This apartment is in the Arroios neighborhood, a multicultural parish not in the middle of the touristy spots. This place is the opposite of a fancy cold hotel. Before you book, please make sure you are the right match. There is less noise and late drinking around while you have all the restaurants and attractions within walking distance. This neighborhood has so may different ethnic restaurants that you do not need to travel anywhere in the world for food. If you are tired or hungry, you can walk to excellent restaurants. You can walk to grocery stores or markets and get fresh produce. The neighborhood is not fancy but rich in another sense. Around each corner, you see signs of a deep culture through the old tiles on the facade of buildings, late night drinking, fantastic food, pretty gardens and an over abundance of sweets, wines, gold, conversations and history.
The walls of the apartment are tall and thick, the beds are super comfortable, there is a hand made table cloth for use on the dining table. The building is housed by a few people and is kept clean. There are touches of art and pottery in the rooms. On a few late nights, we could hear loud noise from one of the neighbors but that can happen anywhere in the world. The cleaning lady is a fantastic hardworking capable person who can make the rooms sparkle. I wish I could take her with me to my house!
We were greeted by a very charming gentleman who helped us with our luggage and took a lot of time to explain everything. Although we were jet lagged and had just finished a long flight and wanted to sleep, the conversation gave us a first introduction to how Portuguese people are. Extremely helpful, down to earth and social. I have never seen any place in the world where people are so connected to each other. Lisbon is extremely safe and you see lots of people late at night on the streets.
The apartment does not have shiny things, the most modern things, but everything works and there is anything you need including a lovely patio. At the slightest issue, you have the host, Margardia who is way on top of things followed by a group of people who she is in touch with to make your stay well. There is so much communication that you can relax and be certain she will check on you. " Are there any issues? How are things?" Margarida is full of tips and can send you to places that you cannot find in the tour books.
Booking a place in this apartment will open a window to the real life in Portugal. If you are planning to discover Lisbon beyond its wonderful museums and sights and get to know the people and culture behind it, you are in the right place, and in the right neighborhood.