When you book an Airbnb that doesn’t have any reviews yet, typically you are rolling the dice and taking a chance. However, I can happily say that I gambled and won big time with Manuel and renting his camper van!! I’m proud to be his first review!
I planned a 4 day quick trip to Ericeira to surf and visit the town, and didn’t want to pay for an apartment and a car, so this was the perfect solution. It was a great price and had everything I needed. Manuel was so accommodating in picking me up at the airport and explaining everything to me about the van there. Afterwards he sent me on my way from the airport and was in Ericeira within 45 minutes.
There, I was able to find many places to park and sleep, and there are plenty of other people doing the same in vans, so you wont be alone. In the van, there is a kitchen; small refrigerator, propane burners, utensils, plates, and practically everything else you need to prepare your meals everyday in the van. There is also a shower and a toilet if you need, which is a big plus!
The bed is very comfortable, and has big windows in the back if you wish to park by the ocean and have a great view. All windows have blinds, and screens as well. There is no air conditioning, but if you open the windows and have the screens open, and use the sunshade for the windshield and side windows, enough air gets in and cools the inside down. Privacy was easy with all of the curtains available.
Manuel was very quick to respond to any questions I had and even had a bottle of tasty wine waiting for me in the fridge. Its hard to beat his hospitality! When I finished the trip, I drove right back to the airport where he was waiting for me, and off I went!
A couple thing to remember:
-this is a stick-shift, or manual gear, van so make sure you are aware of this and know how to drive stick. It’s listed as such, but just to remind you.
-Use the sunshades to keep heat out, and leave windows open during the day.
-Sometimes the mosquitos can be bad by the ocean, so use the citronella candle Manuel provides. Place it on the table or the stove and leave it burning (windows open) until you go to sleep
-And mostly important, have fun and enjoy this great van!! Perfect for 2 people sleeping, and more could go along if they camp and have tents.
Obrigado Manuel!!