Ireland’s leading hospitality business publication brings you expert insight into workforce trends, tourism performance, sustainability and the outlook for Irish hotels and restaurants in 2026.
Read the latest issue below
Here’s what’s in the April/May 2026 Issue of Hotel & Restaurant Times magazine
This issue features Net Affinity’s transformation into a fully connected hotel technology ecosystem, a look at how hotels can eliminate the hidden cost of “toggle tax”, an exploration of Ireland’s untapped walking tourism potential, and analysis of why Dublin hotel room rates remain resilient despite growing supply.
- Industry News: The latest developments shaping Irish hotels, restaurants, tourism and foodservice
- Editor’s Note: Chilling Prospects for Summer Tourism? – Cyril McAree examines the impact of geopolitical uncertainty, aviation connectivity and changing travel patterns on Irish tourism
- Feature: Net Affinity: Better, Stronger, Smarter – How the company’s partnership with Smarthotel has created a one-stop-shop technology ecosystem for modern hotels
- Feature: Smarter Hotel Tech – Why fragmented systems are costing hotels hundreds of hours each year and how integrated platforms can improve efficiency and guest experience
- Feature: Walk the Walk – Why Ireland is perfectly positioned to become a world-class walking tourism destination, and what infrastructure gaps still need to be addressed
- Feature: Dublin Hotel Rooms – Despite significant growth in hotel room supply, why rates continue to hold steady in the capital
- IFSA News & Updates: The latest developments from Ireland’s foodservice supplier community, including CATEX 2027 and industry member news
The April/May 2026 issue of Hotel & Restaurant Times explores the forces shaping Ireland’s hospitality sector, from technology and tourism to food, accommodation and changing consumer trends.
Leading this issue is an in-depth feature on Net Affinity, examining how its partnership with Smarthotel has expanded its offering beyond booking engines and digital marketing into payments, channel management and fully integrated hotel technology solutions. The result is a connected platform designed to simplify operations, improve guest experiences and support hotels as they embrace AI, automation and data-driven decision making.
Technology remains a key theme throughout the issue, with a dedicated feature from Access Hospitality exploring the growing problem of “toggle tax” – the hidden cost of staff switching between disconnected systems. The article examines how integrated Property Management Suites can reduce complexity, improve operational efficiency and free up teams to focus on guests rather than administration.
Away from technology, the magazine asks whether Ireland is doing enough to capitalise on its natural advantages in the growing adventure tourism market. In Walk the Walk, industry voices argue that while Ireland possesses world-class scenery and an ideal climate for walking holidays, the supporting infrastructure needed to compete internationally remains underdeveloped.
We also investigate Dublin’s hotel market, where a substantial increase in room supply has failed to bring downward pressure on rates. Industry experts discuss occupancy levels, operating costs and the continuing strength of demand that continues to support pricing across the capital.
Finally, our Food Island Debate feature asks whether Michelin stars alone are enough to establish Ireland as a world-class food destination. The article explores the relationship between local producers, sustainability, culinary culture and international recognition, asking what truly defines a successful food tourism offering.
Alongside these features, you’ll find the latest industry news, tourism updates and IFSA developments, keeping hospitality professionals informed on the trends, opportunities and challenges shaping the sector.
