Having just returned from a gorgeous hostel stay, I’ll be the first to admit that my mindset in regards to travel accommodation used to be that they’re just places to rest, and can be as low-quality as they like. After all, I have stayed in rotting rooms in Dublin, pest-swarmed hotels just out of Istanbul, and windowless holes in Warsaw – and couldn’t have cared less. Or at least, that was until I decided to lay down in a luxury hotel, having been swept in with the promise of spa treatments and a panoramic view of the capital.

Trailing a room with windows thrice as long as the super-king-sized bed, with my own dining area and large nude-coloured washroom with a deep-set tub and glass shower, I had stepped into a world unimaginably different to what I was used to. Laying back in my armchair with the option of pastries and desserts brought to the door, I felt like I could happily spend my days exploring the chambers of the hotel – if only I could summon the intent to leave the room.

The rules of day-to-day life seem to disappear upon entrance to the hotel – think mid-morning cocktails in the luxury lounge and casual dips to the Hammam. Arise greeted by charming staff serving breakfast sourced from local farmers, located less than five minutes away from the main shopping district. Easy city links surpass the hotel, with the calm pace of Welsh life awaiting the front door step.

Everyone knows that I’m inexplicably in love with Wales, and so it’s no question that the capital is one of my favourite places to venture to. The bustle of city life intertwines with the laid-back nature of the country, and comes together in a mix of welcoming locals, endless places to explore, and Welsh cakes. The hotel is located within easy travel distance to Cardiff Castle, the Wales Millennium Centre, and Cardiff Bay – and for any Gavin and Stacey lovers out there, a trip to Barry Island is not off the table.

The hotel restaurant is an expert in “bistronomy” – French fine dining with an unpretentious twist. The casual atmosphere and waiters with a genuine interest in their guests renders a dining experience that is worth more than just food – and with luxe decor and design, every aspect of taste is catered to.

I would arise each morning swathed in pristine bedsheets with the sun falling on me through the silky blinds, opening my eyes to the Victorian architecture and early-risers bustling outside. How would I begin each day – a trip to the spa, a dip in the pool, a French breakfast brought to the dining area of my room?

Starting with the base rate of £97 per night, the Mercure Holland House Hotel and Spa makes a luxe stay affordable. The spacious rooms, Jacuzzis, and opulent room service are features I have missed out on during so many trips away, but my opinion has now definitely been altered.

Now, over to you guys – what’s your mindset on hotels? Do you think you could ever be swayed? Let me know in the comments below!

To find out more about some of the best ways to spend a weekend in Cardiff, check out my friend Amber’s post on her recent trip to the city!