We really enjoyed our stay at Casa De Raquel. The host has added step by step directions with photos to guide guests right to the door. They worked like a charm. We found our way to the apartment with no trouble at all. A lockbox provided contactless check in which was very smooth. Once inside, the space exceeded our expectations! We especially liked the separation between the sleeping and eating areas! (The bedroom and washroom are on their own floor). It was freshly redecorated and spotlessly clean. It's even nicer than the pictures! The kitchen is well equipped. We made several breakfasts and found everything we needed to make and serve our meals. The bed was very comfortable and we enjoyed several nights of comfortable, uninterrupted sleep. The electric shutters when in the down position were very secure and really darkened the room too which aided in our sleeping in!
As far as location, you could not ask for a better one! Set in the midst of a small charming neighborhood it was literally minutes away from all the great things to see in Porto. There's a beautiful little park just steps away from the apartment where we enjoyed watching the families interacting, really living like locals! We walked to the bridge, Rua Santa Catarina, the Ribeira, Clerigos Tower, the Se, Sao Bento Station, etc. All are within easy walking distance. Also within 5 minutes of the apartment is a Mini Preco and a large Pingo Doce so you can easily pick up a few groceries.
The host were truly amazing! Pedro and Nuno went above and beyond to ensure we had the best possible time! We had a couple of minor issues. In one case I kept tripping the breaker while making breakfast. I messaged the host and in 5 minutes he was at the door to show me what I was doing wrong. The other incident was the key got stuck in the door. I managed to free it but I messaged the host in case it would happen again then we went out for our day of sightseeing. When we returned there was a brand new lock and the matching new key was in the lockbox! To me the measure of a great host is how they respond to the little mini crises that can arise from time to time and I can say that Pedro and Nuno came through for us with flying colors!
We've stayed at many airbnbs over the years and this one is definitely at the top of our list. We fell in love with Porto and with this lovely little apartment. We plan to return to both for sure! Thanks again Nuno and Pedro for helping us to have an amazing time in Porto. Gary & Lisa