC Islands Cruise

    Stop 2: Kralendijk, Bonaire

    Bonaire was the island I knew the absolute least about, but it ended up exceeding my expectations by far.

    We booked the “Samur Sail, Beach, and Snorkel” excursion through Carnival. We set sail for No-Name Beach, a secluded spot that was absolutely stunning. The snorkeling was incredible; there’s a ridge running parallel to the beach where we saw tons of fish and beautiful corals.

    Pro Tip: After your excursion, take a quick walk to Karel’s Beach Bar. All the tables are right over the water, providing an awesome view while you eat. We even got to see our excursion boat sail by while we had lunch!

    Bonaire on our ABC Islands Cruise

    Stop 3: Oranjestad, Aruba

    Aruba was the island I was most excited for. Although we had a bit of a stressful start when our original excursion was canceled last minute, we ended up on a Banana Bus Tour that turned out to be a blast.

    The tour included:

    • The California Lighthouse: A quick 5-minute stop for some iconic photos.
    • Eagle Beach: Known as one of the best beaches in the world. The water was calm with no real current, making the swimming absolutely fantastic.

    Even with the initial scheduling hiccup, Aruba’s natural beauty won us over, and I’d definitely give it another go!

    Aruba on our ABC Islands Cruise

    Final Thoughts on our ABC Islands Cruise

    Overall, this ABC Islands Cruise was absolutely amazing. My family had a great time exploring three very different islands, all while enjoying the amenities of the Carnival Celebration. If you get the chance to book this itinerary, I highly recommend it!

    Are you planning a cruise to the ABC Islands? Let us know in the comments!

  • The Ultimate Curacao Cruise Excursion: Semi-Subs & Blue Curacao

    The Ultimate Curacao Cruise Excursion: Semi-Subs & Blue Curacao

    This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support Reddy on the Go so we can keep sharing our travel adventures. Thank you for your support!

    If you are looking for the perfect Curacao cruise excursion, you probably already know that the choices are overwhelming. From the white sands of Mambo Beach to the historic caves, there is so much to see.

    During our recent stop at the Curacao port, we tested out the Sea & See tour, and it quickly became one of our favorite port days. Here is everything you need to know about why this is a top-rated Curacao excursion.

    Exploring Willemstad in Comfort

    Many Curacao cruise excursions involve long, hot bus rides. One thing we loved about this tour was the air-conditioned bus—a must in the Caribbean heat! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, pointing out the famous vibrant Dutch architecture and even the island’s famous baseball stadium.

    The Sea: Semi-Submarine Adventure

    The “Sea” part of this Curacao excursion takes place at the Dreams Resort. You board a semi-submarine where you sit below the water line.

    • The Marine Life: We saw schools of tropical fish, vibrant coral, and even a sea turtle!
    • The Diver: About halfway through, a diver enters the water to feed the fish right in front of your window. It’s an incredible up-close experience.

    We booked this directly through Carnival, but you can do just this part (while having to arrange your own transportation to and from) by booking here!

    The See: Tallest Bridge in the Caribbean

    One of the highlights of this tour is driving over the Queen Juliana Bridge. Standing at 200 feet high, it offers a stunning panoramic view of the port. If you want that “postcard-perfect” photo of your cruise ship from above, this is the excursion that gets you there.

    A Taste of History: The Chobolobo Liquor Factory

    No Curacao cruise excursion is complete without a stop at the Chobolobo Liquor Factory. You get to see exactly how the world-famous Blue Curacao is distilled and, of course, enjoy some free samples. It’s the perfect spot to pick up an authentic souvenir before heading back to the ship.

    Curacao cruise excursion

    Final Verdict for our Curacao Cruise Excursion

    If you want a Curacao excursion that combines history, city sights, and underwater adventure without a massive time commitment, this tour is a winner. It leaves you with plenty of time to explore the Rif Fort or do some shopping near the pier before your ship departs.

  • Is the Thompson Washington DC Worth It? A Complete Review

    Is the Thompson Washington DC Worth It? A Complete Review

    When it comes to picking a hotel in the nation’s capital, the Thompson Washington DC quickly became my new favorite. Between the incredibly friendly staff, the stylish rooms, and the fantastic rooftop area, it made it very easy to enjoy our stay here.

