we absolutely loved our stay at Zelije's place. I'll start with only my favorite pros for other travelers as I could go on and on but want to keep this to the most important points:
+ First, they allowed us to check-in early. it was unexpected and we didn't get the message until we had landed and turned on wifi. regardless, they had offered to let us drop our luggage off if the space wasn't completed but they were able to clean and have it ready for our early arrival. so insanely kind and nice of them, gracious hosts!!
+ Second, the apartment was spotless and really neat. Check in could not have been more clear and easy, the digital panel on the front made getting in the first door so much easier. Despite the apartment being on a very busy street, the neighborhood was safe and quiet. However, as someone who frequently travel alone, they really take this into account with the ease of entering the first safety door. Again, getting the key once inside and unlocking the door to the apartment was super quick and clear, anyone of any age or intelligence could figure this out. They had also left us a bottle of wine to enjoy, so sweet!
+ Third, the apartment had great amenities-- strong and fast wifi, tv with cable, windowless bedroom for the light sleeper, beautiful back porch, modern and well lit bathroom, and a cute full kitchen for cooking.
Now, just two little tips but not cons at all, just a heads up!
+ The hot water in the shower goes QUICK. this is totally normal and expected in Europe and is not a reflection on the hosts at all, but it's a good thing to note if you plan to wash your hair and shave your legs in the same shower -- you'll need to go quickly!!
+ This apartment is located on a busy street but SO SO QUIET!! we didn't hear anything, we were never disturbed, sleep was so easy. it's important to note if you're traveling with kids that you'll need to secure them on this street. also, it made getting Ubers and cabs SO EASY. However, we did feel like this was further than we anticipated from things we planned to see. This is our fault more than anything for not taking into account the hills when looking at walking distances. this was more of a leave in the morning and return in the evening for bed type of stay, not a place we could run to for a rest or lunch unless we were seeing something nearby. Again, it was a great neighborhood and we loved it, plenty of markets and local bars to enjoy nearby but if you're someone who needs a rest during your daily walks, consider planning your days accordingly to location.
We would gladly come back and stay in this apartment again. We loved Porto and these hosts, nothing could have been changed to make out stay more perfect! Thank you!!!