I can say without a shadow of a doubt that the Marriott Courtyard in Galway is an absolutely fabulous hotel, and its all thanks to Tripadvisor that I discovered it.

Don't let those lucky business travellers keep it a secret all to the themselves - I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a superb base for touring the west of Ireland and Galway and comes complete with a luxurious Spa and Gentlemans Club (for those who enjoy a traditional shave with the full works)!

From the moment we set foot in the place we got a good feeling. Check-in was swift, friendly and efficient, and parking was a breeze in the underground car park - free to residents on validation of your ticket at reception.

I had booked using Laterooms and all my details were present and correct, complete with the discounted rate, which included breakfast for all four of us. We shared a De-luxe room with two queen sized beds in sumptious surroundings. This is a three star hotel that truly surpassed my expectations.

Breakfast was fit for a king with plenty of choice on offer on the hot and cold buffets and copious amounts of tea, coffee and juices on tap, not forgetting the cereals of course.
It was a hard job for indecisive me to choose what to eat each morning:

bacon, scrambled egg, sausages, white pudding, grilled tomatoes, hash potatoes, grilled mushrooms, toast, soda bread, croissants, smoked salmon, cheeses, sliced meats, melon, fruits, salads, breakfast pastries, yoghurts and more! In the evening it has a pleasant bar and restaurant, which was buzzing with a jolly corporate conference crowd and a few holidaymakers when we stayed.

The petrol station outside was actually quite handy, especially the Spar Store which was spanking new and had a sandwich deli and hot food takeaway as well as fresh baked breads and pastries, general groceries, newspapers and magazines. We loved being able to stroll across the road to make a pilgrimage to a Dunnes Stores (why don't we have them in UK?) as well as having a nibble at the kids new favourite fast food joint - Supermacs!

The Hotel is a ten to fifteen minute walk from the centre of Galway, which is handy if you want to have a wee drink in the evening and perhaps catch a taxi back at the end. We found parking in town fairly easy as there are plenty of multi storey car parks dotted about, just a short stroll from Eyre Square.

So whilst the Hotel is not exactly central, and does not offer a 'room with a view', everything is easily accessed from its position alongside a roundabout and main artery into town, and it is the perfect base for touring the region. There were no traffic noise issues and the AC was a welcome relief in the unusually hot weather.

I would definitely stay here again and heartily recommend it
TA member, South Ayrshire