    Location: Navy Yard Vibes

    The Thompson is located in the Navy Yard district. If you’re looking to visit the monuments or spend your days in the museums, this might not be the best location for you, as you’re probably going to have to Uber or take a Lyft to get to those central sights.

    However, if you’re looking for great coffee shops, excellent restaurants, or trying to take in a Washington Nationals game, this is definitely the hotel for you.

    Booking the Thompson Washington DC with Points

    The Thompson Washington DC is part of the World of Hyatt, which makes it a fantastic value for points travelers. It is an Award Category 4 hotel, meaning you can stay here for about 15,000 points per night. If you have Chase Ultimate Rewards points, you can transfer them directly to Hyatt to book your stay.

    For this trip, we actually used a Category 1-4 Free Night Certificate, which provided excellent value for our stay.

    Thompson Washington DC Navy Yard rooftop

    Room Review: Standard King (Room 706)

    We stayed in Room 706, a standard one King bed room. We checked in pretty late at night, and while the room has an “intimate feeling,” it can be a bit dark. Even with all the lights on, it was about as bright as the room gets at night, though it looks great during the day.

    Room Highlights:

    • The Bathroom: A good-sized bathroom with modern finishes. My biggest complaint was that there was no door on the shower. It’s a personal preference, but I just like to have a door.
    • The Tech: One feature I really liked was the TV. You can connect your phone and stream your own content. Since we were there on a Saturday, I was able to stream a little football between activities—it was really nice to have that option.
    • Storage & Amenities: There is a full-length mirror, a refrigerator (unstocked), and in-room coffee. The closet has a safe and robes, though there wasn’t a lot of room for our suitcases or travel gear, which I didn’t care for.
    • Workspace: There is a small desk if you need to get some work done during your stay.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Incredibly friendly and welcoming staff.
    • Excellent rooftop bar and lounge area.
    • Great location for sports fans and foodies in the Navy Yard.
    • Excellent value for Hyatt Category 1-4 certificates.
    • Modern tech with phone-to-TV streaming capabilities.

    Cons

    • No door on the shower (personal preference).
    • Limited space for luggage/suitcases.
    • Not within walking distance of the National Mall/Monuments.

    Final Verdict for the Thompson Washington DC: Should You Stay Here?

    Everything about our stay at the Thompson Washington DC was really nice and really clean. Despite the minor lack of suitcase space, we really enjoyed our time here. I would definitely highly recommend this hotel to anyone, and we will certainly be back.


    Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 8.2 / 10

    • Location: 7.5 / 10
    • Amenities: 8.5 / 10
    • Room: 8 / 10
    • Service: 9 / 10

    Click here to check out my review on the Marriott Marquis Washington DC.

  • Carnival Celebration Balcony Review — The Best Way to Cruise?

    Carnival Celebration Balcony Review — The Best Way to Cruise?

    If you’re planning a cruise on the Carnival Celebration and wondering whether a balcony room is worth the upgrade… the short answer? Absolutely. We stayed in Room 14231, and this post breaks down everything you need to know—from the balcony views to storage space, the bathroom setup, and the overall layout.

    Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a repeat Carnival fan, here’s a full walkthrough of what you can expect.


    Room Overview: Carnival Celebration – Room 14231

    We stayed in balcony stateroom 14231, located on the starboard (right) side of the ship. The moment we walked in, the room felt more spacious than expected, with a clean layout and plenty of room for two adults.

    But let’s be honest…

    We booked this room for one main reason: the balcony.



    The Balcony — The Best Feature of the Room

    The balcony was hands-down our favorite part of the entire room.

    What you’ll find:

    • Two chairs
    • One small table
    • Wide open views of the ocean

    Stepping outside each morning for fresh air, quiet time, and unlimited ocean views made the entire experience feel more peaceful and private.

    One thing to note:

    Since this room is on the right side of the ship, you won’t see land while docked at most ports—you’ll mostly be overlooking the water. Not a bad thing… but good to know if you love port-side views.

