This is a review of Jorge's lovely home and his wonderful hospitality. This place is not a luxurious five-star hotel, so if that's what you are after this accommodation is not for you. However if you want to experience what if feels like to live in Lisbon like the locals do, then you will absolutely love this typical apartment in the heart of Alfama.
This home is quite spacious and is tastefully furnished, using second-hand objects that Jorge himself (our host) transformed in creative ways.
The apartment is very airy and light, and when it's sunny outside the sun reaches every room (except for the bathroom). It is really nice to have a cup of coffee sitting in the living room and looking out of the window. Like in most Portuguese homes there is no central heating in this apartment, so it may be a little humid inside. However, two electric radiators are provided to keep the rooms warm. In the kitchen you will find all the basic equipment you might need.
I think that the most valuable resource of this accommodation is the host, Jorge. He was very nice, hospitable and friendly and he even offered to take us to Sintra for a day trip. Unfortunately we had no time to go. By chance we found out that Jorge is a musician and a singer-songwriter so we asked him if it was possible to listen to his music somewhere. He suggested we might go to his brother's restaurant where he could sing something especially for us. Well, we went to this small but cosy restaurant "Notas de degustação", where we met Jorge's brother Arnaldo and had a delicious dinner, it was excellent. After dinner Jorge started playing his guitar, it was a "private concert" just for us and, in the end, the two brothers sang together traditional Portuguese songs. It was amazing!
I think that when you are choosing a place to spend a few days in a city you've never visited before it is important to consider many factors, not just the accommodation itself. For this reason I highly recommend Jorge's place. My wife and I will never forget our short stay in Lisbon and Jorge's heart. We are really grateful for having met Casa Menino Deus and its wonderful host.