Susana was very gracious with her time when we arrived. She spent at least an hour with us answering questions and providing us with some suggestions for activities and must-sees in Lisboa. She also arranged for our taxi to the airport later in the week, as we were leaving before the Metro and bus lines started running and did not have an international phone.

The property itself was very clean, comfortable, and well equipped with linens (towels, wash clothes, bath mats, sheets, blankets, kitchen towels) and even a hair dryer! The bed is quite small for two people (size: full/double), but the couch was very comfortable as a second sleeping space.

With regards to the location, it was not ideal in our opinion for s few reasons. First, it is located on a road that is not accessible by car; so very few people are familiar with the address and thus unable to help if you get turned around...which you WILL (especially without a phone or GPS of some sort)!

Second, historic Alfama is VERY hilly and windy (which makes for great views, but terrible for navigation). The roads and sidewalks are like a maze and all look quite similar, so it is difficult to pinpoint landmarks. At a minimum, it is a 10-15 minute walk to any bus or metro station (assuming you don't get lost), and since it is not on a car-accessible road - taxis are not a viable mode of transportation.

Also, as you are trying to find your way in the area, don't for get to stay aware of your surroundings for two important reasons:

1. There is dog poop EVERYWHERE!
2. And it is not a particularly safe area. You are okay in the area during the day, but I would not recommend this property to female renters. There were a handful of incidences after dark that left us feeling quite uneasy.

One last tip? Be careful interacting with any children who are unattended by adults in the area. On our last night, we encountered a group of about 6 young boys (ages ranging between 5-10). They were clearly accustomed to the tourists in their neighborhood, and ran over to us with their soccer ball. Thinking they were just playing around, we kicked the ball back to them. They proceeded to run towards us yelling profane names in English, grabbing/smacking our butts, and one picked up the ball and threw it at my head, while the rest threw rocks in our direction (fortunately not hitting us)!

While it was difficult not to react, we were later told by one of the locals that they may have been trying to distract us or lead us to older individuals who may have mugged us. Needless to say, it was not the best note to leave on!

Overall, it is a great apartment with a friendly host, but in an unfortunately location for tourists.