    Carnival Celebration Balcony



    The Bed Setup


    The room comes with two twins pushed together to make a king, which is super common on cruise ships. Surprisingly, you can’t even tell—they felt like one solid mattress and were genuinely comfortable after long days exploring.

    Carnival Celebration Bed



    The Bathroom: Small but Functional

    Cruise ship bathrooms aren’t known for being spacious, and this one is no exception. It’s tight, and really only fits one person at a time.

    Bathroom highlights:

    • Surprisingly hot water (test it before jumping in!)
    • A real shower door — not a curtain
    • Clean layout and enough room for cruisers who pack light

    Compared to older Carnival ships, the shower door was a big win.



    Storage, Closets & Space

    For two people, this room had more than enough storage.

    Closet Features:

    • Multiple compartments
    • Plenty of hangers
    • A safe in the left section (perfect for passports, wallets, etc.)

    There’s also a couch in the room that we mostly used as a landing zone for clothes, bags, and the “things that don’t have a home.” If you’re traveling as a family, it can be converted into a bed.



    Overall Room Space

    The cabin layout is simple, clean, and surprisingly roomy. You get:

    • A couch
    • Desk area
    • TV
    • Good lighting
    • Multiple shelves and surfaces

    It didn’t feel cramped, and for a week-long cruise, we had everything we needed.



    Final Thoughts: Is a Carnival Celebration Balcony Room Worth It?

    In our honest opinion: 100% yes.

    The balcony elevated the entire experience—from morning coffee with ocean views to late-night quiet time hearing the waves. Room 14231 was comfortable, functional, and perfect for couples or small families.

    If you’re debating between an interior, ocean view, or balcony…

    Go balcony. Especially on a ship like the Celebration.



    Thinking About Booking a Carnival Celebration Balcony Room?

    If you love room tours, cruise tips, and travel hacks, make sure to follow along on Reddy on the Go. We share real experiences, honest reviews, and smart travel tips to help you make the most of every trip.

    Travel Smarter. Travel Better.

  • Marriott Marquis Washington DC – A Complete Review

    Marriott Marquis Washington DC – A Complete Review

    When it comes to picking a hotel in the nation’s capital, location is everything. The Marriott Marquis Washington DC hits that sweet spot by being close to the action, comfortable for conference-goers, and stylish enough for leisure travelers. On my recent trip with my wife, we discovered just how much this hotel has to offer. Here’s a full review of our stay.

    Location: Why the Marriott Marquis Washington DC Stands Out

    The Marriott Marquis Washington DC is one of the best-positioned hotels in the city. Whether you’re here for business or sightseeing, the convenience can’t be overstated.

    • Convention Center Access: The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is literally next door. In fact, there’s even a tunnel connecting the hotel to the venue—so if it’s raining, you won’t even need to step outside.
    • Capital One Arena: Coming for a game or a concert? You’re just a short walk away.
    • National Landmarks: From the Smithsonian Museums and Ford’s Theatre to the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and National Mall, many of DC’s iconic spots are within walking distance.

    And when it comes to food, you won’t be disappointed. Just around the corner is the popular Unconventional Diner, known for its creative takes on comfort food.

    First Impressions: The Hotel Itself

    Walking into the Marriott Marquis Washington DC, you’re greeted by a massive, open atrium. It’s the kind of space that makes you pause and look up. The atrium also houses a bar and a few restaurants, which makes it easy to grab a drink or meal without leaving the building.

    The overall vibe is modern, airy, and welcoming—perfect after a long day of exploring the capital.

    Room Tour: What to Expect

    We stayed in room 4067, and the layout was both practical and comfortable. Right as you walk in, you’ll find the bathroom, which was clean and well-designed with plenty of space for two travelers.

    The bedroom area was cozy yet spacious, with a large, comfortable bed and everything you’d expect from a Marriott property: TV, desk, and plenty of outlets for charging all your devices (a must if you’re like me and travel with too many gadgets).

    It’s the kind of room that makes you feel at home, but with the bonus of DC views right outside your window.

