Dublin hotel prices on the rise

Hotel room prices in Dublin have risen by 7.8 per cent over the last year, according to figures published today.

The average rate for a hotel room was €86.91 for the first half of the year, compared to €81.32 for the same period in 2011.

According to the figures from business advisory firm Deloitte, the cost of a room increased from €82.87 to €89.98 from the first quarter to the second quarter.

Revenue per available room rose by 10 per cent over the year from €55.92 to €60.94.

Occupancy levels in Dublin hotels for the first half of 2012 stood at 70 per cent, up 1 per cent versus the same six month period in 2011.

“The increases observed over the first half of the year are not as significant as those achieved in the same period in 2011. However, we must remember that the gains made last year were on the back of significant drops in activity in the previous years. This trend was also demonstrated in the first quarter of 2012 findings," said Kevin Sheehan, partner in charge of travel, hospitality and lesiure services at Deloitte.

Mr Sheehan warned hoteliers that they needed to continue to offer lower prices as one of Dublin's key selling points is that it is now considered a good value city break destination.

"In order to deliver long term growth, the focus needs to be on increasing occupancy levels as a means of driving profitability, while maintaining competitiveness on rate," he said.