Guest User
February 16, 2024
Almaria Ex Libris redefines quality. Even before our trip started, I felt so spoiled by the concierge service that I remarked to them that every other trip in the future is going to be a disappointment. The apartment was spacious, cleaned daily, and fully appointed. Our refrigerator was replenished daily (including plates of meat, salad, cheese, milk, yogurt, cereals, jam etc). The best part of breakfast was a freshly delivered bag of bread and pastries that appeared every morning on our door handle. And oh the natas! The hotel is charming...the decor theme, apropos "Ex Libris," focuses on Lisbon's historical literary riches with a contemporary flair. How did management manage to sweep up such helpful staff? Each concierge was as welcoming and helpful as the other. Best of all for us was the tour company that Almaria arranged for our first trip to Lisbon. I Go Portugal was a spectacular find. The tour company delivered truly custom and private tours for 2. We prearranged through Almaria for 3 days and were so happy we added a 4th. Almaria obviously knows their city resources! The location is perfect. It's higher than the very touristy area, in upscale but warm Chiado. The hotel backs up to Barrio Alto's restaurants. One of the most beautiful churches (Rochas) is right across the street. A block higher is one of the most beautiful vistas in all of Lisbon. And did I mention the natas! ...Also check out salted caramel at Noa up the street on the corner. Chiado is an urban area of urban Lisbon...I'm sure there are library quiet areas elsewhere in the suburbs, but we selected for convenience and were thrilled to have done so. (FYI - the door type windows are super well insulated. As I sleep with windows open, I sometimes used earplugs and the Background Sounds (Ocean) on my iPhone and I slept like a baby). Almaria Ex Libris facilitated one of our favorite vacations. We will be return guests for sure!