    Final Thoughts: Should You Stay at the Marriott Marquis Washington DC?

    Absolutely. Whether you’re here for a conference, a game at Capital One Arena, or simply to explore the nation’s capital, the Marriott Marquis Washington DC is an excellent choice.

    Its unbeatable location, modern design, and convenience make it one of the top hotels in Washington, DC. My wife and I truly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend it for your next trip to the capital.

    Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 7.69 / 10

    Location: 8.75 / 10

    Amenities: 7.5 / 10

    Room: 7 / 10

    Service: 7 / 10

  • Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel Review

    Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel Review

    Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel offers travelers a comfortable base to explore Asheville, North Carolina. While the hotel’s exterior may not immediately impress, don’t let that fool you—the inside is modern, welcoming, and full of thoughtful touches that make for an enjoyable stay.

    Location: Walkable Downtown Ashevill

    The real star of the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel is its location. Situated in the middle of Asheville, the hotel is within walking distance of shops, breweries, and restaurants. Whether you’re searching for craft beer or local boutiques, you’ll find plenty just steps away.

    One of our favorite stops nearby was the Mast General Store, always a fun visit when we’re in a city that has one. During our trip over the Fourth of July, Asheville’s downtown came alive with street booths, live music, and even a dog-jumping show—making the central location even more convenient.

    A Short Drive to Asheville’s Biggest Attraction: Biltmore Estate

    Just a quick drive from the hotel is Biltmore Estate, Asheville’s most famous landmark. Built between 1889 and 1895, Biltmore is the largest privately-owned home in the United States.

    The estate grounds are stunning, and a tour of the mansion is a must-do for any visitor. If you can visit during Christmas, the decorations make it even more magical. Right next door is Biltmore Village, filled with shops and restaurants. We stopped at Well-Bred Café for coffee and snacks before heading out to explore the estate.

    Biltmore

    Hotel Amenities

    The Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel offers a range of amenities that make your stay convenient and comfortable:

    • Restaurant & Bar – Located just off the lobby, perfect for dining without leaving the property.
    • Self-serve market – Snacks, drinks, and toiletries available anytime.
    • Fitness Center – Modern equipment, mountain views, and often quiet.
    • Pool – Unfortunately, it was out of service during our stay. Families traveling in summer may want to check availability in advance.
    • Back Porch Area – The highlight of the hotel’s common spaces. Covered but open-air, this area hosts cocktail hours and even live music on some evenings.

    Room Review

    Our room at the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel was comfortable, though not without a few quirks:

    • Bathroom – Compact, with only one sink.
    • Adjoining Door – Our room connected to the next, which isn’t everyone’s preference.
    • Decor – A bike on the wall (just decoration!) and fewer mirrors than expected compared to other Marriott properties.
    • Comfort – Despite small details, the room was cozy, quiet, and came with a beautiful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

    At the end of the day, you’re staying here for location first—and the rooms do their job well enough for a good night’s sleep.

    Pros & Cons of the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hote

    Pros

    • Excellent downtown location, walkable to shops and breweries
    • Short drive to Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village
    • Comfortable rooms with mountain views
    • Modern gym with mountain scenery
    • Fun social atmosphere on the back porch

    Cons

    • Exterior of the building could use updating
    • Pool was closed during our stay
    • Bathrooms are small with only one sink
    • Some rooms have adjoining doors, which may affect privacy

    Final Verdict: Should You Stay Here?

    Yes. The Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel is a solid choice for anyone visiting Asheville, especially if you want to be close to downtown while still enjoying views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The location is its biggest selling point—you can walk to restaurants, shops, and breweries, and you’re only a short drive from the Biltmore Estate.

    While the hotel has some cosmetic drawbacks and the pool closure was disappointing, the comfortable rooms and excellent location make it a great pick for Asheville travelers.

    If you’re looking for a downtown Asheville hotel with modern amenities and easy access to both city life and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel is worth booking.

    Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 6.7 / 10

    Location: 7.5 / 10

    Amenities: 6.5 / 10

    Room: 6 / 10

    Service: 6.5 / 10

  • Great Scotland Yard Hotel Review: Luxury Meets History in the Heart of London

    Great Scotland Yard Hotel Review: Luxury Meets History in the Heart of London

    If you’re planning a trip to London and want a luxury hotel near Westminster and Covent Garden, look no further than the Great Scotland Yard Hotel. Part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, this unique property blends London’s rich history with modern comfort—and it quickly became one of the nicest hotels I’ve stayed at in the city.

    A Hotel With History

    The Great Scotland Yard Hotel is located in the former headquarters of the London Metropolitan Police Force. You feel that history the moment you step inside: the décor, artwork, and design all nod to its law enforcement past while still feeling elegant and modern.

    Hotel Amenities

    Despite being tucked in the heart of London, the hotel offers amenities you don’t often find in a city-center property:

    • Large fitness center – Fully equipped with everything from weights to a Peloton bike. Surprisingly, it was often empty during my stay. Bonus tip: the gym stocks free bottled water, a great find in London.
    • On-site bar and restaurant – Leaning into the police history theme, they provide a stylish and atmospheric place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
    • Nearby dining – Within a one-minute walk, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, including The Horse and Guardsman, which I highly recommend.

    Location: Why It’s Hard to Beat the Great Scotland Yard Hotel

    London is a massive city, and choosing a central hotel makes exploring far easier. The Great Scotland Yard Hotel is ideally located near top attractions and transport links:

    • Trafalgar Square – 4-minute walk
    • Big Ben – 10 minutes away
    • Westminster Abbey – 12 minutes away
    • Buckingham Palace – 21-minute walk
    • Tower of London – 23 minutes via the Tube
    • Charing Cross & Embankment stations – Just steps away, making it easy to get around the city

    What I loved most was how easy it was to pop back to the hotel midday. Unlike other parts of London I’ve stayed in, this central location made it convenient to rest, change, or recharge before heading back out.

    Room Tour

    Walking into the room, I was immediately struck by the luxurious details that set this hotel apart:

    • Entry area – Hooks, shoe space, and luggage storage made settling in effortless.
    • Design touches – Mirrors, upscale finishes, and an overall refined feel.
    • Room view – Ours faced the courtyard (not the street), but the quiet night’s sleep more than made up for it.
    • Mini-fridge & espresso machine – Stocked with complimentary still and sparkling water, plus an espresso maker for your morning coffee fix.
    • Noise level – Surprisingly silent, despite being in the middle of London.

    The bathroom was compact but featured two standout luxuries:

    • A heated toilet seat
    • A heated towel warmer, perfect for winter stays

    Combine that with a very comfortable bed, and it added up to an excellent night’s sleep.

    Pros & Cons of the Great Scotland Yard Hotel

    Pros

    • Incredible central location
    • Rich history with stylish décor
    • Spacious fitness center (with free water!)
    • Comfortable, quiet rooms despite being in central London
    • Luxurious touches like heated bathroom features

    Cons

    • Some rooms face the courtyard instead of the street
    • Bathroom size is a bit compact (but efficient)

    Final Verdict: Should You Stay Here?

    Absolutely. The Great Scotland Yard Hotel is one of the most unique and luxurious hotels in London. With its unbeatable location, historical charm, and modern comforts, it’s a perfect choice for both first-time visitors and seasoned London travelers.

    As of now, it’s the nicest hotel I’ve stayed at in London—and one I’d recommend to anyone, especially if you’re booking with Hyatt points.

    If you’re looking for a 5-star hotel in London near Westminster, Trafalgar Square, and Buckingham Palace, the Great Scotland Yard Hotel should be at the top of your list.

    Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 8.21 / 10

    Location: 9.5 / 10

    Amenities: 8 / 10

    Room: 7.5 / 10

    Service: 7 / 10

  • NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch Review: Great Location in Dublin

    NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch Review: Great Location in Dublin

    If you’re looking for a modern hotel in Dublin with a prime location, the NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch should be on your radar. Formerly the Hard Rock Hotel Dublin, the property has kept much of its bold style while transitioning into the NYX brand. On our trip, we stayed here and found it to be a fantastic base for exploring Dublin’s rich history, lively pubs, and world-famous attractions.

