Had a great week staying here in late October, 2011. Grainne was really responsive, from the very beginning answering all my questions, right up through our visit. We did take advantage of the cell phone, which was a great addition. The apartment looked just like the photos and was very clean and well supplied. Kitchen had everything we needed. We especially appreciated the groceries that were provided (delicious bread, butter and milk) along with the supplies in the cupboard (coffee and filters, tea, sugar). We also had her driver pick us up at the airport. He was very nice and helpful; in fact we used him for a day trip and also to get back to the airport at the end of our trip. Every one Grainne has helping with the apartment is so nice. When we couldn't figure out the washer and dryer (didn't know to empty the "water bottle" in the dryer), Grainne arranged for a neighbor to come over to help us on a Sunday night!
Access into Dublin was easy at either bus stop, although it was sometimes a challenge to find where to catch the bus in town to come back. We did take a taxi home several times, which was expensive - 12-15 euros - as the apartment is a little bit outside of town. Bus ride is only 20 minutes though, and the Kilmanhaim Gaol was a 10-15 minute walk. Enjoyed the Black Lion Pub a couple of times for meals, and shopped at the Tesco across the street for fruit and drinks.
Felt perfectly safe walking home from the pub or grocery store in the evening. Did not take the Luas until the very end of our week, but that was also easy to use and brings you in on the north side of the Liffey. If you want to go to the south side of the Liffey, then the bus is better.
Started our sightseeing with the tour at the Kilmanhaim Gaol, which provided great history and background to Dublin. Followed that with a visit to the beautiful Dublin Castle (which is kind of hidden in town; you may have to ask for help to find it). The tour guide did a great job of further explaining Irish history. We were in Dublin during the Presidential election, so we saw the room at the Dublin Castle where the inauguration will take place at 11 a.m. on 11/11/11!
Also enjoyed Guinness, Jameson Distillery, Dublin Zoo, St. Patricks Cathedral, shopping and all the cafes and pubs along the way. Everywhere we ate in Dublin the food was delicious. Managed separate day trips to the Cliffs of Moher and Trim Castle, which had a great tour, too. Dublin/Ireland is a great place to visit.