Every Air BnB host should spend a few days in Lisbon in Ana and Mariana’s place to see how things should be done.
Very soon after we made our booking we received a PDF attachment giving us all sorts of information on the area around the apartment as well as things to do and see, complete with maps. This wasn’t a short little pamphlet, but a sixty-odd page book. It literally started the travel lust boiling.
Then, a few days before arrival, another PDF document with instructions on how to get from various transport sites to the apartment, complete with maps and pictures for orientation. And a complete set of instructions on how to self-check-in, once again complete with pictures, should that have been necessary. What a reassurance for the guest. Rachel, was waiting for us, and in fact had called and WhatsApp’d us to see if we were all right, having got ourselves twisted around in Lisbon’s alleys while trying to haul our no longer young selves up the hill dodging the cars, TukTuk’s and streetcars.
All, and I mean all communications with our host were answered almost immediately and completely. And there was a genuine interest in seeing that we were welcomed and that our visit to a Lisbon would be interesting and relaxing.
The apartment is in the historic neighbourhood immediately adjacent to the Castelo San Jorge, and was stylish, sparkling clean, and completely equipped. What a treat to have a washing machine/dryer when you are in the middle of a five week trip. And the manuals for all of the appliances were there in multiple languages so you could understand exactly what you were supposed to twist, push, set or turn on that Portuguese panel.
The apartment is in an historic building in an historic neighbourhood so you can’t expect easy access for yourself and your suitcases, especially if you have any mobility concerns. The stairs are narrow and twisting and some tall persons may have to duck, but when you get into the apartment all will be smooth sailing and you will have a very pleasant stay.
Highy, highly recommended.