The Blue House Downtown

The only things I can really praise are the fridge for keeping drinks cold, decent shower pressure, and a bed I’d give 6/10 for comfort. We also had no hot water one night. There’s no parking nearby at all, though we weren’t driving and I know that may matter to others. We chose the place because the apartment looked clean and nice, and seemed fairly close to the centre. The host only contacted us when they needed something and rarely replied to our messages. On arrival, we found mould and water damage around the windows. We called the number from Booking.com and they sent the cleaner, but she went home without showing up. We were told the room would be cleaned the next day, but it wasn’t. After another call, the cleaner did arrive, but said there was nothing she could do and seemed embarrassed. She said the issue affected the whole six-floor building, from top to bottom. She managed to call the owner, who said he’d get back to us. It’s been almost a week since we left, and we still haven’t had so much as an email. Update: even Booking.com can’t get in touch with the property. There were long hairs around the bathroom, scuff marks on the walls, and not much soundproofing. The location is within walking distance of the main shopping areas and metro, but the walk up seemed unsafe to us. We saw a few people smoking heroin, and groups of local people could be intimidating. We didn’t hear trouble, but stay alert and walk in pairs. Hills surround the apartments, so if you’re heavier or have trouble walking, I’d choose somewhere else. There is an elevator, though. I wouldn’t recommend staying here. Lisbon has plenty of nicer, cheaper places. Don’t be tempted by the pool, it isn’t worth it.

We couldn’t stay, and the host then quickly ghosted us, refusing to return calls or emails through Booking.com, which we’d used to book. The listing photos didn’t match reality. When we entered, the sewage smell was overwhelming, and it became clear why there was such a strong air freshener scent in the entrance and on the stairs. Finding the place was a struggle. The host was no help, and we drove around repeatedly before even a tuk-tuk driver had trouble locating it. The location felt horrible and completely unsafe to us. Don’t make the same mistake we did, don’t stay here, and don’t use Booking.com.

The main room, with the living, dining and kitchen areas, had no outside window, so it felt dim and claustrophobic. We didn’t stay even five minutes, but they still charged cleaning, VAT and city taxes and wouldn’t refund me. I think the $44 city tax was bogus because it showed on my bank statement as “shopping.” It was way overpriced. The management didn’t respond to our pleas for help, and finding the apartment was very difficult. We spent over an hour going around the one-way streets, and there’s no sign out front. From the picture, the only thing you’ll see is a 2 on the door. The area is hilly, with tiny streets and sidewalks, so it’s not suitable if you’re older or have mobility issues.

The rooms are dark, but they’re still nice and clean, and the kitchen is well equipped. There’s air con and a refreshing pool, though the sunbathing area is tiny. The room facing the Castle had great views. Really, it’s the fabulous location that makes the place.