My boyfriend and I stayed at Sonia's place for a week during our visit to Portugal and it was perfect. Barrio Alto is a short walk, as is many of the main sights. Arco da Rua Augusta was about a 10-15 min walk. Although it was close to Barrio Alto, we did not have any problems sleeping due to noise (and the bed was very comfy). The apartment is nicely decorated and give a beautiful view of the Assembleia da República. There are a lot of steps, so beware and ready for a good work out. While we didn't get to meet Sonia, her friend Teresa was there to greet us. My boyfriend recently had surgery and was in a sling, Teresa helped us take his bags up the stairs (thank you again so much!). Sonia kept in consistent communication with us and made sure we had everything we needed. She even helped arrange dinner reservations for our last night :) We would definitely stay at Sonia's place again.