Maria's apt. is in a safe and comfortable area of Lisbon--the apt is on the fifth floor, so if you leave the windows open you aren't bothered by street noise. It was a 12-15 minute walk to the subway station and a half block to a taxi stand. There are a couple of grocery stores and bakeries in the area where you can purchase food for meals in the apt. The kitchen is very well equipped, and we had tea and coffee provided for sipping. Maria has put together a really wonderful series of handouts that explain which subway lines/bus lines/tram lines can take you to various tourist sites; she also had an extensive list of restaurants in a 1/2 mile area, explaining what to order in each and when they are open and closed. The sun porch is delightful, with a panoramic view of the older part of Lisbon and the river. Couldn't have asked for a better place to stay!