Jason’s apartment was perfect for our family’s nine day stay in Lisbon. The location is close to the Castelo de São Jorge and during the day we would see a smattering of tourists making their way around. At night, however, it is a very quiet neighborhood. The nearby staircase (122 steps) to the local square is where you can easily catch the Martim Moniz subway and the Tram 28. Rossio Square is a short walk and where we caught the train to Sintra (fabulous day trip). We took the subway (green line) to the ferry station (last stop) and over to the Christo Rei statue in Almada, just across the river. A delicious seaside lunch was had, followed by sightseeing. We also took that subway/ferry route to the bus station for a day trip to Costa da Caparica (wonderful beach and town). Cascais was another day trip for beach time and sightseeing.

The point being: Jason’s apartment is modern and clean and centrally located in the Mouraria - Castelo - Alfama neighborhood, which harkens back to the ancient, Moorish times. It is a labyrinth of narrow, wandering streets that zigzag around the hillside.

There are several very good neighborhood restaurants. In particular: O Eurico - Casa de Pasto (Largo de Sao Cristovao 3, +351 218 861 815, for seafood and traditional Portuguese fare); and Cantina Baldracca (Beco das Farinhas 1, +351 918 751 784, for pizza and pasta). We tried to get into Restaurante Cervejaria Ramiro (Avenida Almirante Reis, 1, +351 218 851 024, for seafood and Portuguese cuisine) but the line was too long, as it is favored by both locals and tourists. Next time!

A mini-market exists across the street for small conveniences, but the main market is Pingo Doce (Largo do Chao Loureiro, +351 218 802 010). Jason provides a few kitchen staples to start.

Jason has renovated the apartment throughout, including a modern shower and a very usable kitchen. There is an on-site washer and dryer, and a clothesline.

Jason is also a wonderful host. We had an unusual 9-hour layover in London prior to flying to Lisbon. Jason gave us some ideas for a quick visit to Fortnum and Mason, fish and chips at a local pub, and a walk to Buckingham Palace.

Jason was available by text messaging the whole time. His in-country manager, Paula, and her husband, Paulo, were available by telephone or text for any questions. Paolo picked us up from and dropped us back to the airport, which was very much appreciated. Jason provides several guidebooks and tourist maps for guests to review. This helped us to plan our trip to Sintra to visit the Park and Palace of Monserrate (a palace that combines Gothic and Indian influences as well as Moorish suggestions). The castle is beautiful and the grounds lovely. It is a Portuguese botanical garden with species from all corners of the world, and should not be missed.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Jason’s apartment. Highly recommended!