A restored Prague apartment has all the comforts but few of the familiarities of your own place, writes Eoin Lyons
WHEN VISITING A CITY on a weekend break, renting an apartment rather than staying in a hotel can be more fun and work out better value for money. In Prague, James Fennell and his wife Jo bought the perfect base for exploring that beautiful place.
Located in the Vinohrady district (think broad tree-lined boulevards and colourful squares) it is large (116 sq m) and a 10-minute walk to Wenceslas Square. After just completing this major renovation, the young couple - he is a photographer and she is an interior designer - decided to offer the place for weekend or week-long stays.
The work that had to be done to make the handsome 19th century apartment habitable - never mind beautiful - was daunting. Wholesale gutting was necessary, but it is now very attractive and welcoming. The original parquet floors were refinished and all the windows and doors stripped and fixed. It has been designed to match what they believe most people want from a weekend stay: "maximum comfort, absolute peace and absolute attention to detail".
The rooms crackle with a mix of old world antiques and luxurious furnishings but also celebrate technology. "We wanted to have an old world feel but with contemporary trimmings," says Fennel. Therefore, the kitchen is contemporary and fully kitted out with everything a serious chef might require.
The bathrooms are state-of-the-art. There are two large double bedrooms and a large living space with high ceiling, stucco cornicing, chandeliers and double panelled doorways.
Nothing is too personal, however: it has a degree of anonymity that visitors want from this kind of bolt-hole. "We had always wanted to take what we've seen while travelling in places like Sri Lanka and Mexico and to use those ideas for our own small project. We want to offer a great service with attention to detail. We hope we've thought of everything that a guest might want while staying in Prague."
To this end, there are flat-screen televisions, surround sound, DVD players, iPod docks, Wi-Fi, a stocked bar, l'Occitane bath products and a booklet written by the couple listing what they consider to be the best coffee houses, bars, restaurants and clubs in the city.
Those staying in the apartment also have use of a gym with a swimming pool. The cost works out comparatively well - weeknights are €240 per night and weekends €260 per night - perfect for a short break away with a friend or, more economical still, for two couples. elyons@irish-times.ie
Contact James Fennell at 086-2631485, www.no46prague.com