Even before we arrived in Porto, Silvio made contact and established a line of communication in case he was needed for directions or some other problem. He met us at the agreed time and proved to be the most perfect host. Warm, friendly, welcoming, and always available on WhatsApp should he be needed. If there was a rating for the host he would get five stars.

The apartment was also a five star experience. It is a compact place, brilliantly designed to fit everything neatly in what is not a big space. It was perfect for our needs. Furnished to a very high standard, it has the feel of an upmarket boutique hotel. Oh, and the bed! My word, what a comfortable mattress. We both sleep so well.

Lastly, the location. Again, five stars. When you have never been to a place before, there is always a question mark over how near the accommodation is too everything. I can confirm that Silvio's place is within a short walk (ten minutes, at most) of the centre of Porto, and it took us only thirty minutes to walk all the way over to the Sandeman Port cellars. On the apartment's doorstep is a corner cafe which serves pastries and excellent coffee (thirty seconds from the front door). A further two minutes and you would be in a street with many cafe choices (just before the daily fresh market).

My wife and I had a wonderful two night stay. Our only regret is that we didn't book it for longer. Highly recommended.