A wonderful first visit to Lisboa. Rui's apartment was local to the Martim Moniz metro station, central, yet in the old town, so very authentic.
The apartment is relatively small, but perfectly formed. Rui has gone to great lengths to think of everything, and then more. I appreciated the coffee machine with coffee, and little things like salt and pepper in the kitchen. There is no air-con, but instead a couple of fans and a window to open, both of which were sufficient in hot weather. The local area and neighbours are quiet.
Rui welcomed me in person, despite my flight being delayed and my arrival time quite late. He was friendly and informative about the flat, but also the local area. Communication was good at all times thereafter. As a welcome, he had also kindly left some local treats to eat and drink.
I travelled in from the airport by metro, and door to door this journey can be as little as 45mins and very straightforward. The metro is handy for getting about the city but there are also local trams. Travel is inexpensive in Lisboa. The touristy no.28 tram starts very nearby too.
I walked around the city a great deal. The apartment is close to the Castle, various viewpoints and Alfama district. Lisboa is very hilly, especially around the apartment, so be prepared to work those knees!
I would recommend Rui's apartment for those looking to explore the city from a less touristy start point.