Watch The Shelbourne Hotel

The Shelbourne Hotel from Kinonation is a fascinating, insightful documentary that takes a behind-the-scenes look at one of Ireland's most iconic and prestigious hotels. Over the course of six episodes, viewers are invited to follow the daily operations of this historic institution, peeking into the lives of the staff who work tirelessly to make sure that every guest's experience is a memorable one.

The Shelbourne Hotel is situated in the heart of Dublin, overlooking the beautiful St. Stephen's Green. It first opened its doors in 1824 and has since welcomed countless dignitaries, celebrities, and ordinary people from all around the world. The hotel is a true landmark of Irish hospitality, and this docu-series does justice to its rich history, traditions, and legacy.

The series kicks off with a brief introduction to the hotel's history and architecture, setting the stage for what's to come. From there, we are introduced to the staff members who will be our guides throughout the series. These include everyone from front desk clerks to chefs to housekeepers, each of whom has a unique perspective on what it takes to keep the Shelbourne running smoothly.

One of the most interesting aspects of The Shelbourne Hotel is the way in which it delves into the various departments and functions that make up the hotel. We get to see the kitchen where the chefs create mouth-watering meals for the hotel's restaurants and events, as well as the laundry room where mountains of linens are cleaned and pressed each day. We also get to witness the meticulous attention to detail that goes into preparing a guest room, from changing the beds to arranging the toiletries just so.

Throughout the series, we are treated to a variety of guests who make their way through the hotel, each with their own story to tell. These include a group of American tourists in search of their Irish roots, a couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, and a young couple on their honeymoon. Each interaction gives us a glimpse into the special moments that make up the fabric of the Shelbourne experience.

But this series isn't all about the glitz and glamour of the hotel. The show also takes an honest and revealing look at some of the challenges faced by the staff members, such as dealing with difficult guests, navigating communication breakdowns, and managing the stress of a constantly-changing work environment. By showing us the human side of the hotel's operations, the series brings a sense of authenticity and depth to a world that might otherwise seem superficial.

Throughout all of this, the documentary is beautifully shot and expertly edited, showcasing the hotel's stunning architecture, elegant interiors, and lush gardens. The series also features a touch of local color in the form of interviews with Dubliners who share their own memories and impressions of the Shelbourne.

Overall, The Shelbourne Hotel is a must-see for anyone who loves travel, hospitality, or history. It's a fascinating look at what it takes to run one of the world's most beloved hotels, and a celebration of the people who make it all happen. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply looking for a bit of escapism, this series is sure to captivate and inspire.