Mama Shelter Lisboa

Compared with the same hotel in Dubai, which is on a completely different level, this Lisbon stay was a big letdown. There was a spider in the restroom when we arrived. The room lacked a water boiler and an iron or steamer, things we expected at this price. We had to ask for them, and only got them after complaining about the spider. Even slippers weren't available unless you were in a certain membership tier, which felt unreasonable given the cost and that we'd booked the hotel's largest room. Housekeeping was below average. Tissues weren't replenished, and there was only one towel at check-in; more arrived only after we complained. Attention to detail was lacking. There's no room service either. You have to order food and go to the restaurant to collect it, which is very inconvenient. For the price and room size, I don't think it's worth it, and I'd strongly suggest finding a better hotel in Lisbon. Arab and Muslim guests may also find the general environment and some inappropriate elements uncomfortable, so I wouldn't recommend this property to them. A very disappointing experience.

Check-in was quick and easy, and the receptionist was very friendly. I was traveling alone, so the smallish room I expected in advance was fine. The bed was big and super comfortable, and I slept really well over my three nights. Housekeeping were kind about working around my schedule and did a great job. Breakfast was extremely generous, more than we needed, so we went to a newly opened cafe for the next two mornings. I had dinner and drinks at Mama Shelter on our last evening, and that was fine too. The staff were accommodating, making it a pleasant place to spend the evening. Reception arranged late checkout for a reasonable rate. Lovely little hotel, comfortable rooms and good service. Highly recommend.

I'm really unhappy with this stay. The rooms are VERY small compared with other locations, and the beds and pillows weren't comfortable. It feels suited to very young solo travelers. There weren't many gluten-free choices, and brunch absolutely wasn't worth the price. We knew breakfast was buffet style, but at that price we expected brunch to be served. It was buffet too, and again there were no gluten-free options.

The staff were pleasant, though they seemed unsure what they were doing, and with so many good restaurants in Lisbon I can't see myself returning. The place leans a lot on its decor, which reminded me of that old advice to pick restaurants known for the food, not the look. We paid 84€ and left feeling like we'd paid casino prices for something I could've made better at home. Nobody refilled our glasses or offered water. The hummus and olives started the meal: the olives were delicious, but at 13€ they were only just worth it, while the hummus had absolutely no flavour, like tap water. Then came the share plate tacos, which were poor value and badly done: CCs, soft tacos, shaved red cabbage and onion, four crumbed prawns, white cheese dip, and a coffee cup of chili concarn. When I paid, they asked if everything was okay. I said the meal had been underwhelming, and they told me the tip was already included.