    Location: Steps Away From Dublin’s Top Sights

    The NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch couldn’t be better placed. Located right next to the Temple Bar area, it puts you within walking distance of nearly all the city’s highlights:

    • Guinness Storehouse – A seven-story journey through the history of Ireland’s most famous beer, ending with a pint at the Gravity Bar. For a small upgrade, you can even learn to pour your own at the Guinness Academy.
    • Jameson Distillery – Even if whiskey isn’t your drink, this fun and interactive tour is a must-do.
    • The Brazen Head – Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198, full of character and traditional Irish charm.
    • The Whiskey Reserve – A unique whiskey tasting bar in Temple Bar with flights ranging from €40 to €750. The staff makes the experience unforgettable.
    • Dublin Castle – Just a 3-minute walk from the hotel. A guided tour is best, but even the self-guided version offers a glimpse of state apartments and the castle gardens.
    • Christchurch Cathedral & St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Both are only a short stroll away and steeped in centuries of history.

    With all of this just minutes from the hotel, the location is hard to beat.

    Temple Bar

    First Impressions & Hotel Vibe

    The NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch still carries over much of the funky décor from its Hard Rock days, including the colorful Rainbow Bridge that connects the two main buildings. Crossing it offers a glimpse of the city and adds a quirky touch to the experience.

    The lobby and common spaces feel stylish, colorful, and modern—matching the boutique vibe of the brand. Check-in was smooth, and staff were friendly and welcoming.

    Room Review

    Our room at the NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch was open and modern, though the layout may not be for everyone.

    • Bathroom: Located right by the entrance, with separate areas for the toilet and shower. Both felt fairly exposed to the main room, which could be awkward for some. That said, the shower itself was fantastic—spacious, with great water pressure, and perfect after a long day walking Dublin.
    • Bedroom Area: Standard setup with a comfortable bed, desk, TV, and coffee maker. Some outlets were a little finicky, but workable.
    • Noise: Despite being right off one of Dublin’s busier streets, we barely noticed any noise at night. The soundproofing was surprisingly good.

    Overall, the room was functional, comfortable, and well-suited for a city break.

    Whiskey Reserve

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Prime location next to Temple Bar and Christchurch Cathedral
    • Stylish, modern design with unique features (Rainbow Bridge)
    • Comfortable beds and excellent shower
    • Surprisingly quiet for a central Dublin hotel
    • Easy walking distance to nearly all major attractions

    Cons

    • Bathroom setup feels very open to the room
    • Some outlets were unreliable
    • Coffee maker was basic compared to other hotels we stayed in Europe

    Final Verdict: Should You Stay at NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch?

    Yes—if location is your priority, the NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch is a fantastic choice. You’ll be right in the heart of Dublin, with pubs, cathedrals, castles, and distilleries just steps away. The hotel’s modern design, comfortable rooms, and funky personality add to the experience.

    The open bathroom layout might not be ideal for everyone, but if you’re looking for a stylish, centrally located base for exploring Dublin, this hotel is hard to beat.

    We’d recommend it to travelers who want to maximize their time in Dublin without sacrificing comfort or style.

    Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 7.18 / 10

    Location: 8 / 10

    Amenities: 6 / 10

    Room: 6.5 / 10

    Service 8 / 10

  • The Galmont Hotel & Spa Review:  A Beautiful Hotel in Galway

    The Galmont Hotel & Spa Review: A Beautiful Hotel in Galway

    Looking for the best hotels in Galway that combine comfort, location, and great views? During our recent trip to Ireland, we stayed at The Galmont Hotel & Spa, and it turned out to be the perfect base for exploring both the city and the surrounding natural beauty.

    If you’re planning where to stay in Galway, here’s a full review of our experience—covering location, nearby attractions, rooms, amenities, and overall vibe.

    Why Stay in Galway?

    Galway, located on the western coast of Ireland, is a city that has a little bit of everything: lively pubs, colorful shopping streets, and breathtaking scenery. Unlike Dublin, Galway feels less crowded, giving you more opportunities to slow down and soak in the natural beauty of Ireland.

