If you're searching for the next big party city but are bound by the throes of the recession, there's a lot to be said for staying close to home when it comes to jetting off for a wild holiday. If you don't wish expensive flights to figure in with your costs because that money can clearly be spent on better things, why not consider heading to Dublin for your next big weekend in a new city?

Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, is known as a fantastic party town and there are many good reasons why. It's estimated that as much as 50 per cent of Dublin inhabitants are under the age of 25, meaning that every night the bars and clubs are packed with revellers looking for a good time. If getting out there, enjoying yourself and meeting new people sounds like your ideal night out, then Dublin truly is one of the greatest cities. Filled with sprawling streets and locals famous for their sense of humour, you're guaranteed to have a night to remember when you head into Dublin's city centre.

The first place to start - and end, for many people - is the inestimable Temple Bar area. Just south of the River Liffey, Temple Bar is a hotspot for tourist party-goers and a big hit with stag and hen parties due to its position as a small area containing many, many bars and pubs. Many an excellent night out can be had without even leaving the Temple Bar area, and the locale has plenty to offer all tastes. You'll find old man bars, trendy hang outs, thrumming nightclubs and intimate music venues with live bands within metres of each other, so if you only want to spend a few minutes stumbling from one place to the next, Temple Bar is an excellent choice.

Of course, music fans wanting a good night out have plenty of excellent opportunity to take in some great new tunes in Dublin. Having produced artists like U2, Thin Lizzy and My Bloody Valentine, Dublin is a city that knows how to rock - something you may notice from the moment you leave one of the hotels in Dublin. So, no matter what your taste, if you're looking for a recession-proof weekend in an excellent city close to home, head to Dublin - you could find yourself wanting to return time and time again.