My Suite Lisbon

When it comes to old-world charm Lisbon takes the biscuit. It predates any other Western European capital, including London and Paris, by centuries, and has retained its dilapidated charm to this day. Traditional architecture and gaily painted houses in a multitude of pastel shades line the ancient, labyrinthine streets that zigzag up and down the steep hills. Merry markets occupy spacious cobbled squares, and a multitude of tiny boutiques huddle in the shade of traditional colonnades. The majestic river Tagus flows relentlessly into the great Atlantic Ocean, which washes the air clean with its salty winds Lisbon’s charm is its romantic timelessness, which captures the hearts of all its visitors. Such was my case when I first visited the city, and I have since often dreamed of one day coming to live here. For the time being, however, I must be content to simply visit, and so I have found the next best thing: My Suites Lisbon.

Situated in the very arty and bohemian neighbourhood of Bairro Alto with its wonderful quirky galleries, food markets, artisan stores, and vibrant nightlife, it is in one of the most colourful and enchanting parts of town. On arriving, I am relieved to discover, however, that it is nestled away on a quiet street, which means you can dip into the fray when you wish and step back into your serene haven when you want some peace. I have not yet walked through the door and I have already given it full marks for location. The interior is warm, fresh and welcoming with a clean, modern design with breezy décor and quaint touches, such as the lamp perched on a couple of battered leather suitcases in my bedroom. My entire room radiates with light that bounces off the almost all-white walls and furnishings and glows cosily on the blonde wood floor. It is classy, clean, and urban, with just the right amount of seaside chic to remind you of where you are. I love it!

I instantly set down my cases and begin to explore every nook and cranny of what is to be my fantasy home in Lisbon for these few days. My examinations leave me very satisfied and I discover that not only does my fully equipped kitchen include the usual oven, hobs, fridge, etc but it also has a toaster, dish washer, kettle, Nespresso machine and a snazzy juicer as well! This is better than my kitchen back home and I feel my loyalties swaying even further in favour of Lisbon... I have also noted the large, very comfortable-looking bed and the elegant sitting room area with a vast flat screen TV. It's all stylishly open-plan but I can separate my bedroom area from the rest of it with huge gliding double doors that make me think of a slick Hollywood bachelor pad.

Despite it being winter, it is around 15 degrees outside and I have come wrapped up so warm from England that by the time I reached the hotel I was sweltering hot! I should have remembered the sunny, balmy temperatures of Portugal, I may even have to do some shopping for some lighter clothing...I smile to myself as I think of the dozens of gorgeous boutiques I discovered on my last trip here. But first things first, I will wash away the aches and grime of travel in the shower and then take a long, hot soak in that lovely bathtub before leaving the hotel refreshed and rejuvenated. The afternoon is wearing on and I want to walk down to the river Tagus and catch the sunset on the water, before getting one of those wonderful rickety yellow trams back up the steep hill in time for an evening drink with the locals and then a delicious fresh fish supper! The perfect plan for my first day in my fabulous new apartment in one of my favourite cities. Thank you My Suite Lisbon, I'm home!