    Nearby attractions include:

    • Galway Cathedral – While not as old as some European cathedrals, it’s still striking. Just note that daily mass is held here, so plan your visit around service times.
    • Spanish Arch – A piece of Galway history dating back to the 1500s, located along the River Corrib.
    • Cliffs of Moher – A bucket-list Irish landmark only 90 minutes away, easily done as a day trip by car or guided tour.

    With so much to see nearby, having a comfortable and well-located hotel makes all the difference—enter The Galmont Hotel & Spa.

    About The Galmont Hotel & Spa

    Located right on the water and just a short walk from Eyre Square, The Galmont Hotel & Spa offers a convenient spot for travelers who want both relaxation and city access.

    Highlights include:

    • A welcoming lobby with friendly staff
    • On-site restaurant and bar
    • Spacious outdoor patio (though Galway winds can keep people indoors)
    • A fitness center, located in an adjacent building
    • Air conditioning (a feature not every Galway hotel offers)

    For us, the A/C was a big plus—especially if you’re traveling in warmer months.

    Room Review

    We booked a King Size Room, which was essentially two beds pushed together. Not a big deal, as we barely noticed when sleeping.

    Inside the room:

    • A clean, functional bathroom with one sink and a step-up shower
    • An espresso machine (a nice perk for coffee lovers)
    • A small refrigerator under the coffee setup
    • Desk and TV for standard conveniences

    The highlight of the room? The view. Looking out directly over the water added a special touch to our stay and made mornings and evenings feel extra memorable.

    Pros & Cons of The Galmont Hotel

    Pros

    • Excellent location, walking distance to Eyre Square
    • Waterfront views from many rooms
    • Air conditioning (rare in Galway hotels)
    • On-site dining and bar
    • Friendly and helpful staff

    Cons

    • Gym is in a separate building, not the most convenient
    • Bathroom setup could be better (single sink, steep shower step)
    • Patio is lovely but often too windy to enjoy fully

    Final Verdict: Should You Stay at The Galmont

    Overall, we really enjoyed our stay at The Galmont Hotel & Spa. It offered everything we needed: comfort, great service, and an ideal location for exploring Galway and beyond.

    If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and want a hotel in Galway with modern comforts (especially A/C), The Galmont is a fantastic choice.

    Whether you’re sipping coffee from your in-room espresso machine or gazing out over the water, this hotel makes for a memorable stay in one of Ireland’s most charming cities.

    Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 6.43 / 10

    Location: 8 / 10

    Amenities: 4.5 / 10

    Room: 5 / 10

    Service: 8 / 10

  • Reddy on the Go Hotel Review Rating Scale

    On our hotel reviews, you will see the rating we give the hotel. You may be wondering, “How did they come up with that score?”. So glad you asked!

    A lot of people will just give a hotel an 8 out of 10 and leave it there. There is nothing to compare it to, and nothing to hold them accountable!

    We do things a little different. We will not only give you a score, but we will tell you how we got to that score.

    We break each hotel down into 4 categories. Each category gets a score 0-10 (and yes, it can be partial points like a 7.4). Each category is worth a percent of the total score. You add up the weighted scores and that gets your total score. Simple enough. Let’s get into it!

    Location: In the City

    35% of the total score.

    Location is an important one. When you are visiting somewhere, the hotel itself is rarely the attraction. You are there to do things around the city. How easy is it to get out and do those things in the city?

    Amenities: Hotel as a Whole

    15% of the total score.

    How is the food? How is the gym? How is the rooftop bar? These are all part of the amenities score. This is a hotel review after all, so how cool are the unique features?

    Room: In Room Awesomeness / View

    35% of the total score.

    This is where you will be spending most of the time while at the hotel so it accounts for a large chunk of the score. How comfortable is the bed? How is the bathroom?

    Service: The Personal Touch

    15% of the total score.

    Service is what makes a good hotel a great hotel. When you are tired from a flight across the pond, a rude front desk worker can make a quick impression on the hotel.